The U.S. has terminated Iraq’s waiver for electricity imports from Iran as part of its “maximum pressure” campaign. With Iraq’s electricity production falling short of demand, Prime Minister Al-Sudani’s plan targets eliminating dependence on Iranian energy by 2028. This development follows discussions between U.S. officials and Iraq on energy independence.
The United States has officially terminated Iraq’s waiver for purchasing electricity from Iran, as stated by a representative from the State Department. This action serves to reinforce the U.S. strategy of “maximum pressure” against Tehran, aiming to curb Iran’s economic relief. The spokesperson emphasized that the decision aligns with President Trump’s campaign objectives to address nuclear threats, ballistic missile activities, and support for terrorist organizations.
Currently, Iraq generates approximately 27,000 megawatts of electricity via gas-powered plants; however, production may drop to 17,000 megawatts at times, leaving the country facing persistent energy shortages. To compensate for a demand that peaks at 40,000 megawatts, Iraq has relied on Iranian gas imports under a U.S. sanctions waiver that had been periodically renewed. With President Trump again in office, his administration is reasserting strict economic measures toward Iran.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has expressed the government’s intention to seek an extension of the waiver for Iranian energy imports. In a recent interview, he mentioned that Iraq aims to eliminate its dependence on Iranian energy by 2028, asserting, “There will be clear energy independence.” He also highlighted ongoing projects for energy interconnection with neighboring countries, which are part of a broader strategy for regional energy integration.
The U.S. decision follows a recent conversation between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Prime Minister al-Sudani, during which they discussed Iran’s regional influence. Rubio encouraged Iraq to achieve energy independence as part of ongoing discussions regarding foreign policy and energy security.
In conclusion, the U.S. decision to end Iraq’s waiver for Iranian electricity imports marks a significant shift in foreign policy, aligning with a strategy that aims to constrain Iran’s economic capabilities. Iraq’s energy crisis underscores the need for alternative solutions, and the government’s plan to achieve energy independence by 2028 emphasizes the urgency of this transition. The collaboration with neighboring countries for energy projects will be crucial as Iraq navigates these complexities amidst changing U.S.-Iran relations.
Original Source: shafaq.com
