The Treasury Department said Iraqi Deputy Oil Minister Ali Maarij Al-Bahadly abused his official position to enable the sale of oil for the benefit of the Iranian government and affiliated militias in Iraq.In a statement, Treasury accused Al-Bahadly of helping divert Iraqi oil revenues to support “the Iranian regime and its proxy militias in Iraq.” Iraq’s oil ministry and the deputy minister did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The sanctions were announced as Washington and Iran moved closer to a temporary arrangement aimed at halting hostilities, with Tehran reviewing a proposal that could pause the conflict while leaving major disputes unresolved.The U.S. Treasury also imposed sanctions on three senior figures associated with the Iran-backed militias Kata’ib Sayyid Al-Shuhada and Asa’ib Ahl Al-Haq.

“Treasury will not stand idly by as Iran’s military exploits Iraqi oil to fund terrorism against the United States and our partners,” U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement.The sanctions freeze any assets held in the United States by those designated and generally prohibit U.S. individuals and companies from conducting business with them.

The measures follow remarks made in March by Iraqi Oil Minister Hayan Abdel-Ghani, who said Iranian oil tankers intercepted by U.S. forces in the Gulf had been using forged Iraqi documents. Tehran denied the allegation.

The latest sanctions highlight Washington’s continued efforts to disrupt Iran’s regional financial and logistical networks while simultaneously pursuing diplomatic contacts aimed at containing wider conflict across the Middle East.

Flores, a regional commander who controlled large portions of CJNG territory along Mexico’s Pacific coast, had been viewed by security analysts as a potential successor to cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho,” following Oseguera’s death in a security operation in February.Garcia Harfuch said on social media platform X that Flores was detained under a Mexican arrest warrant and also faced criminal charges in the United States.

“He is also wanted by U.S. authorities for extradition. The U.S. government had offered a $5 million reward for his capture,” Garcia Harfuch wrote.The U.S. Treasury Department previously identified Flores as a “significant foreign narcotics trafficker” and said that a U.S. grand jury in 2021 charged him with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and heroin, among other offenses.

CJNG is one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal organizations, with operations spanning drug trafficking, extortion and territorial control across several states. The cartel has long been a major target of both Mexican and U.S. authorities.

Carlos Olivo, a former U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration assistant special agent in charge and an expert on CJNG, said Flores’ arrest could have a deeper operational impact than the earlier killing of El Mencho.“He’s a significant figure,” Olivo said. “His arrest will have a bigger effect on CJNG operations than Mencho being taken out.”The detention is the latest development in a broader campaign against Mexico’s drug cartels under intensified federal security operations.

Garcia Harfuch has made the dismantling of CJNG leadership a priority and previously blamed El Mencho for a 2020 assassination attempt against him in which two of his bodyguards were killed.Security analysts had identified Flores as one of several senior regional commanders positioned to compete for control of the cartel after leadership disruptions earlier this year.

Mexico’s security environment remains under heightened international attention as the country prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup this summer with the United States and Canada, placing additional pressure on authorities to demonstrate progress against organized crime and violence.

The waiver replaces a previous 30-day authorization that expired on April 11 and permits transactions involving Russian crude and petroleum products already loaded at sea, while continuing to exclude dealings tied to Iran, Cuba and North Korea.

The move follows pressure from energy-importing countries, particularly in Asia, grappling with supply disruptions and elevated costs.A Treasury spokesperson said the decision was linked to broader efforts to stabilize markets as diplomatic engagement with Iran intensifies. “As negotiations with Iran accelerate, Treasury wants to ensure oil is available to those who need it,” the spokesperson said.

The extension marks a reversal from comments made earlier in the week by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who had indicated the administration would not renew waivers covering Russian and Iranian oil. The Iranian waiver, issued on March 20, had facilitated the flow of roughly 140 million barrels into global markets, according to Bessent’s prior statements.

Global oil prices fell about 9% on Friday to around $90 per barrel after Iran temporarily reopened the Strait of Hormuz, a critical transit route for global crude supplies. However, the conflict now entering its eighth week has already caused extensive disruption, with more than 80 oil and gas facilities in the Middle East reported damaged, according to the International Energy Agency.

Tehran has warned it could again close the strait if U.S. naval actions targeting Iranian ports continue, raising the risk of renewed supply shocks. The war has been described by the agency as the most severe disruption to global energy supply in history.

The administration’s decision also reflects domestic political pressures, as elevated fuel prices pose risks to Republican candidates ahead of the November midterm elections. U.S. officials said the issue was raised during meetings on the sidelines of G20, World Bank and International Monetary Fund gatherings in Washington, where partner countries urged continued flexibility on supply.

Trump also discussed oil markets during a recent call with Narendra Modi, whose country remains a major importer of Russian crude.The waiver has drawn criticism from lawmakers across party lines, who argue it risks undermining sanctions aimed at curbing Russia’s revenue from its war in Ukraine while also easing pressure on Iran during its confrontation with the United States.

European officials have voiced similar concerns, with Ursula von der Leyen stating that sanctions relief would be premature.Russian presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev said the policy signaled ongoing economic and energy engagement between Washington and Moscow, adding that earlier waivers could release volumes equivalent to nearly a day of global oil output.

Analysts said the measure underscores the limited policy options available to policymakers confronting simultaneous geopolitical crises and market instability. Brett Erickson of Obsidian Risk Advisers said the damage to global energy systems may be enduring, warning that “the tools available to stabilize them are nearly exhausted.”

As America approaches its 250th year of independence, the U.S. Treasury has unveiled a draft design for a commemorative $1 coin featuring President Donald Trump, symbolizing endurance, pride, and the continuing journey of American democracy.

The United States has begun preparations for one of its most significant national milestones — the 250th anniversary of its independence — with a bold new commemorative coin proposal featuring President Donald Trump.

The U.S. Treasury’s newly released draft design pays tribute not only to the nation’s founding ideals but also to the enduring spirit that has carried America through centuries of challenges and change.

The proposed $1 coin, revealed by Treasurer Brandon Beach on X (formerly Twitter), offers two striking images designed to capture the dual spirit of heritage and resilience. On one side, President Trump is depicted in profile, facing forward beneath the inscription “Liberty,” with the years “1776–2026” marking the nation’s remarkable journey from its revolutionary beginnings to its modern-day prominence.

On the reverse, Trump is shown with a raised clenched fist before a flowing U.S. flag, surrounded by the words “Fight, Fight, Fight” — a phrase that became emblematic of defiance and perseverance after he survived an assassination attempt in 2024.

While the design is still under review, the Treasury emphasized that it reflects the country’s “enduring democracy, even in the face of immense obstacles.” In a statement, a Treasury spokesperson said, “This first draft reflects well the enduring spirit of our country and democracy, even in the face of immense obstacles.”

The unveiling comes as the United States readies a series of commemorative events, exhibitions, and historical initiatives for 2026 — collectively marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The coin’s introduction, though symbolic, carries deeper resonance at a time when the nation seeks unity, purpose, and renewed optimism about its democratic future.

A Modern Coin for a Milestone Year

The 2026 semiquincentennial celebration marks only the second time in American history that the nation has minted a special coin for a major independence anniversary. The last time was in 1976, when the U.S. Mint released a Bicentennial coin featuring the Liberty Bell and the moon — a design symbolizing both the country’s revolutionary roots and its achievements in exploration.

This time, the Trump coin blends traditional patriotism with modern symbolism, representing the resilience of American leadership and the country’s ability to overcome adversity. The phrase “Fight, Fight, Fight” — once a spontaneous declaration of survival — now takes on broader meaning, interpreted by supporters as a message of collective perseverance and national strength.

Legal and Historical Context

Some discussion has emerged regarding the legality of portraying a living president on currency. However, Treasury officials clarified that the commemorative coin adheres to legal boundaries. The law governing the semiquincentennial series allows for flexibility in design and does not explicitly prohibit full-figure depictions. Moreover, the long-standing restriction on living portraits applies primarily to paper currency, not minted coins.

The distinction ensures that the proposed design remains compliant while celebrating a historical period rather than an individual presidency. Legal scholars pointed out that the depiction of a broader scene — rather than a head-and-shoulders bust — aligns with past precedents.

A Reflection of Unity and Heritage

Supporters of the design argue that it goes beyond political representation, symbolizing unity and resilience — key themes for the upcoming 250th celebrations. The imagery of strength, liberty, and continuity aims to remind Americans of their shared identity, regardless of differing political views.

Treasurer Brandon Beach confirmed that the design will continue to undergo public and artistic review once government operations resume following the temporary shutdown. “We want this coin to represent not just one moment or one leader, but the spirit of a nation that has kept moving forward for 250 years,” Beach said.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded with characteristic enthusiasm, saying, “I’m not sure if President Trump has seen it yet, but I’m sure he’ll love it.” Her comment reflected the broader tone surrounding the announcement — one of pride, optimism, and anticipation ahead of a historic national milestone.

Honoring a Legacy of Freedom

From the Liberty Bell of 1976 to the proposed Trump Liberty coin of 2026, America’s tradition of commemorating its journey through art and coinage continues. These designs tell the story of a nation that has evolved through wars, crises, and triumphs, always returning to the same ideals of liberty and strength.

As the 250th anniversary approaches, the Trump coin stands as a modern emblem of American perseverance — a reminder that the values of freedom and determination remain at the heart of the republic. Whether or not the final version mirrors this draft, its symbolism has already struck a chord across the country, inspiring reflection on how far the nation has come and what it continues to stand for.

In celebrating 250 years of independence, America once again turns to the timeless language of symbols — coins, art, and collective memory — to express who it is and what it hopes to become. The proposed Trump coin, embodying both history and resolve, serves as a proud marker of that ongoing story: a nation unbroken, ever moving forward, and forever defined by its spirit of liberty.