Iraq’s oil exports hit lowest level since war; oil minister resigns

Iraq’s exports of oil hit their lowest level in December since the war, as the country’s oil minister resigned Monday in the wake of protests and riots over soaring gas prices and lengthening lines at the pump.

Only 34.4 million barrels were exported last month, or about 1.1 million barrels per day — the lowest average since Iraq resumed exports after the U.S.-led invasion in March 2003, according to figures released Monday.