US Official Highlights Trump’s Pressure Campaign Linking Iraq to Iran

David Schenker revealed that President Trump included Iraq in his pressure campaign against Iran, underscoring benefits from US support in the Kurdistan Region and steady funding for the Peshmerga forces during the Erbil Forum.

On Thursday, former US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, David Schenker, addressed the 2025 Erbil Forum, stating that President Donald Trump included Iraq within his broader strategy of maximum pressure against Iran. Schenker emphasized the positive impacts of US policy toward the Kurdistan Region, highlighting sustained American support and the ongoing stationing of US troops in Iraqi Kurdistan.

Additionally, Schenker confirmed that the United States will continue its annual contribution of $20 million to support the Peshmerga forces. In discussing the Trump administration’s approach to Iraq, he noted, “I don’t think Trump was particularly focused on Iraq, but he considered it part of his broader maximum pressure campaign against Iran.”

In summary, David Schenker articulated that President Trump’s policy intertwines Iraq within a larger context of pressure on Iran, while underscoring the benefits of US support for the Kurdistan Region and the financial backing for Peshmerga forces. The remarks delivered at the Erbil Forum reflect a strategic evaluation of US involvement in the region.

Original Source: shafaq.com