UK secures deal with Iraq to tackle Channel small boat crossings

The UK has secured a deal with Iraq to boost border security and deter small boat crossings.

As part of a two-day visit to the UK, Iraqi’s Deputy Foreign Minister and Head of the Higher Returns Committee signed a new agreement with Security Minister Dan Jarvis to ensure quick returns for those with no legal right to be in the UK. This agreement aims to further deter small boat arrivals, while supporting ministers commitment to improve the asylum system.

The number of Iraqi nationals arriving by small boat to the UK has plummeted to 1,900 in the year ending March 2025, down from 2,600 in the previous year. The new arrangement follows Keir Starmer and the Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani committing earlier this year to enhance migration cooperation between both countries.

Along with partnerships signed by the Home Secretary, this committed £800,000 to law enforcement training, border security projects and capacity building to tackle people smuggling, organised immigration crime and drug flows. Mr Jarvis said: "This visit reinforces the strength of the UK-Iraq partnership and demonstrates our government's commitment to serious diplomacy that delivers real results.

“As someone who served in Iraq, I understand first-hand the importance of building enduring relationships in the region, and the new agreement we have signed is a testament to the trust and cooperation we’ve built with our Iraqi counterparts. By working together on security, development and migration challenges, we are building stronger relationships that benefit both our countries whilst tackling shared challenges like organised crime and irregular migration."

The talks also addressed defence cooperation and a growing trade relationship. Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer, said: “The UK-Iraq relationship has entered a new era - going from strength to strength across a number of areas, including driving economic growth and ensuring regional stability. We will continue to use innovative foreign policy approaches to secure Britain’s borders and support development through partnerships.”