Iraq reopens Iran border crossing after US pressure closure

Iraq reopened the Al-Sheeb border crossing with Iran on Tuesday after a month-long closure prompted by US pressure to isolate Tehran. The crossing in Missan province, a key route for travellers and goods, resumed operations following "necessary procedures," according to border authority chief Alaa al-Waeli.

The October shutdown sparked protests in Missan, where local authorities clashed with Baghdad over losing a vital economic lifeline. Two political sources told AFP the US had pushed Iraq to close most crossings with Iran. Meanwhile, the Al-Mandali crossing in Diyala province will close Friday for maintenance.

This matters globally: Iraq balancing US demands and Iranian ties affects regional stability and oil markets—both relevant to Nigeria's economy. In September, Baghdad briefly closed crossings after a drone attack on a Saudi pipeline was traced near Al-Sheeb. Pro-Iran groups have claimed hundreds of attacks on US bases across the region.

With US-Iran tensions shaping Middle East energy flows, Nigerian policymakers and businesses should monitor how Baghdad navigates this pressure. Will Iraq sustain cross-border trade with Iran despite US objections, or will further closures disrupt regional commerce?

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/11/10/iraq-reopens-border-crossing-with-iran/