Local
The Iraqi Ministry of Transport affirmed on Saturday that ongoing regional tensions have not broadly impacted vital transport projects in the country, noting that their effects remain limited. The ministry assured the continuous and smooth flow of essential trade, especially foodstuffs, through Iraqi ports, alongside a noticeable activity in land transport. In this context, the Director of Media and Governmental Communication at the Ministry, Hussein Ahmed, stated that current indicators show vitality in the land transport sector. The western border crossing witnesses the departure of approximately 1500 trucks daily, while international traffic has exceeded 7000 trips towards Central Asia. He indicated that Iraq is not a party to these conflicts, though it is affected by them, but their impact on projects has remained limited so far. Regarding the repercussions of the Strait of Hormuz crisis, Ahmed clarified that Iraqi ports have been affected, similar to other ports in the region. Nevertheless, he confirmed the continued smooth arrival of basic and food materials, emphasizing that navigation and vessel operations at the ports continue without actual halt. The official also noted that the crisis significantly impacted the oil export file. Despite this, he assured that trade movement has not yet affected Iraq's essential needs, which sustain the daily life cycle in the country.
