RASC News Agency: Esmail Baghaei, the spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated on Monday that the issue of “terrorism and the displacement of Afghanistani citizens” is inextricably linked to the broader instability in Afghanistan. In his first press conference, Baghaei highlighted that Iran remains committed to securing its rightful share of water from the Helmand River, a matter being actively pursued with the Taliban. He explained, “We have consistently worked to secure Iran’s water rights from Afghanistan, and this is being followed up by the president’s special envoy for Afghanistan affairs.”
He acknowledged that while some progress has been made with an increase in water flow from Afghanistan to Iran this year, full adherence to the Helmand River Treaty remains elusive. Additionally, Baghaei affirmed that Iran’s foreign policy towards Afghanistan remains unchanged, despite personnel shifts. He said, “The Islamic Republic of Iran’s stance on Afghanistan is clear. Our foreign policy naturally does not shift with changes in leadership.” Since the inauguration of Iran’s new president, Massoud Pezeshkian, conditions for Afghanistani refugees in Iran have deteriorated. These individuals now face restrictions in renting homes, securing employment, and entering certain cities. Baghaei emphasized that the influx of Afghanistani migrants to Iran constitutes a significant challenge, which he likened to the issue of terrorism.
According to “IRNA”, Baghaei further stated, “Our primary focus has been on maintaining technical and operational cooperation to support stability and security in Afghanistan.” He continued, “Should stability be restored in Afghanistan, many related issues, including terrorism and the Afghanistani refugee crisis, will be resolved.” He expressed optimism, hoping that “we can take more substantial steps in this direction.”
This more nuanced perspective reflects Iran’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to manage the Afghanistani migrant crisis while addressing regional security concerns.
