US Clarifies: Iraq-Iran Energy Deal Funds Won’t Reach Tehran’s ‘Mullahs’

US Clarifies: Iraq-Iran Energy Deal Funds Won't Reach Tehran's 'Mullahs'

Asif Iqbal | March 16, 2024 | 07:17 AM IST | World | Follow on Google News

US Clarifies: Iraq-Iran Energy Deal Funds Won’t Reach Tehran’s ‘Mullahs’….image/YouTube/WhiteHouse

US Clarifies: Iraq-Iran Energy Deal Funds Won’t Reach Tehran’s ‘Mullahs’

The White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby emphasized that funds from a sanction waiver allowing Iraq to purchase energy from Iran will not benefit the ‘mullahs’ in Tehran. Kirby assured during a press briefing that none of the money would go to Iran, rather it would be directed to vendors providing humanitarian assistance to the Iranian people.

Iraq-Iran Energy Deal Funds:Concerns and Clarifications

Despite criticism and concerns regarding the extension of the sanction waiver, the US State Department spokesperson affirmed that no money has been permitted to enter Iran under these waivers. Referring to the reported USD 10 billion in Iraqi payments held in an escrow account, the spokesperson clarified that the funds are routed to trusted vendors or financial institutions in other countries, ensuring they never touch Iran directly.

US-UAE Trade Surges: Growth Trends Continue

The Biden administration’s decision to renew the extension, just six weeks after an attack on US service members in Jordan and Iraq, has faced scrutiny. Critics remain skeptical, questioning whether the waiver indirectly supports Iran’s destabilizing activities in the region.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi announced plans for the use of USD 6 billion in previously frozen funds, expected to be released in a prisoner exchange agreement with the US. Raisi asserted that Iran will have authority over the usage of the funds, which will be overseen by Qatar’s central bank. He emphasized that the money would be utilized solely for humanitarian purposes, in line with US sanctions.

In an interview, Raisi reiterated Iran’s stance, stating that the money belongs to the Iranian people and government, affirming their right to decide its allocation. While assuring that the funds would prioritize humanitarian needs, he emphasized Iran’s authority in determining the utilization of the money.

The dialogue surrounding the allocation of these funds underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with both the US and Iran emphasizing humanitarian considerations while navigating broader political interests.

Asif Iqbal

Asif Iqbal is a seasoned news writer with a passion for delivering the latest updates to the public. Currently serving as the senior writer at VoM News, a prominent news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of diverse topics, Asif has established himself as a reliable source of information. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he consistently provides readers with well-crafted articles that cover a wide range of news categories. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to staying ahead of the news curve make him an invaluable asset to Vom News, ensuring that readers are always well-informed on the issues that matter most. You can find his work and stay updated on current events by visiting vomnews.in.