KABUL, Afghanistan — Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief spokesman for the Taliban‑led government in Afghanistan, has said that Afghans are prepared to “cooperate and show sympathy” with the people of Iran if the United States launches a military attack, but reiterated that the group does not want conflict between the two countries.
Speaking in an interview with the Pashto service of Radio Iran, Mujahid stated that if Tehran requests assistance in the event of a U.S. attack, Afghanistan’s people are ready — within their capacity — to offer cooperation and solidarity. He also praised Iran’s response in the recent conflict with Israel, saying Tehran “was victorious in the 12‑day war” and would prevail again because it “has the capability, is in the right, and has the right to defend itself.”
Despite these remarks, Mujahid expressed hope that war between the United States and Iran would not begin, underscoring that the Taliban do not support armed conflict between the two nations.
The comments come as Iran and the United States have resumed negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program — efforts aimed at preventing escalation while addressing international concerns about uranium enrichment. The talks are set to continue in Geneva, with both sides attempting to find diplomatic common ground after months of strain and mutual distrust.
Meanwhile, concerns about rising tensions persist as the United States has increased its military presence in the Middle East. The U.S. Department of Defense, or Pentagon, revealed the deployment of a second aircraft carrier strike group to the region, a move Washington says is designed to strengthen deterrence and readiness amid the uncertain diplomatic and security environment.
In parallel with military movements, two U.S. officials told Reuters that the U.S. military is preparing for the possibility of sustained operations against Iran if ordered by President Donald Trump, underscoring the seriousness with which U.S. planners are treating the potential for escalation.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also voiced skepticism over the prospects of a successful agreement with Tehran, saying that “no one has been able to reach a successful deal with Iran,” while affirming Washington’s continued efforts to pursue diplomacy.
Countries across the Middle East have repeatedly expressed concern about the potential for a broader conflict involving Iran, the United States, or other regional players. Many governments have called for de‑escalation and emphasized the importance of diplomatic solutions to avoid war and instability.
In Afghanistan, the Taliban’s recent outreach to Iran comes against a backdrop of years of political and economic ties between Tehran and the Afghan movement, with both sides engaging in periodic diplomatic exchange. According to Iranian officials, talks about possible recognition of the Taliban government by Tehran have been underway, and some observers suggest that Iran may formally acknowledge the group in the near future.
At the same time, the Taliban publicly state they seek positive relations with the United States, despite underlying tensions and unresolved issues such as counterterrorism cooperation and prisoner negotiations.
