Ambassador's Statement at UNSC: Situation in Afghanistan

Iran's Ambassador has delivered a statement during a UN Security Council meeting to discuss the situation in Afghanistan. The full text of the statement is as follows:

Statement by

H.E. Mr. Amir Saeid Iravani

Ambassador and Permanent Representative

of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations

Before UN Security Council Briefing

on “Situation in Afghanistan.”

New York, 9 March 2026

 

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

 

I thank Ms. Georgette Gagnon, Deputy Special Representative, for her briefing. We take note of the Secretary-General’s latest report on the situation in Afghanistan and the activities of UNAMA (S/2026/99). The report confirms that, despite the continued efforts of UNAMA and United Nations agencies, Afghanistan remains confronted with complex and multidimensional challenges, including a deteriorating humanitarian situation, growing security concerns, restrictions affecting women and girls, and the persistent threats of terrorism.

As highlighted by the Deputy SRSG in her briefing, despite these challenges, the DFA has taken positive steps to improve the situation and support economic recovery. These efforts deserve recognition and should be acknowledged by the international community.

In this context, I wish to underline the following points.

First, we remain deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian and economic conditions in Afghanistan. Nearly half of the country’s population—over 21 million people—are projected to require humanitarian assistance this year. We echo the Secretary-General’s call on donors to provide increased, predictable, and flexible funding to sustain life-saving humanitarian operations. Humanitarian assistance must never be politicized. Sanctions must not hinder Afghanistan’s economic recovery and stabilization, and Afghan national assets frozen abroad should be released without delay so that they can be used to address the urgent needs of the Afghan people.

Second, the continuation of international engagement with the de facto authorities remains essential for advancing stability in Afghanistan. Meaningful and pragmatic engagement is necessary to address the humanitarian and economic crises and to promote responsible governance. In this context, initiatives such as the Doha Process can provide an important platform for dialogue and cooperation on key issues, including counter-narcotics and economic development. Iran has actively and meaningfully participated in the working groups on counter-narcotics and the private sector held on 3 and 9 February, as part of this process. In this regard, Iran welcomes the report on the reduction of opium cultivation in Afghanistan. However, without effective support for alternative crops and sustainable livelihoods for Afghan farmers, many may be forced, out of economic necessity, to return to opium cultivation.

Third, the continued deprivation of women and girls of their rights to education and employment in Afghanistan is a matter of serious concern. Such restrictions on education, employment, and public participation are incompatible with the teachings of Islam and with human dignity. We call on the de facto authorities to reverse these restrictions. However, we believe that constructive engagement remains the most effective path to promote responsible conduct, uphold human rights, including the rights of ethnic groups and women.

Fourth, the threat posed by terrorist groups in Afghanistan remains a grave concern. Afghanistan must not become a haven for terrorism. Likewise, the territory of Afghanistan must not be used to threaten or harm other States, especially neighbors. At the same time, military escalations and cross-border hostilities are deeply concerning and risk further destabilizing the region. Dialogue and diplomatic engagement remain the only viable path to addressing these tensions. We call on all parties to exercise restraint and to resolve their differences through diplomatic solutions and peaceful means.

Fifth, Neighboring and regional countries remain on the front line of the consequences arising from the situation in Afghanistan. At the same time, regional initiatives and cooperation mechanisms among neighboring countries play an indispensable role in supporting sustainable peace, security, and stability in Afghanistan. The Islamic Republic of Iran shares a long border with Afghanistan and, for more than four decades, has hosted millions of Afghan nationals. During this time, Iran has provided Afghan refugees with access to education, healthcare, and other essential services. This longstanding commitment reflects Iran’s continued dedication to supporting the Afghan people and promoting stability and security in Afghanistan and the wider region.

Yet, the ongoing unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression launched by the United States and the Israeli regime on 28 February 2026 against the Islamic Republic of Iran has created a grave and dangerous situation for civilians. This war of aggression has involved deliberate attacks and targeting against civilians and civilian infrastructure and densely populated areas, especially across several major Iranian cities, where millions of Afghan nationals also reside.

Finally, UNAMA continues to play a vital and indispensable role in addressing Afghanistan’s complex challenges and supporting the Afghan people. We reaffirm our support for extending the mandate of UNAMA and for its effective and impartial implementation. The Islamic Republic of Iran stands ready to continue close cooperation with the United Nations, regional countries, and all relevant stakeholders to promote stability, security, and a better future for Afghanistan.

I thank you.