Basra: The head of the Security and Border Crossings Committee in the Basra Provincial Council, Aqeel Talib Al-Fariji, has issued a strong statement affirming that the local government remains dedicated to its responsibilities amidst the ongoing fishermen's crisis. Al-Fariji addressed concerns from residents who suspect that the provincial government might be neglecting its duties. He emphasized that the government cannot ignore the situation and reiterated that the belief in its abandonment of responsibilities is a misunderstanding among some individuals.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Fariji declared in a press release the importance of representing the people's voice and demanding their rights through appropriate legal and diplomatic channels. He highlighted the need for clear roles among relevant ministries to tackle the crisis effectively. Al-Fariji revealed that significant information has been compiled regarding the fishermen's cases, which could foster collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other pertinent authorities to resolve the issues faced by fishermen. He stressed the necessity for precise security measures and border demarcation due to shared waters, which are crucial given the extensive maritime areas.

Al-Fariji underscored the reliance of fishermen on the sea for their livelihood and acknowledged the citizens' right to seek government intervention in protecting their interests. He reiterated his appeal for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take an active role, particularly concerning the fishermen's situation in Basra Governorate. Furthermore, he called for a more significant presence and involvement of the Iraqi Coast Guard and Naval Force Command.

Al-Fariji highlighted the detainment of several fishermen in the UAE and a fisherman who has been held in Kuwait for 17 years, urging the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to act decisively on these cases. He assured that the local government remains vigilant against further violations against the province's residents.

He concluded by reaffirming that the Governor of Basra is actively addressing various issues, locally and internationally, within constitutional and legal frameworks to safeguard the rights of the province's citizens.