Iraqi-Iranian border crossing in Shalamcheh returns to normal after closure due to attacks

(Patria) - Passenger traffic has returned to normal at the Shalamcheh border crossing between Iraq and Iran after it was closed following airstrikes on the Iranian side that killed an Iraqi citizen, security sources and the state news agency said on Saturday, Reuters reported.

The crossing serves as one of the main routes for importing vegetables and other food items from Iran into Iraq, traders and border officials say.

Any prolonged disruption could quickly affect the supply to local markets.

Sources said at least five Iraqis were seriously injured in the attacks that hit the passenger reception area on the Iranian side.

Iraqi police found the body of a man, while the injured were transferred to hospital, most in critical condition.

Hours after the attacks near Shalamcheh, Iraqi border authorities also briefly halted traffic at the Safwan crossing with Kuwait after reporting explosions on the Kuwaiti side, Iraqi security and border officials said.

Officials added that they saw drones flying overhead moments before the explosions.