Iraqi Ports Authority Confirms Release of 59 Drivers from Syrian Detention, Fines Waived

Lieutenant General Omar Al-Waili, head of the Border Ports Authority, announced on Sunday the release of 59 Iraqi drivers detained in Syria, with their exemption from financial penalties. Al-Waili stated, in remarks to the official agency, that Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi had directed the Authority to liaise with the Syrian side to resolve the issue of these detained Iraqi drivers. He noted that discussions were held with the head of the Syrian General Authority for Ports and Customs regarding violations committed by the drivers in Syrian territory. Al-Waili confirmed that these communications and ongoing coordination led to the liberation of the 59 drivers and the waiver of all financial penalties incurred due to the infractions.