Iraq Controls Its Coast

November 29, 2008: Having recently received several new patrol boats, and after several years of training, Iraqi sailors and marines are now beginning to take over complete responsibility for patrolling and guarding offshore oil facilities and checking ships and boats that move along Iraq's 58 kilometer coastline.

Shipping has to be monitored for smugglers and terrorists. Since 2003, the U.S. (coast guard, navy, marines) and the British Royal Navy has undertaken these tasks. Currently, there are about 2,000 Iraqis assigned to the navy, coast guard and marines.