First commercial trucks from Syria cross into Iraq through Rabia

NINEVEH — Three commercial trucks from Syria crossed into Iraq through the Rabia border crossing in Nineveh governorate on Tuesday, marking the first trade activity through the route in around 13 years.

Iraq’s General Customs Authority said customs centers at the crossing began inspection and clearance procedures upon the trucks’ arrival and that additional shipments are expected in the coming period.

Border Ports Commission head Omar al-Waeli announced the crossing’s reopening on April 20, describing it as strategically important for regional trade routes. The closure had been linked to the war against Islamic State and related security conditions.

Rabia is one of three main land crossings between Iraq and Syria. The Qaim-Albukamal crossing in Anbar remains the most active for passengers and goods, while the Al-Waleed crossing, also in Anbar, reopened on April 2 after an 11-year closure and is used primarily for energy transport and trade.