ISLAMABAD: Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has offered to help ease tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, calling for stronger ties as cross-border conflict continues and Islamabad pauses its military campaign during Eid.
In a Nowruz message marking the Persian New Year, Khamenei, who assumed leadership after the killing of his father, Ali Khamenei, in a US-Israeli strike, urged both countries to improve relations and avoid divisions.
“I would like to urge that our two brotherly countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan, establish better relations with each other… and for my part, I am ready to take the necessary steps,” he said.
The remarks come as Pakistan’s cross-border military campaign, Operation Ghazab lil Haq, remains paused following weeks of fighting triggered by sustained cross-border terrorist attacks.
Islamabad has said the operation targets terrorist infrastructure, including camps, logistics hubs, and ammunition depots used for attacks against civilians and security forces.
Earlier this week, Pakistan announced a temporary Eid pause in the operation, describing it as a goodwill gesture whilst warning that military action would resume if further attacks occur.
Khamenei’s message places the Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions within a broader regional crisis, as the Middle East faces escalating conflict following recent strikes and retaliatory actions involving Iran and its adversaries.
In his address, the Iranian leader emphasized unity among Muslim countries and warned against division during a period of heightened geopolitical strain.
“Beyond the element of neighborliness, we recognize… shared devotion to Islam… and common strategic interests,” he said.
He also cautioned against misinformation and psychological warfare during conflict, urging media and the public to remain vigilant.
Khamenei’s outreach comes as Pakistan balances ongoing military operations with diplomatic efforts, signaling a potential opening for regional mediation amid escalating tensions.
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