The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Rahmatullah Nabil says Iran may move toward formally recognizing the Taliban government in the near future, warning that such a step would be driven by geopolitical interests rather than principle.
In a statement posted on X, Nabil said Tehran’s possible recognition of the Taliban would amount to accepting “an imposed reality” and would not contribute to stability or legitimacy in Afghanistan.
“Granting legitimacy to a government that has excluded women, suppressed freedoms and pushed Afghanistan into historic isolation will only deepen the crisis and further victimize the Afghan people in regional power games,” he wrote.
Since returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban have imposed sweeping restrictions on women and girls, including bans on secondary and higher education, limits on employment, and tight controls on public life. International human rights organizations and the United Nations have repeatedly criticized the policies, warning they have worsened Afghanistan’s humanitarian and economic situation.
Iran, China, Russia and some Central Asian countries — have maintained diplomatic engagement and economic ties with Kabul.
Iran has expanded political and trade contacts with the Taliban in recent years, particularly on border security, migration, water rights and regional transit issues. However, formal recognition would mark a significant shift in regional diplomacy and could draw international scrutiny.
Afghanistan continues to face major challenges, including economic instability, widespread poverty, restrictions on civil liberties, and declining international aid, while millions remain dependent on humanitarian assistance.
