Iraq Indefinitely Postpones Reopening of al-Qaim Border Crossing with Syria

Feb. 2, 2025

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The expected reopening of the al-Qaim border crossing between Iraq and Syria, originally scheduled for Sunday, has been indefinitely postponed despite all necessary logistical and security preparations being completed, according to a source within the Iraqi federal government.

An agreement had been reached with Syria’s transitional government to reopen the border, with administrative and operational measures finalized in advance.

Border officials had informed staff about operational procedures, and Syrian authorities had established requirements for tourist travel.

However, despite these preparations, Baghdad has decided to delay the reopening indefinitely, with no official reason provided for the decision.

The postponement comes after earlier statements from Turki al-Mahlawi, the District Administrator of al-Qaim, who had confirmed that the crossing would be operational in February.

The border has remained closed since Dec. 8, 2024, following the opposition forces' capture of Damascus, during which it served as a surrender point for numerous soldiers from Bashar al-Assad’s former regime who turned themselves over to Iraqi security forces.

This delay represents a major development in Iraq-Syria border relations amid Syria’s ongoing political transition.

The indefinite nature of the postponement raises questions about possible security concerns or diplomatic considerations influencing Baghdad’s decision.

The closure’s continuation could impact regional trade and cross-border movement, further complicating Iraq and Syria’s evolving post-conflict dynamics.