- Regional Powers Unite on Afghan Security
In a rare moment of agreement, Pakistan, China, Russia and Iran have jointly urged the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan to take firm action against militant groups. This appeal, highlighted in recent Reuters reports, reflects growing anxiety among neighbors over Afghanistan’s fragile security situation.
Since the Taliban regained power in Kabul in 2021, extremist groups have continued to find safe havens inside Afghanistan. Despite claims from Taliban authorities that Afghan soil is not used against other nations, deadly incidents in Pakistan, Iran and Central Asia suggest otherwise.
Why the Pressure is Growing
Militant attacks across borders are on the rise. Pakistan blames the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for assaults planned from Afghan territory. China fears Afghan-based fighters could support separatists in Xinjiang. Russia worries about extremism spreading into Central Asia. Iran faces cross-border crime, drug smuggling and refugee flows.
For these four nations, Afghan stability is not just a regional issue but a matter of direct security and economic survival.
Pakistan’s Urgent Concerns
Islamabad has been the most vocal critic. Officials say that despite repeated promises, Taliban authorities have not acted decisively against militants. Over the past year, attacks on security forces and civilians in Pakistan have increased, many traced back to Afghan hideouts.
This situation is straining relations that were once considered close. Pakistan now demands results through action, not words.
China’s Balance of Investment and Security
For Beijing, Afghanistan offers both opportunities and risks. China seeks to expand its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and explore Afghan minerals. But stability is a prerequisite. Chinese leaders have told Taliban authorities that without peace, economic cooperation cannot progress.
China also fears extremist groups could provide support to Xinjiang separatists. To counter this, Beijing has increased talks with Kabul while demanding stronger anti-terror measures.
Russia’s Strategic Concerns
Russia views Afghanistan as both a threat and a test of leadership in Central Asia. With the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) trying to expand, Moscow argues Taliban authorities must show real governance capacity.
By joining Pakistan, China and Iran, Russia signals that it will not tolerate prolonged instability in Afghanistan.
Iran’s Border Struggles
Iran shares cultural and economic ties with Afghanistan but faces serious challenges along the border. Smuggling, drug trafficking and militant activity have long troubled Tehran. Officials have repeatedly asked Taliban authorities to prevent Afghan soil from being used for hostile actions.
Iran also hosts millions of Afghan refugees, adding social and humanitarian strain. For Tehran, curbing militancy is essential to controlling both security threats and refugee flows.
Taliban Authorities Under Scrutiny
The Taliban face a tough balancing act. They want positive ties with neighbors, yet their internal politics and historic links with militant groups complicate matters.
Officials claim to have targeted ISKP cells, but critics argue these moves are selective and do not dismantle the wider militant networks.
What’s at Stake
If Taliban authorities fail to act, Afghanistan risks further isolation. Global recognition remains out of reach, and frustrated neighbors may tighten borders, apply economic pressure or even coordinate security actions.
As Al Jazeera noted in its coverage, regional states are no longer satisfied with promises. They want proof of action.
A Rare Agreement
Despite differences, Pakistan, China, Russia and Iran agree that Afghanistan must not become a hub for militancy. Their joint pressure shows how serious the situation has become.
For the Taliban authorities, the decision is clear: act against militants and gain credibility, or risk losing the support of even their closest neighbors.
