Iran’s support for Taliban pays off, but border remains problematic

Exports from Iran to Afghanistan are increasing as border clashes and the smuggling of both people and drugs fosters instability.
Iran border
A laborer waits to carry the belongings of returnees from Iran, at Islam Qala port on on Oct. 19, 2021. Iran is sending tens of thousands of Afghan migrants back to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan every week despite the threat of famine, aid agencies and witnesses say, with many Afghans alleging they have been mistreated by Iranian authorities. - - HOSHANG HASHIMI/AFP via Getty Images
Shelly Kittleson.jpg
Shelly Kittleson
@shellykittleson

ERBIL, Iraq – Some five months after the Taliban took over Afghanistan, Iran continues its longstanding strategic support and is benefiting from increased exports to the country.

However, recent border clashes and the killing of fighters from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) by “criminal gangs” have raised concern, as have the thousands of Afghans getting smuggled into Iran daily.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.

Videos

See more