Rising Tensions Over Northern Gulf Waters
Kuwait is receiving strong backing from its Gulf neighbors in a fresh sea border dispute with Iraq. The conflict escalated after Baghdad submitted new coordinates and a map to the United Nations, claiming areas that Kuwait says belong to its territorial waters, including the Fasht al-Qaid and Fasht al-Aij shoals. The northern Gulf remains a strategically sensitive region, crucial for shipping routes and offshore resources.
Regional Support and Calls for Dialogue
Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman have all voiced support for Kuwait, urging compliance with international law. Saudi officials highlighted that parts of Iraq’s submission overlap with a shared Saudi-Kuwaiti maritime zone. Egypt also called for a diplomatic resolution, emphasizing dialogue and adherence to existing agreements to preserve regional stability.
Iraq maintains that its new coordinates respect its maritime rights and are consistent with international law. Iraqi officials noted that Kuwait submitted its own maps to the UN in 2014 without consulting Baghdad, adding another layer of complexity.
Historical Disputes and Broader Implications
The disagreement involves longstanding issues over the Khor Abdullah waterway and surrounding shared zones. A 2012 navigation agreement was overturned by Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court in 2023, further complicating relations.
The dispute reflects lingering maritime border tensions across the Gulf. Meanwhile, Kuwait has been reviewing nationality records since 2024, revoking citizenship from tens of thousands to protect national identity and prevent fraud, though critics warn the measures could leave some people stateless.
