Iraqi Government Explains Closure of Al-Shaib Border Crossing and Denies Presence of Houthis

The official spokesperson for the Iraqi government, Haider Al-Aboudi, stated that the closure of the Al-Shaib border crossing was due to its lack of technical, technological, and developmental readiness, emphasizing that this step aims to enhance the technical and logistical preparedness of the crossing. Al-Aboudi explained that there are several other border crossings experiencing active commercial traffic with Iran, which facilitates smooth trade exchange between the two countries. Regarding circulating reports about the presence of Houthi bases inside Iraq, the spokesperson denied any such locations, affirming that these claims lack factual basis and do not require any governmental decisions. He stressed that the presence of foreign armed groups on Iraqi soil contradicts constitutional principles, and Iraq is committed to preventing the use of its territory to threaten neighboring countries. Al-Aboudi pointed to ongoing coordination with Turkey to remove elements of the Kurdistan Workers' Party from Iraqi lands, as well as cooperation with Iran through a high-level committee to address the issue of Iranian Kurdish armed groups in the Kurdistan Region. He confirmed that the Iraqi government is determined to prevent the presence of any armed elements affiliated with other countries within its borders, maintaining regional security and stability and not allowing Iraqi territory to be used as a base to threaten neighboring states.