Iran Confirms Visit of Afghan Jihadi Leader Sayyaf, Citing Medical Treatment

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei has confirmed the visit of Afghan jihadi leader Abdul Rab Rasul Sayyaf to Tehran, stating that Afghan society is diverse and the visit of one of its figures to Iran is “not an unusual matter.”

Baghaei explained that Sayyaf traveled to Iran for “medical treatment.” During a press conference on Monday, in response to a question about the visit of an Afghan jihadi leader, he said, “Afghan society is diverse, with many different personalities and parties, and it is not unusual for someone to travel to Iran.”

Without directly naming Sayyaf, Baghaei added, “As far as I know, the individual you are referring to has come to Iran for medical treatment.”

However, a former Afghan government official and close associate of Sayyaf told Afghanistan International that the jihadi leader traveled to Iran at the invitation of the Iranian government.

Reports of Sayyaf’s trip to Iran emerged last week. He is a well-known opponent of the Taliban and has consistently criticised the group’s policies.

Earlier, sources close to Sayyaf told Afghanistan International that he was engaged in discussions with Iranian officials regarding the situation in Afghanistan and potential solutions to the ongoing conflict. He also reportedly held meetings with Afghan factions residing in Iran.