Tehran — Iran has expressed concern over the recent escalation of tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan and has formally offered to mediate in order to help de-escalate the situation. The announcement comes amid growing regional anxiety following cross-border clashes that resulted in casualties on both sides.
In an official statement, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani (Ismail Baqaei) said that Tehran is deeply concerned about the ongoing tension along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and stressed the importance of respecting each country’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty.
“Iran urges both Pakistan and Afghanistan to engage in immediate dialogue to reduce tensions,” the spokesperson said. “As a neighbor to both countries, Iran is ready to assist in mediating and facilitating peace efforts to prevent further escalation.”
The offer from Tehran follows similar expressions of concern from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, both of which have called on Islamabad and Kabul to exercise restraint and resolve their disputes through diplomacy and peaceful negotiation. The growing involvement of regional powers reflects fears that prolonged hostilities could destabilize an already fragile region and disrupt efforts toward economic cooperation and security coordination.
The latest round of border clashes erupted after Afghan forces reportedly opened unprovoked fire across the frontier late Thursday night. According to Pakistani officials, the Pakistan Army responded decisively, targeting several Afghan military positions and inflicting what they described as “significant losses” on the aggressors. The violence has further strained relations between Islamabad and Kabul, which were already under pressure due to cross-border militancy and mutual accusations of harboring extremist elements.
Iran’s mediation proposal is seen as an attempt to position itself as a stabilizing regional actor amid the broader turmoil in South and Central Asia. Tehran has historically maintained ties with both Pakistan and Afghanistan, balancing diplomatic relations while advocating for dialogue and non-interference in internal affairs.
Regional analysts note that Iran’s offer carries symbolic and strategic significance. While the likelihood of direct trilateral talks remains uncertain, Tehran’s call aligns with broader international appeals for restraint and dialogue. The presence of multiple mediators — including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and now Iran — could provide a framework for multilateral engagement aimed at preventing further violence.
For now, both Pakistan and Afghanistan remain on high alert, with additional forces deployed along the border and diplomatic communication channels reportedly active behind the scenes. Whether Tehran’s offer will be formally accepted or translated into structured talks remains to be seen, but the move underscores a growing recognition among regional powers that unchecked conflict between two neighboring Muslim states poses a risk to wider regional stability.
