01 Dec 2024 | 12:27 AM UTC
Iraq, Syria: Iraq closes its border with Syria following offensive in Aleppo as of Nov. 30
Iraq closes its border with Syria amid ongoing clashes in Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama as of Nov. 30. Follow all official instructions.
As of Nov. 30, the Iraqi government has closed its land borders with Syria following the seizure of Aleppo by Syrian insurgent groups Nov. 29 and their ongoing offensives in Idlib and Hama governorates. Iraqi officials are concerned that militant groups may attempt to infiltrate Iraq amid the worsening security situation in Syria.
The Iraqi Joint Operations Command (JOC) has announced that security forces await further instructions from Prime Minister Mohammad Shi'a al-Sudani. In the meantime, additional security reinforcements have been deployed along the Iraqi-Syrian border. The duration of the border closure remains unclear.
Disruptions to cross-border transport, shipping, and customs are likely in the coming days.
Exercise caution if operating along the Iraqi-Syrian border. Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm travel arrangements. Plan for transport disruptions and possible ground shipping delays; seek alternative routes and shipping methods for time-sensitive cargo.
