Trump ends Iraq's waiver for Iranian gas imports
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – U.S. President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order, The National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM-2), which includes ending Iraq's waiver to import natural gas from Iran for electricity generation.
This move is part of broader United States efforts to pressure Iran, prevent it from developing nuclear weapons, and counter its regional influence including in Iraq, Yemen and Lebanon.
The decision significantly impacts Iraq, which relies on Iranian gas to power its electricity grid. Without the waiver, Iraq faces potential energy shortages and financial strain, as it must now seek alternative energy sources.
Additionally, the order aims to prevent Iran from using Iraq and some Gulf states, including the UAE, to bypass sanctions.
To address these challenges, Iraq has lately been active in seeking foreign investment, international loans, and state funding to strengthen its energy infrastructure. American and European companies like General Electric (GE) and Siemens are playing key roles in Iraq's efforts to develop its power sector and reduce reliance on Iranian energy supplies.
The policy shift underscores Washington's continued pressure campaign on Iran, while pushing Iraq to be more independent and to diversify its energy sources and align with U.S. strategic objectives.
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