War, Drought, and Upstream Dams Hinder Water Access in Iraq

Jul 16, 2018 | Kayla Ritter
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In Iraq, water availability has been both a casualty and a catalyst of conflict. Dams, canals, and other infrastructure were destroyed during years of war against Islamic State rebels, disrupting water supply. Water is still not restored in many areas of Mosul, the site of a brutal battle that took place last year. Other cities in the path of the fighting face similar shortages. Water scarcity is also inflaming economic and social tension in Iraq’s ongoing turmoil. Earlier this month, Iraq banned the planting of summer crops, a decision that angered farmers. In recent weeks, residents staged protests calling for improvements to basic services, including electricity and water supply.