‘Iran to exploit power vacuum as US quits Iraq’

Saudi Arabia: The US withdrawal from Iraq will leave a power vacuum in the Gulf, analysts say, paving the way for Iran to increase its influence in this economic and politically strategic region, a concern echoed by America’s Gulf allies.

“The US withdrawal from Iraq will no doubt create a power vacuum,” said Abdulaziz Sager, chairman of the Gulf Research Centre, noting that the US presence in the region empowered Gulf Arab countries with “whom they share interests and are bound by security agreements.” “This (US) presence gave them (Gulf countries) a sense of stability and security due to America’s military capabilities,” said Sager, adding that the troop withdrawal will “strengthen Iran’s military and intelligence influence,” in Iraq. AFP