Thousands of people across the Middle East have been hospitalized with respiratory problems, after a massive sandstorm settled over the region this week. Kuwait suspended airline flights, Iran canceled classes for schoolchildren, and Saudi officials warned drivers over zero-visibility conditions on roads. On Monday, Iraq’s government canceled most public services as the country’s ninth major sandstorm in less than two months arrived. The United Nations Environment Program says Iraq is one of the most vulnerable nations to climate change and desertification.