Iran offers mediation as Pakistan-Afghanistan peace talks collapse

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News websites
Today 13:43

Iran has offered to mediate between Pakistan and Afghanistan following the collapse of peace talks in Istanbul.

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Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, right, talks to his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar as they attend the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation meeting, in Istanbul, Turkey, on June 21, 2025. (AP)

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has offered Tehran’s assistance to help ease tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. In a Sunday phone call with his Pakistani counterpart, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Araghchi expressed concern over the border clashes, emphasizing the importance of continued dialogue supported by influential regional countries.

He confirmed Iran’s readiness to provide “any kind of assistance” to facilitate negotiations and reduce tensions. Araghchi also underscored the longstanding friendly relations between Tehran and Islamabad, reaffirming Iran’s determination to expand cooperation in multiple sectors.

Dar briefed Araghchi on the latest developments in Pakistan-Afghanistan talks, stressing the need to preserve regional peace and stability.

Talks collapse in Istanbul

The latest round of negotiations in Istanbul between Pakistan and Afghanistan ended in failure. Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif announced that “as we speak, the talks are over,” adding that the ceasefire would hold for the time being, but Pakistan will respond “befittingly” if attacks originate from Afghan soil.

From the Afghan side, Taliban government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid accused Pakistan’s delegation of an “irresponsible and uncooperative attitude,” stating that Islamabad sought to shift all security responsibilities onto Kabul without acknowledging Pakistan’s obligations.

The collapse of the talks comes despite an earlier ceasefire agreement reached in Doha on October 19, 2025.

The Pakistani and Afghan militaries clashed last month, killing dozens, marking the worst violence since the Taliban took over Kabul in 2021.

The two countries signed a ceasefire agreement in Doha during the first round of peace talks mediated by Qatar and Turkiye. The second round in Istanbul failed to produce a long-term deal. The third round, initiated last Thursday, broke down the following day. Asif confirmed that the Pakistani delegation has “no plan for any future meetings.”

Fragile Ceasefire

On November 6, Pakistani and Afghan forces reportedly exchanged fire along the border, highlighting the fragility of the ceasefire and the ongoing diplomatic stalemate. Despite the breakdown, both sides assert that the ceasefire signed in Doha remains in effect.

Mediation by Qatar and Turkey has been central to the process but has thus far failed to bridge differences. A high-level Turkish delegation, including foreign and defense officials, is expected to visit Pakistan to revive dialogue and push toward a lasting agreement. Iran’s proactive offer to mediate adds another dimension, potentially providing a new channel to prevent escalation between its two neighbors.