US Tightens Pressure on Iraq Over Militias

The United States has taken strong steps against Iraq by stopping shipments of US dollars and pausing some military cooperation programs. This move is meant to pressure Iraq to act against armed groups believed to be linked to Iran.

According to reports, US officials recently blocked a plane carrying about $500 million in cash that was supposed to go to Iraq’s central bank. This is the second time such a transfer has been stopped since the Iran war began in late February. The decision comes after repeated attacks by militia groups on US facilities in Iraq and nearby countries.

In addition to halting cash deliveries, Washington has also paused certain security programs, including counterterrorism support and military training. US officials say these measures will stay in place until Iraq takes clear action to stop militia attacks and dismantle these groups.

The US has made it clear that it expects the Iraqi government to take full responsibility. Officials warned that continued inaction could damage relations between the two countries. For now, the suspension is described as temporary, but no clear timeline has been given for when support might resume.

Overall, this situation shows growing tension between the US and Iraq, as Washington increases pressure to reduce the influence of Iran-backed militias in the region.

Source: Newstimehub