The Iranian neighbor opened the shared border crossings: "For the sake of trade"

Iraq announced the gradual opening of its three land border crossings with Iran, defying American warnings of economic sanctions. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Ziyadi set timelines for completing organizational requirements at the crossings, emphasizing that the opening would strengthen security and maintain normal trade flow. The move comes after pro-Iranian militias attacked Saudi Arabia using drones during the holiday, leading to an immediate closure of the crossings.

Iraq announced the gradual opening of its three land border crossings with Iran, a move that contradicts American warnings of economic sanctions. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Ziyadi set specific timelines for completing organizational and training requirements at the crossings, emphasizing that the opening would enhance border security while maintaining normal flow of trade and civilian movement. The step comes amid new Trump sanctions against Iran, which threaten sanctions on any country that helps Iran economically recover. The Iraqi official appears undeterred by this warning, as all crossings are expected to be open by next Thursday. The reopening of the crossings occurs after pro-Iranian militias based in Iraq attacked Saudi Arabia with drones during the holiday. Following the attack, the border crossings were immediately blocked to prevent the perpetrators from fleeing into Iranian territory. Now, just days after the attack and before any report of a significant arrest, the crossings are being reopened.