US revokes visa of Iraqi awardee following FBI watchlist designation

The U.S. Department of State has revoked the visa of Taif Sami Mohammed Al Shakarchi, an Iraqi national and former finance minister. The decision follows her placement on the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Terror Watchlist.

Al Shakarchi was a recipient of the 2022 International Women of Courage Award, presented by then-Secretary of State Antony Blinken and First Lady Jill Biden for her work in fighting corruption and advocating for gender equity.

Assistant Secretary of State Dylan Johnson confirmed that Al Shakarchi is no longer present in the United States. The State Department framed the action as part of the current administration's security policies, stating that suspected terrorists will not be permitted to remain in the country.