US Halts Iraq's Electricity Waiver Amid Pressure on Iran

The United States has opted not to renew a waiver that allowed Iraq to purchase electricity from Iran without breaching sanctions. This decision is linked to efforts to reduce Iran’s influence and nuclear ambitions. Iraqi energy dependency on Iran presents challenges, with potential severe impacts on Iraq's power supply.

The United States has taken a firm stand by refusing to renew a waiver that previously allowed Iraq to buy electricity from Iran without violating sanctions, according to a US official's statement on Sunday.

This waiver, which expired on Saturday, was not renewed as part of President Donald Trump's maximum pressure campaign on Iran aimed at ending its nuclear and ballistic missile threats as well as support for terrorist groups, the US embassy in Baghdad confirmed.

Iraq faces a significant challenge due to its reliance on Iranian gas, as electricity shortages persist amidst political and economic turmoil. This decision could lead to severe power shortages, particularly if gas imports also face restrictions.