Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed readiness to mediate between Kabul and Islamabad after their recent peace talks in Istanbul collapsed.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called for continued dialogue between Kabul and Islamabad to ease rising tensions along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border. In a phone call with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Araghchi said Tehran is prepared to assist both sides through diplomatic mediation.
According to a statement from Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Araghchi voiced concern over the deteriorating situation and urged “sustained dialogue with the cooperation of regional powers” to resolve disputes peacefully. He emphasized Iran’s willingness to provide any support necessary to help restore stability.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefed Araghchi on the outcome of recent talks held in Istanbul, stressing the importance of maintaining regional peace and preventing further escalation. The discussions, hosted with Turkish and Qatari support, ended without agreement on border security or militant activity.
Iranian media outlets, reported that Tehran views regional diplomacy—particularly cooperation between Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey—as essential to curbing extremism and preserving border stability. Analysts in Tehran have also warned that prolonged tensions could threaten trade and security across the region.
The mediation offer follows comments from Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, who described the Istanbul talks as “a complete deadlock,” adding that even mediators had lost faith in progress. His remarks reflected deep frustration within Islamabad over Kabul’s handling of cross-border militancy.
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed that the Istanbul negotiations had produced “no results,” though he reiterated that Afghanistan would not allow its soil to be used against neighboring states.
Regional observers believe Iran’s initiative could help rebuild communication between Kabul and Islamabad, but success will depend on whether both sides show genuine willingness to compromise amid a climate of mistrust.
