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Despite Hoffman's confidence, his words seem to be at odds with the Iraqi Parliament, which on January 5 passed a non-binding resolution asking caretaker Prime Minister Adil Abdul Mahdi to cancel the request for "military assistance" from the US-led coalition."At this time, there are no plans by the US military to withdraw from Iraq," Assistant to the Secretary of Defense Jonathan Rath Hoffman told reporters at a press briefing, RT reported.
"And I think it's been obvious... that the consensus in Iraq seems to be that the United States forces there are a force for good," he added.
The official also stated that "the US presence in the country is beneficial to Iraq" and that it "will continue to lead to increased security and prosperity for the Iraqi people".
In short, Iran demanded that the EU live up to its obligations to stand up to the US economic sanctions. The EU has consistently failed to do so, resulting in Iran's gradual backing away from its obligations, leading to the current state of affairs where all of the restrictions imposed by the JCPOA, not including international inspections, which continue unabated, have ceased to be in operation.See also: Assassination of Soleimani Just One Shot in Battle of The Ages to Stop Eurasian Integration
When it comes to levying fault for the current state of affairs, there is no "chicken or egg" causality up for debate. Blame lies squarely on both the US for withdrawing from the deal, and the EU for failing to live up to its obligations under the JCPOA regarding economic engagement with Iran.
Comment: RT, 19/1/2020: Erdogan comments on upcoming Berlin talks RT, 19/1/2020: Putin, Erdogan set the stage Fast forward to 1:57:20
Press conference given by Russian FM Lavrov just minutes before this posting.
UPDATE RT, 19/1/2020: Libya peace talks end on positive note UPDATE: Sputnik, 20/1/2020 Conference participants made the following joint statement: UPDATE: FRN 19/2020 Haftar orders end to Libyan oil exports UPDATE: Sputnik 19/1/2020 National oil forecasts drop in crude output due to blockades UPDATE: Sputnik 20/1/2020 Final document from Berlin UPDATE: RT 20/1/2020 Fayez al-Sarraj to respect ceasefire, no talks with Haftar UPDATE: RT 20/1/2020 Erdogan: Turkey has not sent troops to Libya, only 'advisers'