28 February 2003 In talking about possible war against Iraq, Bush administration officials insist that their main objective is not to get their hands on the country’s massive oil reserves. But post-war, fierce competition is almost bound to erupt between US oil firms that have been kept off-limits by the Iraqis, and those — including Russian, Asian, and European companies — that either have firm contracts with the current regime…
Iraq: Opposition Alternative
14 March 2003 A group of Iraqi exiles opposed to Saddam Hussein is gearing up to present itself as an alternative to opposition groups like the Iraqi National Congress that, having worked closely with Washington for years, are now regarded as US sell-outs by most Iraqis. The group, led by former foreign minister Adnan Pachachi, rejects a US military administration and is against any foreign interference in managing the oil…
Interview: Jordan’s Foreign Minister Gives His Take On The War
14 March 2003 Ever since UN sanctions were imposed on Iraq, Jordan has been the only gateway to and from Baghdad. Ahead of the last Gulf War, the late King Hussein of Jordan played a major role mediating between Saddam Hussein and the international coalition that eventually drove Iraq out of Kuwait in 1991. Accused of siding with Iraq, Jordan was snubbed by the US, as well as its Gulf…
Iraqi Oil Officials Weigh US Policy Role
7 May 2003 With current efforts in Iraq’s oil sector focusing on near-term repairs and restoration, cooperation between officials from the US and Iraq is proceeding smoothly. But Iraqi oil technocrats appear more skeptical about cooperation with the US on long-term policy, according to soundings by International Oil Daily in Baghdad. There is already internal debate among Iraqi officials about the correct course for the industry going forward, with some…