John Bolton Urges Taliban to Cooperate in Overthrowing Iranian Regime

Former US National Security Advisor John Bolton urged the Taliban to cooperate in overthrowing the Iranian regime as a way to demonstrate seriousness about improving relations with the United States.

In an interview, Bolton said the US is closely monitoring the Taliban's policies toward Iran. He described the Iranian regime as a threat to regional peace and stability. Bolton expressed doubt about Taliban cooperation, noting that the group fears it would become the next US target after the fall of the Iranian regime.

Bolton criticized the Taliban's hostage-taking practices, stating that American citizens are treated as a "valuable commodity" and used as bargaining tools. He said the recent release of a US citizen on Tuesday, following threats from US President Donald Trump, does not warrant immediate changes in US policy. "The Taliban should not be rewarded for something it should not have done in the first place," Bolton said, adding that the group seeks legitimacy and international recognition through such actions.

He emphasized that without fundamental changes in Taliban behavior, the US approach will not shift. Bolton hoped no concessions were given in exchange for the release, as that would endanger other Americans.

Bolton also accused the Taliban of failing to uphold commitments under the Doha agreement, including not turning Afghan soil into a terrorist sanctuary, severing ties with groups like al-Qaeda, and respecting human rights, women's rights, and minorities. He noted that the Taliban has allowed foreign terrorists to return to Afghanistan. The UN Security Council, regional countries, and the international community have similarly stated that the Taliban has not fulfilled these commitments.