Relations between Afghanistan and Iran have significantly expanded in recent months, with political engagement reaching higher levels and trade and transit cooperation increasing.
The spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Esmail Baghaei, stated that ties between Kabul and Tehran are based on mutual interests and respect. According to him, the cultural, civilizational, and religious commonalities between the two countries are key factors bringing them closer together.
Baghaei also pointed to shared concerns, saying that insecurity along the common border, drug trafficking, and Iran’s water rights from Afghanistan are issues that require joint action. He emphasized that relations and exchanges between the two countries continue at a strong level and that practical steps should be taken through cooperation to address existing challenges.
Political analysts also describe Afghanistan–Iran relations as having strengthened, noting that cooperation in politics, trade, and transit has increased severalfold.
Some analysts predict that, given the current trajectory of relations, Iran may formally recognize Afghanistan’s current government in the future. Political analyst Idris Mohammadi Zazai said that relations between the two countries have been organized and consistent over the past four years, and that Afghanistan’s economy-centered foreign policy has further strengthened engagement with Iran. He believes that potential recognition would contribute to greater political and economic stability in Afghanistan.
Another political analyst, Shahzada Masoud, stressed that Afghanistan should expand its relations with Central Asia, Iran, and other neighboring countries based on mutual respect, as regional stability is essential for safeguarding national interests.
The government’s official position remains that its foreign policy is economy-oriented and seeks constructive, mutually respectful relations with all countries. It also assures neighboring and other states that no threat will emanate from Afghanistan.
