Ali Abu Iraq

Stories by the Author

Uncertain future for University of Basra students. The arrival of big oil corporations in the resource-rich province has done little to provide skilled jobs for graduates. (Photo: Ali Abu Iraq)

Graduates Cut Out of Basra Oil Boom

Many struggle to find decent work, despite upsurge in investment and development.

8 Nov 10

The interior of Saddam’s luxury yacht, which arrived in the southern Iraqi port of Basra on November 2 after spending more than two decades in Saudi Arabia, France, Greece and, most recently, the United Arab Emirates. (Photo: Ali Abu Iraq)

Iraq Reclaims Saddam's Yacht

Basrans not sure what to make of return of detested former leader’s plaything.

4 Nov 10

Ma'dan boatsmen guide their slender wooden boat past a submerged Iraqi army tank in the Hor Saleel marshland area in Iraq's southern Basra province. (Photo: Ali Abu Iraq)

Ancient Way of Life Threatened

Ma’dan tribal leaders say they will resist impact of oil boom and urbanisation on their traditional culture.

15 Oct 10

A lone boatman crosses the Karma river, a tributary of the Tigris, some 15 kilometres north of the city of Basra. For centuries, the people of Basra and surrounding communities have depended on the waterways for their livelihood. Now a range of issues - from over-fishing to environmental problems - is threatening their way of life. (Photo: Ali Abu Iraq)

Basra Fishermen See Bleak Future

They lament demise of their once-thriving livelihood, hit hard by combination of ecological and industrial problems.

4 Jun 10

Tight Election Race Emerging

State of Law and Iraqiya blocs appear neck-and-neck as initial elections results released. By Ali Kareem and Ali Abu Iraq in Baghdad and Basra

22 Apr 10

Shia Coalition Accused of Invoking Religion

Iraqi candidates and coalitions are prohibited from using religious references in their campaigns.

4 Mar 10

Land of Plenty in Crisis

Upriver dams cause influx of salt water that’s destroying crops and killing livestock in once verdant Basra region.

17 Nov 09

Basra Plagued by Mine Menace

UN critical of pace of landmine clearance, warning it’ll be decades before targets met.

3 Jul 09

Grim Prospects for Basra Marsh Dwellers

Reporter finds local people struggling to revive their ancient lifestyle.

5 Jun 09

Return to the Marshes

14 May 09

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