Iraq resumes crude oil exports to Syria via Rabia crossing
First shipment follows 13-year closure, signaling revival of cross-border energy trade and logistics links
BAGHDAD, Iraq (MNTV) — Iraq has restarted crude oil exports to Syria through the Rabia-Al-Yarubiya border crossing, marking a significant step toward restoring cross-border energy flows after more than a decade of disruption.
The initial operation, carried out on Friday, involved around 70 tanker trucks transporting crude oil under approved regulatory and security procedures, according to Iraqi authorities.
Officials said the move is aimed at easing congestion at other crossings, diversifying export routes and increasing national revenue streams.
The reopening of the route also provides Iraq with a land-based alternative to traditional export channels, helping reduce logistical risks and expand distribution flexibility.
Omar Al-Waeli, head of Iraq’s Border Crossings Authority, said plans are already underway to enhance the crossing’s capacity, including infrastructure upgrades and improvements to logistics services, in anticipation of growing trade volumes.
The Rabia crossing was reopened on April 20 after remaining closed for 13 years due to security challenges and military operations linked to the Syrian conflict.
It is one of several crossings gradually resuming activity between the two countries. Previous reopenings include the Al-Qaim–Al-Bukamal and Al-Walid–Al-Tanf routes, following political and security shifts in Syria after the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad in late 2024.
Syrian energy officials indicated that Iraqi fuel shipments could reach approximately 500,000 metric tons per month, reflecting expectations of sustained and expanded trade through the corridor.
Analysts say the resumption of oil exports via Rabia highlights broader efforts to rebuild regional economic ties and restore critical infrastructure damaged by years of conflict, while strengthening energy cooperation between Baghdad and Damascus.
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