Iran weighs Iraq as alternative transit corridor as Jebel Ali access falters

TEHRAN, Iran — Iran is evaluating Iraq as an alternative transit corridor to safeguard trade flows after disruptions on some traditional shipping routes, according to the Iran–Iraq Joint Chamber of Commerce. Chamber officials said on Thursday that Tehran is pursuing alternative routes because of difficulties accessing Jebel Ali Port, a major logistics hub in the United Arab Emirates. Iranian officials said they are reviewing options running through several countries, with Iraq as the main focus, in an effort to reduce reliance on a single corridor. The two countries' trade volume has also been affected by a partial decline in Iranian gas exports to Iraq, with overall figures showing a relative downturn in recent months. The chamber said trade activity could gradually recover once gas supplies and transit routes stabilize. No further details on the specific Iraqi routes under consideration were immediately available.