Understanding the complexity of hydropolitical arrangements in the Hirmand transboundary river basin

Recognizing a problem is a crucial step when it comes to tackling any issue in policymaking. In the context of environmental and water-related concerns, Iran faces a persistent challenge regarding the management of the Hirmand/Helmand transboundary river basin shared with Afghanistan. This paper focuses on examining the water-related problems that arise from the utilization of shared resources between Iran and Afghanistan, with a particular emphasis on the Sistan region. The objective is to analyze the various factors contributing to the vulnerable state of Sistan. A "Matrix of Sistan's Water Issues" is presented, utilizing a descriptive-explanatory approach and drawing on a wide range of library sources. This matrix a range of concerns on water problems at the local, provincial, national, and international levels that interact with each other in three areas of environment and climate, agriculture, and household in a complex manner. When examining the international aspect of the water issues in Sistan, this article highlights the internal conditions of Afghanistan and its water management practices, as well as the construction of otherized social identity aimed at nation-state building. Additionally, the involvement of third-party states, motivated by their own interests, has emerged as a significant factor influencing the current state of affairs in Sistan. Given the crucial importance of water for Afghan society and its leaders, it is not surprising that third-party states aiming to exert influence over Afghanistan are aware of this reality. Consequently, third-party states are pursuing infrastructure projects within the Hirmand river basin to benefit themselves, even if it comes at the expense of social changes in Iran's Sistan region.