Rising Tensions Over Sea Borders
Kuwait and Iraq are clashing again over their maritime boundaries, with Gulf states lining up behind Kuwait. The dispute intensified after Baghdad submitted new coordinates and a map to the United Nations, claiming areas that Kuwait considers its own, including the Fasht al-Qaid and Fasht al-Aij shoals. The northern Gulf’s waterways and offshore resources remain highly strategic, adding weight to the disagreement.
Regional Backing and Calls for Dialogue
Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman have publicly supported Kuwait, emphasizing the need to respect international law. Saudi officials noted that parts of Iraq’s claims also overlap with a shared Saudi-Kuwaiti maritime area. Egypt encouraged both nations to seek a diplomatic solution and honor existing agreements to maintain regional stability.
Iraq maintains that its coordinates are within its maritime rights and in accordance with international law. Baghdad also highlighted that Kuwait had submitted its own maps to the UN in 2014 without consulting Iraq.
Historical Disputes and Broader Context
The conflict also touches on longstanding issues around the Khor Abdullah waterway and nearby shared zones. A 2012 navigation agreement was overturned by Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court in 2023, adding legal complications.
This maritime row is part of broader unresolved Gulf disputes over borders and offshore resources. Separately, Kuwait has been reviewing nationality files since 2024, revoking citizenship from tens of thousands to protect national identity and prevent fraud. Critics, however, warn that these measures could leave some people stateless.
