Iran (IMNA) - Speaking on Monday, Araghchi described the move as “extremely deplorable,” accusing the US of targeting Iraq’s civilian population by attempting to deny them basic services like electricity, particularly ahead of the summer months.
Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to supporting Iraq, condemning what he called “unlawful US actions.” The waiver’s revocation comes as Iraq remains heavily reliant on Iranian energy imports, with approximately 80% of its electricity generation dependent on natural gas from its eastern neighbor. Recent agreements between Tehran and Baghdad include a five-year contract signed in 2022 for 400 megawatts of electricity and a 2024 deal to increase gas imports to 50 million cubic meters per day.
The US National Security Council defended the decision, citing its “maximum pressure” campaign aimed at curtailing Iran’s nuclear activities, missile program, and regional influence. Spokesman James Hewitt urged Iraq to reduce its dependence on Iranian energy, emphasizing that no economic relief would be granted to Tehran under current policies.
Iraqi officials have warned that cutting off Iranian energy supplies could lead to a collapse of Iraq’s electrical grid, exacerbating an already fragile situation.
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