The US Department of State has revoked the visa of Taif Sami Mohammed al-Shakarji, the former Minister of Finance of Iraq, who was previously recognized with an American award for her efforts in combating corruption and promoting gender equality.
According to Operative Information Center-OMM, the announcement was made by Dylan Johnson, Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs.
Al-Shakarji had previously received an award presented annually by the United States to women worldwide for exceptional courage, strength, and leadership. The award was presented to her by former US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Jill Biden, the wife of former President Joe Biden.
"The Department of State has revoked the visa of an Iraqi citizen who was previously recognized by the Biden administration for her alleged role in anti-corruption efforts and the promotion of gender equality," Johnson stated.
A Department of State representative further noted that the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had previously included al-Shakarji on a list of individuals suspected of providing support to terrorism. The former minister is currently outside the United States.
The revocation of a diplomatic or official visa is a significant measure in international relations, often signaling a shift in bilateral security cooperation. Such actions by the US Department of State are typically based on intelligence assessments regarding national security concerns, highlighting the complexities of diplomatic ties between Washington and Baghdad.
