Baghdad: Baghdad-based newspapers issued today, Monday, August 4, 2025, focused prominently on the 11th anniversary of the Yazidi genocide in Sinjar, while also addressing the deepening water crisis and the government’s response to it on both national and regional levels.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, “Al-Zawraa” newspaper, published by the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, led with extensive coverage of the Yazidi tragedy, highlighting the statements of the three presidencies commemorating the Sinjar massacre and reaffirming the call for justice and accountability. President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid was quoted in a post on the platform (X) emphasizing the necessity to address the tragedy’s aftermath, ensure the return of displaced individuals, and uncover the fate of the missing. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani reiterated the government’s commitment to the Yazidi cause, announcing legislative proposals aimed at safeguarding their rights and rebuilding religious landmarks. Parliament Speaker Mah
moud Al-Mashhadani stressed the importance of remembering the Sinjar tragedy, committing to the implementation of the Yazidi Survivors Law and reconstruction efforts.

Al-Sabah newspaper, published by the Iraqi Media Network, focused on the severe water crisis facing Iraq and its economic and environmental impact. The newspaper reported on Iraq’s diplomatic and technical efforts to address water scarcity, highlighting negotiations with Turkey. Minister of Water Resources, Engineer Aoun Diab Abdullah, described 2025 as a challenging year due to declining water imports, especially from Turkey. He noted the potential positive impact of upcoming rainfall, but emphasized the cessation of crop cultivation due to the scarcity. The minister also detailed the reduced water storage in major dams and the impact of Turkey’s dam operations on Iraq’s water supply.

According to Al-Zaman newspaper, water crisis experts have expressed serious concerns over Iraq’s southern marshes, emphasizing the need for the government to p
rotect these areas as part of its international commitments. The experts urged Iraq to request international support for marshland water quotas and highlighted the threats posed by upstream dam construction and local policies. They warned of the potential transformation of the marshes into barren lands, impacting biodiversity and accelerating desertification.