Latest news Iran pushes ahead with cloud seeding against drought
In view of the drought and water shortage in Iran, the government is pressing ahead with cloud seeding. Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi said in parliament that 37 flights and 61 drone missions had already been carried out for this purpose.
09.12.2025, 09:30
SDA
The process involves releasing silver iodide, a yellowish salt, into clouds in combination with acetone to promote the formation of raindrops. However, its effectiveness is scientifically controversial.
People flee from particularly dry regions
Iran is one of the driest countries in the world. In recent years, experts have noticed a significant decrease in rainfall, while at the same time periods of drought and other extreme weather events are on the increase. In the capital and metropolis of Tehran, which is particularly threatened by water shortages, it rained for the first time in weeks on Monday.
Experts have been warning for years that agriculture in Iran is suffering from false incentives: instead of adapting to the water-scarce conditions, particularly thirsty crops have been subsidized. Traditional farming methods have been displaced - with fatal long-term consequences for the soil and reserves. Thousands of families have left rural regions.
