Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Taliban, has welcomed recent statements by Seyed Hassan Mortazavi, the Deputy Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Kabul, regarding armed opposition groups, describing them as aligned with the will of the Afghan people. This position came after the Iranian official declared that Tehran does not support any political or military faction opposed to the Taliban.
Seyed Hassan Mortazavi had previously stated during a meeting in Kabul that the Islamic Republic of Iran would not support any opposition group taking up arms against the Taliban. He also emphasized that Tehran does not consider an armed struggle against the Taliban to be "resistance," reserving that term solely for developments such as those in Gaza and Lebanon, or for opposing the United States.
Addressing these comments on Monday, the Taliban spokesperson noted that the Iranian embassy had adopted a clear stance, characterizing this approach as consistent with the Afghan public's expectations. Expressing appreciation for the position, he stated that no individual or group, under any pretext, should create conditions that foster insecurity and instability in Afghanistan.
Mujahid further added that the Islamic Republic of Iran understands the importance of regional security and stability. He also claimed that the Taliban has successfully secured Afghanistan, and therefore, any armed action against the group stands condemned.
The Deputy Iranian Ambassador in Kabul also remarked that an "Islamic government" has been established in Afghanistan and that opposition factions should resolve their differences with the Taliban through dialogue and engagement. This represents the first explicit public stance by a senior Iranian official regarding Tehran's approach toward the armed opposition to the Taliban.
Mortazavi's statements come amid reports in recent weeks of increased activity and attacks by certain anti-Taliban opposition fronts, particularly in Badakhshan Province. The remarks triggered mixed reactions, drawing criticism from several anti-Taliban groups and factions.
In response, Habibullah Hossam, head of the Ulema Council of the National Resistance Front (NRF), asserted that the Iranian deputy ambassador is in no position to pass judgment, dictate terms, or draw boundaries regarding the National Resistance Front and the Taliban. His response has also generated significant coverage across Afghan political and media circles.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
