Politics

Iranian president: Taliban and Pakistan clashes deeply concerning for region

File photo.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday expressed deep concern over recent border clashes between the Taliban and Pakistan, warning that the violence threatens regional stability.

“The recent conflict between these two brotherly, Muslim and neighboring countries has caused deep regret and concern for all nations in the region, including Iran,” Pezeshkian said during a meeting, according to a statement from the Iranian presidency.

He emphasized the shared cultural and religious ties among Muslim-majority nations in the region, saying that “the nations of this region, especially those with common roots and culture, are bound together by faith, history and tradition.”

Pezeshkian called on both the Taliban and Pakistan to exercise restraint, noting that the region “needs calm, convergence and cooperation more than ever.”

The United Nations and several countries — including Russia, Saudi Arabia and Qatar — have urged both sides to end hostilities.

Taliban said a ceasefire along the border was declared Wednesday afternoon, though details remain limited.

Tensions between the Taliban and Pakistani forces have escalated sharply in recent weeks. Each side has accused the other of violating agreements and engaging in cross-border aggression.