From the shadows to supreme power: why Iran chose Ahmad Vahidi to lead its confrontation with the United States

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By Dr. Pshtiwan Faraj | Kurdish Policy Analysis Who Is Ahmad Vahidi? The Secretive IRGC Commander now shaping Iran's confrontation with the United States From the founding of the Quds Force to commanding the Revolutionary Guards, Ahmad Vahidi's rise signals a new era in Iran's military-led decision-making. As Tehran braces for a prolonged confrontation with Washington, one of Iran's most secretive and hardline military figures has emerged at the center of power—signaling a dramatic shift in how the Islamic Republic intends to wage its geopolitical struggle. Who is Ahmad Vahidi? Explore the rise of Iran's IRGC commander and how his growing influence could reshape Tehran's strategy toward the United States and the Middle East. For decades, Ahmad Vahidi remained largely behind the scenes, shaping Iran's military doctrine and regional strategy away from the public spotlight. Today, however, he stands at the heart of Iran's national security apparatus, overs...
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Iraq’s food imports from US exceed $140 million in 2025

    Iraq’s food imports from US exceed $140 million in 2025

March 24, 2026

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s imports of American food and agricultural products rose sharply in 2025, surpassing $140 million, according to data released by the United States Department of Agriculture on Tuesday.

The figures point to a deepening trade relationship between Iraq and the United States, with agricultural commodities—particularly soybeans—dominating shipments.

Soybeans accounted for the vast majority of imports, with Iraq receiving 279,231 metric tons valued at $125.09 million. This marks a significant increase compared with the ten-year average of $24.82 million, reflecting stronger demand and shifting supply dynamics in the Iraqi market.

In addition to soybeans, Iraq imported other U.S. food products, including spices and sauces, totaling 6,566 tons valued at $16.27 million.

The data underscores the growing reliance of Iraq on imported agricultural goods to meet domestic consumption needs, while also highlighting expanding commercial ties with the United States.

Analysts say the sustained flow of agricultural imports reflects both structural challenges in Iraq’s domestic food production sector and broader integration into global supply chains.

The United States Department of Agriculture noted that continued trade in food and agricultural products supports mutual economic engagement and contributes to the stability of supply in international markets.

Trade between the two countries has been supported in recent years by ongoing economic engagement and Iraq’s reliance on imported staples to supplement local production, particularly in processed foods and feedstock inputs such as soybeans.

The increase in imports also comes as Iraq continues to navigate economic pressures tied to population growth, climate conditions, and infrastructure constraints affecting domestic agriculture.

The capital, Baghdad, remains the central hub for import distribution across the country, with goods entering through ports in the south and moving through national supply networks.

Reporting by Pshtiwan Faraj

#Iraq #USATrade #Agriculture #FoodImports #Soybeans #Trade #Economy #MiddleEast #Baghdad #GlobalTrade #USDA #Markets

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