Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Phoenix Base
APO AE 09348

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release No. 090218-01
February 18, 2009
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DSN:  318-852-1332
IRAQNA:  0790-194-0270

Orderly Transition - Iraqi Navy prepares to protect key oil platform
by Van N. Williams, MNSTC-I PAO

BAGHDAD – The leadership of the Iraqi Navy and their Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq partners met here at the Blackhawk Conference Center in the International Zone Feb. 17 to go over plans for the orderly transition of the offshore Khwar Al Amaya Oil Terminal to Iraqi control.

KAAOT and the nearby Al Basra Oil Terminal are critical to Iraq’s future since 75 percent of the nation’s oil is exported through these terminals.  The oil platforms are key targets for those who want to harm Iraq and its future. On Apr. 24, 2004, a terrorist attack on the ABOT was repelled by coalition forces.

Rear Adm. Muaffaq, Deputy Head of the Iraqi Navy, and Commodore Adele, Chief of Staff, represented the Iraqi navy at the meeting.  “We are aware of the region and our neighbors,” said Muaffaq.  “We look forward to protecting our nation once again.”

Royal Navy Capt. Richard Ingram, commander of MNSTC-I’s Coalition Naval Training Team - Umm Qasr, briefed the group on the transition plans.  Royal Navy Capt. Nick Hine, CNATT director, said to the Iraqis, “Obviously, you were doing the job long before we got here.  If we are suggesting something that you know will not work, please tell us.  We’re here to help you prepare for the transition.”

Today, Iraqi Navy and coalition forces are working together to protect the platforms from harm.  By Dec. 2009, the Iraqi Navy will take full responsibility for the Khwar Al Amaya Oil Terminal and the security of a proportion of the nation's oil wealth.
This is a vital step towards ensuring Iraq’s self-sufficiency during the critical transition from coalition to Iraqi-led operations in support of the Security Agreement between Iraq and the United States.

The Iraqi Navy is also preparing to take the lead by taking delivery of new fast attack boats, patrol vessels and building a new $45 million pier and seawall at Umm Qasr.

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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING THIS RELEASE, CONTACT THE MULTI-NATIONAL SECURITY TRANSITION COMMAND – IRAQ PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE BY E-MAIL AT This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it OR BY PHONE AT DSN: (318) 852-1332 OR IRAQNA: 0790-194-0270.  FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR ORGANIZATION VISIT:  WWW.MNSTCI.IRAQ.CENTCOM.MIL .

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