Iranian Newspaper Urges Regional Strategy Against Taliban Rule in Afghanistan
The Tehran-based conservative newspaper ‘Jomhouri Eslami’ has warned that the Taliban’s control over Afghanistan poses a threat not only to the Afghan people but also to regional stability. In its latest edition, the newspaper noted that Pakistani officials have recognized this threat and are taking various actions to protect their country from the consequences of Taliban influence.
The editorial also criticized the Iranian government, stating that despite bitter past experiences with the Taliban, Iranian policymakers have yet to adopt a clear and decisive stance toward the group. Instead, they remain entangled in political maneuvering with the Taliban. According to the newspaper, such an approach harms Iran’s national interests and leaves the Afghan people vulnerable to an oppressive, self-appointed regime.
Jomhouri Eslami emphasized that military confrontation is not the solution and called for an active diplomatic strategy at the regional level. It argued that such a regional framework could help liberate Afghanistan from the “vast prison the Taliban have created.”
The paper recommended that neighboring countries avoid recognizing the Taliban administration and instead support initiatives such as free elections, a return to the constitutional framework, or drafting a new constitution.
It further stressed that until a legitimate and elected government is established in Afghanistan, regional countries should refrain from any official engagement with the Taliban. According to the writer, such pressure could compel the Taliban to respect the will of the Afghan people.
