Iraq closes Al Shaib border crossing with Iran indefinitely

Iraqi authorities have indefinitely closed the Al Shaib border crossing in Maysan governorate, which connects to Iran’s Khuzestan province. The decision, effective from 6:00 AM local time on Wednesday, affects passengers, private vehicles, and commercial trucks.

Official sources cite “technical reasons” for the closure, but reports indicate the move follows security concerns regarding the smuggling of weapons and drone-manufacturing components. The closure comes after reports of drone attacks targeting the East-West oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia, which is a critical alternative route to the Strait of Hormuz. There have been allegations that materials and equipment were being moved from Iran into Iraq to facilitate these attacks.

Iranian officials, including Deputy Governor Valiollah Hayati, confirmed the closure and noted that discussions are ongoing between the Iranian Ministry of Interior and Iraqi authorities to resume crossings. However, Iranian Ministry of Interior spokesperson Ali Zeynivend stated that Tehran was not notified in advance of the decision, suggesting a breach of bilateral agreements regarding border management.