Iraq renews fuel support for Lebanon amid regional tensions

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani on Saturday reaffirmed Iraq’s support for Lebanon’s security and stability during a phone call with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, according to a government statement.

Al-Sudani approved a six-month exemption allowing the Iraqi Ministry of Oil to continue supplying Lebanon with fuel and condemned recent attacks in Beirut’s southern suburb, calling them provocations by “the occupying entity” aimed at escalating tensions.

Under an agreement first signed in July 2021, Iraq provides Lebanon with fuel in exchange for services, including medical treatment for Iraqi citizens. Lebanon’s energy ministry confirmed in July 2023 that the deal—allowing for the supply of up to two million tons of crude oil annually—was extended for another year.

Lebanon swaps the heavy fuel oil for gas oil, which is used to generate electricity at its power plants.

Statement from PM Al-Sudani’s media office:

Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani held a phone call today, Saturday, with the Speaker of the Parliament of Lebanon, Mr. Nabih Berri.

During the call, Mr. Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s support for the security and stability of Lebanon, in all its national components, and reiterated Iraq’s commitment to contribute to its reconstruction. He also confirmed his approval to grant the Iraqi Ministry of Oil an exemption to supply Lebanon with fuel for a period of six months.

The Prime Minister commended Mr. Berri’s active role in the Lebanese political landscape and condemned the ongoing criminal attacks, especially the recent incident in Beirut’s southern suburb which he described as part of the occupying entity’s efforts to reignite conflict.

For his part, Speaker Berri expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister for his supportive stance toward Lebanon and its sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of maintaining communication and cooperation with Iraq in various fields.