Basra fish market shuts for second day after Kuwaiti navy kills Iraqi fisherman

BASRA, Iraq — The Al-Nakaa fish market in Basra closed for a second consecutive day following the killing of an Iraqi fisherman by the Kuwaiti navy and subsequent allegations of torture. The shutdown halted activity at one of the city's main hubs for inland fish trade. Local fishermen said tensions along the border area have directly affected their livelihoods and criticized the suspension of maritime fishing. Relatives of the deceased fisherman have called for an investigation into his death and the torture allegations. Kuwaiti officials said the incident occurred during a violation of territorial waters and that security procedures were applied. Basra fishing representatives said the episode shows that bilateral fishing agreements between Iraq and Kuwait need to be revisited. A decision on reopening the market remains on hold as security concerns persist.