WANA (Dec 13) – Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, addressed the UN Security Council on Thursday regarding the situation in Afghanistan. He emphasized the disproportionate burden Iran has borne as a neighboring country, particularly following the “reckless withdrawal of the United States in 2021.”

 

“Iran has provided refuge to over six million Afghans, placing immense strain on our limited resources,” Iravani stated. “We spend more than $10 billion annually to meet their needs, yet this burden has not been met with adequate support from the international community.”

 

Support for Refugees and Reinforcing Afghanistan’s Capacities

Iravani stressed the need for sustained international assistance to countries like Iran and Pakistan, while also advocating for efforts to enhance Afghanistan’s capacity to provide housing, employment, and basic services to enable the return of refugees.

 

Call for Inclusive Governance in Afghanistan

The Iranian envoy called for the establishment of an inclusive government in Afghanistan, noting that such governance is essential for long-term peace and stability. “An inclusive government can address key challenges, prevent renewed conflict, and curb the flow of refugees to neighboring countries,” he added.

 

Humanitarian and Security Concerns

Highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis, Iravani noted that 23.7 million people in Afghanistan remain in need of assistance, while only 37.5% of the UN’s $3.06 billion humanitarian plan for 2024 has been funded. He urged the international community to ensure humanitarian aid is impartial, unconditional, and free from politicization.

 

On security, Iravani condemned the activities of terrorist groups such as ISIS-K and Al-Qaeda, which pose serious threats to Afghanistan and regional stability. He also expressed concerns over the increasing attacks on Shia and Hazara communities and the rise of synthetic opioid production and drug trafficking in the region.

 

Regional Cooperation and International Engagement

Iran reiterated its commitment to regional initiatives, including hosting dialogues and participating in international forums like the Doha process and the Moscow format. Iravani praised the recent Doha meeting’s outcomes and highlighted Iran’s active involvement in working groups on drug control and private sector development to support Afghanistan’s recovery.

 

Western Responsibility

Iravani urged Western nations, whose prolonged occupation and abrupt withdrawal exacerbated Afghanistan’s crises, to meaningfully contribute to its reconstruction efforts. “The challenges in Afghanistan are significant but surmountable with a coordinated, step-by-step approach to building trust and stability,” he concluded.

 

Iran reaffirmed its dedication to supporting Afghanistan’s political, economic, and social reconstruction while promoting regional peace and stability.