Heavy sandstorm hits Iraq's Najaf

A severe sandstorm struck Iraq, significantly impacting Najaf and surrounding regions. The storm, originating from Saudi Arabia, enveloped central and southern Iraq in a thick orange haze, drastically reducing visibility to less than one kilometer. This extreme weather event led to the temporary closure of airports in Najaf and Basra and caused widespread respiratory issues among the population. 

Health Authorities reported that over 3,700 individuals were hospitalized nationwide, with more than 1,000 cases in Basra province alone. The storm's intensity and frequency have raised concerns about Iraq's vulnerability to climate change. Experts attribute the increasing occurrence of such sandstorms to desertification, rising temperatures, and declining rainfall.