Economic expert Faleh al-Zubaidi said the United States is using several methods to increase pressure on Iraq, particularly in the energy sector, with the goal of influencing investment and economic decisions.
According to al-Zubaidi, Washington relies on four main tools. The first involves encouraging the replacement of international energy companies with American firms. The second, he said, is using Iraq’s oil revenues held at the U.S. Federal Reserve as a way to influence political decisions.
He also pointed to efforts to modify licensing round contracts as another source of pressure. In addition, he claimed that Iraq is being pushed to develop its gas sector through partnerships with American companies.
Al-Zubaidi believes these measures could reduce the role of international companies in Iraq’s energy industry and increase the influence of U.S. businesses within the sector.
His comments come as concerns continue to be raised about foreign investment in Iraq’s energy market. Earlier, Parliamentary Economic Committee member Hamid al-Moussawi said the United States was pressuring global energy companies to avoid investing in Iraq.
Al-Moussawi called on the Iraqi government to take steps to attract more foreign investors and create a more open environment for international companies. He argued that increasing investment would help strengthen the country’s economy, support development projects, and create new opportunities within the energy sector.
The debate highlights ongoing concerns about Iraq’s economic independence and the challenges it faces in attracting international investment while balancing foreign influence in key industries.
