Port of Basra

The Port of Basra is a port located in downtown Basra City, Iraq, on the banks of the Shatt Al Arab River, 135 kilometers upstream from the mouth of the river, close to many of Iraq's giant oil and gas fields.

The Port of Basra began operations in 1919, having been constructed under the aegis of the British Army, who occupied Mesopotamia during the First World War.

Iraq's first modern port, it was intended by the British to serve as a major commercial and mercantile hub, servicing Basra itself but also acting as a valuable economic bridge between Europe and Asia.

The port experienced a steady decline in operations in the ensuing years, ultimately closing in 2003.

The Port of Basra has recently reopened and currently receives general, project, and containerized cargo.