Iraq to reopen Al Sheeb border crossing with Iran but temporarily shuts Mandali

The Iraqi government is set to reopen the Al Sheeb border crossing with Iran on Tuesday, following the completion of necessary technical requirements, according to the head of the Border Ports Authority. However, the Mandali border crossing, also with Iran, will be temporarily shut down on Friday to fulfill similar technical obligations, according to state media reports.

Mandali is one of several land crossings that Iraq and Iran rely on for commercial activities. Limiting access to these routes could have repercussions for Iraqi traders, local economies, and the supply of Iranian goods into Iraq. The current Iraqi administration has faced US pressure since its inception in May to curb Iranian influence, particularly through armed entities.

Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein disclosed that the US Treasury had urged Baghdad to close numerous border crossings with Iran as part of Washington's strategy to exert economic pressure on Tehran. "Closing all of them would be challenging and adversely impact our economy," Hussein stated in an interview with Al Jazeera. The US remains intent on closing these crossings and ongoing negotiations are underway.

Al Sheeb, previously closed to both travelers and goods since October 21, was shuttered following Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi's direct orders. The closure was aimed at revising security measures at the crossing, Hussein explained. The Al Sheeb crossing, located in the southeastern province of Maysan, serves as a significant commercial gateway, facilitating the transportation of food, construction materials, and Iranian pilgrims traveling to holy sites in Najaf and Karbala.

The decision to close Al Sheeb sparked criticism from Iran and local officials, leading to tensions between the Iraqi government and opposition groups. The head of Maysan's provincial council, Mustafa Duair Abdulhassan, called for civil disobedience, representing the Iran-aligned Sadiqoun political faction. Following Prime Minister Al Zaidi's call for an inquiry into the calls for civil unrest, Baghdad's Karkh Court initiated an investigation into Abdulhassan.