JORDAN-IRAQ BORDER OPEN

UNCLAS AMMAN 003098 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ETRD JO IZ SUBJECT: JORDAN-IRAQ BORDER OPEN REF: CPA 929 ¶1. While several recent erroneous reports have stated or implied that the border between Jordan and Iraq has been closed, this border has in fact remained open at all times during at least the last four months. Since the end of major combat operations in Iraq, the only closures of this border have been those initiated on the Iraqi side of the border. The Iraqi side of the Trebil border crossing is the responsibility of U.S. Armed Forces personnel, who are in constant, direct contact with CJTF-7. The Jordanian side of the Trebil border crossing is the responsibility of the Jordanian Public Security Directorate (PSD). However, liaison officers attached to the General Headquarters of the Jordanian Armed Forces are also stationed at the Trebil border crossing to monitor the situation there and maintain cooperation with foreign military forces. These liaison officers are in constant contact with U.S. liaison officers attached to the Humanitarian Assistance Coordination Center (HACC),which is based at U.S. Embassy Amman. ¶2. If the Jordanian government ever does decide to close the border for any reason, the Embassy will report this to both the Department and CPA soonest. HALE