VOICED : Iraqi firefighters battle to tame IS oil well fires

In the outskirts of Kiara, south of Mosul, sheep have turned black due to smoke from oil fields set ablaze by retreating Islamic State fighters. This has threatened local livelihoods as the market for sheep has collapsed. Efforts to extinguish the fires are ongoing, with only two of nineteen wells put out so far. The fires pose significant health risks to nearby residents and have severe environmental impacts, producing pollutants that affect air quality and health. The UN highlights the dangers of these pollutants, which include skin irritation and respiratory issues.

What has caused the sheep on the outskirts of Kiara to turn black?

• A change in diet

• Smoke from burning oil fields

• A disease outbreak

• A natural phenomenon

Why did the Islamic State fighters set the oil fields on fire?

• To create a diversion for their escape

• To slow down advancing government forces

• To destroy evidence of their presence

• To punish local residents

What challenges do firefighters face in extinguishing the oil fires?

• Lack of water resources

• Presence of mines

• Unfavorable weather conditions

• Shortage of manpower

What health issues are residents facing due to the smoke from the oil fires?

• Hearing loss

• Digestive issues

• Skin irritation and shortness of breath

• Vision problems

What does the UN's environmental program say about the pollutants from crude oil fires?

• They are harmless to humans

• They only affect the local wildlife

• They include soot and gases harmful to health

• They are beneficial for plant growth