Iraq's National Security takes over Mosul's external checkpoints

MOSUL, Iraq — Iraq's National Security Directorate has taken over the management of external control points and transit routes connecting Mosul to other cities, according to security sources in Nineveh province. The decision was implemented in line with directives issued by the Prime Minister's Office. The transfer places several key checkpoints under the directorate's supervision, including the Shahid Sabhan checkpoint toward Erbil, the Mosul Dam checkpoint for arrivals from Duhok, the Barari checkpoint at the southern entrance to Nineveh, and the Makhmur checkpoint. Operations at the points are being carried out in coordination with law enforcement and intelligence units, the sources said. The move aims to regulate movement in and out of the city and strengthen security measures. Under the Prime Minister's instructions, only construction materials are currently permitted to pass through the checkpoints, according to the sources. No further details on the duration or broader scope of the directive were immediately available.