Why it matters:
Water disputes between Iran and Afghanistan over the Helmand River have long fueled diplomatic tensions. In the past year, only 27 million cubic meters of Hirmand River water reached Iran, significantly less than the expected 820 million cubic meters.
The big picture:
Drought, infrastructure limitations, and political shifts have strained the Helmand River's flow across borders. Iran's unmet water rights underscore water scarcity concerns and potential disputes with Afghanistan, given the Helmand's vital importance to Iran, particularly Sistan and Baluchistan province.
What he's saying:
“Our policy is to organize and manage Iran’s water rights from the Helmand,” Muttaqi said, acknowledging the shared impact of drought across Afghanistan’s Nimroz, Farah, and Helmand provinces.
He emphasized that if there is water available, Iran will receive its share.
“The people of Iran should have no doubt, we have no ill intent regarding Iran’s water rights.”
He added that Afghanistan sees water delivery as a moral responsibility, regardless of the agreements.
“Even without an agreement, we consider it our duty to ensure water reaches Sistan and Baluchestan.”
Key points:
- Water has been flowing into Iran for the past month during the wet season.
- Afghan officials claim they aim to prevent waste and regulate water flow efficiently.
- Afghanistan's leadership sees water sharing as a responsibility, not just a legal obligation.
Go deeper:
Iran and Afghanistan signed a 1973 treaty granting Iran 820 million cubic meters of Helmand water annually. Disputes over dam construction and water levels have raised diplomatic tensions in recent years. Kabul’s public assurances may be aimed at easing pressure amid rising domestic and international scrutiny over resource management.
Hossein Vaez
