Iraq Caught in Crossfire of Iran War, Shipping Disrupted

Iraq is increasingly caught between Iran and its adversaries, facing attacks from both sides and threatening to escalate regional turmoil. Simultaneously, escalating attacks on vessels in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz are disrupting shipping traffic and raising concerns about oil prices.

Iraq Under Attack From Multiple Sides

Iraq is currently the only country experiencing direct attacks from both Iran and other actors, according to the Associated Press report. Recent incidents include an airstrike in Anbar province targeting members of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), and a subsequent U.S. Airstrike in Qaim. Funerals for those killed in these attacks have been held in Baghdad and Najaf on March 12th and 13th, 2026.

Shipping Disrupted in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz

Three additional foreign vessels were struck off the coasts of Iraq and the United Arab Emirates overnight on March 12, 2026, authorities reported according to CNBC. These incidents follow earlier damage to three vessels on Wednesday and arrive amid warnings from Iran about potential oil price increases to $200 a barrel. Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has significantly decreased since U.S. And Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28th.

Specifically, a container ship was hit by an unknown projectile approximately 35 nautical miles north of Jebel Ali in the UAE, causing a small fire. Two foreign oil tankers were as well set ablaze in Iraqi waters near the port of Umm Qasr, resulting in at least one fatality and the rescue of 38 crew members.

Airline Disruptions

The conflict has also led to significant disruptions in air travel. Turkish Airlines has cancelled flights to several countries, including Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and various Gulf states, until March 19, 2026, with flights to Iran cancelled until March 20, 2026 as reported by The Independent. Emirates has also halted flights to Iraq, Iran, and Jordan for three days due to “regional unrest” according to France24. Other airlines, including Aegean Airlines, airBaltic, Air Canada, Air Europa, and British Airways, have also cancelled flights to various destinations in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Iraq is facing attacks from both Iran and other actors, escalating regional tensions.
• Shipping in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz is severely disrupted, threatening global oil supplies.
• Airlines are cancelling flights to the Middle East, impacting travel and connectivity.