Occupation

During the British invasion of Iraq in April 2003, three soldiers from the same unit come under cross-fire in a Basra flat; there an explosion has huge consequences for an Iraqi girl, and will radically shape the lives of Danny, Mike and Hibbs over the coming years. Failing to adjust to civilian life in Manchester, each for his own reasons is inspired to return to Basra, one for money, one for love, and one because he passionately believes in the mission to rebuild Iraq.

Hibbs ventures out into the hostile streets of Basra alone and falls into the hands of kidnappers. Danny tries to negotiate for Hibbs' release. Aliyah is working in impossible conditions, with growing fundamentalism in Basra. When her husband is kidnapped and Mike's son Richard faces mortal danger, Mike, Danny and Hibbs' journeys all fuse in a tense and emotional finale. The three friends, once united in battle, are torn apart by the aftermath.