The protests of Isfahan farmers continue amid ongoing neglect by the Iranian regime regarding their legitimate demands, especially their right to water from the Zayandeh Rud river. On Thursday, March 27, 2025, the hardworking farmers of this region once again gathered in solidarity and defiance, standing up against injustice and governmental inaction.
After months of rightful protests and tireless efforts to reclaim their water, the authorities were finally forced to announce the release of water from the Zayandeh Rud dam to prevent further damage to agricultural crops. However, the credibility of this decision remains contingent upon the determination and persistence of Isfahan’s residents in defending their rights.
Observers point out that the plight of Isfahan’s farmers stems directly from questionable policies carried out by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliated economic institutions—especially the massive consumption of water by companies like Mobarakeh Steel. Official reports deliberately avoid naming these entities and instead blame water shortages on projects transferring water to Yazd and Kashan, or the establishment of heavy industries along the riverbanks.
In Varzaneh region, where more than 90% of the population depends on agriculture, the lack of water has led to widespread unemployment and a worsening economic crisis. Successive governments under the clerical regime have failed to provide any serious alternative livelihood plans for these people, deepening the region’s social and economic distress.
The regime’s repeated promises to revive the Zayandeh Rud have proven hollow. For example, former Minister of Energy Ali Akbar Mehrabian pledged over three years ago that the river would be restored within two years. However, the river remains dry, and experts now warn that even drinking water may face rationing this summer.
These cyclical and empty promises reveal the regime’s lack of political will to address the crisis. As no serious plan has been presented to resolve the water issue or improve people’s living conditions, the farmers’ protests have intensified with the start of the new Persian calendar year 1404 (March 2025–March 2026), demanding fundamental reforms in water resource management.
The resilience of these hardworking farmers and the support of Isfahan’s people demonstrate that when citizens stand firmly behind their just demands, they can spark broader national solidarity and force real change—despite the regime’s persistent indifference.