Coastline instability evaluation: multitemporal bathymetric mapping and sediment characteristics

Coastline is a crucial dynamic transitional zone between land and open water that gets stressed by many environmental elements, which calls for monitoring sustainability. A case study from the southern Iraqi coast represents a dynamic environment experiencing instability due to active erosional and depositional processes. This study uses multitemporal bathymetric maps and geotechnic sediment characteristics to evaluate the stability of the Iraqi coastline in the northwestern Arabian/Persian Gulf. Erosion is the dominant threat, with an average shoreline retreat of − 3.48 m/year over the past 53 years. The construction of the Grand Faw Port has mitigated some erosion by blocking tidal currents and waves. This study underscores the necessity for robust coastal management strategies that encourage the development of sustainable coastal development practices, including the construction of groin walls, native reed planting, restoration of sediment pathways, and legislation for ship movement control in commercial shipping areas, to protect Iraq’s coastline.