Iraq Reopens Al-Sheeb Border Crossing With Iran

The Iraqi government reopened the Al-Sheeb border crossing in Missan province on Tuesday morning. Alaa al-Waeli, head of Iraq’s border crossings authority, stated the reopening followed the completion of necessary procedures to resume the movement of goods and travelers.

Authorities closed the crossing in October after linking an unclaimed drone attack on a Saudi pipeline to the area in September. Political sources also indicate the United States pressured Baghdad to close most border crossings with Iran during this period. The closure had previously sparked tensions and protests between the central government and local authorities in Missan.

While Al-Sheeb is now operational, Iraqi authorities will temporarily close the Al-Mandali border crossing in Diyala province this Friday for maintenance.