‘Leave our marshes alone’: Iraqis fear oil drilling would destroy fabled wetlands

Plans to drill for oil in the protected Mesopotamian Marshes of southern Iraq have sparked strong opposition from villagers and activists, who fear for their heritage and environment. Activist Murtada al-Janubi emphasized that the development threatens the historical identity of the marshes, which are experiencing severe drought and ecological decline. While the government claims collaboration with environmental ministries to minimize impact, concerns persist about the actual adherence to regulations, particularly as heavy machinery has already begun work in the area, raising alarms about the marshes’ future.