Iran launches first joint rail transit from Iraq to Afghanistan via Kermanshah

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iran's Railways announced the launch of the first joint rail transit shipment from Iraq to Afghanistan, routed through Kermanshah in western Iran. The cargo entered Iran through the country's western border crossings and was connected to the national rail network after logistics operations were completed at the Kermanshah freight station, according to Arak and Kermanshah Regional Railways Director General Ahmed Turki. The freight will travel east along Iran's national rail lines to reach its final destination in Afghanistan, Turki said. He described the move as a step toward expanding international transport corridors and increasing the share of rail in regional transit traffic. Turki added that the shipment marks a turning point in activating underused capacity on Iran's western corridor and in enabling international rail transit. The initiative, carried out under Islamic Republic of Railways policies aimed at attracting transit cargo and promoting joint transport, is expected to support higher trade volumes on the country's rail network, according to Turki.