Basra: All border crossings will be open to media personnel for covering the Arbaeen pilgrimage, as announced by the head of the Border Ports Authority, Lieutenant General Omar Adnan Al-Waeli. He noted that media personnel would not require prior approvals to facilitate their coverage of this significant event.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Waeli made this announcement during a press conference at the inauguration of the new Shalamcheh border crossing in Basra Governorate. The event was attended by the Senior Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior, Hussein Al-Awadi, and the Governor of Basra. He explained that the opening of the new Shalamcheh crossing, a crucial land link between Iraq and the Islamic Republic of Iran, is part of ongoing efforts to enhance preparedness for receiving pilgrims commemorating the Arbaeen of Imam Hussein. This development aims to streamline crossing procedures and improve services provided to the pilgrims.