Summary
Content
General
Numerous land entry points (EPs) exist between the border of Iran and Iraq. However, only five of these can be considered major EPs, with all the requisite facilities that were previously used for trans-border operations and commercial activities. (This information was communicated by the Iranian Customs authorities during a meeting on 18 March 2003.) These EPs include Hajji Umran and Bashmegh/Sulimaniya in the north, Khosravi/Mundhiriya in the Centre, Shalamchah and Mehran/Ta’an in the South. For trans-border humanitarian operations, at present the first three major land EPs may be fully utilized, since customs facilities are not available at Shalamchah and Mehran EPs. All mentioned EPs are fully equipped and operational. Customs offices are open from Saturday till Thursday from 8 am – 2 pm.
Access to the whole border area is currently restricted for UN personnel. Crossing points between Khosravi (close to Kermanshah) and the Shalamchah (at Khorramshahr) are not accessible at this stage due to security reasons. Permission is required from BAFIA to access the border area.
Customs formalities before approaching the border may require up to 72 hours. With appropriate clearance and documentation it takes approx. 1 hour to cross the border. For areas under the control of the allied troops, it has been communicated by the HOC that no plans exist to levy any fees or taxes for humanitarian relief commodities imported into Iraq.
Entry Points:
Haji Umran
Khosravi
Bashmeg
Shalamchan
Mehran