According to forecasts, an increase in precipitation over the next two seasons could contribute to the restoration of the Hur al-Azim wetland, stated Ahmad-Reza Lahidjanzadeh, Deputy Head of the Department of Environment (DOE).
Located in the southwestern province of Khuzestan, on the border of Iran and Iraq, this wetland is part of the Mesopotamian Marshes and is known as one of the region's valuable ecosystems. It serves as an important wintering and breeding ground for migratory birds.
Furthermore, according to Lahidjanzadeh's quote, it plays a critical role in dust management, environmental stabilization, and creating a protective barrier against extreme weather events in the region.
The main source of sustenance for this wetland is the Karheh River in Iran and the Tigris River in Iraq. In the previous water year (from September 23, 2024, to September 23, 2025), the wetland faced severe water shortages due to a sharp decrease in inflow into the Iraqi section, which led to drying up and self-combustion, releasing large amounts of polluted air and smoke that negatively affected the cities of Khuzestan province, the official pointed out.
In the current water year (from September 23, 2025, to September 23, 2026), increased rainfall at the end of winter and early spring allowed the wetland to partially refill, whose level had significantly dropped due to summer drought, added Lahidjanzadeh.
The official also noted that a constant water supply, securing water rights for the wetland, and cross-border cooperation are key factors for preserving the ecological function of the wetland and preventing its transformation into a dust source and fuel for forest fires.
With the development of the El Niño phase over the Pacific Ocean, significant rainfall is predicted during the autumn and winter periods.
