Iran and Taliban exchange gunfire amid rising tensions over water rights, escalating regional instability

The Taliban and Iran exchanged heavy gunfire on the border between Iran and Afghanistan, resulting in casualties on both sides.
The clash comes amid disputes over water rights to the Helmand River as drought intensifies in the region.
Iran has warned the Taliban not to violate its water rights but also called for dialogue to resolve issues.
The Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021 and has imposed severe restrictions on women and girls.
Instability and conflict in the region threatens to escalate.