
U.S. Ends Sanctions Waiver for Iraq to Buy Electricity From Iran
The U.S. government has decided to terminate a sanctions waiver that had allowed Iraq to import electricity from Iran, a move that could severely impact Iraq's power supply. The decision, announced on March 9, 2025, marks a significant shift in U.S. policy towards Iran and its influence in the region. The waiver, which was initially granted to address Iraq's urgent energy needs, will not be renewed, putting pressure on Iraq to find alternative sources of electricity.
Iraq, heavily reliant on Iranian electricity to meet its domestic demands, faces potential widespread power cuts as a result of this decision. The Iraqi government has expressed concerns about the immediate effects on its citizens, with fears of exacerbating an already strained power infrastructure. The move is seen as part of broader U.S. efforts to isolate Iran economically and limit its regional power.
The termination of the waiver has sparked discussions among international observers about the balance between applying economic pressure on Iran and ensuring stability in Iraq. It remains to be seen how Iraq will navigate this challenge and what measures it will take to mitigate the impact on its population.