Iraq has closed the Al-Sheib border crossing with Iran to review security measures and install detection equipment aimed at preventing the smuggling of prohibited materials, according to Iraqi border officials.

Reuters, citing Iraqi border authorities, reported that the crossing, one of the busy routes between Iraq and Iran, would remain closed to passengers, vehicles and commercial trucks until further notice.

The decision was taken as Iraqi authorities conduct a security assessment and prepare to install additional inspection systems at the crossing.

Iran confirms closure

A security official from Iran's southwestern Khuzestan province confirmed that the border crossing, known as Shazabeh on the Iranian side, had been closed until further notice.

Iranian official Valiollah Hayati said consultations were continuing between Iran's Interior Ministry and local Iraqi authorities to resume operations at the crossing.

Hayati advised passengers and truck operators to use the Shalamcheh border crossing in Khuzestan province, which had also previously been temporarily closed by Iraq as a precaution following drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia in September.

Saudi Arabia said the drones were launched from Iraqi territory, while Iraqi authorities did not comment on the claim.

The Al-Sheib crossing is one of several border points connecting Iraq and Iran and serves both passenger movement and commercial trade between the two neighbouring countries.(ILKHA)