![Iraqi army is seen in Saladin, Iraq on 7 February 2 2018 [Ali Mukarrem Garip/Anadolu Agency]](https://i0.wp.com/www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/2018_2-7-iraqi-army20180207_2_28555287_30516586.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1)
The Iraqi government yesterday sent hundreds of its troops, backed by armoured vehicles and tank, to the country’s southern province of Basra to restore security and law following an increase in tribal conflicts in the region.
The Basra Operations Command, Lieutenant Colonel Mohammed Khalaf, said that the troops included personnel from the federal police units.
Basra, near Iraq’s southern border with Kuwait, has long been the scene of inter-tribal battles over business disputes, questions of honour or even football matches.
With security forces deployed to the country’s north to battle Daesh, Basra residents caught in the crossfire say they feel abandoned. Residents of the province say security forces are powerless to halt the clashes.