The Iraq Green Observatory warns that the environmental crisis in Iraq has reached an unprecedented level, stating that it could have serious long-term consequences for the country’s national security.

More Than Half of Iraq’s Land Under Threat

According to the latest data from the Central Statistical Organization (CSO) and environmental reports, the total area of land threatened by desertification in Iraq has reached approximately 96.5 million dunams, representing 55.5% of the country’s total land area.

Of this, 40.4 million dunams have already turned into desert, marking a 48.5% increase compared to 2021.

Annual Loss of Agricultural Land

Iraq is losing around 100,000 dunams of agricultural land each year due to soil salinization, desert encroachment, and declining soil fertility.

This ongoing deterioration has forced thousands of rural families and farmers to migrate from their villages to urban centers after losing their primary source of income.

Severe Impact on Southern Governorates and the Marshlands

The governorates of Dhi Qar, Maysan, Basra, and Al-Diwaniyah are among the most heavily affected by desertification and drought.

At the same time, Iraq’s marshlands are in a critical condition due to falling water levels, which have caused widespread deaths among fish populations and livestock.

Warning of Increasing Dust Storm Days

The Iraq Green Observatory warns that continued environmental degradation and the absence of effective long-term solutions will lead to a rise in dust storm days.

According to environmental estimates, if the situation continues, Iraq could experience up to nearly 200 dusty days per year.