Gulf Keystone shuts down Shaikan Field production amid regional security concerns

ERBIL — Gulf Keystone Petroleum announced Sunday it has temporarily shut down production at the Shaikan Field in the Kurdistan Region due to the deteriorating regional security situation.

“The Company’s assets have not been impacted,” Gulf Keystone said, adding that it has “taken measures to protect staff” and is closely monitoring the situation.

Shaikan Field is located northwest of Erbil within KRG-administered territory. Gulf Keystone is one of the leading independent operators in the Kurdistan Region.

The shutdown comes as security incidents multiply across the region. On Monday morning, air defense systems over Erbil intercepted multiple drones, with debris falling on the Pirzin neighborhood and damaging vehicles and homes. Pro-Iran militias have claimed drone strikes on Erbil’s Harir Air Base, and airstrikes have hit PMF positions in Anbar, Diyala and Babil. Iraq’s airspace remains closed.