Kabul: Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly with the Taliban in power, have escalated after recent peace talks mediated by Qatar and Turkey in Istanbul failed. With the risk of renewed violence looming, Iran has now stepped forward with a proposal to mediate the dispute. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi offered to assist both Islamabad and Kabul in resolving their ongoing conflicts through dialogue.
According to IRNA, Araghchi proposed the mediation during a conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Saturday night. Highlighting the historical friendship and close ties between Iran and Pakistan, he described the two countries as “friendly Muslim nations with shared interests.” Araghchi expressed concern over the rising tensions between Pakistan and the Afghanistan Taliban and urged both sides to settle their differences through negotiations. He emphasized that peace between the two neighbors is crucial not only for them but for regional stability as a whole.
During the discussion, Dar briefed his Iranian counterpart on recent developments, including the Istanbul peace talks and other diplomatic efforts that had failed to produce a consensus. However, he reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to continuing dialogue with Afghanistan.
Background of the Pakistan-Afghanistan Dispute
The border conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan has intensified in recent months. Last month, Pakistan conducted airstrikes targeting Kabul, increasing tensions along the border. In retaliation, attacks by the Afghanistan Taliban reportedly resulted in the deaths of several dozen Pakistani soldiers, as well as Afghan civilians.
A temporary ceasefire was negotiated with Turkey’s mediation, but it quickly collapsed, leading to further skirmishes. Subsequent peace talks in Istanbul also ended unsuccessfully, with both countries exchanging threats. Pakistan has consistently accused Afghanistan of providing refuge to its adversaries on Afghan soil, a claim that Afghanistan has repeatedly denied.
Iran’s latest intervention marks a new attempt at peace in a volatile region, with hopes that dialogue can prevent further escalation along the tense border.
