Part 9/11:
In a move that highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions, the Biden administration has quietly renewed a controversial sanctions waiver allowing Iran access to roughly $10 billion from Iraq in electricity payments. This waiver, extended repeatedly since 2018, permits Iraq to buy Iranian electricity without US penalties, effectively subsidizing Tehran.
The extension, signed shortly after Trump's election victory, has drawn sharp criticism from Republicans. Critics argue that it effectively enables Iran’s malign activities, including funding terrorism and advancing its nuclear program. Despite claims that the funds are for humanitarian purposes, skeptics contend that the money revives Iran’s domestic budget and proxies.