Iraqi embassy denies reports of Al-Qaim closure after social media claims

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s embassy in Damascus on Wednesday denied reports circulating on social media claiming the closure of the Al-Qaim border crossing with Syria.

“The news circulated on social media regarding the closure of the Al-Qaim border crossing is incorrect,” the embassy said in a statement, adding its “categorical denial of everything mentioned on this subject” and noting that Iraq’s Border Ports Authority has issued a statement on the matter. The embassy said “economic activity with Syria continues, as does the movement of travelers,” while acknowledging that the crossing “has seen a decrease in the number of arrivals due to the Arbaeen pilgrimage.” It added that “the movement of travelers and commercial transport between the two countries will increase after the pilgrimage ends.”

The Al-Qaim border crossing, which links Iraq’s Anbar governorate to Syria’s Deir ez-Zor province, reopened on June 14 after being closed for more than six months due to regional instability and armed clashes that forced the temporary withdrawal of Syrian government forces. Known as Al-Bukamal on the Syrian side, the crossing operates around the clock in coordination with Syrian authorities. Officials say customs and administrative procedures are now handled electronically, reducing wait times and improving the flow of goods.