Iranian influence and covert intentions toward Afghanistan

Iran has been a key player in the political settlement of the Middle East, Persian Gulf, and to some extent Central Asian countries. In terms of Iran-Afghanistan ties, both countries consider themselves as the origin of Persian culture. Currently, Iran and Afghanistan share common cultural, linguistic, religious values, economic interdependencies, as well as share a 900 km porous border. The purpose of this study is to examine the Iranian meddling foreign policy, particularly in Afghanistan's domestic and foreign affairs. Having a porous border, historical and multilateral ties, and Iranian regional objectives transforms Afghanistan's power settlement as a key driver for Iranian foreign policy. As a result, to safeguard Iranian security concerns, economic ambitions, and national interests in the region, the power settlement in Afghanistan crucially matters for the Iran regime. Seeking Iranian foreign policy and regional intuitions instigate Tehran to get involved in Afghanistan's internal and international affairs. Keywords: Iran, Afghanistan, Intervention, Border, Regional Objective