Iraq’s water crisis is reaching a dangerous point. Two key parliamentary committees warned that the government’s inaction threatens the nation’s stability. On Wednesday, the Finance and Agriculture, Water, and Marshes committees demanded an immediate declaration of a nationwide water emergency.
According to official reports, water reserves in Iraq have now dropped to around eight percent of their total capacity. Inflows from the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers are only one-quarter of last year’s levels. This sharp decline is mainly due to upstream dams, severe drought, and the country’s aging water infrastructure. As a result, the situation has already devastated agriculture, increased rural migration, and placed immense pressure on the economy.
The committees expressed deep frustration over the government’s silence regarding Turkiye’s ongoing restriction of river flows. They warned that continued neglect could lead to a catastrophic collapse of vital water systems. In their statement, they emphasized that Iraq’s water crisis is not only an environmental issue but also a national security threat that demands urgent attention.
Furthermore, the committees raised concerns about government transparency. They questioned why several ministers, including the finance minister, have been prevented from attending oversight sessions. They believe this lack of accountability comes at a time when the country faces worsening fiscal strain and deepening public frustration.
Experts have repeatedly called for a coordinated national response. They argue that Iraq must modernize its irrigation systems, invest in water recycling, and negotiate fairer water-sharing agreements with neighboring countries. Without these efforts, Iraq’s water crisis will continue to destroy farmland, reduce food production, and force thousands of families to abandon their homes.
Additionally, environmental activists have warned that climate change is intensifying droughts across the region. They believe the government should act immediately to implement sustainable policies before the situation becomes irreversible.
In conclusion, Iraq’s water crisis has now reached a level that threatens the nation’s future stability. Parliament’s call for emergency action reflects the urgency of the problem. Unless the government moves quickly, the land once known as Mesopotamia may soon face an environmental disaster beyond repair.
