Economy

US halts dollar shipments to pressure Iraq over militia aggression

Washington halts vital cash shipments to force Baghdad to confront armed factions and stop the flow of US dollars to anti-American militias.

A view of the Central Bank of Iraq's (CBI) logo in Baghdad's Shorja district, photographed on March 9, 2023. The CBI serves as the country's primary distributor of US dollars. [Ahmad Al‑Rubaye/AFP]
A view of the Central Bank of Iraq's (CBI) logo in Baghdad's Shorja district, photographed on March 9, 2023. The CBI serves as the country's primary distributor of US dollars. [Ahmad Al‑Rubaye/AFP]

By Al-Fassel |

The United States has halted its crucial shipments of US dollars to the country, marking a significant shift in policy.

This action is intended to pressure Baghdad into addressing Iran‑aligned factions that have repeatedly targeted American interests in the region.

The decision is not meant to punish the Iraqi population but reflects Baghdad's failure to prevent US currency from funding hostile militias.

These militias have continued launching attacks on the US embassy in Baghdad, prompting Washington to demand firm action from Iraqi authorities.

Dollar transfers will resume only when a new government demonstrates a clear and verifiable commitment to ending this persistent cycle of violence.

The economic pressure exerted by the United States is clear and deliberate, signaling a firm stance on continued security concerns.

A US State Department official confirmed that the information about halting dollar shipments to Iraq is accurate.

The official added that shipments will not resume until a new government's commit to stopping the use of US currency in attacks against Americans.

For months, Iraq has operated under a caretaker government, delaying the creation of a stable administration capable of addressing essential reforms and financial issues.

As a result, malign actors have exploited Iraq's weakened financial oversight, using the system to advance their own interests and undermine US objectives.

Beyond financial pressure, the United States has suspended security coordination meetings with Baghdad to underscore the seriousness of its concerns.

The message from Washington is direct and unmistakable, demanding an Iraqi government that serves its people rather than yielding to Iranian influence.

By cutting off cash flows that inadvertently support hostile militias, the United States aims to push Iraq toward genuine sovereignty and stability.

These efforts align with the aspirations of many Iraqis who want a secure and prosperous future free from militia dominance.

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