Iran’s New Supreme Leader Calls for Improved Afghanistan-Pakistan Relations

Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, the new leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, emphasized strengthening ties with neighboring countries, especially Afghanistan and Pakistan, in a written message marking the beginning of the year 1405 in the Iranian calendar. He called for improved relations between these two countries.

In part of his message, he described Iran’s neighbor-focused policy as “serious and genuine,” stating that beyond geographical proximity, shared religious beliefs, holy sites, ethnic and linguistic ties, and common strategic interests provide a strong foundation for deepening relationships between Iran and its neighbors. He stressed that Iran regards its eastern neighbors as close.

Specifically mentioning Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Iranian leader referred to them as “brother countries” and urged them to take practical steps to preserve Muslim unity and enhance bilateral relations. He also declared Iran’s readiness to take necessary actions in this regard.

In another section of the message, Ayatollah Hosseini Khamenei denied recent attacks in Turkey and Oman, stating that these incidents have no connection to the Iranian armed forces or groups known as the “Resistance Front.” He described the attacks as efforts aimed at creating divisions between Iran and regional countries.

He concluded by expressing hope for the new year and wished “victory and prosperity” for the Iranian people, neighbors, and Islamic countries.

Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei was selected by Iran’s Assembly of Experts as the country’s third supreme leader following the assassination of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in a U.S. and Israeli military attack on 9th Esfand.