Iraq completes 400 km security border wall with Syria amid persistent threats

Iraq is ramping up efforts to secure its western and northern borders with Syria to prevent infiltrations by ISIS militants, armed groups, and drug smuggling networks. 

Speaking on Tuesday to Iraq's News Agency (INA), Major General Tahsin al-Khafaji, spokesperson for Iraq's Joint Operations Command, outlined the progress made in fortifying the 615-kilometre-long border. According to al-Khafaji, 400 kilometres of a planned concrete wall have been completed, alongside additional security measures to ensure the border's stability.

The construction of the concrete barrier, which began in 2018, is part of a broader strategy targeting areas adjacent to the Anbar and Ninawa governorates—regions that have historically witnessed cross-border infiltrations, smuggling operations, and militant activity. The project includes trenches three meters wide and deep, barbed wire installations, observation towers, and a robust deployment of border guard units, supported by Iraqi army forces positioned in the rear.

Al-Khafaji emphasised that these measures aim to prevent the re-emergence of ISIS sleeper cells, control organised crime, and curtail drug smuggling. "Securing the borders with Syria is a top priority," he stated, highlighting the critical role of intelligence operations and aerial surveillance in maintaining border stability.

The Iraqi Ministries of Defence and Interior, along with the Joint Operations Command, are also focusing on fortifying the most rugged and complex areas of the border. Key zones include the Fishkhabour crossing to the Gilbarat area and the towns of Rabia and Sinjar in Ninawa, opposite Syria's Al-Hasakah Governorate. These regions are considered hotspots for cross-border infiltration and smuggling activities.

Despite these efforts, experts remain cautious about the feasibility of achieving complete security along the lengthy and challenging border. 

Historically, the Iraqi-Syrian border has been a corridor for armed groups, including Al-Qaeda and ISIS, as well as for smuggling operations. While the Islamic State group was declared defeated in Iraq in 2017 and in Syria in 2019, its sleeper cells remain active in both countries, posing an ongoing threat.

Iraqi officials are determined to complete the border fortifications by the end of this year. Al-Khafaji reiterated that the country's efforts to secure its borders represent a critical component of Iraq's broader national security strategy, aimed at preventing any future breaches that could destabilise the region.