Government spokesman: Iraq has not been informed of the end of exemptions on Iranian gas
Government spokesman: Iraq has not been informed of the end of exemptions on Iranian gas
2025-03-08
Iraqi government spokesman Bassem al-Awadi confirmed on Saturday that Iraq has not been officially notified of the end of exemptions on imported Iranian gas, noting that the government has developed multiple scenarios to confront any developments related to the import of Iranian gas. Al-Awadi explained that the relationship between Iraq and the United States is currently “calm”, and that the communication between the Iraqi Prime Minister and US President Donald Trump was “objective and professional” and based on mutual respect.
He added that the two parties discussed developing bilateral relations between Baghdad and Washington, especially within the framework of the “Strategic Framework Agreement”, without addressing regional issues related to Iran or others.
Al-Awadi also pointed out that Iraq will reach the stage of self-sufficiency in the field of energy by 2028, and therefore will not need to import gas from abroad.
He stressed that Iraq is not under pressure or threats from any country, big or small, but is continuing its discussions with many countries, including China, Russia, Britain and America.
Regarding the Popular Mobilization Forces, Al-Awadi indicated that Iraq has not received any official request regarding the withdrawal of the weapons of the armed factions, stressing that the government is proceeding with controlling the weapons, not withdrawing them.
Al-Awadi also stressed that Iraq was not subjected to pressure or sanctions regarding armed factions, the dollar, or the oil company SOMO, and explained that discussions on these files aim to enhance the security situation in Iraq.
Regarding foreign forces, Al-Awadi explained that the forces present in Iraq are at the request of the Iraqi government, and are subject to full Iraqi supervision. He stated that there is an agreement and a timetable for the withdrawal of foreign forces, with the first phase ending in September 2025, and the second phase in September 2026.
Regarding the exemptions on Iranian gas, Al-Awadi confirmed that the government has developed alternative plans in the event that the exemptions are not renewed, including importing gas from Turkmenistan or using floating gas platforms that will be connected to power stations in Basra.
burathanews.com
