Core Viewpoint - The West's longstanding focus on military influence in Iraq has hindered efforts to reduce Baghdad's dependency on Iranian energy, but recent legislative changes signal a shift towards addressing this issue more aggressively [1][2]. Group 1: Legislative Changes and Geopolitical Context - The introduction of the 'No Iranian Energy Act' aims to sanction the importation of Iranian natural gas to Iraq, reflecting a strategic shift in U.S. policy under President Trump's administration [1]. - The 'Iran Waiver Rescissions Act' would permanently freeze Iranian-sanctioned assets and prevent future waivers from U.S. Presidents, indicating a tightening of sanctions against Iran [1]. - The geopolitical landscape is characterized by a struggle between Western interests aiming to reduce Iranian influence and the interests of China and Russia, which benefit from Iraq's dependency on Iranian energy [3]. Group 2: Iraq's Energy Dependency and Development Plans - Iraq relies on Iran for approximately 40% of its power supply through gas and electricity imports, which has led to significant political and economic consequences, including muted dissent and a lack of urgency to develop domestic gas resources [2]. - The Oil Ministry is expediting the development of the Gharraf and Nassiriyah gas projects, with operations expected to begin by early 2027 and a production capacity of 200 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d) [3]. - Iraq's gas reserves are estimated at around 3.5 trillion cubic meters (Tcm), with the potential to recover up to 8 Tcm, positioning the country as a significant player in the global gas market [3][4]. Group 3: Technical Solutions and Historical Context - Iraq has previously engaged with Baker Hughes to capture flared gas, aiming to recover around 200 mmscf/d from the Gharraf and Nassiriyah fields, which could supply approximately 400 megawatts to the Iraqi grid [4][5]. - Despite having access to technical solutions for gas capture, Iraq's dependency on Iranian imports remains a challenge, with geopolitical pressures now acting as a potential catalyst for change [6]. - The outcome of Iraq's energy strategy may depend on the political leadership following recent elections, particularly whether a pro-Iran faction gains influence [6].

Yesterday you said China can now continue to purchase oil from Iran. Are you giving up on your maximum pressure campaign because the sanctions right now with you on Iran. No, look, they just had a war.The war was fought. They fought it bravely. I'm not giving up.They they're in the oil business. I mean, I could stop it if I wanted it. Sell China the oil myself.I don't want to do that. They're going to need money to put that country back into shape. We want to see that happen.Would it. No. If they're going t ...