Iraq and Syria Reopen Key Border Crossing After 13 Years

Iraq and Syria have reopened the Rabia border crossing, restoring a major land route that had been closed for nearly 13 years due to conflict and the rise of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group.

The crossing, known as Al-Yarubiyah on the Syrian side, was reopened in Syria's Hasakah province following a ceremony attended by officials from both nations. Syrian customs authorities stated that the crossing is now open for transit, trade, imports, exports, and passenger movement.

Officials from both sides discussed measures to streamline border procedures, improve coordination, and expand bilateral trade. The Rabia crossing, located near Mosul in Iraq's northern Nineveh province, was closed around 2013 as the Syrian civil war intensified and IS militants seized border areas.

With the reopening of this crossing, all three main border crossings between Iraq and Syria are now operational. Officials believe this move will boost economic activity in the border region and strengthen bilateral relations.

Syrian officials expressed expectations that this reopening will increase trade, facilitate transit, and contribute to broader regional connectivity.