Iraq says to close borders with Syria, Iran

BAGHDAD, Feb 13 (Reuters) Iraq's government said today it would close its borders with Syria and Iran and extend the hours of a night curfew in Baghdad under a US- backed security plan to rein in violence in the capital.

The measures ordered by Shi'ite Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki were announced on Iraqiya state television by Lieutenant General Abboud Qanbar, the Iraqi commander who is leading the US-backed security offensive in Baghdad.

Qanbar said the border with Iran and Syria would be closed for 72 hours. He did not say when the closures would take effect.

The measures would extend Baghdad's night vehicle curfew of 11 p.m.-6 a.m. to 8 p.m.-6 a.m. Baghdad's international airport, which has been closed down in security operations in the past, will not be affected.

US officials accuse non-Arab, Shi'ite Iran of funding and training Iraqi militants attacking US forces in Iraq. American and Iraqi officials have accused Syria of not doing enough to stop alleged foreign fighters from crossing into Iraq.

Yesterday bombings at popular markets in Baghdad killed at least 77 people and maimed scores.

Reuters SSC DB2248