BAGHDAD, March 29 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani confirmed on Saturday his approval to grant the Iraqi Oil Ministry an exemption to supply Lebanon with fuel for a period of six months.

Al-Sudani made the remarks during a phone conversation with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, according to a statement by al-Sudani's media office.

Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq's support for Lebanon's stability and security, reiterating Iraq's commitment to contributing to its reconstruction, the statement said.

Al-Sudani also condemned Israel's ongoing attacks, especially the recent incident in Beirut's southern suburb, it noted.

For his part, Berri expressed his gratitude to al-Sudani for his supportive stance toward Lebanon and its sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of maintaining communication and cooperation with Iraq in various fields.

Since July 2021, Lebanon has been importing heavy fuel oil from Iraq to generate electricity from power plants.

Under the deal, Iraq provided the Lebanese government with fuel in exchange for healthcare services for Iraqi citizens. Lebanon then swaps the heavy fuel oil for gas oil that can be used at its power stations.

But financial disagreements have strained the fuel supply arrangement, leading to periodic suspensions and highlighting the challenges Lebanon faces in securing energy resources amid its economic crisis. Enditem

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