Target: Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of Parliament of Iran
Goal: Reinvest in historic qanat tunnels to mitigate drastic water shortages.
The protests and brutal government crackdowns gripping Iran have captured international headlines, but one of the major drivers of the unrest has largely gone unacknowledged. The nation has been grappling with a crippling water bankruptcy, leaving many citizens without access to this vital source. During 2025, the crisis grew so severe that five major dams rested at just 11 percent capacity, and plans were even made to move the country’s capital amidst the shortage.
While factors like prolonged drought and other climate change effects have worsened the shortage, environmental mismanagement has greatly exacerbated the problem as well. Despite the warnings of scientists and experts – many of whom were silenced with arrest or abuse – Iran’s leaders have continued to build dams in areas unsustainable for long-term use. Relentless pumping from wells has also significantly drained water supplies. Meanwhile, an ancient and proven sustainable water collection technique – using hillside tunnels known as qanats – has been ignored, with many tunnels falling into disrepair.
Sign the petition below to call on this nation to restore its replenishing qanat systems and to – in the process – bring needed relief to suffering lands and civilians.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Speaker Bagher Ghalibaf,
Iran is quickly becoming a cautionary tale for the world in “Day One” water shortages. Estimates find that a stunning three-quarters of drought-prone regions will experience this critical stage in mere decades. Let Iran – who once hosted a landmark agreement on water protections – write a next chapter that can inspire the planet.
For centuries, the qanat systems were a pinnacle of Iran’s water management successes. With investment, they can become that pinnacle once again. Please heed the calls of the experts within your country that know this problem best and fund qanat restoration and repair.
The world is watching. Give them, and the people of Iran, a reason to hope.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Zereshk
