H.R.2658 - Free Iraq from Iran Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2658, the "Free Iraq from Iran Act," aims to counter Iranian influence in Iraq by requiring an interagency strategy to dismantle Iran-backed militias and support Iraqi civil society. The bill mandates the designation of specific militias as terrorist organizations and restricts U.S. funding to the Iraqi government contingent on certain conditions. It also imposes sanctions on individuals and entities facilitating Iranian influence and prohibits Iraq from importing liquefied natural gas from Iran.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill could significantly alter the U.S.-Iraq relationship and regional dynamics. It could lead to increased pressure on Iran and its proxies, potentially destabilizing Iraq in the short term. The long-term effects depend on the successful implementation of the interagency strategy and the response of the Iraqi government and Iranian-backed groups.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthened national security by countering Iranian influence and terrorist organizations.
- Support for Iraqi sovereignty and democracy by reducing external interference.
- Potential for increased stability in the region if Iranian influence is successfully curbed.
- Promotion of human rights and rule of law in Iraq by supporting civil society.
- Reduced risk of U.S. taxpayer dollars supporting entities hostile to U.S. interests.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased instability and violence in Iraq if the militias are not effectively dismantled.
- Risk of alienating the Iraqi government if the conditions for U.S. assistance are too stringent.
- Possible negative impact on the Iraqi economy due to sanctions and restrictions on energy imports.
- Strain on diplomatic relations with Iraq and other countries in the region.
- Unintended consequences from designating groups as terrorist organizations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on foreign policy and national security falls under the powers granted to the President and Congress in Article I, Section 8 and Article II of the Constitution. Specifically, Congress has the power to declare war, raise and support armies, and regulate commerce with foreign nations. The President, as Commander-in-Chief, conducts foreign policy. The bill's provisions regarding sanctions and designations of terrorist organizations align with these powers. However, the potential impact on individual liberties and due process should be carefully considered.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).