This study investigates the effect of thermal maturation and organic matter content on oil shale fracturing in the Pabdeh Formation, a source rock in the Dezful Embayment, Iran. The research uses Rock-Eval, Iatroscan, and electron microscopy to analyze the transformation of kerogen into hydrocarbons and the resulting fracturing processes. The study reveals that as kerogen matures, it generates hydrocarbons that increase pore fluid pressure, leading to the formation of microfractures. The development of these fractures is influenced by factors such as organic matter content, thermal maturity, and the mechanical properties of the rock. Microfractures initially form at the edges of kerogen and are filled with hydrocarbons, but as maturation progresses, the pressure from hydrocarbon release reduces, while the transformation of kerogen into bitumen/oil increases pressure, promoting further fracturing. The small pore throats in the Pabdeh Formation hinder effective expulsion of hydrocarbons, increasing pore fluid pressure and contributing to the development of damage zones. The study also shows that microfractures grow preferentially in low-strength pathways such as lithology changes and pre-existing fractures. The results highlight the complex interplay between temperature, hydrocarbon generation, and fracturing processes in the Pabdeh Formation, providing insights for optimizing hydrocarbon extraction in similar geological settings. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding the effects of thermal maturation and organic matter content on fracturing in oil shale reservoirs.This study investigates the effect of thermal maturation and organic matter content on oil shale fracturing in the Pabdeh Formation, a source rock in the Dezful Embayment, Iran. The research uses Rock-Eval, Iatroscan, and electron microscopy to analyze the transformation of kerogen into hydrocarbons and the resulting fracturing processes. The study reveals that as kerogen matures, it generates hydrocarbons that increase pore fluid pressure, leading to the formation of microfractures. The development of these fractures is influenced by factors such as organic matter content, thermal maturity, and the mechanical properties of the rock. Microfractures initially form at the edges of kerogen and are filled with hydrocarbons, but as maturation progresses, the pressure from hydrocarbon release reduces, while the transformation of kerogen into bitumen/oil increases pressure, promoting further fracturing. The small pore throats in the Pabdeh Formation hinder effective expulsion of hydrocarbons, increasing pore fluid pressure and contributing to the development of damage zones. The study also shows that microfractures grow preferentially in low-strength pathways such as lithology changes and pre-existing fractures. The results highlight the complex interplay between temperature, hydrocarbon generation, and fracturing processes in the Pabdeh Formation, providing insights for optimizing hydrocarbon extraction in similar geological settings. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding the effects of thermal maturation and organic matter content on fracturing in oil shale reservoirs.