The Trump administration ended a waiver allowing Iraq to import electricity from Iran, strengthening its ‘maximum pressure’ strategy against Iran. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz informed Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani about the implications of this decision, promoting Iraqi energy independence and cooperation with U.S. companies. This move seeks to limit Iran’s financial resources, enhancing energy stability in Iraq and the region.
The Trump administration has ceased a waiver permitting Iraq to purchase electricity from Iran, intensifying its “maximum pressure” campaign aimed at crippling Iran’s revenue sources. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz communicated this decision to Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, emphasizing alignment with President Trump’s strategy to inhibit Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Mr. Waltz praised the Iraqi Prime Minister’s commitment to achieving energy independence and encouraged the engagement of more Western and U.S. energy firms within Iraq’s oil and gas sectors. He also advocated for the resolution of long-standing disputes between the Iraqi government and the Kurdistan Regional Government to reduce dependency on Iranian oil.
This strategic move is part of a broader initiative to increase global oil supply and stabilize prices, with the objective of depriving both Iran and Russia of critical fuel revenues. Waltz’s call also included requests for the Iraqi government to address contract disputes with U.S. energy companies and to appoint an investment coordinator for U.S. operations in Iraq.
Previously, the waiver allowed Iraq to depend on Iran for its electricity needs, though this reliance has diminished to 4%. Analysts caution that, should this policy extend to gas supplies, Iraq could face a severe electricity shortage, risking a loss of over 30% of its energy capacity.
Continuing the waiver was a policy of former President Joe Biden until it expired recently. The U.S. retains significant leverage over Iraq, including $100 billion of its reserves held stateside. Additionally, about 2,500 American military personnel remain in Iraq to support operations against ISIS.
Former President Trump previously sought dialogue with Iran regarding its nuclear program, proposing that diplomatic solutions be favored over military action. Nevertheless, he warned that escalating actions could lead to severe consequences for Iran should negotiations fail.
As Iran continues to enrich uranium closer to weapons-grade levels, tensions remain high. Currently, Iran is exporting approximately 1.5 million barrels of oil daily, yet new directives aim to reduce Tehran’s oil exports to zero, targeting not only Iraq but also potentially China, its primary oil purchaser.
The Trump administration’s decision to end the waiver for Iraqi electricity importation from Iran is a significant escalation in its ‘maximum pressure’ campaign against Tehran. This action reflects the administration’s commitment to curb Iran’s nuclear capabilities and mitigate its financial resources. By encouraging Iraqi energy independence and collaboration with U.S. firms, the U.S. aims to reduce Iranian influence in the region significantly while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
