# Shatt al-Arab

> river in Southwest Asia, formed by the confluence of the Euphrates and the Tigris in the town of al-Qurnah in the Basra Governorate of southern Iraq

**Wikidata**: [Q166966](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q166966)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shatt_al-Arab)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/shatt-al-arab

## Summary
The Shatt al-Arab is a river in Southwest Asia formed by the confluence of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers in the town of al-Qurnah, located in the Basra Governorate of southern Iraq. It serves as a vital waterway and border region between Iraq and Iran, playing a significant role in regional geography, trade, and geopolitics.

## Key Facts
- **Formation**: Created by the confluence of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers in al-Qurnah, Basra Governorate, Iraq.
- **Location**: Flows through southern Iraq and forms part of the border between Iraq and Iran.
- **Aliases**: Also known as Arvand or Arvand Rud.
- **Coordinates**: Key points include 31.0043°N, 47.4421°E and 29.9369°N, 48.6077°E.
- **Governorates/Provinces**: Flows through the Basra Governorate (Iraq) and Khuzestan Province (Iran).
- **Sitelink Count**: 77 references in Wikidata.
- **Wikipedia Title**: "Shatt al-Arab."
- **Description**: A river in Southwest Asia, formed by the confluence of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers.

## FAQs

**Where is the Shatt al-Arab located?**
The Shatt al-Arab is located in Southwest Asia, formed by the confluence of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers in al-Qurnah, within the Basra Governorate of southern Iraq. It flows through southern Iraq and forms part of the border between Iraq and Iran.

**What are the alternative names for the Shatt al-Arab?**
The Shatt al-Arab is also known as Arvand or Arvand Rud, reflecting its regional and historical significance.

**Which governorates and provinces does the Shatt al-Arab flow through?**
The river flows through the Basra Governorate in Iraq and the Khuzestan Province in Iran, serving as a critical waterway and border region.

**What is the significance of the Shatt al-Arab's coordinates?**
The Shatt al-Arab has key coordinates at 31.0043°N, 47.4421°E and 29.9369°N, 48.6077°E, marking its path through southern Iraq and along the Iran-Iraq border.

## Why It Matters
The Shatt al-Arab is a crucial geographical and geopolitical feature in Southwest Asia. As the confluence of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers, it serves as a vital waterway for trade, transportation, and agriculture in southern Iraq. Its role as a border river between Iraq and Iran adds to its strategic importance, influencing regional politics, water rights, and economic activities. The river's historical and cultural significance, along with its impact on local ecosystems and communities, makes it a key element in the region's identity and development.

## Notable For
- **Confluence of Major Rivers**: Formed by the merging of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers, two of the most historically significant rivers in the Middle East.
- **Border River**: Serves as part of the international border between Iraq and Iran, making it a critical geopolitical feature.
- **Regional Waterway**: Acts as a vital transportation and trade route in southern Iraq, supporting local economies and agriculture.
- **Cultural and Historical Significance**: Known by alternative names such as Arvand and Arvand Rud, reflecting its deep-rooted regional importance.
- **Geographical Landmark**: Flows through key regions such as the Basra Governorate in Iraq and Khuzestan Province in Iran.

## Body

### Formation and Geography
The Shatt al-Arab is formed by the confluence of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers in the town of al-Qurnah, located in the Basra Governorate of southern Iraq. This confluence marks the beginning of the Shatt al-Arab, which then flows southeastward through southern Iraq. The river serves as a natural border between Iraq and Iran, particularly in its lower reaches. Key coordinates along its path include 31.0043°N, 47.4421°E and 29.9369°N, 48.6077°E, highlighting its trajectory through the region.

### Role as a Border River
The Shatt al-Arab plays a significant role as a border river between Iraq and Iran. This geographical feature has historical and political implications, influencing water rights, trade, and regional diplomacy. The river's strategic location has made it a focal point in discussions and conflicts related to territorial sovereignty and resource management.

### Regional Importance
The Shatt al-Arab is a vital waterway for southern Iraq, supporting agriculture, transportation, and local economies. Its waters are essential for irrigation and drinking water supplies in the Basra Governorate and surrounding areas. The river also facilitates trade and commerce, connecting inland regions to the Persian Gulf.

### Cultural and Historical Context
Known by alternative names such as Arvand and Arvand Rud, the Shatt al-Arab holds cultural and historical significance in the region. These names reflect the river's importance in local traditions and historical narratives. The river's role in shaping the landscapes and livelihoods of communities along its banks underscores its enduring legacy.

### Connected Regions
The Shatt al-Arab flows through the Basra Governorate in Iraq and the Khuzestan Province in Iran. These regions are characterized by their diverse landscapes, including marshes, agricultural lands, and urban centers. The river's presence influences the ecological and economic dynamics of these areas, contributing to their unique identities.

### Technical and Administrative Details
The Shatt al-Arab is referenced in various databases and encyclopedias, with a sitelink count of 77 in Wikidata. Its Wikipedia title is "Shatt al-Arab," and it is described as a river in Southwest Asia formed by the confluence of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. These details highlight the river's recognition and documentation in global knowledge systems.

## References

1. [Source](https://github.com/JohnMarkOckerbloom/ftl/blob/master/data/wikimap)
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File