IEA Spokesman Says Iran Would Prevail in Potential Conflict with United States

Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), stated that Iran would emerge victorious in any potential conflict with the United States.

In an interview with Iran Radio, Mujahid said the IEA does not support war but believes Iran succeeded in past confrontations and would do so again due to its capabilities and right to self-defense. He added that Afghans stand ready to cooperate with Iran "to the extent of their ability" if formally requested to address consequences of such a conflict.

Mujahid blamed Pakistan's longstanding policy of "nurturing Daesh" for a recent mosque attack in Islamabad that killed 31 people and injured 170. He likened Daesh to "a snake; if you raise it in your sleeve, it will eventually bite you," arguing Pakistan's use of the group for covert objectives harms both Pakistanis and Afghans.

He rejected allegations that the IEA supports Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), stating no unauthorized armed groups operate in Afghanistan. Mujahid said the IEA offered to facilitate the return of "Waziristani migrants," but Pakistan declined; at Pakistan's request, the families were relocated from near the Durand Line to other Afghan areas.

On border crossings, Mujahid noted closures have hurt traders on both sides, with Pakistan suffering more, and said they will not reopen without guarantees against politically motivated closures.

Separately, at a ceremony marking the 37th anniversary of the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan, Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqub Mujahid urged Afghans to move past divisions and revenge to ensure stability. He emphasized unity based on piety over ethnicity or position and called on business leaders to aid the poor and displaced with Zakat during Ramazan. Mujahid highlighted Afghanistan's "exceptional security" and the need for public cooperation, claiming some countries seek Afghan instability for their own gain.