15 Oct 2018 | 10:01 AM UTC
Jordan/Syria: Naseeb border crossing reopens October 15
Naseeb border crossing linking Syria and Jordan border reopens October 15 following three-year closure
Event
Jordan and Syria reopened the Naseeb border crossing (also known as the Jaber crossing) between the two countries to civilians and trade on Monday, October 15, following a three-year closure. Syrian government forces had reclaimed the area in July after a deal made with rebel groups, who had taken over the region and suspended all cross-border traffic in 2015.
On a related note, Israel has announced the reopening of its border with Syria following a four-year closure. The border will reportedly be opened for UN observers at first and potentially then progressively opened to trade and human transit in the future.
Syrian and Iraqi authorities discussed the potential reopening of their border on October 13. The crossing point between the two countries is currently only open for military and governmental purposes.
Context
The Naseeb/Jaber border crossing is essential to Jordan as it represents a major commercial lifeline and Jordan's link to Europe via Turkey.
Advice
Many foreign governments advise their nationals against all travel near the Syrian borders. Due to threats made by the Islamic State against Western interests abroad, various diplomatic authorities also advise their nationals to remain extremely vigilant at all times when traveling in Jordan.
