BP Denies Operating Iraq's Rumaila Oil Field Linked to Cancer Death

BP has denied operating Iraq's Rumaila oil field, which allegedly caused the cancer death of 21-year-old Ali Julood, according to a company statement released on April 25, 2024. The denial comes in response to a legal challenge brought by Ali's father, Hussein Julood, who sent a letter to BP on Monday as a prelude to a lawsuit seeking damages for his son's death from leukemia.

Hussein Julood claims that Ali's death was caused by toxic emissions from the constant gas flaring at the Rumaila oil field, which BP has operated since 2009. The town near the oil field has reportedly suffered from soaring cancer rates, earning it the nickname "the cemetery" from locals. Ali had approached BP in 2020 and 2021 seeking compensation for his illness but was met with silence.

If the lawsuit proceeds, it would mark the first time a fossil fuel corporation has faced a legal challenge in the United Kingdom relating to overseas flaring. Iraqi law prohibits oil refineries from being located within 10 kilometers of homes and requires compensation for unlawful environmental harm. Hussein Julood alleges that BP's senior management decisions permitted the excessive gas flaring that ultimately resulted in his son's illness and death.

Why this matters: This case highlights the potential health and environmental impacts of oil and gas operations on local communities, and could set a precedent for holding fossil fuel companies accountable for damages caused by their overseas activities. The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the industry and the communities affected by oil and gas extraction.

BP has 90 days to respond to the Letter Before Action sent by Hussein Julood. If no agreement can be reached, the next stage will be to formally issue proceedings in court. Greenpeace has called for BP and other oil companies to be held accountable for the damages and losses caused to local communities, and to stop drilling and start paying for the damage they are causing. The company's statement denying its operation of the Rumaila oil field sets the stage for a potentially landmark legal battle over the environmental and health consequences of fossil fuel extraction in developing countries.

Key Takeaways

• BP denies operating Iraq's Rumaila oil field, linked to cancer death of 21-year-old.
• Victim's father sues BP for toxic emissions from gas flaring, causing son's leukemia.
• Lawsuit could set precedent for holding fossil fuel firms accountable for overseas harms.
• Iraqi law prohibits oil refineries near homes, requires compensation for environmental damage.
• BP has 90 days to respond before formal court proceedings, Greenpeace calls for accountability.