Recent tensions between Iran and Afghanistan have escalated due to the Taliban’s dam constructions and alleged violations of water agreements. Iran condemns these actions, whereas Afghanistan seeks to better manage water resources to address its economic struggles. This conflict highlights the need for clear agreements on shared water usage in the region.

Amid mounting conflicts between Pakistan and Afghanistan, tensions between Iran and Afghanistan have escalated, primarily due to dam construction activities undertaken by the Taliban government. Iran has accused the Taliban of violating existing agreements and improperly utilizing shared water resources from rivers flowing into Iranian territory. Conversely, the Afghan authorities have dismissed these accusations, contributing to a protracted dispute concerning water resource allocation—an issue dating back many years between the two nations.

The Taliban has announced plans to fill the Pashdan Dam in Herat and construct two additional dams on the Farah River. The Pashdan Dam, situated on the Karokh River, has recently commenced its water-filling process. Meanwhile, the construction of the Bakhshabad Dam in Farah is advancing swiftly, with preparations for the Kaj Samad Dam expected to begin shortly. These initiatives aim to channel water through canals to enhance agricultural irrigation, thereby addressing Afghanistan’s ongoing water scarcity exacerbated by years of conflict, including terrorism.

In response to these developments, Iran’s Foreign Ministry has condemned the construction of these dams, asserting that they contravene bilateral agreements and infringe upon Iran’s water rights. Ismail Baghaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, has urged the Afghan government to eliminate barriers preventing water flow into Iran as dictated by treaties between the two countries. He emphasized that water usage must comply with bilateral agreements, international customary laws, and the principles of good neighborliness.

Despite Iran’s insistence on its entitlements under existing agreements, some analysts have noted the absence of a formal treaty addressing water rights concerning the Harirod and Farah rivers. Mohammad Rafiq Shaheer, head of the Herat Expert Council, highlighted the critical need for water resources in Afghanistan, which has endured economically devastating wars. He articulated that with prospects of peace gradually emerging, the utilization of water resources stands as an inherent right for Afghanistan, vital to combat unemployment and ensure food security.

The tensions between Iran and Afghanistan are deeply rooted in the management and distribution of shared water resources, particularly concerning key rivers such as the Harirod and Farah rivers. These rivers have been a continual source of contention, particularly as Afghanistan seeks to improve its agricultural output and combat severe water scarcity due to historical conflicts. The Taliban government’s recent announcements regarding dam constructions complicate the dynamics further, drawing Iran’s criticism and raising questions about compliance with international agreements. Iran perceives these actions as a breach of established accords from prior diplomatic engagements with Afghanistan, highlighting the fragile nature of regional water politics.

In summary, the ongoing dispute between Iran and Afghanistan over water resource management, particularly in relation to dam constructions by the Taliban, illustrates the complexities of bilateral relations in the context of shared natural resources. While Afghanistan seeks to address its critical water scarcity needs through infrastructure development, Iran emphasizes the importance of adhering to existing agreements and international customs. This situation underscores the significance of cooperative dialogue and the need for formal treaties to resolve such disputes amicably and sustainably.

Original Source: www.india.com

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