Duhok/Erbil, Iraq (Agencies) – A wave of drone attacks has struck critical energy infrastructure in Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, targeting the Sarsang and Khurmala oil fields within 24 hours and prompting widespread condemnation from both regional and international actors.
Early Tuesday morning, a drone hit the Sarsang oil field in Duhok province, operated by U.S.-based HKN Energy, igniting a fire and forcing a suspension of operations. The blast occurred around 7:00 a.m. local time, damaging one of the production facilities. Emergency teams contained the blaze, and no casualties were reported. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) denounced the strike as an “act of terrorism against vital economic infrastructure.”
Just hours earlier, on Monday night, two explosive-laden drones struck the Khurmala oil field southwest of Erbil, damaging a water station and filtration section. The Kurdistan Counter-Terrorism Directorate confirmed the attacks occurred at 8:20 p.m. and 8:25 p.m., causing material damage but no injuries2. These strikes followed another drone incident near Erbil International Airport, which hosts U.S. troops.
No group has claimed responsibility, but initial investigations suggest the drones may have originated from areas controlled by Iran-backed militias. The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad condemned the attacks as “unacceptable,” urging the Iraqi government to prevent further strikes and protect sites where international companies have invested.
The attacks come amid heightened tensions between Baghdad and Erbil over oil exports and federal oversight. A major pipeline to Turkey remains shut since 2023 due to legal disputes. In May, Iraq’s federal authorities filed complaints against the KRG for signing gas contracts with U.S. firms, including HKN Energy.
Despite the unrest, Iraq’s Oil Ministry announced a new agreement with HKN Energy to develop the Hamrin oil field in Salaheddin province, signaling continued cooperation with U.S. companies even as security risks escalate.