World News
Baghdad Dismisses U.S. Lawmakers’ Claims As Baseless Fabrications
The Iraqi Oil Ministry has strongly refuted allegations made by several U.S. Congress members, who claimed that Iraq is smuggling oil to Iran to help the country bypass U.S. sanctions.
The ministry labeled these accusations as “fabrications with no foundation.”
The rebuttal comes in response to a letter reportedly sent by five U.S. lawmakers to President Joe Biden, accusing Iraqi officials, including Oil Minister Hayan Abdul Ghani, of facilitating illegal oil sales to Iran.
ALSO READ: Qatar Donates Funds To Support Over 4,400 Refugees Displaced By Gaza Conflict
The letter further urged Biden to block Ghani’s planned visit to Washington until an investigation into the matter is completed.
In a statement, the Iraqi Oil Ministry expressed “astonishment and condemnation” at the allegations, stressing that its oil operations are under the scrutiny of international inspectors.
The ministry also pointed out that Iraqi waters are strictly monitored by naval forces to prevent any illegal activity.