Iraqi court seeks arrest of Maysan provincial leader for defying Iran border closure

Iraq's Karkh Court has initiated an investigation into the head of Maysan's provincial council, Mustafa Duair Abdulhassan, over his calls for civil disobedience if the Al Sheeb border crossing with Iran remains closed. The closure of the border, which took effect last week, has escalated tensions between Iraq and Iran due to security concerns.

Abdulhassan, who is affiliated with the Iran-aligned Asaib Ahl Al Haq, stated that people would have to resort to civil disobedience if the crossing is not reopened. Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi has ordered the probe in response to threats and inappropriate language attributed to Abdulhassan. The closure of the Al Sheeb border has disrupted trade and livelihoods for many, as it is a strategic land route used by commercial and civilian vehicles.

The government has faced criticism from other politicians who have joined protesters in demonstrating for the reopening of the crossing. Iran's embassy in Iraq dismissed allegations of Iran deliberately undermining Iraq's security and called for Iraqi authorities to address the matter. The issue is currently under review by Iranian authorities.