In order to fortify its defenses following the tension in the region, Iraq is fortifying its western and northern borders with Syria by building a concrete wall aimed at preventing any ISIS militant infiltration from the Syrian territories.

Iraqi officials expect the new defenses to be completed by the end of this year.

“the borders with Syria are fully secured through an integrated fortification system, which includes the deployment of forces from the army and the Popular Mobilization Forces deep in the desert and completing combat preparations,” said the commander of the Iraqi Border Forces, Lieutenant General Muhammad Al-Saeedi.

He pointed out that the borders are equipped with smart thermal cameras that operate 24 hours a day to monitor any movements.