Reopening the Iran border is a welcome move

October 26, 2026

The decision to reopen the Gabd-Rimdan border crossing with Iran is a welcome development. The move on part of Pakistan has restored cross-border trade after a week-long suspension that left trucks carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and essential food supplies stranded on both sides. It offers relief to traders and transporters and could help ease pressure on supplies in Pakistan.

Border authorities allowed commercial vehicles with consignment notes dated October 16 or earlier to cross through Gate 250 in Gwadar on Saturday. Trade had been suspended on October 17. The reopening will help clear some of the backlog and allow stalled import and export activities to resume.

Mir Naveed Jan Kalmati, president of the Gwadar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, confirmed that trade resumed on Saturday morning. He welcomed the decision, saying it would provide immediate relief to businesses affected by the closure.

The reopening is particularly important at a time when Pakistan needs a steady supply of essential goods and energy products. Trucks carrying LPG and food supplies had been stranded for days. Any further delay could have increased pressure on traders, disrupted supply chains and added to the cost of doing business. Restoring trade can help reduce these risks, although its wider impact will depend on the volume of goods entering the country and the time needed to clear pending consignments.

The suspension had also raised security concerns after unidentified gunmen attacked freight vehicles waiting near the crossing on Thursday. Dozens of trucks were reportedly set on fire, while several others were damaged. Authorities have deployed additional security personnel to protect commercial vehicles and ensure the safe movement of trade convoys.

Security must remain a priority, but trade should not suffer for longer than necessary. Pakistan and Iran need effective coordination to protect transporters, secure border routes and prevent similar attacks. Traders also need clear and timely information about border restrictions so they can plan shipments and avoid unnecessary losses.

The reopening is an encouraging step, but the authorities must ensure that trade continues without repeated disruptions. A secure and reliable border crossing can support businesses, improve the movement of essential supplies and strengthen economic ties between the two neighbours.