Iraq plans regular maritime routes to Gulf states and Iran

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Ministry of Transport is preparing to launch regular maritime routes connecting the country to four neighbors, the ministry's media office said. The planned services would use a fleet of 40 river taxis already in service along with 15 boats and 3 ferries recently delivered. Most of the fleet would operate routes to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Iran, supporting tourism and trade travel, according to the ministry. A ministry source said the lines would only begin after the required technical and administrative preparations are completed. The ministry said the project is designed to offer an economical alternative for passenger movement, ease tourist and leisure trips, and speed up the passage of delegations and visitors. It added that the transport ministry is continuing to renew its river and maritime fleet with new boats and ferries and to upgrade the infrastructure of piers and river stations as part of a broader effort to diversify transport modes. Officials said the plan is intended to deepen economic engagement with Gulf countries and Iran, though no launch date or timetable has been announced.