Amid rising tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and the recent failure of Istanbul peace talks, both Turkey and Iran have stepped forward to urge renewed diplomatic efforts for lasting peace and stability in the region.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Baku on Saturday. Erdogan called for continued efforts to establish a durable ceasefire and maintain regional stability, noting that Turkey closely monitors cross-border terrorism in Pakistan and the growing friction between Islamabad and the Taliban authorities in Kabul.
“Turkey hopes that its mediation, alongside Qatar’s, can help restore dialogue and promote durable peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan,” Erdogan said, reaffirming Ankara’s readiness to support de-escalation through diplomacy and regional cooperation. He also highlighted Ankara’s intention to expand economic and defense cooperation with Pakistan, stressing their shared interest in countering extremism and fostering regional stability. Erdogan’s remarks follow the latest round of Pakistan-Taliban talks in Istanbul, which concluded without tangible results, underscoring the persistent mistrust between the two sides.
Meanwhile, Iran has also offered to mediate between Kabul and Islamabad. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, in a phone call with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation along the shared border and emphasized Tehran’s readiness to support diplomatic mediation.
“Continued dialogue with the cooperation of regional powers is essential to resolve disputes peacefully,” Araghchi said, stressing Iran’s willingness to assist in restoring stability. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefed Araghchi on the outcomes of the Istanbul talks, highlighting the need to maintain regional peace and prevent further escalation.
Iranian media reports suggest Tehran views cooperation between Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey as critical to curbing extremism and preserving border security. Analysts have warned that prolonged tensions could threaten trade and overall security across the region.
The mediation offers from Turkey and Iran come after Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif described the Istanbul negotiations as “a complete deadlock,” reflecting Islamabad’s frustration over Kabul’s handling of cross-border militancy. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed that the Istanbul talks yielded no results but reiterated that Afghanistan would not allow its soil to be used against neighboring states.
Regional observers note that while both Turkey and Iran have shown readiness to mediate, any sustainable progress will depend on the political will of Islamabad and Kabul, as well as genuine compromise amid mutual distrust.
