Iraqi Official Taif Sami Mohammed Added to US Terror Watchlist, Visa Revoked

<p>Taif Sami Mohammed, previously recognized by the United States as a courageous leader, has been placed on the U.S. terrorist watchlist and had her visa revoked by the State Department. Secretary of State Antony Blinken had previously honored her in 2022, calling her the "Iron Woman" for her efforts against corruption in Iraq.</p><p>A State Department official confirmed the visa revocation this week, marking a significant change for Mohammed, who was awarded the International Women of Courage Award by the Biden administration. Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs Dylan Johnson stated that the Trump administration's approach differs from that of the Biden administration regarding individuals deemed threats to national security.</p><p>The State Department has not disclosed when Mohammed was added to the watchlist or the intelligence that led to this decision. Republican lawmakers have accused her of facilitating terrorist financing through Iraq’s financial system, urging action against her. These allegations contrast sharply with the Biden administration's previous recognition of her efforts to combat corruption.</p><p>Mohammed, who served as Iraq’s deputy finance minister and later as finance minister, has faced legal challenges in Iraq as well, with an Iraqi court summoning her as part of a broader corruption investigation involving former government officials. Reports indicate she is currently outside Iraq and has not been detained.</p><p>The investigation into Mohammed is part of a larger probe into corruption related to government contracts and public funds. The State Department has not clarified whether her placement on the watchlist is linked to the allegations of terrorist financing or the ongoing corruption investigation.</p>