Iran Urges Action Against Taliban’s Water Diversion from Helmand River
Residents of Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province are pressing the government for action as the Taliban diverts Helmand River water intended for Iran. Despite promises, satellite images reveal continued diversion into Godzareh. Iran insists Afghanistan comply with the 1973 treaty guaranteeing water rights, challenging the Taliban’s justifications of drought and technical issues.
Residents of Sistan and Baluchestan province in Iran are urging President Masoud Pezeshkian and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take effective measures regarding water shortages stemming from Afghanistan’s non-compliance with water agreements. Following years of drought, they seek to safeguard Iran’s rightful share of water from the Helmand River, also known as Hirmand.
Despite Taliban officials’ assurances that water would not be channeled to Godzareh, recent satellite imagery has demonstrated ongoing diversion from the Kamal Khan Dam into the salt flats in that area. This situation has arisen despite claims from the Taliban that drought conditions inhibited water release to Iran, particularly after heavy rainfall that initially raised hopes for improved water flow.
Iran maintains that it is critical for Afghanistan to adhere to the internationally recognized terms of the 1973 Hirmand River water treaty, which obligates them to provide Iran with its due share of water. Furthermore, the Taliban’s repeated excuses citing drought and technical difficulties do not justify their failure to honor legal commitments concerning water distribution.
In summary, residents of Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province are calling for action against the Taliban’s continued diversion of the Helmand River water. Despite promises, satellite evidence shows ongoing water diversion, contradicting claims of drought. Iran insists on compliance with international treaties to ensure equitable water distribution, underscoring the need for the Taliban to fulfill its obligations.
Original Source: ifpnews.com
