According to a statement from the prime minister’s office, the decision was issued on August 7 and sent to the federal Board of Border Crossings.

“All the employees of Mandali border crossing will be transferred to Munzaria border crossing,” the directive said.

No official reason has been given for the closure, NRT reported.

Several sources have said that the move is aimed at curbing the activities of Hashd al-Shaabi militias at the crossing, with Iraqi media outlets saying that groups were using the crossing to circumvent customs procedures and smuggle goods.

Mandali border crossing is also known as an important port of entry for Iranian weapons going to the Hashid al-Shaabi in Iraq and other pro-Tehran forces in Syria and Lebanon.

Reporter’s code: 50101