The Donald Trump administration said Wednesday that the United States will renew a sanctions waiver for Iraq to continue importing Iranian electricity; the statement came shortly after Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi managed to form a new government following months of political gridlock. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made the announcement after a phone call with Kadhimi, who has received support from both the United States and Iran.
“They discussed the urgent hard work ahead for the Iraqi government, implementing reforms, addressing COVID-19 and fighting corruption,” said State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus. “In support of the new government, the United States will move forward with a 120-day electricity waiver as a display of our desire to help provide the right conditions for success.”