Under U.S. Pressure, Pakistan and Iraq Close Some Transit Points to Iran
Iran’s economic difficulties are intensifying.
According to a recent report by The Wall Street Journal, concerned about provoking the United States, Pakistan and Iraq are restricting access through certain land routes into and out of Iran, imposing new economic strain on the country.
The report notes that after the imposition of maritime sanctions, Iran has become heavily reliant on overland trade corridors with neighboring countries to import goods and sustain its domestic economy. However, under pressure from the United States, Pakistan and Iraq are now making strategic decisions regarding these routes.
Pakistan and Iraq have not fully closed their borders with Iran but have slowed transit procedures and shut down specific crossing points, citing anti-smuggling measures as justification.
Iran has described the situation as a “technical issue” and is seeking bilateral consultations with Pakistan and Iraq to resolve the matter.
While transit points with Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, and Armenia remain open, these alternative routes offer only limited capacity and cannot substitute for Iran’s primary overland trade corridors.
Given recent reports indicating preparations by the United States for potential military escalation, it remains possible that the current economic restrictions—combined with the possibility of renewed military action—could be part of a broader strategy aimed at compelling Iran to concessions.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1880019574164489/
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