Iranian authorities deadly Response to Water Protests

Iranian authorities appear to have used excessive force against demonstrators in southwestern Iran protesting lack of access to water. There were at least three protesters deaths in the protest because of the longstanding grievances on access to water in the country.

There are longstanding concerns across Iran, and Khuzestan in particular, over mismanagement of water resources and pollution from oil development. For decades environmental experts have warned that development projects in oil-rich Khuzestan, including the construction of hydroelectric dams, irrigation schemes, and water transfers to neighboring provinces are causing environmental harm and leading to water shortages affecting a range of rights.

Human rights agencies have identified local activists whom the authorities arrested. Several videos shared on social media show law enforcement personnel shooting toward fleeing protesters.

Several users and Iranian reporters have reported trouble with internet access in the area. Over the past three years, authorities have frequently restricted access to information during protests.