Iraq announces reopening of three border crossings with Iran

BAGHDAD: Iraq has announced the phased reopening of three border crossings with Iran, a day after a drone attack targeted a key Saudi oil pipeline and raised fresh security concerns across the region.

The crossings at Shalamcheh, Al-Sheeb and Mandali were temporarily closed as Iraqi authorities launched security and intelligence measures following the attack. Officials said movement would resume after administrative and security arrangements were completed.

The decision comes amid heightened regional tensions involving Iran, Iraq and Gulf states, with the alleged use of Iraqi territory in the Saudi attack adding another layer of concern.

Iraqi security officials said evidence suggested that drones involved in the incident were launched from Maysan province, which borders Iran. Following the discovery, the military commander in Maysan was removed from his post and an investigation was launched.

Officials said the temporary closures were aimed at strengthening border security and improving intelligence operations while investigators assessed the circumstances surrounding the drone launch.

Passenger movement through Shalamcheh and Al-Sheeb resumed on Sunday, while the restoration of commercial activity is expected to take place gradually. Authorities have also outlined arrangements for reopening passenger and trade services at the three crossings.

Saudi Arabia has said drones launched from Iraqi territory targeted its East-West oil pipeline, an important route for transporting crude from the kingdom’s eastern oil-producing region toward the Red Sea.

However, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. An alliance of Iran-aligned Iraqi armed groups has also denied involvement, leaving questions over who carried out the strike and how the drones were able to operate from Iraqi territory.

The incident has placed renewed attention on Iraq’s role in the region’s increasingly fragile security environment. Baghdad has sought to prevent its territory from becoming a launchpad for attacks against neighboring countries while maintaining its relations with Iran.

The reopening of the crossings signals a move toward restoring normal border activity, but the security investigation remains significant.

With tensions already elevated across the Gulf, the latest drone attack and Iraq’s response could have wider implications for regional security, oil infrastructure and cross-border trade.