New: Iraq has closed its main southern border crossing with Iran until further notice, on the orders of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi. Officials stated that the purpose of this closure is to conduct a security review and install equipment to prevent the smuggling of prohibited substances. Al-Shayib crossing is a vital route for transporting food and construction materials, as well as a corridor for Iranian pilgrims heading to Najaf and Karbala. Officials indicated that other crossings with Iran are expected to be gradually closed, which could lead to the disruption of trade and the increase of prices in southern Iraq. It is worth noting that the volume of trade between the two countries exceeded 10 billion dollars last year. Tehran, for its part, protested the decision, pointing out that it had not received advance notice, which is required according to the rules agreed between the two countries. Telegram sources.

New: Iraq has closed its main southern border crossing with Iran until further notice, on the orders of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi. Officials stated that the purpose of this closure is to conduct a security review and install equipment to prevent the smuggling of prohibited substances. Al-Shayib crossing is a vital route for transporting food and construction materials, as well as a corridor for Iranian pilgrims heading to Najaf and Karbala. Officials indicated that other crossings with Iran are expected to be gradually closed, which could lead to the disruption of trade and the increase of prices in southern Iraq. It is worth noting that the volume of trade between the two countries exceeded 10 billion dollars last year. Tehran, for its part, protested the decision, pointing out that it had not received advance notice, which is required according to the rules agreed between the two countries. Telegram sources.