Iraqi Kurdistan looked set to unload in the Zionist entity a first cargo of disputed crude oil from its new pipeline after weeks of seeking an outlet as Iraq’s central government has threatened legal action against any buyer.

Iraqi Kurdistan looked set to unload in the Zionist entity a first cargo of disputed crude oil from its new pipeline after weeks of seeking an outlet as Iraq's central government has threatened legal action against any buyer, World Bulletin website reported.

The SCF Altai tanker was anchored near the Zionist Ashkelon port early on Friday morning, ship tracking and industry sources said. The tanker is expected to dock early on Saturday, local sources said.

Securing the first sale of oil from its independent pipeline to the Turkish port of Ceyhan is crucial for the Kurdish Regional Government as it seeks greater financial independence from Iraq.

But the new export route to Turkey, built to bypass Baghdad's federal pipeline system, has created a bitter dispute over oil sale rights between the central government and the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG).

The United States does not support independent oil sales by the Kurdish region and warned possible buyers against accepting the cargoes.

Officials said the Zionist entity was keen to build good ties with the Kurds, hoping to expand its limited diplomatic network in the Middle East and broaden options for energy supplies.