From Mohammara to Ahwaz: The Administrative Change Imposed by Iranian Occupation on the Capital

Ahwaz has undergone numerous political and administrative phases that have deeply impacted its identity and status. Among the most prominent of these was the period under Sheikh Khazal Al-Kaabi, who established Mohammara as the capital of the Ahwaz region before Iranian occupation authorities enforced sweeping administrative changes, ultimately designating the city of Ahwaz as the current capital.

During Sheikh Khazal’s rule in the early 20th century, Mohammara was a significant political, economic, and cultural center. He chose Mohammara as the capital of his emirate due to its strategic location on the banks of the Karun River and its proximity to the Arabian Gulf.

Under Sheikh Khazal’s leadership, Mohammara experienced notable development, becoming a hub for international trade, especially in oil and essential goods. The city thrived culturally and socially, with an active literary and scientific movement. Mohammara also hosted Sheikh Khazal’s council, which served as a meeting point for politicians, diplomats, and representatives of Ahwazi tribes.

In 1925, following the overthrow of Sheikh Khazal, Ahwaz was occupied by Iran. Since then, Iranian occupation authorities have systematically dismantled the existing administrative structure and altered the political, social, and cultural landscape of Ahwaz.

One of these changes was the decision by Iranian authorities to relocate the administrative capital from Mohammara to the city of Ahwaz. This shift carried clear political motives, aiming to diminish the symbolic significance of Mohammara as the historic capital of Ahwaz.

This transition was not merely an administrative decision; it was part of a broader policy to erase Ahwazi identity. Iranian authorities renamed cities and villages with Persian names and implemented policies designed to suppress Arab culture and language in the region.

After Ahwaz became the administrative capital, the Iranian occupation imposed numerous measures that contributed to erasing the city’s Arab and Islamic landmarks. Despite these efforts, Ahwaz remains a symbol of national resistance against the policies of Iranian occupation.