On Monday, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) expressed concern regarding Baghdad's plans to take unilateral steps to control oil and gas in Kirkuk and disputed areas, calling it a clear violation of the 2005 Iraqi Constitution.

In a statement, the KRG cited Article 140 of the Iraqi Constitution, which mandates a referendum in Kirkuk and disputed areas, to be conducted by Baghdad’s government before December 31, 2007. “Despite this, no Iraqi government has conducted the referendum in the past 20 years. Now, Baghdad is preparing to unilaterally seize control of oil and gas in these areas, while the Kurdish people demand these areas under Article 140.”

“Under Articles 110 and 115 of the 2005 Iraqi Constitution, KRG has the absolute right to independently manage newly discovered oil and gas fields. Article 112 also stipulates joint management of previously discovered fields by Baghdad and Erbil, such as those in Kirkuk and surrounding areas. Baghdad is obligated to agree with the Region on the distribution of revenues from these older fields.”