Iran and Taliban Foreign Ministers Hold Phone Call on Regional Tensions
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi held a telephone conversation on Saturday, October 17, with Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting foreign minister of the Taliban administration. During the call, the two sides discussed recent regional developments, particularly the ongoing border tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, as well as bilateral relations between Tehran and Kabul.
Araghchi expressed Iran’s concern over the escalating conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan, stressing that disputes between the two Muslim neighbors should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He warned that continued clashes could lead to increased human casualties and wider regional instability.
Iran’s foreign minister also offered his country’s assistance in de-escalating tensions between Kabul and Islamabad and emphasized the need to strengthen the dialogue process. In response, Amir Khan Muttaqi provided an update on the current situation and stated that the Taliban administration prefers to address disputes through peaceful negotiation.
The phone call also included discussions on the issue of Iran’s water rights to the Helmand River. Both sides highlighted the importance of effective water resource management, adherence to existing agreements, and technical cooperation to prevent water loss. They agreed to implement joint actions to secure Iran’s water rights and ensure reasonable usage during the current season.
In the final part of the conversation, the Iranian Foreign Ministry and the Taliban administration reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, ensuring border security, and preventing foreign interference in regional affairs. They agreed to maintain continued communication and coordination to promote peace and stability going forward.
While Kabul advocates for dialogue, the Taliban administration continues in practice to impose security crackdowns and restrictions on neighboring countries and Afghan citizens, raising questions about the legitimacy of its stance in the eyes of public opinion.
