Why it matters:
Afghanistan faces one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with over 22.9 million people in urgent need of assistance.
The country is also struggling with economic instability, terrorist threats, and increasing restrictions on women's and girls' rights.
Iran, as a neighbor and key regional player, calls for coordinated global efforts to address these challenges and prevent further suffering.
The big picture:
Since the Taliban’s takeover, Afghanistan has been in turmoil.
Humanitarian aid is underfunded, the economy is paralyzed by frozen assets, and security threats from ISIS and other terror groups continue to grow.
Iran, which has hosted Afghan refugees for decades, argues that neighboring countries should not bear the burden alone and urges the international community to take concrete action.
What he’s saying:
Ambassador Iravani laid out Iran’s position on key issues:
Humanitarian Aid: Assistance must remain impartial and unconditional. Donors must fulfill commitments, and the Taliban must stop obstructing aid operations.
Economic Recovery: Afghanistan’s frozen assets should be released to stabilize the economy, and sanctions should not hinder reconstruction.
Security Threats: With over two dozen terrorist organizations operating in Afghanistan, Iran calls for decisive counterterrorism measures to prevent the country from becoming a haven for extremism.
Women’s Rights: Restrictions on education and employment for Afghan women have no basis in Islam or Afghan culture. The Taliban must reverse these policies.
Afghan Refugees: Iran continues to provide shelter but insists that illegal migration poses security risks. The global community must share the responsibility.
Diplomatic Engagement: Iran is actively working with the Taliban through regional and bilateral efforts, including recent high-level talks in Kabul on trade, security, and development.
Key points:
- Over 22.9 million Afghans need urgent humanitarian aid, but funding remains critically low.
- Iran and Pakistan, as frontline states hosting Afghan refugees, demand greater international support.
- The UN mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) plays a crucial role and must receive continued support.
Go deeper:
While regional powers like Iran continue diplomatic engagements with the Taliban, the lack of an inclusive Afghan government remains a major barrier to stability. With the UNAMA mandate up for renewal, the Security Council faces pressure to take stronger action to address Afghanistan’s mounting crises.
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Hossein Vaez
