Increase in water releases is now a top priority for Iraq as the country faces a worsening water crisis. On Sunday, Iraq’s Minister of Water Resources, Aoun Dhiab Abdullah, announced an official request to Turkiye for more water flow from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. The proposal, delivered during a high-level visit to Ankara, seeks an additional one billion cubic meters over the next two months.
This request includes a specific demand to raise water discharges by 500 cubic meters per second for both rivers during October and November. Iraq aims to use this increase to address the country’s rapidly declining water levels.
During meetings in Turkiye, the Iraqi delegation outlined the urgent challenges affecting the nation’s water sector. The team presented current drought data and future projections, highlighting the severity of the situation. Minister Dhiab stressed that 2025 may become Iraq’s driest year since 1933, which would drastically impact agriculture, daily use, and energy production.
Despite facing its own climate-related pressures, Turkiye showed willingness to assist. Iraqi officials reported that Turkiye acknowledged Iraq’s downstream vulnerability. This recognition could help advance cooperation between the two nations.
The talks also produced a draft agreement for a long-term water cooperation framework. The preliminary deal is expected to be finalized and signed in Baghdad. It outlines joint projects such as dam construction, irrigation systems, and water harvesting initiatives.
These plans involve collaboration with leading Turkish engineering firms. The projects aim to improve water storage and distribution in Iraq. Minister Dhiab emphasized that these efforts form part of a broader strategy for sustainable water management.
Furthermore, the Minister described the visit as part of continued bilateral dialogue. Iraq hopes to build trust and ensure fair water-sharing with upstream neighbors like Turkiye. The goal is to develop a reliable and balanced water strategy that benefits both nations in the long term.
As Iraq continues to face environmental challenges, the proposed increase in water releases could provide critical short-term relief. The Iraqi government believes regional cooperation is the key to weathering future climate stress.
With further talks planned, both sides seem committed to strengthening ties. The proposed increase in water releasesstands as a vital step toward regional water security.
