Key Rivers in Iraq
This article highlights several of the most significant rivers found in Iraq along with relevant information about each one:
Euphrates River
The Euphrates River is one of the two most important rivers in Western Asia and the Middle East, extending approximately 2,800 kilometers. Its source is at the confluence of the Karasu and Murat rivers in Turkey. The river flows through the Taurus Mountains in Syria before entering Iraq. The wetlands along the river are home to various plant species, including oak, plum, and pistachio trees. In contrast, the arid regions are characterized by the growth of wheat, oats, and rye.
Tigris River
The Tigris River is located in Iraq and ranks as the second longest river within the country, measuring about 1,850 kilometers in length. Originating from the mountains in eastern Turkey, the Tigris flows through Syria before reaching Iraq, where it merges with the Euphrates to form the Shatt al-Arab. It is noteworthy that Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, lies along the banks of the Tigris River.
Diyala River
The Diyala River is another significant river in Iraq, stretching over 443 kilometers. It serves as a vital tributary to the Tigris River, rising in the Zagros Mountains of western Iran and flowing westward through low-lying areas before joining the Tigris south of Baghdad.
Zab Rivers
Both the Great Zab and the Little Zab rivers are found in Iraq. The Great Zab originates from the Ararat Mountains in Turkey, flowing through north-central Iraq before converging with the Tigris south of Mosul. Approximately 65% of the river lies within Iraq, with the remainder situated in Turkey. Conversely, the Little Zab starts in the northeastern Zagros Mountains of Iran, traversing through Iran before entering Iraq, with around 80% of the river located in Iraq and the balance in Iran.
Shatt al-Arab
The Shatt al-Arab River is primarily located in Iraq, particularly in the northwestern and southeastern regions of the country. It is formed by the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which flow through central and eastern Iraq. The river has a length of 658 kilometers and extends toward the Persian Gulf. Temperature variations in this area range from 9.3°C to 40.4°C, and the average water discharge of the Shatt al-Arab is approximately 14,000 cubic meters per second.
Khasa River
Known as the Khasa River, this watercourse is located in Iraq, specifically in the Kirkuk region. It is classified as a seasonal river, meaning it does not have a constant flow of water throughout the year. Water typically flows in the spring and winter seasons and dries up during the summer. Unfortunately, the Khasa River poses an environmental hazard and a clear threat to local wildlife habitats because of significant pollution, serving as an illegal dumping ground and parking area.