US Requests Iraq Close Most Border Crossings With Iran

The United States Department of the Treasury has requested that Iraq close nearly all of its border crossings with Iran, permitting only two to remain open, including one in the Kurdistan region. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein stated the request is part of a broader U.S. strategy to increase economic pressure on Tehran. Hussein noted that closing the crossings would be difficult and would negatively impact the Iraqi economy.

These discussions follow Iraq's closure of the Sheeb border crossing last month for security reviews and the installation of anti-smuggling equipment. While the U.S. pushes for border restrictions, the two nations have reached a separate agreement to allow Iraqi oil exports to pass through the Strait of Hormuz via a shipping lane near Oman.

Hussein reported that Iraq has suffered $60 billion in losses due to the war with Iran and subsequent disruptions to oil exports. The Iraqi government continues to negotiate with U.S. officials regarding the specific terms of the border closures.