US Suspends Security Cooperation and Funding with Iraq, Pressures Baghdad to Distance from Iran

On April 22, Iraq maintains close ties with both Iran and the United States, often finding itself caught between the two. Now, as both partner countries are embroiled in conflict, the Baghdad government is facing increasing pressure from the US. Washington is demanding that Iraq distance itself from Iran and restrain Iraqi militia groups linked to Iran, which have been behind recent attacks on US interests in Iraq. Two Iraqi officials revealed on Monday that the US has suspended cooperation and funding for Iraqi security forces to force Iraq to make a choice. The State Department declined to comment specifically on the move but stated that Washington has urged the Iraqi government to crack down on Iran-backed militia groups, including some associated with Baghdad government officials. State Department Deputy Spokesperson Piggott said in a statement, ‘The US will not tolerate attacks on American interests and expects the Iraqi government to take immediate action to disband militia groups allied with Iran within Iraq.’ (The New York Times)