Trump Threatens Iraq with Sweeping Sanctions Over Potential Maliki Return

The Trump administration has reportedly warned Iraq's Coordination Framework of sweeping economic sanctions if Nouri al-Maliki is elected for a third term as Prime Minister. Potential measures could target the State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO) and the Central Bank of Iraq, posing a direct threat to the nation's financial and energy sectors. Washington has also signaled possible restrictions on Iraq's access to US dollars, a move that could severely devalue the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). Donald Trump emphasized that the United States is closely monitoring the situation, asserting that regional players ultimately rely on American support. These threats are viewed as a strategic effort to counter Iranian influence and prevent the return of political figures deemed destabilizing by the U.S. Energy markets remain on high alert, as any disruption to SOMO’s operations could impact global oil supply and influence BRENT and WTI prices.