The Gulf States have strongly supported Kuwaiti sovereignty, as tensions rise over Iraq’s latest maritime claims. Indeed, the issue stems from Iraq submitting new sea boundary coordinates to the United Nations, a move Kuwait says violates its sovereign waters. Specifically, this dispute centers on the strategic Khor Abdullah waterway, a narrow channel linking Kuwait and Iraq.
Kuwait’s foreign ministry expressed concern over the submission, noting that the new map extends to areas Kuwait considers undisputed territory. Therefore, officials summoned Iraq’s charge d’affaires to deliver a formal protest. They emphasized that Iraq must respect historical agreements and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Additionally, Kuwait highlighted bilateral arrangements that govern the waterway.
Last week, Iraq defended its submission, claiming it follows international maritime law. Moreover, Baghdad outlined its internal waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, and exclusive economic zone, asserting sovereign rights over these regions.
In response, Gulf States quickly voiced their support. The United Arab Emirates criticized Iraq’s submission, warning it could threaten Kuwait’s maritime rights. Consequently, UAE leaders urged both countries to resolve the matter through dialogue, stressing regional stability.
Saudi Arabia also expressed concern, noting that the coordinates touch areas near the Saudi-Kuwaiti divided zone. Furthermore, Riyadh described the move as infringing on Kuwaiti sovereignty, which could disrupt shared natural resources. Thus, the country pledged to monitor developments closely.
Qatar joined the chorus, labeling Iraq’s claims a direct challenge to Kuwaiti sovereignty. Similarly, Doha called on Baghdad to respect international legal principles. Meanwhile, Bahrain reinforced the message, urging Iraq to consider longstanding relations and mutual interests with Kuwait.
The Khor Abdullah waterway has long strained relations between the two nations. After Iraq’s 1990 invasion of Kuwait, the UN Security Council defined the land border through Resolution 833. However, maritime boundaries remained unresolved, left to bilateral negotiations. Then, tensions escalated in September 2023 when Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court annulled a maritime agreement regulating navigation in Khor Abdullah. Kuwait, backed by Gulf States, continues to contest the ruling, while Iraq insists it respects international commitments without interfering in judicial decisions.
Diplomatic observers warn that rising tensions could affect trade and security in the northern Gulf. Consequently, analysts suggest that strong Gulf support may pressure Iraq to reconsider its maritime claims. Meanwhile, Kuwait remains steadfast, highlighting legal and historical justifications for its position.
By presenting a united front, the Gulf States aim to safeguard Kuwaiti sovereignty and preserve stability across shared waters. Ultimately, the dispute serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required in managing maritime borders.
