Iran, Russia urge Pakistan, Afghanistan to de-escalate tensions through dialogue

2026-02-27 - 06:33

TEHRAN – Iran has offered to facilitate dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan to help ease the recent escalation in cross-border tensions. The international media reported that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said it would be appropriate for both countries to resolve their differences through negotiations. He stated that Tehran is prepared to extend all possible support to promote constructive engagement, mutual trust and bilateral cooperation between Islamabad and Kabul. Araghchi emphasised that the holy month of Ramadan is a period of self-restraint and unity within the Muslim world, urging both sides to address their disputes in the spirit of good neighbourliness and dialogue. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also called on Pakistan and Afghanistan to immediately cease attacks against each other and settle their differences through talks. He said Moscow could consider playing a mediatory role if formally requested by the two countries. The diplomatic appeals come amid ongoing hostilities along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Pakistani armed forces have been carrying out retaliatory operations following alleged infiltration attempts by Afghan Taliban elements into Pakistani territory. The security sources claimed that Pakistani forces destroyed 27 check posts, including corps and brigade headquarters, and took control of nine additional posts during the response. More than 130 Afghan Taliban fighters were reportedly killed while white flags were said to have been raised at several positions. Independent verification of the battlefield claims was not immediately available. Operation Swift Retort Anniversary: Pakistan armed forces pledge to protect national security