The existence of water security in various parts of the country, especially in the transboundary basins of the eastern regions, due to their particular political, social, economic, and security conditions, is of special importance. Among the issues that have exposed the water security of eastern Iran, particularly the Sistan plain, to serious danger are the water disputes between Iran and Afghanistan over the international Helmand River. The failure to deliver Iran’s water rights stipulated in the 1973 Helmand River Treaty has caused numerous environmental, economic, and humanitarian problems in the Sistan region. This, along with Afghanistan’s recent plans to construct 21 additional dams on its border rivers, will make conditions even more difficult for the Sistan area.
Water Problems of Iran in the Sistan Plain
The Sistan Plain, highly dependent on the Helmand River, suffers severe environmental and economic damage due to droughts, lack of environmental water, and drying of the Hamoun wetlands.
Food Challenges in Afghanistan
Afghanistan heavily relies on wheat (about 59.5% of caloric intake), but security issues, damaged agricultural infrastructure, and Taliban pressures have reduced food crop production. As a result, the country imports around 40% of its wheat, with India being a major supplier.
Afghanistan’s Challenges in Accessing Open Waters
Afghanistan, being landlocked, relies on access to open waters for trade. While Pakistani ports were used, political and security issues caused disruptions. Iran’s Chabahar Port agreement with India provides Afghanistan with secure access to international waters.
Iran’s Potential at Chabahar Port
Chabahar Port offers Afghanistan access to open waters and global markets, reducing dependence on Pakistan, while providing India strategic trade routes to Afghanistan and Central Asia. Iran can leverage this port to negotiate its water rights from the Helmand River.
This study was conducted at Center for Strategic Studies in 2024.
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