Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the Biden administration’s decision to revoke Iraq’s waiver for importing electricity from Iran. Labeling the move as “extremely deplorable,” Araghchi criticized the US for targeting the Iraqi population by blocking access to essential services like electricity, particularly as the nation braces for the sweltering summer months.

This announcement follows the US suspension of a waiver that allowed Iraq to import Iranian electricity, heightening concerns about the stability of Iraq’s power grid. The chairman of Iraq’s parliament finance committee warned that such restrictions could lead to a catastrophic collapse of the country’s electrical infrastructure.

The US National Security Council defended the decision, stating it aligns with the National Security Presidential Memorandum 2, which aims to reduce Iran’s crude oil exports to zero. Spokesman James Hewitt emphasized that Washington remains steadfast in its “maximum pressure campaign” to ‘’curb Iran’s nuclear program’’, ballistic missile development, and support for anti-Israel groups.

Hewitt further urged the Iraqi government to swiftly reduce its dependence on Iranian energy sources. Currently, about 80% of Iraq’s electricity is generated using natural gas, which heavily relies on imports from Iran. In recent years, Iraq has entered agreements with Iran to import significant amounts of electricity and gas, highlighting the deep economic ties between the neighboring countries.

As diplomatic tensions rise, Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to supporting the Iraqi people and standing firm against what unlawful US actions. The fallout from this US decision continues to loom large over Iraq’s energy landscape and regional relations.

Source: Iranian media (edited by Al-Manar English Website)