US envoy Barrack oversees Chevron deal in Iraq amid Iran influence row
The Trump administration is maintaining pressure on Iraq over the nomination of former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and the influence of Iran-backed militias in the country.
An Iraqi state-run oil company offered a major field to US giant Chevron during US special envoy to Iraq Tom Barrack's visit as Baghdad continues to rebuff American pressure over the next government's formation and Iranian influence in the country.
Barrack attended a ceremony in Baghdad on Monday alongside Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani as Chevron signed a deal to assume responsibility for the West Qurna 2 oil field.
Today marks a significant milestone for the people of Iraq and for one of America’s leading energy companies, Chevron. This partnership reflects strong support for @POTUS vision of promoting peace through shared prosperity in the Middle East. Chevron’s commitment to stewarding a… pic.twitter.com/gsDCtAEK4y
— Ambassador Tom Barrack (@USAMBTurkiye) February 23, 2026
The memorandum of understanding between Chevron and the state-run Basra Oil Company provides for the “transfer of management” of the southern Iraqi field, according to a statement from Sudani’s office. According to the statement, the settlement will take effect upon approval by Iraq’s Council of Ministers.
Oil deal
