Iraq announces closure of several border crossings with Iran due to violations and infractions

Baghdad, Sept 12 (KUNA) -- The Iraqi Security Media Authority announced on Saturday that relevant security authorities “have closed a number of border crossings with Iran as part of administrative and security reorganization efforts.” In a statement, the authority said that “a series of necessary legal measures have been taken, and intelligence, investigative, and auditing efforts have been intensified to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the breaches and violations that occurred at those crossings and to devise appropriate solutions and remedies.” The authority did not specify the number of closed crossings but noted that the Zurbatiyah and Al-Mandariyah crossings remain open to passenger traffic. Iraqi media had reported earlier on Saturday that the Shalamjah crossing in Basra province and the Shuyuh crossing in the neighboring Maysan province had been completely and permanently closed, with entry and exit of individuals and goods suspended until further notice. (End) A.H.H.