Did you know that over 50 countries worldwide have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use? However, Iraq isn’t one of them. As of 2025, cannabis remains strictly illegal in Iraq for all purposes.
Is Cannabis Legal in Iraq? Legal Status in 2025
No, cannabis is not legal in Iraq as of 2025. The country has strict anti-drug laws that ban the use, possession, sale, or growth of cannabis (locally called hashish). Breaking these laws can lead to heavy fines, jail time, or even life sentences in severe cases.
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis use is 100% illegal in Iraq. Even small amounts can lead to arrest. According to a 2023 United Nations report, less than 1% of Iraqis use cannabis, partly due to fear of harsh punishments.
2. Medicinal Use
Medical cannabis is not allowed in Iraq. While countries like Germany and Israel use cannabis to treat pain or epilepsy, Iraq’s government has not approved it. Patients relying on cannabis for health reasons risk prosecution.
3. Industrial Use
Industrial hemp (a cannabis plant with low THC) is also banned. Hemp can make eco-friendly products like paper or clothing, but Iraq’s laws don’t distinguish it from illegal cannabis.
Cannabis Law and Control in Iraq
1. How Iraq Applies Cannabis Laws
Police and courts enforce cannabis laws strictly. For example, in 2022, Iraqi authorities seized over 2.5 tons of cannabis in drug busts. Border controls and random checks help limit smuggling from neighboring countries like Iran.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite bans, illegal cannabis exists. Dealers often sell low-quality cannabis mixed with harmful chemicals. The UN estimates the illegal drug trade in Iraq generates $50 million yearly, funding criminal groups.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Iraq
1. Recreational Drug Use
Most recreational users are young adults. Peer pressure and unemployment (over 15% in 2024) contribute to use. However, strict laws keep usage rates far below global averages.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Cannabis can cause anxiety or addiction if used heavily. Iraq has limited mental health services, with only 1 psychiatrist per 100,000 people. This makes treating cannabis-related issues tough.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Banning hemp means Iraq misses out on eco-friendly opportunities. For example, hemp farming uses 50% less water than cotton, which could help Iraq’s drought-prone agriculture.
Cannabis Cultivation in Iraq
Growing cannabis is illegal in Iraq. The country’s hot, dry climate isn’t ideal for cannabis plants, but some farmers in remote areas secretly grow small amounts. Police raids destroy these crops regularly.
Cannabis Penalties in Iraq
| Offense | Penalty |
| Personal Use | Having even 1 gram of cannabis can lead to 1–3 years in jail and fines up to $10,000. |
| Trafficking | Selling or smuggling cannabis can result in 10 years to life in prison. |
| Growing | Growing cannabis plants can lead to 5–15 years in jail, even if it’s just one plant. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Iraq
As of 2025, Iraq shows no signs of legalizing cannabis. Religious beliefs, social stigma, and strict drug policies make reform unlikely. However, global trends toward medical cannabis could inspire future debates. For now, cannabis remains a high-risk substance in Iraq.
Cannabis will be fully illegal in Iraq in 2025, with severe penalties for users and sellers. While the plant has benefits elsewhere, Iraq’s laws prioritize strict control. Unlike places like Canada or Georgia, Iraq has not legalized cannabis for medical, recreational, or industrial purposes.
