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US gives Iraqis an out on Iran sanctions

Although Iraq continues to accuse Washington of meddling in its internal affairs, both countries have made concessions on Iran sanctions.
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks to reporters during a news briefing at the State Department in Washington, U.S., October 23, 2018. REUTERS/Cathal McNaughton - RC1A8C8911D0

As Iran sanctions went into effect today following President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the nuclear accord, Washington has agreed to grant Iraq a key exemption that would spare it from some of the most damaging effects.

Washington is allowing Baghdad to continue importing electricity from Iran, allowing Iraq to avoid further shortages that have helped fuel widespread protests throughout Basra in recent months.

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