Unlike many other dams in the Euphrates, the Fallujah Barrage does not include a hydroelectric power station and its main function is to raise the water level of the river for irrigation.

[1] The construction of the Fallujah Barrage was first proposed in 1923 as part of a large project to increase the production of cotton in Iraq.

[4] During the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant occupation of Fallujah in April 2014, insurgents took control of the barrage and closed its floodgates for several days which briefly deprived downstream areas of water.

The gates were later opened likely due to flooding in upstream areas and excessive reservoir levels.

[5] The militants also opened the dam in an attempt to flood oncoming Iraqi forces.