Iraq: authorities seize and move dangerous chemicals in Basra province

On Wednesday, April 30, the Iraqi Border Ports Authority announced the seizure and transfer of two containers holding hazardous chemicals in Basra province. The authority’s spokesperson, Alaa Al-Qaisi, told Shafaq News that the containers were moved to a secure area in Al-Haddama as a “precautionary measure.” It was done due to the high-risk character of the shipments, which held dual-use chemical substances classified under maritime hazardous materials codes. Al-Qaisi added that the committee overseeing chemical containers has stressed the need for improved safety procedures in Iraqi ports and enhanced environmental and customs regulations in light of recent tragic events like the 2020 Beirut port explosion.