Iran has received 417 million cubic meters of water from Afghanistan since the start of the current water year, according to Iran’s Fars News Agency, a figure that remains below half of the volume Tehran is entitled to under the 1973 Helmand River water-sharing treaty during normal water conditions.

The report said the water has flowed into Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan Province despite Afghanistan experiencing one of its wettest periods in recent years.

Under the treaty, Iran is entitled to 850 million cubic meters of water annually from the Helmand River in years of normal hydrological conditions.

Fars reported that inflows into the Chah Nimeh reservoirs in Sistan and Baluchestan doubled between April 11 and May 30, indicating increased water releases from Afghanistan.

Water-sharing from the Helmand River has long been a sensitive issue between Kabul and Tehran, with Iranian officials frequently raising concerns over water deliveries, particularly during drought periods.

The Islamic Emirate has repeatedly said it remains committed to implementing the 1973 agreement and providing Iran’s allocated share of water. Afghan officials have also emphasized that releases depend on rainfall, drought conditions, and available water resources within the country.

The CASA-1000 electricity transmission project is currently ongoing as one of the region’s most significant energy infrastructure initiatives, designed to transfer surplus electricity from Central Asia to South Asia through Afghanistan, according to the Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS).

In a statement, DABS said the project has a total planned transmission capacity of around 1,300 megawatts and is being implemented in multiple phases inside Afghanistan as part of a broader regional energy cooperation framework.

According to the power utility company, the first phase resumed in December 2024 and spans 197 kilometers from Sher Khan Port to Dasht-e Sala district, involving the installation of 564 transmission towers.

The second phase covers 196.4 kilometers through Baghlan, Panjshir, and Kapisa provinces and includes 587 transmission towers.

The third phase extends across Kapisa, Kabul, Laghman, and Nangarhar provinces before reaching the Torkham border area near the Durand Line. This section measures 188.4 kilometers and includes 562 transmission towers.

DABS described CASA-1000 as a strategic project that will enhance regional energy connectivity and strengthen Afghanistan’s role as a transit corridor for electricity trade.

Once completed, the project is expected to generate around $60 million annually for Afghanistan and contribute to long-term regional economic stability.

Every great World Cup team is built around a midfield capable of dictating play, creating chances and thriving under pressure and as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, a new generation of stars is preparing to share the spotlight with established world-class talents.

From creative playmakers to relentless box-to-box engines, these are 10 midfielders who could shape the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

1. Jude Bellingham (England)

Already among football’s biggest names, Bellingham enters the tournament at the peak of his powers. Combining physical strength, technical quality and a knack for scoring crucial goals, the England star has all the attributes of a complete modern midfielder. If England are to end their long wait for World Cup glory, Bellingham will be central to their ambitions.

2. Pedri (Spain)

Spain’s proud midfield tradition continues with Pedri. Calm under pressure and blessed with exceptional vision, he has the ability to unlock the tightest defences with a single pass. If fully fit, the Barcelona playmaker could become one of the standout performers of the tournament.

3. Federico Valverde (Uruguay)

Valverde’s versatility and tireless work rate make him one of the game’s most complete midfielders. Whether breaking up attacks, driving forward or unleashing powerful long-range efforts, he provides Uruguay with energy and balance. A strong World Cup could elevate him into the global elite.

4. Jamal Musiala (Germany)

Few players are as exciting to watch as Musiala. Equally comfortable operating in midfield or advanced attacking areas, his dribbling and creativity can dismantle defences in an instant. Germany will look to him to inspire their bid for a fifth World Cup title.

5. Declan Rice (England)

While others grab the headlines, Rice does much of the vital work that wins tournaments. His ability to shield the defence, regain possession and launch attacks makes him indispensable. His leadership could be crucial if England go deep into the competition.

6. Aurélien Tchouaméni (France)

France’s conveyor belt of midfield talent continues with Tchouaméni. Powerful, intelligent and technically accomplished, he provides the foundation that allows France’s attacking stars to flourish. The Real Madrid midfielder is expected to play a key role in another French title challenge.

7. Mohammed Kudus (Ghana)

One of Africa’s brightest talents, Kudus combines flair, creativity and fearlessness. Capable of changing a match with a moment of brilliance, the Ghanaian star will be expected to lead the Black Stars’ charge and help them make a significant impact on the world stage.

8. Relebohile Mofokeng (South Africa)

Mofokeng has quickly become one of South African football’s most exciting young talents. The Orlando Pirates playmaker possesses confidence, creativity and a flair for the dramatic. Should Bafana Bafana qualify, he could emerge as one of the tournament’s breakout stars.

9. Bilal El Khannouss (Morocco)

El Khannouss is widely regarded as one of the most promising young midfielders in world football. Blessed with vision and technical quality, he could become the creative heartbeat of a Moroccan side eager to build on its recent success on the global stage.

10. João Neves (Portugal)

Despite his young age, Neves already plays with remarkable maturity. Aggressive in winning the ball back and composed in possession, he perfectly fits the profile of the modern box-to-box midfielder. With Portugal boasting a talented squad, Neves could be the engine behind a serious title challenge.

The battle for midfield supremacy

World Cups are often decided in the centre of the pitch, where matches can be won or lost through control, creativity and composure. With established stars and emerging talents all set to feature, the race to be crowned the tournament’s dominant midfielder promises to be one of the defining storylines of World Cup 2026.