The river network of Iraq is dominated by two great rivers, the Tigris and the Euphrates, whose valleys define Mesopotamia. These rivers and their connected waterways supply water for cities, agriculture and wetlands, and they have shaped settlement and culture in the region for millennia. For a concise compilation that serves as a starting point for further reading see the list of rivers of Iraq.

Main rivers

  • Tigris (Dijla) — rises in the Taurus mountains and flows southeast through major Iraqi cities, including Mosul and Baghdad, before meeting the Euphrates.
  • Euphrates (Furat) — originates in eastern Turkey, passes through Syria and enters Iraq where it traverses wide agricultural plains and feeds irrigation systems.
  • Shatt al‑Arab (Arvand Rud) — formed by the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates near al‑Qurnah and empties into the Persian Gulf; it is central to shipping and the economy of southern Iraq.

Several tributaries join the Tigris within Iraqi territory and contribute to its flow and seasonal variability. Notable tributaries include the Great Zab (Upper Zab) and Little Zab, both coming from the north, and the Diyala (Sirwan) to the east. Smaller rivers and seasonal streams, together with a dense system of canals and irrigation channels, link the two main rivers and sustain the widely cultivated alluvial plain between them.

Historical and cultural context

The Tigris–Euphrates system gave its name to Mesopotamia—"land between rivers"—and supported some of the earliest urban civilizations through irrigation agriculture and riverine transport. Archaeological sites, ancient irrigation works and historic cities cluster along these waterways, reflecting long-term human dependence on riverine resources.

Uses, infrastructure and economy

Iraq's rivers are used for drinking water, large‑scale irrigation, industry and limited inland navigation. Modern infrastructure includes dams, barrages and irrigation networks designed to regulate seasonal flows, provide hydroelectric power and store water for dry periods. Major dams and upstream storage on tributaries and international rivers have significant effects on downstream availability.

Environmental issues and transboundary challenges

The river system faces multiple pressures: upstream damming and water withdrawals in neighboring countries, reduced flows, salinization of soils, pollution from urban and industrial sources, and the loss and partial recovery of the Mesopotamian marshes after extensive drainage in the late 20th century. Conservation and rehabilitation efforts for marshes and riparian habitats continue alongside diplomatic dialogue on shared river management.