The official spokesperson for the Iraqi government confirmed today, Wednesday, that the closure of the Al-Shaib border crossing was due to its lack of technical, technological, and developmental readiness. The move aims to enhance the technical and logistical preparedness of
the crossing. He explained that several other border crossings continue to experience smooth trade exchange with Iran, reflecting the ongoing normal flow of commerce across the borders. Regarding reports about the presence of Houthi fighters within Iraq, the spokesperson denied
any such sites or headquarters on Iraqi soil, affirming that the matter does not require any governmental decisions since it does not exist. He pointed out that some parties persist in spreading inaccurate narratives through social media, emphasizing that the
presence of armed groups from other countries inside Iraq contradicts constitutional principles. He stressed that Iraq will not serve as a platform to threaten neighboring countries nor will it harbor any armed groups involved in external conflicts. He added that
continuous coordination is underway with Turkey to resolve the issue of the Kurdistan Workers' Party and remove its elements from Iraqi territory, as well as cooperation with Iran through a high-level committee to address the presence of Iranian Kurdish militants
within the Kurdistan Region. These efforts demonstrate the Iraqi government's commitment to preventing the presence of any armed elements affiliated with other countries on its lands, maintaining regional security and stability, and not allowing Iraqi territory to be used to
threaten neighboring states.
