Iran, Iraq Prepare to Launch Khorramshahr–Basra Maritime Route

TEHRAN (Iran News) In a coordination meeting hosted by the Khorramshahr Port Authority, officials from both countries gathered to plan and enhance services for pilgrims, especially during the Arbaeen pilgrimage. The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor of Khuzestan Province, the Special Governor of Khorramshahr, the Economic Deputy of Iran’s Consulate in Basra, the Deputy of Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Khuzestan, the Director General of Khorramshahr Ports and Maritime Organization along with his delegation, as well as the Deputy CEO of Iraq’s Maritime Transport Company and his accompanying delegation.

The main goal of this joint session was to coordinate and overcome existing obstacles to facilitate smoother maritime travel between Khorramshahr and Basra during the busy Arbaeen pilgrimage season.

Ali Askari, Director General of Khorramshahr Ports and Maritime Organization, highlighted the significance of Arbaeen, stating: “Serving the pilgrims of Imam Hussein (AS) is an honor and a blessing for us as service providers.”

He stressed the close ties between the Iranian and Iraqi nations, which he said are rooted in fraternity, constructive engagement, and shared devotion to the family of the Prophet, particularly Imam Hussein (AS). Askari expressed hope for these bonds to grow even stronger.

Thanking Iraq’s warm hospitality in serving pilgrims, Askari explained that last year, nine round-trip voyages were operated during Arbaeen, which significantly eased pilgrims’ journeys. “This year, by resolving previous challenges, we aim to ensure even safer and better-organized maritime transport during the pilgrimage,” he added.

Askari announced that Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization is fully prepared to launch the route starting next week. He emphasized that passenger safety, readiness of search and rescue equipment, and protecting lives remain top priorities. He also expressed readiness to conduct joint maritime missions with the Iraqi side.

Furthermore, he suggested reducing maritime transport tariffs to encourage more pilgrims to use this route. “We propose forming a joint working group between the two countries to thoroughly review tariffs and implement necessary adjustments to make the journey more economically accessible,” Askari noted.

Askari concluded by stating that the goal is not only to operate the Khorramshahr–Basra maritime line during Arbaeen but also to maintain it throughout the year, for which the necessary infrastructure and preparations have been secured. “Iraq ”

Meanwhile, Firaq Abdul Salam Ghalib, Deputy CEO of Iraq’s Maritime Transport Company, reaffirmed the strong political, cultural, economic, and social ties between Iran and Iraq, describing Iran as a brother, friend, and neighbor.

He said serving millions of Iraqi pilgrims traveling to Iran annually is a great honor and added: “This year, like last year, we are ready to offer quality services to pilgrims and passengers traveling between Khorramshahr and Basra.”

Abdul Salam Ghalib emphasized the need to make the maritime line permanent so it can serve passengers year-round. He noted that plans are underway to purchase new passenger vessels to expand the maritime fleet.

Highlighting the significant transport capacity on this route, he announced: “We are ready to operate three daily trips and provide round-the-clock service to passengers.” He also expressed hope that lowering ticket tariffs would encourage greater public use of the new maritime link.