Iranian Police Rescue Two Afghan Traders in Tehran; Turkmen President Announces TAPI Progress to Herat

Iranian police rescued two Afghan traders who had been kidnapped in Tehran and held for 25 days in a concealed well under harsh conditions, according to reports. The kidnappers sent videos of the traders being tortured to their families and demanded a $600,000 ransom. Following an extensive investigation, authorities located the site and freed the men, who are now receiving medical and psychological care. Officials noted previous kidnappings and extortion targeting Afghan merchants in Iran and announced enhanced security measures for Afghan traders in Tehran, with continued protection for the rescued individuals.

In a separate development, Turkmenistan President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow stated that the first section of the TAPI gas pipeline project will be completed by the end of 2026, reaching Herat city. Speaking to Reuters, he welcomed international companies to join the project, which will transport Turkmen gas to markets in Afghanistan, Pakistan and India. Berdimuhamedow said the initiative enjoys U.S. support, aims to overcome longstanding tensions between Afghanistan, Pakistan and India, and helps diversify Turkmenistan's vast gas exports. The project is described as a major initiative for regional economic development and job creation in Afghanistan. Recently, a Turkmen delegation led by Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov, along with Mullah Hayatullah Badri, minister of mines and petroleum of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, and other officials, visited Turghundi port to inspect TAPI progress.

Khaama Press covered the Tehran rescue, while Pajhwok reported the TAPI update; the sources address unrelated events.