Iraqi authorities have closed several border crossings with Iran, suspending passenger and commercial freight transit via the Al Sheeb crossing. An adviser to Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi cited security breaches, smuggling, and unauthorized entries. The sudden closures prompted protests by lorry drivers in Maysan province.
Commercial flights operated by Iraqi Airways between Iranian airports and Najaf resumed on September 28, 2026. Operations had been halted after foreign ground-handling companies refused aircraft servicing over concerns regarding U.S. sanctions. The resumption follows intervention by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi after protests at Najaf International Airport.
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