Iraqi security forces clashed with protesters in the Al-Majriya area, south of Babil province, on Thursday after demonstrators gathered to protest severe water shortages and drying rivers. Riot police used force and smoke bombs to break up the rally, leaving at least four injured and ten arrested, according to eyewitnesses.

Local residents took to the streets to demand action over the worsening water crisis, which has left farmlands parched and drinking water scarce. Protesters accused authorities of neglecting their needs despite Babil’s location within the water-rich Euphrates region.

“The rivers have completely dried up, and we no longer have clean water to drink,” said one demonstrator. “Our crops are dying, and our livestock are suffering. We are entitled to a water share, but the government ignores us.”

Security forces claimed the protest was dispersed because it lacked official permits. However, protesters argued that their demonstration was a constitutional right and condemned the violent response.

Iraq has faced worsening water scarcity due to climate change, reduced rainfall, and upstream dam projects by neighboring countries. Babil, an agricultural hub, has been particularly affected, with frequent protests erupting over resource mismanagement.