David Schenker, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State, indicated that President Trump incorporated Iraq into his strategy against Iran, emphasizing continued U.S. support for the Kurdistan Region, including funding for the Peshmerga forces. He remarked on the limited focus Trump had on Iraq specifically, framing it within a broader context against Iran.
Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, Mr. David Schenker, stated that President Donald Trump integrated Iraq into his broader maximum pressure strategy against Iran during his administration. Speaking at the 2025 Erbil Forum, he elaborated on the implications of U.S. policy regarding the Kurdistan Region, noting that this approach has yielded benefits, including continuous American support and the presence of U.S. military personnel in Iraqi Kurdistan.
Mr. Schenker confirmed the United States’ commitment to sustain its annual funding of $20 million for the Peshmerga forces, highlighting the importance of this support in maintaining stability in the region. He further remarked on the Trump administration’s focus on Iraq, suggesting that while Trump did not prioritize Iraq specifically, he regarded it as an integral aspect of his strategy aimed at applying pressure on Iran.
In summary, David Schenker’s comments reflect the intertwining of U.S. policy towards Iraq with broader strategies regarding Iran during Trump’s administration. The commitment to funding the Peshmerga forces underscores the U.S. interest in regional stability. Ultimately, while Iraq may not have been a primary focus for Trump, it played a noteworthy role in his administration’s geopolitical maneuvers.
Original Source: shafaq.com
