BAGHDAD — Drivers in Baghdad have been lining up at fuel stations amid dwindling gasoline supplies in Iraq, reflecting broader disruptions to imports linked to ongoing regional tensions. Despite being one of the largest oil producers within OPEC, Iraq relies on imported oil derivatives to satisfy domestic gasoline demand due to insufficient refinery output.

In recent weeks, long queues have again appeared at government-run fuel stations in Baghdad and other provinces. Ibrahim Hashem, a resident of Baghdad, recounted waiting two hours in line without obtaining fuel on Friday, returning early the following day in hopes of securing gasoline. "It is unreasonable that we produce so many barrels of oil a day, yet still do not have enough gasoline to meet our daily needs," he said.

Iraq’s average daily gasoline consumption is approximately 33 million liters, with demand surging to about 38 million liters during periods of panic buying, officials noted. The Oil Ministry attributed supply delays to logistical challenges in tanker traffic caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has affected delivery schedules at Iraqi ports.

Authorities have called on citizens to purchase only necessary amounts of fuel and to avoid congestion at service stations to help alleviate shortages. The disruptions come amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, which have put pressure on the Strait of Hormuz—a critical passage for Iraqi oil exports.

Before the conflict began in February, Iraq’s oil production averaged around four million barrels per day, exporting roughly 3.4 million barrels daily, most of which passed through the Strait of Hormuz. Although exports plunged following the outbreak of hostilities, they rebounded to over 2.2 million barrels per day by August, according to the Oil Ministry.

Oil exports remain vital to Iraq’s economy, generating about 90% of government revenue. The recent import disruptions underscore the country’s ongoing vulnerability despite its abundant crude production.