US Pressures Iraq to Close Almost All Commercial Border Crossings with Iran

The United States Department of the Treasury has asked the Iraqi government to shut down almost all commercial border crossings with Iran, leaving only two transit points operational. Iraqi Foreign Minister <b>Fuad Hussein</b> revealed this development during an interview, noting that the move aims to isolate Tehran amid escalating regional military tensions. Hussein highlighted that ongoing maritime blockades in the strategic Strait of Hormuz have severely impacted Iraq's economy, resulting in staggering financial losses amounting to <b>USD 60 billion</b>. Previously, backchannel agreements allowed Iraq to move crude oil through a designated southerly maritime corridor, but current disruptions have created severe challenges for energy transit routes. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister <b>Seyed Abbas Araghchi</b> warned the United States to accept Tehran's proposal to end hostilities or face severe military retaliation.