US sanctions on Iran leave Iraq in a difficult position, analyst says, 12 MARCH

 US sanctions on Iran leave Iraq in a difficult position, analyst says

Shafaq News/ The administration of US President Donald Trump is pursuing its policy of “maximum pressure” against Iran without regard for its impact on Iraq, political analyst Nizar Haidar said on Tuesday.

“Unfortunately, the Trump administration does not care about the collateral effects Iraq may suffer due to this policy,” Haidar told Shafaq News. “The White House sees Iraq as an incidental casualty of sanctions that will only tighten over time. Washington believes this is Baghdad’s problem, not its own, particularly concerning the US dollar, electricity, and gas.”

The US waiver allowing Iraq to import Iranian gas for electricity generation expired on March 8, 2025, preventing Baghdad from purchasing the gas needed to operate its power plants.

Dependence on Iranian Gas

Haidar criticized Iraqi policymakers for failing to anticipate the fallout from these sanctions and for not adopting independent national strategies in the energy sector. “Iraq should have foreseen these scenarios long before they materialized,” he said. “Yet, it has delayed too much due to its failure to implement true national policies in electricity and gas.”

He pointed to Baghdad’s reliance on Iranian gas as a primary vulnerability, attributing it to political influence within Iraq. “Despite knowing the risks, Iraq has remained dependent on Iranian gas to fully meet its energy needs. This dependence persists because of the influence of Tehran’s proxies, including political leaders and militia commanders, who have obstructed alternative solutions.”

Haidar outlined three key failures in Iraq’s energy strategy:

-Reliance on gas-powered plants: Iraq has insisted on using gas-fired power plants for the past two decades, deepening its dependence on Iranian gas, which is subject to US sanctions.

-Rejection of alternative gas supplies: Iraq has dismissed initiatives to diversify its gas imports, including a Qatari proposal offering gas at a preferential price. “Proxies of Iran blocked this project from advancing,” Haidar noted.

-Failure to utilize domestic gas resources: Iraq has repeatedly stalled or abandoned projects to capture associated gas from its oil fields. “Due to gas flaring, Iraq loses more than $12 billion annually,” he said.

However, Iraqi officials say they have yet to receive a formal notification of the decision. “The Ministry of Electricity has not received any official notice from the American side or the US embassy regarding this matter so far,” ministry spokesperson Ahmed Mousa told Shafaq News.

SANDY INGRAM CC HIGHLIGHTS NOTES: Iraq in Serious Trouble US is the Reason #iqd Rate, 12 MARCH

SANDY INGRAM CC HIGHLIGHTS NOTES

Highlights

Summary

In this video, Sandy Ingram discusses the precarious situation faced by Iraq following the expiration of a U.S. waiver that previously allowed the country to import electricity from Iran without incurring sanctions.

 The implications of this decision are profound, as Iraq’s reliance on Iranian energy is substantial, and the lack of an alternative energy source poses a significant risk to the country’s stability. With a history marred by war and corruption, Iraq struggles with electricity shortages, particularly during the scorching summer months. 

The expiration of the waiver could lead to widespread protests among citizens who face the prospect of increased power outages and the potential for a humanitarian crisis. The U.S. aims to pressure Iran regarding its nuclear program, yet the consequences of this strategy could destabilize Iraq further. As the Iraqi government seeks alternatives and grapples with its energy crisis, the video underscores the complex interplay of international relations, local governance, and the impact on everyday citizens.

• ⚡ U.S. Waiver Expiration: The U.S. has chosen not to renew a waiver allowing Iraq to import electricity from Iran, raising concerns about energy shortages.
• 🌍 Iranian Energy Dependence: Iraq’s heavy reliance on Iranian gas and electricity due to decades of war and poor management leaves it vulnerable to energy crises.
• 🔥 Summer Electricity Crisis: With summer temperatures soaring above 50°C, electricity failures can turn life-threatening, especially for vulnerable populations.
• 📉 Potential Protests: Iraqi citizens are likely to protest against the government if electricity shortages worsen, highlighting the fragility of public support.
• 💰 Financial Constraints: Iraq has significant funds allocated for Iranian gas but can only use them for humanitarian purposes, complicating energy procurement.
• ⚖️ U.S. Foreign Policy Impact: The U.S. aims to restrict Iran’s capabilities but risks destabilizing Iraq, which could have broader geopolitical consequences.
• 🚨 Simultaneous U.S. Energy Issues: The U.S. faces its own electricity challenges, as highlighted by potential power shutoffs in states amid trade tensions with Canada.

Key Insights

• ⚡ Impact of Energy Sanctions on Iraq: The expiration of the U.S. waiver significantly affects Iraq’s energy stability. This decision reflects a broader strategy aimed at curbing Iran’s influence in the region but disregards the immediate needs of Iraqi citizens. The reliance on Iranian energy is a direct result of years of conflict and mismanagement, and the sudden withdrawal of support could lead to dire consequences for the populace.

• 🌍  Humanitarian Concerns Amid Political Maneuvering: The U.S. stance on sanctions is intertwined with humanitarian implications. While the intention may be to limit Iran’s power, the inability of Iraq to secure energy could lead to humanitarian crises. With extreme summer temperatures, the lack of electricity could cause health emergencies, particularly among the elderly and infants, thus highlighting the need for a balance between international policy and local humanitarian needs.

• 🔥 Public Sentiment and Government Stability: The potential for public protests in Iraq due to electricity shortages illustrates the fragile nature of the current government. Citizens have historically demonstrated against poor governance and service delivery, and worsening electricity failures could trigger widespread unrest. This reflects the broader trend in the Middle East, where government legitimacy is often tied to the ability to provide basic services.

• 📉 Economic Strain and Resource Allocation: Iraq’s financial situation complicates its energy crisis. Despite having funds set aside for gas imports, restrictions on their use limit the government’s ability to address the immediate energy needs of its citizens. This situation underscores the challenges faced by governments in crisis, where financial resources are often tied up in bureaucratic or international constraints.

• ⚖️ Geopolitical Tensions and Local Consequences: The U.S.'s pressure on Iran through sanctions could have unintended consequences on Iraq, a country already struggling with governance and infrastructure challenges. The lack of a cohesive energy strategy may exacerbate tensions within Iraq, leading to both civil unrest and a potential humanitarian crisis. This highlights the interconnectedness of geopolitical strategies and local realities.

• 🚨 Broader Implications of Energy Dependency: The reliance on a single source for energy exposes Iraq to risks not only from external powers like Iran but also from fluctuations in international policy. As Iraq seeks to diversify its energy sources, the transition may be slow and fraught with challenges, affecting overall national stability and the daily lives of citizens.

• 💡 Searching for Alternatives: Iraq is actively seeking alternative energy sources, but the transition will take time and resources. This situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Iraq to explore sustainable energy solutions, potentially leading to long-term benefits if managed effectively. However, immediate needs must be met to prevent further deterioration of public order.

In conclusion, the video sheds light on the intricate web of political, economic, and social factors influencing Iraq’s energy crisis. As the country grapples with the repercussions of U.S. foreign policy, the potential for unrest looms large, underscoring the need for immediate action to secure energy independence and ensure the safety and wellbeing of its citizens. The interplay between international relations and local governance remains a critical area of concern for Iraq’s future stability. 

FIREFLY: the Iraqi dinar will regain its strength!! @DINARREVALUATION #iraqidinarinvestor

 

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5G and Global Ties: Iraq's Cabinet approves major telecom and diplomatic deals, 12 MARCH

5G and Global Ties: Iraq's Cabinet approves major telecom and diplomatic deals

Shafaq News/ The Iraqi Council of Ministers, chaired by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, held its 10th regular session on Tuesday, addressing key national developments and advancing major policy initiatives. 

According to an official statement, the Council of Ministers approved the establishment of the National Mobile Telecommunications Company, which will operate the 5G national license in cooperation with Vodafone Group. “This step aligns with our commitment to modernizing Iraq’s telecommunications infrastructure and maximizing national revenues,” the government said in a statement.

The new company will be established as a private limited entity under the Companies Law No. 21 of 1997 (as amended), with equal participation from three government bodies: the Ministry of Communications' Al-Salam General Company, the State Pension Fund, and the Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI). Each entity will hold an equal one-third share as a long-term investment. The government emphasized that “all major strategic decisions affecting the success of the national mobile license project will require prior approval from the Council of Ministers.”

Additionally, the Minister of Communications has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of the project and providing periodic progress reports to the Council of Ministers.

Foreign Affairs and Diplomatic Agreements

The Council of Ministers also approved several key agreements aimed at strengthening Iraq’s international relations. It ratified the enforcement of a Memorandum of Understanding with Morocco for mutual visa exemption for diplomatic passport holders. The Council also approved the Foreign Ministry’s proposal to establish an Indian Consulate General in Najaf Province.

Furthermore, the government endorsed an Air Services Agreement between Iraq and Jordan, which has been submitted to the Council of Representatives for approval and ratification.

“These diplomatic agreements reflect Iraq’s commitment to facilitating international cooperation and fostering stronger economic and political ties with key global partners,” the statement added.

The Council of Ministers reaffirmed its dedication to implementing policies that support economic growth, enhance public services, and strengthen Iraq’s regional and international standing.

TIDBIT FROM MARKZ, 12 MARCH

 MarkZ   

[via PDK] 

 Article:  “US gas move: Iraq’s race to avert power crisis”

  US has gone full tilt with Iraq to stop Iranian influence and rebuild Iraqi infrastructure.

 They are adding power plants as well as rebuilding the power structure. This will put Iraq at the forefront in the region…and with that we get the economic reforms or a higher value to lift the purchasing power of Iraq.

AJ : MORE GOOD NEWS: 🔥Iraq Inflation drops to 3 percent!!! @DINARREVALUATION #iraqidinarinvestor

 

FRANK26: "WORLD BANK KNOWS NONE OF THIS IS ACHIEVED AT 1310", 12 MARCH

 KTFA

FRANK26: "WORLD BANK KNOWS NONE OF THIS IS ACHIEVED AT 1310".....F26

World Bank confirms its continued support for Iraq to achieve its development goals

 

3/11/2025

 

Finance Minister Taif Sami stressed the importance of the ongoing partnership with the World Bank, and Iraq's aspiration to benefit from the technical and financial support provided by the bank in implementing strategic projects to stimulate economic growth and provide job opportunities, especially in areas including infrastructure and human development. This came during her reception of the World Bank Representative to Iraq, Jean-Christophe Carret, and his accompanying delegation.

The meeting discussed ways to enhance economic and financial cooperation between Iraq and the World Bank. It reviewed a number of key topics related to enhancing financial stability in Iraq, in addition to discussing development projects that the two parties seek to implement with the aim of achieving sustainable development.

For his part, the World Bank representative expressed the bank's commitment to continue supporting Iraq in achieving its development goals, noting that the World Bank pays great attention to enhancing Iraq's ability to face economic and development challenges, with a focus on sustainable development and achieving comprehensiveness in the benefits achieved .

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