Iraq opens Shalamshaji border crossing for Karbala pilgrimage

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq reopened the Shalamshaji border crossing on Thursday to allow passenger crossings during the Arbaeen pilgrimage, Omar al-Waili, head of Iraq's Border Ports Authority, said. The crossing, located on the Iranian border, was opened specifically for the fortieth-day commemoration, an annual observance marked by large numbers of visitors traveling to the holy city of Karbala. The Border Ports Authority said preparations at the crossing were completed to handle the increased passenger traffic expected during the visitation period. Officials said the crossing typically handles heavy visitor flows during the season because of its position on the Iraq-Iran frontier. The agency said administrative procedures were arranged and relevant units placed on standby to manage entry and exit formalities. Security and administrative measures will be reinforced throughout the visitation period to keep passenger movement uninterrupted, according to the authority. The preparations were carried out in coordination with the relevant authorities, al-Waili added.