Islamic State Is Using Water As A Weapon

Reuters: Islamic State militants use water as weapon in western Iraq

Islamic State militants have closed gates of a dam on the Euphrates River in western Iraq, reducing the water and giving them greater freedom of movement to attack government forces downstream on the southern bank, local officials said.

The militants have redirected the flow of water to their advantage on the battlefield around the city of Ramadi. But the tactic also threatens southern provinces with drought and the water has been reduced to worrying levels, the officials said.

The Euphrates has acted as a barrier between the militants who control its northern bank and pro-government forces who are trying to advance towards Ramadi on the other side.

More News On The Islamic State Using Water As A Weapon In Western Iraq

Isis closes Ramadi dam gates, cutting off water to pro-government towns -- AFP
Water being used as weapon by ISIS in western Iraq -- Jerusalem Post
Islamic State Cuts Off Vital Water Supply to Pro-Iraqi Forces -- VICE News