The Trump administration ended a waiver facilitating Iraqi purchases of Iranian electricity, part of a broader strategy to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities. National security advisor Mike Waltz encouraged Iraq to achieve energy independence and resolve its disputes with the Kurdistan Regional Government. The move aims to diminish Iran’s oil profits while stabilizing global oil supply, with potential energy shortages looming for Iraq.
The Trump administration has terminated a waiver that permitted Iraq to purchase Iranian electricity. This decision aligns with President Donald Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, aiming to hinder the regime’s nuclear ambitions. National security advisor Mike Waltz emphasized the importance of Iraqi energy independence and encouraged Iraq to engage more with Western and U.S. energy firms.
Waltz also addressed the longstanding oil flow dispute between Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government by urging the resolution of contract disputes and payment of debts to U.S. companies. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster global oil supply and stabilize prices, thereby undermining Iran and Russia’s oil profits.
The sanctions waiver first granted by Trump allowed Iraq to rely on Iranian electricity, which has now dropped to only 4%. However, if gas supplies from Iran were also affected, Iraq could experience a significant energy shortage, potentially losing over 30% of its electricity supply, as stated by Ahmad Moussa from Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity.
Former President Joe Biden had continued to renew this waiver until its recent expiration. The U.S. holds considerable influence over Iraq due to its substantial financial reserves and military presence, aiding in countering ISIS.
Trump had previously communicated directly with Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei regarding the urgent need for nuclear negotiations, suggesting military action as a potential alternative. However, he expressed a preference for resolving issues through diplomatic means rather than violence. Despite ongoing sanctions, Iran continues to export a significant volume of oil, and the U.S. is actively pursuing measures to restrict these sales further.
The termination of the electricity waiver represents a pivotal moment in U.S.-Iraq relations as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to curb Iranian influence. The encouragement for Iraq to seek energy independence and resolve internal disputes indicates strategic U.S. interests. The potential fallout from this decision raises concerns about Iraq’s energy stability, highlighting the complexities surrounding U.S. sanctions and diplomatic efforts in the region.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
