Iraq has sent its first crude oil shipment to Syria through the Rabia–Al-Yarubiyah border crossing, marking a significant step in restoring cross-border energy trade after more than a decade of disruption. The initial convoy included around 70 tanker trucks, according to Iraqi officials.
The crossing, reopened in April after roughly 13 years of closure due to the Syrian civil war and security challenges, is being positioned as a strategic export route. Officials say the move aims to diversify Iraq’s oil export channels, reduce reliance on traditional maritime routes, and ease pressure on existing crossings.
Authorities also indicated that infrastructure upgrades are underway to handle increased volumes, with expectations that shipments could expand in the coming months.
The development reflects broader efforts by both Iraq and Syria to revive economic ties and trade flows following years of conflict, with energy exports seen as a key driver of recovery.
