David Schenker, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State, stated that Trump integrated Iraq into his Iranian pressure strategy. He highlighted the benefits of U.S. policy for the Kurdistan Region, including troop presence and financial support. Schenker noted that while Iraq was not Trump’s central focus, it was tied to the broader campaign against Iran.
At the recent 2025 Erbil Forum, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, David Schenker, revealed that former President Donald Trump incorporated Iraq into his maximum pressure strategy against Iran. Schenker emphasized that the U.S. policy toward the Kurdistan Region has significantly benefited it by ensuring ongoing support from Washington and maintaining a presence of American forces in the region.
Schenker reaffirmed that the U.S. will sustain an annual funding of $20 million for the Peshmerga forces, further solidifying U.S. commitment to Iraqi security affairs. Although acknowledging Trump’s broader strategy, Schenker noted that Trump was not particularly focused on Iraq as a standalone issue. Rather, Iraq was seen as part of the overarching pressure campaign aimed at Iran.
In summary, David Schenker’s remarks shed light on the interplay between U.S. policy towards Iraq and Iran under Trump’s administration. While Iraq was not a primary focus for Trump, it was nevertheless integral to his broader strategy. The continued U.S. funding for the Peshmerga forces underscores America’s commitment to stability in the Kurdistan Region.
Original Source: shafaq.com
