Iraqi MP says border closure harms Iraq's national interests

An Iraqi member of parliament has criticised the closure of the Al-Sheib border crossing, known as Chazabeh on the Iranian side, saying the decision harms Iraq's national interests. The lawmaker, identified as Aliwi, made the remarks after the crossing in Iraq's Maysan province was closed on October 21. The crossing is described as an important route for trade between Iraq and Iran.

Aliwi said decisions concerning relations with neighbouring countries should be made in accordance with Iraq's national interests and should not be influenced by external pressure. The closure prompted protests in Maysan province, where some lawmakers and local officials warned of potential economic consequences, including disruption to cross-border trade and rising commodity prices.

The Iraqi Parliament has formed a committee to investigate the reasons behind the closure. Iraqi officials have cited a review of security and technical arrangements as among the reasons for the decision.

The report by Mehr News added that the closure has drawn attention from local officials and legislators in Maysan, who have raised concerns about its effect on trade and markets in the province.