Iraq Secures Major Water Agreement with Turkey, Boosting Euphrates River Flow

Feb. 2, 2025

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Iraq has reported an increase in the Euphrates River's water levels following a landmark agreement with Turkey to release 500 cubic meters of water per second.

This development, announced by the Ministry of Water Resources on Sunday, marks a crucial step in regional water management cooperation.

Ministry spokesperson Khaled Shamal highlighted the significance of established frameworks governing Euphrates River water distribution among Iraq, Turkey, and Syria.

He emphasized a longstanding tripartite agreement ensuring regulated water flow from the Turkish-Syrian border, strengthening regional commitments to sustainable resource management.

Addressing infrastructure concerns, ministry officials confirmed that technical assessments of the Tishreen Dam had been successfully conducted. Coordination with experts from the Tabqa Dam ensured the facility’s operational safety and the effective management of increased water volumes.

Current hydrological data suggests a considerable rise in water flow, now exceeding 400 cubic meters per second.

The Ministry is actively managing the influx through strategic storage at the Haditha and Amoud dams, ensuring equitable water distribution across central provinces.

Water Resources Minister Aoun Diab previously reported promising conditions for the Tigris River, with flow rates from Turkey shifting between 350 and 400 cubic meters per second.

The Euphrates River has experienced even greater improvements, with flow rates surging from 240 to 450 cubic meters per second—an 88% increase.

These advancements underline the effectiveness of diplomatic negotiations in resolving critical water resource challenges, highlighting Iraq’s proactive role in securing sustainable water management solutions amid regional hydrological concerns.