IRAQ – Two workers killed in Basra ammonia leak affecting neighbouring community

Two workers died and 114 people suffered breathing difficulties following an ammonia leak at the Southern Fertilizer Company in Khor al-Zubair, Basra, Iraq, on 13 September 2026, according to reports citing Iraqi health authorities.

The release affected both employees and residents living near the facility, extending the consequences beyond the plant boundary.

Civil Defence rescue teams and hazardous materials specialists responded, rescuing 10 employees and recovering two workers’ bodies. More than 50 ambulances were deployed to treat casualties and transfer patients to hospitals.

By 14 September, 21 people remained hospitalised. Health Ministry figures reported by media indicated that all but one were in a stable condition.

Basra Governor Asaad al-Eidani said some workers risked their lives to shut down pumps. He reported that the plant’s management believed failure to stop them could have resulted in a major explosion affecting surrounding areas.

Authorities reported that the release had been brought under control. The cause remained unconfirmed, with investigations under way.

For high-hazard facilities, the incident highlights the importance of ammonia detection, safe emergency shutdown arrangements, specialist hazardous materials response and coordinated plans to protect neighbouring communities. These are shared learning considerations; the investigation has yet to establish the circumstances or failures.

Photo credit: Bakr Mammar. All rights reserved.