Helmand Hydropolitical role in ethnic crises in Sistan and Baluchestan

Water is one of the strategic resources of any country and in this century governments often use it as an effective weapon to overcome rivals. Providing sustainable water resources for residents of border areas is one of the main pillars of national security which prevent the evacuation of border lands and migration to inland areas. In eastern Iran, the Helmand River, as an indicator of regional security and prosperity, plays an important role in the convergence of the systemic structure of nation-states, also it serves as a major waterway providing political and economic stability in the region through agricultural and hydro-electric projects. Afghanistan's unilateral exploitation of Helmand is followed by population growth , the need for development and paving the way for political-economic benefits which has posed challenges for Iran. Therefore, this research uses a descriptive-analytical method and research sources to hypothesize the fact that Afghanistan's actions in preventing the entry of Helmand water into Iran is due to the construction of a dam in connection with Western interests in the region, and include the activities of centrifugal forces. It facilitates ethnic demands and increases the influence of cross-border separatist groups in the eastern regions of the country.