Iraq Reopens Qaim Border Crossing With Syria to Restore Trade, Travel

Iraq and Syria have officially reopened the Al-Qaim–Al-Bukamal border crossing to commercial and passenger traffic, marking a significant step in normalizing relations and enhancing economic cooperation. The crossing, closed since December 2024 due to security concerns amid clashes and rebel control, has resumed operations following joint security assessments and a bilateral agreement. This reopening is expected to boost local economies by creating jobs, facilitating trade, and revitalizing agricultural and industrial supply chains in both countries, particularly benefiting Syria's Deir ez-Zor province and Iraq's Al-Anbar region. Iraqi and Syrian authorities emphasize that the border is well-secured and managed jointly, with increased coordination on security and trade facilitation under Syria's new leadership. The reopening symbolizes a broader warming of ties between Baghdad and Damascus, with recent high-level visits and cooperation aimed at stabilizing the region and combating extremist threats such as ISIS. The restored crossing also serves as a strategic corridor to reduce trade costs and accelerate goods movement along the Damascus–Bukamal–Qaim–Baghdad corridor.