On June 12, Iraq celebrates its Navy Day, also known as ‘Youm al-Watania al-A’asar’ in Arabic, to commemorate the establishment of Iraqi Navy on this day in 1937. This day marks the dedication and courage of Iraq’s naval forces in defending the country’s maritime borders and preserving its sovereignty. It also highlights the significant role played by the Iraqi Navy in safeguarding the nation’s marine resources, ensuring maritime security, and contributing to international peacekeeping efforts. Let’s take a closer look at Iraqi Navy Day and the remarkable accomplishments of this esteemed branch of the Iraqi Armed Forces.
History of Iraqi Navy Day
The roots of Iraqi Navy can be traced back to the first half of the 20th century when Iraq began to establish its modern military forces. On June 12, 1937, King Ghazi of Iraq issued a royal decree for the establishment of the Iraqi Navy under the name ‘Sayeret al-Muhafizat al-Khassa.’ The main objective of forming this naval branch was to protect the country’s coast and ports, safeguard shipping lanes, and prevent illegal activities in Iraqi waters.
Role of Iraqi Navy
Since its inception, the Iraqi Navy has been serving the nation with distinction. It is responsible for protecting the country’s 58-kilometer long coastline and territorial waters in the Persian Gulf. Along with its primary duties of coastal defense and maritime surveillance, the Iraqi Navy also carries out search and rescue missions, disaster relief operations, and supports international efforts against piracy, trafficking, and terrorism.
Accomplishments of Iraqi Navy
Over the years, the Iraqi Navy has achieved numerous significant milestones and contributed immensely to the development of the country. Some of its notable achievements include:
- In 1988, the Iraqi Navy played a vital role in the Iran-Iraq War by providing support and protection to the country’s oil terminals.
- In 1990, the Iraqi Navy demonstrated its strength by successfully executing a blockade of international forces during the Gulf War.
- In 2003, the Iraqi Navy collaborated with coalition forces to defend Iraq’s waters from illegal activities and prevent the infiltration of foreign fighters.
- In 2018, the Iraqi Navy received its first warship, an Italian-built FREMM frigate, which was commissioned by the Italian Navy to help Iraq enhance its naval capabilities.
- In 2020, the Iraqi Navy participated in a joint naval exercise with the US Navy to improve coordination and cooperation between the two navies.
Today, the Iraqi Navy has a fleet of modern warships, patrol boats, and support ships, and is continually working towards expanding its capabilities. It is also actively involved in humanitarian and peacekeeping missions, including providing training and support to other countries in the region.
Celebrating Iraqi Navy Day
On June 12, Iraqis honor their Naval forces by holding military parades, ceremonies, and cultural events. The Iraqi Navy also opens its doors to the public to showcase its equipment, technology, and capabilities. This day is marked as a national holiday, and people gather to appreciate and thank the brave men and women who serve in this essential branch of the Iraqi Armed Forces.
Sentences related to Iraqi Navy Day – June 12:
The Iraqi Navy Day, also known as ‘Youm al-Watania al-A’asar,’ is celebrated on June 12 to commemorate the establishment of the Iraqi Navy in 1937.
This day highlights the significant role played by the Iraqi Navy in protecting the nation’s maritime borders, marine resources, and contributing to international peacekeeping efforts.
The Iraqi Navy has a fleet of modern warships, patrol boats, and support ships and is continually working towards expanding its capabilities.
On Iraqi Navy Day, the country honors its naval forces with military parades, ceremonies, and cultural events. The Iraqi Navy also opens its doors to the public to showcase its equipment, technology, and achievements.
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Iraqi Navy Day, also known as ‘Youm al-Watania al-A’asar,’ is celebrated on June 12 to commemorate the establishment of the Iraqi Navy in 1937. This day highlights the significant role played by the Iraqi Navy in protecting the nation’s maritime borders, marine resources, and contributing to international peacekeeping efforts. The Iraqi Navy has a fleet of modern warships, patrol boats, and support ships and is continually working towards expanding its capabilities. On Iraqi Navy Day, the country honors its naval forces with military parades, ceremonies, and cultural events. The Iraqi Navy also opens its doors to the public to showcase its equipment, technology, and achievements. 
