Jordan Reopens Jaber Border Crossing to Syrian Trucks
In a significant development, Jordan has announced that its trucks will be permitted to enter Syria starting Wednesday morning through the Jaber border crossing. This decision, confirmed by Jordanian Minister of Industry Yarub Qudah, aims to facilitate the flow of goods and enhance trade relations between the two neighboring countries. The minister stated, "The decision to allow trucks to enter Syrian territory will help in the flow of goods and shipping between Jordan and Syria."
Current Status of the Jaber-Nassib Crossing
The Jaber border crossing, which is the only official crossing open between Syria and Jordan, has recently seen increased activity. Reports indicate that the crossing is currently witnessing travelers moving from Jordan into Syria, while departures are limited to foreign passport holders. On the first day of the reopening, ten trucks carrying medical and food aid successfully entered Syrian territory. This crossing has a history of closures due to security concerns, with the last closure occurring on December 6 due to escalating tensions in southern Syria.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
The Jaber-Nassib crossing has been a critical link between Jordan and Syria, having been closed multiple times since the onset of the Syrian revolution in 2011. The first closure occurred in April 2015 and lasted for three years, with the crossing reopening in October 2018. The recent decision to reopen the crossing comes amidst a backdrop of political changes in Syria, including the recent control of Damascus by Syrian opposition factions and the flight of Bashar al-Assad to Russia. As Jordanian officials prepare to visit the crossing and assess trade arrangements, the future of Jordan-Syria trade relations appears to be on a path of recovery.
