ISLAMABAD: Iran and Russia have called for continued dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan to resolve cross-border disputes and prevent further escalation of regional tensions.
The appeal came amid heightened security concerns following recent terror incidents in Pakistan, including the Islamabad suicide blast that killed 12 people and the attack on Cadet College Wana in South Waziristan. Both incidents, according to Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, involved suspects from Afghanistan, intensifying bilateral tensions.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a telephonic discussion on Wednesday, exchanging views on recent regional developments.
The Russian foreign ministry said both ministers welcomed the agreement mediated by Qatar and Türkiye, which established a mutual ceasefire along the Afghan-Pakistani border. They called for continued dialogue between the two countries to resolve differences through diplomatic and political means, emphasizing regional stability and security.
Araghchi expressed concern over the recent clashes and highlighted the importance of constructive regional efforts to maintain peace. He also stressed enhanced cooperation among neighboring countries to safeguard security in South Asia.
The call for dialogue coincides with Pakistan’s recent security challenges. The Islamabad suicide blast on November 11 targeted the Judicial Complex in G-11, leaving 12 dead and dozens injured.
On the same day, a bomb attack on a security forces’ convoy in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, wounded at least 14 personnel. The day prior, Cadet College Wana faced an armed infiltration, which was repelled by security forces, though three people lost their lives during the clearance operation.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif described the Islamabad blast as a “wake-up call,” warning that Pakistan was in a “state of war.” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has accused Afghanistan and India of involvement in the attacks, vowing a resolute response to protect national security.
Beyond South Asia, Lavrov and Araghchi discussed international matters, including the United Nations’ draft resolution on Gaza.
Araghchi criticized proposals that would impose international oversight over Palestinian territories, saying such measures violated the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. Lavrov emphasized collective security and expressed Russia’s readiness for continued regional consultations.
The ministers also exchanged views on Iran’s nuclear program and upcoming International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) meetings. They reaffirmed the importance of coordination among Tehran, Moscow, and Beijing in monitoring nuclear compliance. Russia accused France, Germany, and the United Kingdom of pursuing an “anti-Iranian campaign” at the IAEA.
Araghchi and Lavrov concluded by underlining their countries’ commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation in all sectors and to upholding the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which entered into force on October 2. Both emphasized that dialogue and coordination with regional partners are crucial to preserving peace and stability in the region.
The call for renewed talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan comes as tensions remain high along the border and domestic security threats continue to challenge the federal government. Analysts say sustained diplomatic engagement, backed by regional powers, will be essential to prevent further escalation.
