Pakistan-Afghan Taliban Tensions: Iran Proposes Mediation

Iran has offered to mediate between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban to ease tensions and promote dialogue between the two neighbouring countries.Diplomatic sources said Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araqchi spoke by telephone with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and expressed concern over the current situation between Pakistan and Afghanistan. During the conversation, Araqchi urged both sides to continue talks, stressing that differences between Pakistan and Afghanistan should be resolved through dialogue and that tensions must be reduced. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefed his Iranian counterpart on Pakistan’s recent negotiations with Afghanistan and the prevailing circumstances. According to diplomatic sources, Araqchi underlined the importance of the long-standing and friendly relations between Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. The two leaders also discussed bilateral relations, as well as regional and international developments. The Iranian foreign minister stated that Tehran was keen to strengthen ties with Pakistan across various sectors and reiterated that Iran was ready to extend all possible assistance to help establish peace and reconciliation between the two countries. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized that maintaining regional peace and stability was of utmost importance. Both sides agreed to continue close contact and consultation on the matter, the sources added.