Iraqi Government Sparks Diplomatic Controversy After Depositing Documents with UN Including Disputed Maritime Areas with Kuwait
This move comes amid rising tensions between the two neighboring countries over sovereignty in the Gulf waters.
Background of the Maritime Border Crisis
Historical Conflict Developments
The current issue represents an extension of the long-standing border disputes between Iraq and Kuwait, which include land and maritime areas. The roots of the current disagreement go back to previous border demarcation agreements that did not resolve all points of contention between the two countries.
New UN Documents
The Iraqi government recently deposited a set of maritime coordinates and maps with the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. These documents formally include what is known as the “Divided Submerged Zone adjacent to the Saudi-Kuwaiti Divided Zone.”
Official Iraqi Position
Foreign Minister’s Statements
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein commented on this move, confirming that it comes within the framework of international legal practices. He pointed out that the procedure falls within Iraq’s sovereign rights to demarcate its maritime borders according to recognized legal frameworks.
Legal Context of the Procedure
Baghdad confirmed that depositing the documents with the United Nations represents a routine procedural step to document the country’s border position. This step was taken in accordance with international agreements regulating the demarcation of maritime borders between neighboring countries.
Official Kuwaiti Response
Objections to Baghdad’s Maps
The Kuwaiti government considered the maps and coordinates deposited by Iraq as “an infringement on its sovereignty over its maritime areas and the water heights belonging to it.” Kuwait expressed its strong displeasure with this step, which it viewed as a violation of national sovereignty.
Expected Diplomatic Measures
Kuwait is currently considering submitting an official protest through international diplomatic and legal channels. It is expected that Kuwait will request international intervention to protect its established maritime rights under bilateral agreements and international law.
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