The role of climate change in political relations between Afghanistan and Iran

The political relations between Afghanistan and Iran, both historically and presently, have been influenced by various factors, including the depletion of water resources. The flow of water from Afghanistan to Iran, particularly from the Helmand and Harirud rivers, has consistently played a crucial role in shaping bilateral relations. Water scarcity, driven by multiple factors such as climate change, has further intensified these dynamics. The research question examines the extent to which climate change-induced water the political interactions between Afghanistan and Iran. Research findings indicate that climate change and the reduction of water resources have influenced Afghanistan-Iran foreign relations in several key areas: increased diplomatic tensions between Kabul and Tehran at the political level, border disputes and military conflicts, environmental crises, expanded migration from Afghanistan, the adoption of strict policies against migrants, and ultimately, cooperation and convergence to address issues arising from water scarcity and climate change. The required raw data for this study has been collected using field research methods and analyzed through a descriptive/explanatory approach. Simultaneously, the research has utilized a hybrid theoretical framework incorporating the Copenhagen School, Modernist security approaches, and eco-radical perspectives.