Environment Ministry denies reports of severe Tigris River pollution

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Ministry of Environment denied reports circulating in media and on social platforms about severe pollution in the Tigris River on Tuesday, saying laboratory tests found no evidence to support the claims.

Director General Sinan Jaafar said technical and monitoring teams in Baghdad and Diyala are carrying out environmental monitoring programs around the clock, and that “the results of the analyses did not show any indicators of pollution at the levels being promoted.” He warned against the spread of inaccurate information that could “provoke public opinion and disrupt the environmental situation,” stressing that official channels remain the trusted source for verified information.

The denial follows claims by an environmental expert warning of pollution in the Tigris from oil slicks and untreated sewage discharge, with reports linking the issue to water supply restrictions in parts of southeastern Baghdad. The ministry said it will continue environmental monitoring and take legal measures against violators to protect water resources and public health.