The College of Marine Sciences at the University of Basra witnessed the discussion of the Master's thesis of graduate student Zahour Talib Hussein in the Department of Applied Marine Sciences, entitled "Evaluation of the Physical and Chemical Properties of Marine Waters in the Northwest Arabian Gulf," under the supervision of Professor Dr. Imad Jassim Mohammed. The discussion took place at 9:00 AM on Sunday, August 16, 2026, in the College's Conference and Graduate Studies Hall.

The discussion committee consisted of the following professors:
1. Prof. Dr. Abdul Zahra Abdul Rasoul Al-Hilou / Chairman.

2. Asst. Prof. Dr. Muayad Hassan Al-Bahadli / Member.

3. Dr. Furqan Khalid Kashish / Member.

The study addressed the evaluation of the physical and chemical properties of marine waters in the northwest Arabian Gulf across five stations extending from the Umm Qasr area to open waters. It relied on collecting samples during both high and low tide periods, during which several variables were measured. These included temperature, salinity, electrical conductivity, transparency, turbidity, pH, dissolved oxygen, and total dissolved solids. For the first time, the ODV software was used to map the distribution of the physical and chemical properties of Iraqi territorial waters.

The results revealed variations related to location and natural and human influences. Turbidity and suspended solids increased near shipping lanes and human activities. Measurements of the elements using the ICP MAS (Intelligent Permeate Scale) also showed variations reflecting different sources, emphasizing the need for regular water quality monitoring.

After the committee members discussed the thesis and considered the feedback received during the session, the thesis was accepted and approved.