US sanctions Iraqi deputy oil minister for allegedly diverting funds to Iranian proxies

The US has sanctioned Iraqi deputy oil minister Ali Maarij al-Bahadly for allegedly diverting funds to Iranian proxies. The sanctions target his role in facilitating the diversion of Iraqi oil products to benefit Iran-aligned militias like Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq. This action is part of a broader US campaign to disrupt Iranian revenue sources and counter Iranian influence in Iraq.