Maysan

Maysan is a governorate in south-eastern Iraq, with its capital at Amarah and a long border with Iran. Formerly called Amara Province, it was a major battlefield during the Iran-Iraq War. Roads and the al-Sheeb crossing continue to give it strategic importance for trade, travel and security.

The border position makes federal control in Maysan a national concern. Armed groups, smuggling routes or cross-border closures there can affect Iraq's relations with both Iran and Arab neighbours. Maysan's border crossings and road network keep the province central to Iraqi trade and regional security. Baghdad must manage local security while keeping an official international crossing available when conditions permit.