Iran's "Jomhouri-e Eslami" newspaper, in its Wednesday editorial, accused the Taliban government of waging a "silent war against Iran." Sharply criticizing Tehran's policy towards Kabul, the newspaper warned that the current approach will ultimately be detrimental to Iran's long-term interests.
The editorial's author called the view that the Taliban ended the US presence in Afghanistan a "mistake," alleging that the group returned to power with Washington's support and a secret agreement. According to the newspaper, the rapid collapse of the previous government and the Taliban's uncontested takeover of Kabul are signs of this deal.
The newspaper also claimed that since taking power, the Taliban have maintained their relations with the US and benefit from monthly financial aid from Washington. The editorial states that the Taliban are simultaneously trying to weaken Iran's traditional influence in Afghanistan by restricting pro-Tehran currents and specific ethnic and religious groups.
The issue of the Helmand River water rights is another critical focus of the editorial. The author believes the Taliban have adopted a confrontational approach on this matter. Tensions over the Helmand water have repeatedly strained relations between the two sides over the past three years.
Elsewhere in the article, without providing evidence, Jomhouri-e Eslami accused the Taliban of infiltrating its agents into Iran and being involved in some attacks. These allegations come as Tehran, despite not officially recognizing the Taliban government, has handed over the Afghan embassy to the group and maintains extensive relations with them.
Iran-Taliban relations have been tumultuous over the past three decades. Although the two sides were on the ink of war in the 1990s, communication channels were established between them after 2001, which have continued to this day.
Source: Zarin TV
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