Iraq's Water Crisis and Reconstruction

The video discusses the Shatt al-Arab river in Basra, Iraq, highlighting its historical importance and current water crisis. Iraq's reliance on the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, controlled by neighboring countries, has led to severe water shortages. Wars and political instability have further damaged Iraq's water infrastructure. Despite reconstruction efforts, corruption and mismanagement have hindered progress, leaving Basra in crisis.

What was Basra once known as due to its extensive canal system?

• The Paris of the East

• The Athens of Asia

• The Venice of the Middle East

• The Rome of the Desert

What percentage of Iraq's water is controlled by its neighboring countries?

• 90%

• 60%

• 81%

• 50%

Which country has built the most dams affecting Iraq's water supply?

• Iran

• Syria

• Jordan

• Turkey

What was a major consequence of the Gulf War on Iraq's water infrastructure?

• Increased water flow

• Destruction of hydro-electric dams

• Improved water quality

• Expansion of water treatment facilities

What was the primary goal of the reconstruction plan announced after the 2003 invasion?

• To rebuild Iraq's water infrastructure

• To reduce water consumption

• To increase oil production

• To expand agricultural land

By 2006, what fraction of the intended population received safe drinking water from the reconstruction program?

• None

• All

• A third

• Over half

What tactic did ISIS use to exacerbate Iraq's water crisis?

• Building new dams

• Poisoning water supplies

• Diverting rivers

• Increasing water tariffs

What was a significant issue found by the Iraqi Commission of Integrity in Basra?

• Unopened desalination plants

• Overpopulation

• Excessive rainfall

• Lack of oil reserves

What was the main cause of the deadly riots in Basra in 2018?

• Economic prosperity

• Toxic and low river levels

• Political stability

• Increased tourism

What is the first step Iraq needs to take to rebuild according to the video?

• Increase oil production

• Stabilize Basra

• Expand agricultural land

• Build more dams