Iran and Kurdistan Region finalize deal to reopen Sheikh Sala border crossing

BAGHDAD, Iraq — BAGHDAD — Iran and Iraq's Kurdistan Region have reached a final agreement to reopen the Sheikh Sala border crossing to passenger traffic, according to the governor of Iran's Sarpol-e Zahab city, Alireza Rezai. Rezai said the executive bodies of both sides are continuing infrastructure work to convert the crossing in the Uramanat area into a permanent trade and passenger gateway. The decision followed a coordination meeting attended by senior Iranian border security officials, the Kermanshah governor's special aide, the Kurdistan Region's customs director and administrators from both sides. Talks covered the removal of logistical obstacles, the facilitation of export flows and the extension of operating hours at the joint border market. The crossing currently functions as an active transit point for exports of tiles, ceramics, facade stone, plastic products, iron, foodstuffs and household appliances. Officials said reopening the gate to passenger traffic is intended to expand regional trade volume and provide economic mobility for Uramanat residents. No further details on the opening date were immediately available.