BAGHDAD — US Ambassador to Iraq Stuart Jones announced July 21 that the Iraqi government has started withdrawing the $2.7 billion loan secured on June 29. However, the Iraqi parliament had not been briefed on the deal, making it illegal in the eyes of many of its members.
A memorandum of understanding was signed between the Iraqi government and the US administration on military purchases. The deal will allow Iraq to defer payment for the purchase of weapons and military equipment.