Shipping Arabia, October 31, 2026 – The General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI) and Basra Operations Command held a high-level security meeting to review Iraqi port security plans covering maritime facilities, territorial and coastal waters, and critical infrastructure, including Al Faw Grand Port. The discussions focused on strengthening coordination between port authorities and security forces to protect maritime operations and maintain commercial activity.
The meeting was chaired by Maj. Gen. Atheer Hamza Jassim, Commander of Basra Operations Command, with the participation of GCPI Director General Abdullah Ati Abdullah and senior security officials.
Participants examined the security arrangements governing Iraqi ports and their surrounding waters. They also discussed measures to strengthen the protection of land borders and coastal areas associated with port facilities.
Strengthening Security Coordination Across Iraqi Ports
A central focus of the meeting was improving cooperation between the General Company for Ports of Iraq and security commands operating in Basra Governorate.
Officials reviewed existing security procedures for port installations, maritime facilities and navigation channels. The discussions aimed to identify opportunities to strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure while supporting the safe and uninterrupted operation of Iraqi ports.
The security review also covered Al Faw Grand Port as part of the wider framework for protecting Iraq’s maritime facilities and coastal infrastructure.
Participants emphasized the importance of coordinating security responsibilities and available resources among relevant authorities. Stronger institutional cooperation was identified as a priority for maintaining security stability and protecting vital maritime assets.
The meeting also addressed operational readiness and the need to improve the ability of security authorities to respond to potential challenges affecting port facilities and maritime activities.
Ministry of Transport Directives Support Maritime Security
The security meeting forms part of directives issued by Iraq’s Minister of Transport, Wahib Al-Hassani, aimed at strengthening cooperation between maritime institutions and security authorities in Basra Governorate.
These directives emphasize institutional coordination and the integration of available resources to improve security arrangements across Iraqi ports.
The Ministry of Transport’s approach also focuses on raising security readiness and strengthening measures designed to protect port infrastructure and associated maritime facilities.
According to the General Company for Ports of Iraq, continued cooperation with security authorities is essential for maintaining navigational and commercial operations.
The discussions highlighted the importance of protecting maritime navigation channels and port installations while ensuring the continuity of shipping activities.
By strengthening coordination between port management and security forces, the participating authorities aim to reinforce the security framework supporting Iraq’s maritime transport sector and safeguard its operational infrastructure.
Source: Iraqi Ministry of Transport / General Company for Ports of Iraq
