Iraqi Oil Ministry Denies Accusations of Smuggling Oil to Iran to Avoid US Sanctions
The Iraqi Oil Ministry has strongly denied allegations made by several US Congress members that it is smuggling and “illegally” selling oil to Iran to help it evade US sanctions. The ministry called the claims “fabrications that have no basis” and emphasized that its oil activities are monitored by international inspectors and strictly controlled by the country’s naval forces.
The accusations were made in a letter reportedly sent by five US Congress members to President Joe Biden earlier this week. The lawmakers accused the Iraqi Oil Minister, Hayan Abdul Ghani, of aiding Iran’s sanctions evasion by smuggling oil, and called on Biden to bar Ghani from visiting the United States as scheduled until an investigation is complete.
Ghani is set to visit the US soon to discuss gas investment opportunities. The Iraqi Oil Ministry expressed “astonishment and condemnation” of the letter’s content, and emphasized that it is committed to transparency and compliance with international regulations.
Iraq has been a key player in the global oil market, and the allegations of oil smuggling have raised concerns about the country’s commitment to upholding international sanctions. The US has imposed tough sanctions on Iran in an effort to curb its nuclear program, and any illegal oil sales could undermine those efforts.
The Iraqi Oil Ministry’s denial of the allegations is likely to ease concerns about the country’s compliance with international regulations. However, the controversy is likely to continue to simmer, with the US lawmakers calling for an investigation into the matter.
In the meantime, the Iraqi Oil Ministry is working to increase transparency and accountability in its oil operations. The ministry has implemented a number of measures to improve its tracking and monitoring of oil exports, and has pledged to cooperate fully with international inspectors.
The controversy highlights the complex and often contentious relationships between countries in the Middle East, where oil politics can be a major source of tension and conflict. As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, the issue of oil smuggling is likely to remain a major concern for policymakers and regulators around the world.
