Iran pushes for regional meeting to resolve Kabul–Islamabad tensions

Iran is stepping up diplomatic efforts to ease rising tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, with Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announcing on Sunday that Tehran is working to convene a regional meeting focused on defusing the crisis.

Araghchi said Iran recently launched a series of initiatives aimed at promoting stability between the two neighbors, including several rounds of phone consultations with key regional actors. He expressed hope that these efforts would produce “practical results” and lead to a broader regional summit dedicated to resolving disputes.

According to the Iranian foreign minister, he held discussions last week with his counterparts in Kabul and Islamabad, urging both sides to prioritize dialogue over confrontation. Araghchi also spoke with the foreign ministers of Qatar, Turkey, and Russia to coordinate diplomatic approaches and strengthen support for mediation efforts.

The push comes after earlier talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan—mediated by Qatar and Turkey—failed to generate a breakthrough. Tensions have continued to simmer along the disputed Durand Line, prompting concern among regional governments.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed Tehran’s initiative, with spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi describing Iran as a “brotherly and friendly country.” He said Islamabad supports any constructive role Iran can play and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to resolving issues through peaceful dialogue and diplomacy.

Tehran’s engagement marks the latest attempt by regional stakeholders to prevent further escalation and encourage both Kabul and Islamabad to return to the negotiating table.