The Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture has banned the import and transit of Syrian livestock into Iraq and Gulf countries through Iraqi territory due to concerns over the spread of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever.

Temporary Ban to Prevent Disease Spread

The Ministry of Agriculture stated that the ban on the transit of live Syrian animals is temporary and aims to prevent the spread of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, which typically emerges ahead of the Eid al-Adha holidays each year.

Spread of Hemorrhagic Fever in Syria

The ministry also noted that the decision was based on detailed and verified information indicating that hemorrhagic fever has spread across several governorates in Syria, originating from live animals.

Protecting Iraq’s Livestock Sector

The Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture stated, "These precautionary measures are intended to protect the country’s livestock from transmissible diseases. The ministry added that it continues to monitor neighboring countries and other regions to prevent the entry of infected animals into Iraq."