"Record Salinity Crisis in Iraq Devastates Farmers and Livestock in Basra"

A record salinity crisis in Iraqs Basra Governorate is devastating farmers like Umm Ali, as brackish water from the Tigris–Euphrates river system turns lethal for livestock and human consumption.

Umm Ali, a 40-year-old farmer in Basra, reports losing dozens of ducks and 15 chickens due to the rising salinity levels in local water sources.
The salinity crisis has rendered water from the Shatt al-Arab river unsafe, disrupting daily life and agriculture in the already drought-stricken Basra Governorate.
Farmers in southern Iraq, particularly in Basra, are facing unprecedented challenges as climate change exacerbates the salinity of fresh water necessary for their livelihoods.

Why It Matters

This crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable water management in Iraq, as the escalating salinity threatens food security and the livelihoods of farmers amid changing climate conditions.