Clashes erupt between Iranian and Afghan Taliban forces at border amid water dispute

Clashes between Iranian and Afghan Taliban forces occurred at the border between the two countries, according to Iranian police.

The clashes took place on Saturday, and although no casualties were reported, tensions arose due to a water dispute between the neighboring nations. The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), an Iran-based news agency, provided the report.

Brigadier General Qasem Rezaei, the deputy commander of the national police, expressed deep concern over the unprovoked attack on the Sassoli outpost. This outpost is located in the Zabol border regiment near the Afghan frontier.

The Taliban forces initiated the assault, disregarding international law and principles of good neighborliness. However, they encountered a resolute and courageous response from the border guards of the Islamic Republic.

Initial gunfire from the Taliban prompted Iranian border guards to issue warnings. Unfortunately, the gunfire resumed after some time, leading to ongoing clashes between the two sides.

Brigadier General Ahmadreza Radan, the chief commander of the national police, subsequently issued a directive to the border guards, instructing them to defend the borders with bravery and determination and prevent any trespassing or encroachment.

The information center of Sistan and Baluchestan’s Border Guard command later provided additional details about the border clashes. Iranian border guards engaged with unidentified armed individuals who were attempting to enter the Islamic Republic of Iran at the Zabol border. Through their superior firepower, the Iranian border guards inflicted significant damage and casualties on the armed individuals.

Kazemi Qomi, an Iranian diplomat, stated on Iranian state TV that nearly two billion cubic meters of water had flowed into Godzareh Lake last year, contradicting the claims made by Taliban officials about water shortage in the Helmand River.

Qomi emphasized that if the Taliban seeks to establish a stable government, they must foster constructive relations with neighboring countries, including Iran. He also reminded the ruling group in Kabul that Iran has provided substantial assistance to the Afghan people over the past few decades.