Iran and Iraq: Oil Wars (Resource Conflict‪)‬

Over the last two years, Iranian troops have thrust across the poorly demarcated border with Iraq several times to occupy oil installations in what Tehran claims is Iranian territory. The incursions usually involved only a small number of troops and were invariably brief. Against the constant drumbeat of the Middle East's unceasing bloodletting and turmoil, these incidents, at least two of which erupted into exchanges of gunfire, have barely been noticed. But as Iran seeks to establish its supremacy in Iraq, its ancient enemy, the two countries are also clashing in the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) where Iraq's re-emergence as a leading oil producer seems likely to upset the balance of power in the 12-member cartel. Over time, it's a battle Iraq is likely to win--unless Tehran moves in to take control. Given the political turbulence inside Iraq right now as it struggles to form a coalition government nine months after an inconclusive parliamentary election produced no clear-cut winners, and U.S. President Barack Obama is withdrawing his military forces, this energy rivalry could have geopolitical consequences that could threaten regional stability. "The perception in Tehran is that the Obama administration is not as committed in Iraq today as the Truman administration was to West Germany in 1948," says historian and Middle East analyst Amir Tahiri. "Thus, Iran is actively preparing to move in and fill the void."