Dust Storms Batter Iraq: A New Environmental Security Challenge

Authors

  • Salam Abdulqadir Abdulrahman College of Law and Politics, University of Human Development (https://ror.org/02jz38b76), Sulaymaniyah 46001, Iraq

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63095/NBSEH.25.145579

Keywords:

Dust storms, Threats, Iraq, Challenges, Cooperation

Abstract

Environmental problems are increasing and are new threats to Iraq. The country, under Saddam Hussein, fought an eight-year-long and devastating war against Iran and, later, in 1990, occupied Kuwait. It also engaged in many internal conflicts. The military security mindset persisted until the fall of the regime in 2003 and continued beyond. The improvement in security since 2018 should help Iraq address the growing unconventional problems that threaten the well-being of its population. Water shortages, desertification, and dust storms are among the environmental challenges the country faces. Dust storms are posing significant threats to Iraq. This paper studies dust storms in Iraq and discusses challenges to their solutions. The phenomenon has both local and regional origins.

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References

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This study examines the intensification of dust storms in Iraq as a growing environmental security concern. The country is exposed to over 100 storms and more than 200 dusty days annually, with projections indicating up to 300 days per year in the near future. These storms, driven by both local and regional sources, present serious health risks and compromise living conditions. The analysis highlights the national anti-desertification programme, still at an early stage, and its limited capacity to deliver effective and durable solutions

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Published

2025-07-21

How to Cite

Abdulrahman, S. A. (2025). Dust Storms Batter Iraq: A New Environmental Security Challenge. Natural Built Social Environment Health, 1(4), 159–171. https://doi.org/10.63095/NBSEH.25.145579