What is the duration of the latest US waiver for Iraqi energy imports?

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The latest US waiver for Iraqi energy imports has been extended for three months.

The United States has granted Iraq a three-month extension on its waiver to US sanctions, permitting the continued import of Iranian natural gas for Iraq's power grid. This decision allows Baghdad to continue receiving approximately 1.5 billion standard cubic feet of gas daily, which is crucial for powering several of its electricity generation facilities. This renewal comes as part of ongoing efforts to manage regional energy dependencies and influence.
Extension of Sanctions Waiver

The waiver, which exempts Iraq from US sanctions related to importing energy from Iran, has been extended for an additional three months. This is not the first time such an exemption has been granted, as Iraq initially received a waiver in November when Washington reinstated sanctions on Iran's energy sector.
Context of Energy Imports

Iraq's reliance on Iranian gas is significant, with the country importing substantial volumes daily through pipelines. This gas is essential for the operation of numerous power stations across Iraq. The waiver allows these imports to continue, ensuring a stable energy supply for the Iraqi populace.
US Policy and Iraqi Development

While granting the waiver, the US has consistently urged Iraq to accelerate the development of its own energy infrastructure to lessen its dependence on Iranian supplies. This push is part of a broader US strategy to reduce Iranian influence in the Middle East, including in Iraq, where Iran holds considerable economic and political sway. Despite possessing significant natural gas reserves, Iraq's development of these resources has been slow, contributing to its continued reliance on imports.

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What is the duration of the latest US waiver for Iraqi energy imports?

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