Iraq Iraq River Boundary Dispute Attitude And Policy Evolution (1921-1979)

The Shatt al-Arab River boundary dispute was a focus between Osman and Persia, and they straggled around it for a long time. When modem Iraq came into being, it again became a critical problem between the two countries. The Shatt al-Arab River is of economy and strategy for Iraq; and is very important to Iraqi safety. Whatever its political system and ideology were, Iraqi government claimed their authority over the Shatt al-Arab River. On the basis of national strength and international relationship, it made an adjustment to the Shatt al-Arab River, and changed its attitude and policy. Characteristics vary with periods. This essay tries to analyze evolution, composed of three parts:The first part: introduce the source of issue. Because the Shatt al-Arab River is a unique port, it plays an important role in economy and strategic position .In history, a long-term straggle occurred between Osman and Persia, and the former overwhelmed the latter in the end.The second part: discuss Iraq's attitude during kingdom. At that time, Iraq took a compromise over this problem because of its political conservation, small national strength and current international background. Iraq tried to solve this problem through legality, but without expected end. With situation changing and external pressure, government had to sign "the Teheran Treat" in 1937.Though it did not share authority with Iran, it opened the first door to a give-way policy.The third part: discuss Iraq's attitude during republic. Because nationalist force increased and national sense recovered, it took a radical attitude and policy over the Shatt al-Arab River, Kasem refused to accept the previous contract. With Iraqi Baath Party coming into power, government opposed this policy in public. When Iraq had no ability to straggle with Iran, it was forced to sign "the Algiers Agreement" in 1975 .With its nationalism and national sense increasing, Iraq tore this contract and claimed solving this issue through arms.