Iraq's date palms: rescuing a national treasure - in pictures

Efforts are being made to revive the fortunes of a fruit that forms a vital part of the country's economy and culture, hit by decades of conflict and environmental degradation

Once known as the 'country of 30 million palm trees', and home to 600 varieties of dates, Iraq's production of the fruit has been blighted by decades of conflict and environmental challenges, including drought, desertification and salinisation. All photos: AFP

Once known as the 'country of 30 million palm trees', and home to 600 varieties of dates, Iraq's production of the fruit has been blighted by decades of conflict and environmental challenges, including drought, desertification and salinisation. All photos: AFP

Jul 18, 2022

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