New Iraqi Prime Minister: We Will Consider Our Interests in US Sanctions Against Iran

Adel Abdul Mahdi, the new Prime Minister of Iraq, stated on Thursday, October 25, that in cooperating with the US regarding the implementation of sanctions against Iran, he prioritizes Iraq's interests and independence. The US decision to withdraw from the JCPOA and resume nuclear sanctions against Iran places the new Iraqi government under Abdul Mahdi in a difficult position, as the economy of this country is heavily intertwined with that of Iran. Mr. Abdul Mahdi said in a press conference in Baghdad: "We want to ensure that other countries, whether neighboring countries or others, do not interfere in Iraq's internal affairs." Iran and the US are the two largest allies of the Iraqi government, and the US government has repeatedly emphasized that non-compliance with its sanctions against Iran will have serious consequences. Abdul Mahdi's remarks do not differ significantly from the positions of former Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi. In August, Mr. Abadi stated that Iraq is "principally" opposed to these sanctions but will comply with them. He added: "In our view, sanctions are a strategic mistake, but we comply with them to protect the interests of the Iraqi people. We do not participate in these sanctions and will not support them, but we will comply with them." Abadi's government had asked the US to exempt Iraq from some of these sanctions. Abdul Mahdi did not specify whether his government would seek such exemptions. The second wave of US sanctions against Iran will be implemented from mid-November, aiming to reduce Iran's oil exports to zero. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo congratulated Abdul Mahdi in a phone call on Thursday. According to a statement from the Iraqi Prime Minister's office, they also discussed strengthening bilateral relations. This was Abdul Mahdi's first press conference after taking the oath in the early hours of Thursday. He also mentioned that he would move the Prime Minister's office and the Iraqi cabinet outside the heavily secured "Green Zone." He added: "All of Iraq's territory should be a Green Zone. Security and beauty should be present in all parts of Iraq. Government officials should share everything, good and bad, with the people."