Basra Operations Command

It was established in August 2007,[1] and quickly became involved in the Battle of Basra (2008) ("Operation Charge of the Knights") against the Shia Jaysh al-Mahdī (Mahdi Army) militia in Basra.The BOC is headquarted in Basrah.

In late 2008, United States personnel were worried by Prime Minister Maliki's attempt to exert control over the Iraqi Army and police by proliferating regional operations commands.

In September 2007, the UK Parliament was told that "The appointment of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and confirmation of Initial Operation Capability (IOC) is currently planned for November 2007."

"Charge of the Knights" was planned for June 2008, but it was launched three months early at the behest of the Iraqi Prime Minister, Nouri al-Maliki, while the 14th Division was still forming.

In addition, Maj. Gen. Abbas Naji Adham was named as the new Basra provincial police director, replacing his former boss Maj. Gen. Rashid Flayih."