Iraq’s recent talks with Turkiye over shared water resources ended in failure, raising serious concerns about Iraq’s water security. The Green Iraq Observatory criticized Ankara for holding back agreed water releases, warning that Iraq faces a worsening crisis.
The meetings took place last Friday in Ankara. Both countries discussed ways to restart the Iraq–Turkiye Water Cooperation Framework Agreement. However, the observatory called these efforts “ineffective and out of touch with reality.”
Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said officials agreed to pursue both short-term fixes and long-term plans. These included applying the framework agreement and starting Turkish-led water and infrastructure projects inside Iraq. Yet, progress has been slow.
The observatory accused Turkiye of using control over water as political and economic pressure. Ankara is limiting water access while gaining money from crops grown with withheld water.
“Water that once supported Iraq’s food production is now held upstream. Neighboring countries grow crops and livestock, then sell the products back to Iraq,” the statement said. This situation makes the crisis worse and threatens Iraq’s water security.
Both nations confirmed they will continue coordination through the joint water committee. The committee is meant to track projects and support sustainable water use. Still, critics say Turkiye is ignoring past commitments.
The observatory also noted Turkiye’s refusal to sign any binding agreement protecting Iraq’s water rights. Without such commitments, Iraq is very vulnerable during dry periods.
In July, Iraq’s Ministry of Water Resources warned that falling upstream flows and climate change have drained reservoirs. Experts predict that 2025 may become Iraq’s driest year since 1933. These conditions raise concerns for food production, irrigation, and Iraq’s water security.
Without urgent action, Iraq faces growing shortages, crop failures, and rising tension over shared rivers. Experts stress both governments must take real steps, not just make statements.
