Passenger traffic at the Shalamcheh border crossing linking Iraq and Iran has resumed following a temporary closure triggered by airstrikes targeting the Iranian side. The strikes struck a passenger reception area, resulting in the death of one Iraqi citizen and causing serious injuries to at least five others. Iraqi police recovered the deceased’s body, while the injured were transported to hospitals, with most reported to be in critical condition.
Shalamcheh serves as a vital conduit for Iraq, particularly for the import of vegetables and other food products from Iran. Traders emphasize that even brief interruptions at this crossing can swiftly affect local markets and food supply chains.
In a related development, Iraqi authorities temporarily halted movement at the Safwan border crossing with Kuwait a few hours after the Shalamcheh incident. Officials reported hearing explosions on the Kuwaiti side and observed drones flying overhead shortly before the blasts. Both crossings have since returned to normal operations, alleviating concerns about disruptions to supplies and passenger transit.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi addressed recent reports regarding talks with the United States in Islamabad. He clarified that Tehran never declined to participate in discussions hosted by Pakistan, criticizing US media for misrepresenting Iran’s stance. Posting on the social media platform X, accompanied by a video of Iranian women waving Pakistani flags and chanting slogans in support of Pakistan, Araghchi stated, “Iran’s position is being misrepresented by US media.”
He expressed gratitude toward Pakistan for its mediation efforts and reiterated that Iran’s priority is to establish terms that ensure a definitive and lasting resolution to the illegal war imposed on the country.
