USA's panic move after Iran's elite general Qaani visits Trump's Arab ally nation in middle of war

Tensions escalate as the United States halts dollar shipments and freezes parts of security cooperation with Iraq, in a move seen as pressure to curb Iran-backed militias. The step comes days after Esmail Qaani visited Baghdad, meeting political and militia leaders amid growing regional friction. Nearly $500 million in cash deliveries were reportedly blocked, raising questions about Washington’s use of financial leverage. As Iran expands its influence, the standoff highlights a deepening struggle for control in Iraq, with fears that escalating pressure could push Baghdad closer to Tehran.