Drought Deepens Woes for Syrian Farmers Post-War

Syrian farmers in the al-Nashabiyah region, recently freed from the grip of autocratic rule, now face a severe drought compounded by water theft. As crops wither and debts climb, farmers find themselves economically strained and increasingly desperate for water, which remains a precious commodity in the agriculture-dependent area.

The devastation is widespread: the amount of land under cultivation has decreased dramatically, with production down 90% compared to last year, according to local officials. The ongoing drought is one of the worst in decades, exacerbating the hardships of a war-torn country facing heavy economic and social challenges.

The broader implications of this crisis are dire, with potential widespread crop failures threatening the nation's food security. While international aid in the form of lifted sanctions might offer a glimmer of hope, immediate relief for the suffering farmers remains elusive as they contemplate selling off land and livestock to survive.

(With inputs from agencies.)