Iran-Iraq Border Reopens as Iranians Cross into Iraqi Kurdistan for Essentials

The Haji Omeran border crossing between Iran and northern Iraq reopened after being closed due to regional military tensions. Dozens of Iranians, particularly Kurds, crossed into Iraqi Kurdistan seeking cheaper food, internet access, jobs, and contact with relatives amid ongoing airstrikes and rising prices in Iran. The region's porous border has long supported trade and family ties. Some Iranian Kurds expressed fears of reprisals from Iranian intelligence and reported disruptions to security forces caused by bombardment.