Full Breakdown
Assassination of Afghan General in Tehran Raises Alarms for Exiled Military Personnel
12/28/2025, 8:35:22 PM
Overview of the Assassination
On December 26, 2025, General Ikramuddin Sari’ was shot dead by masked assailants near his home in Tehran, marking a significant escalation in targeted killings of former Afghan military personnel. This incident follows the assassination of Ma’ruf Ghulami in September 2025, a close associate of prominent anti-Taliban figure Ismail Khan, in Mashhad. Both killings have raised concerns among former Afghan soldiers residing in Iran, who fear they are being systematically targeted by the Taliban.
Background on General Ikramuddin Sari’
General Ikramuddin Sari’ was a notable Afghan military officer who served in various capacities, including as a police commander and adviser at Afghanistan’s Ministry of Interior. After the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, he relocated to Iran, where he became an informal representative for former Afghan military personnel. Sari’ was known for his outspoken criticism of the Taliban and worked to protect the rights of Afghan refugees facing deportation from Iran.
Taliban's Alleged Role in the Killings
Sources close to Sari’ and Ghulami assert that the Taliban orchestrated these assassinations to eliminate perceived threats. A former Afghan military official suggested that while the Taliban are the primary suspects, such actions could not occur without the tacit approval of certain Iranian authorities. The National Resistance Front has called for Iran to ensure the safety of Afghan military refugees and conduct transparent investigations into these incidents.
Iranian Authorities' Response
Despite the gravity of the situation, Iranian officials have remained silent regarding the assassinations. Critics argue that Tehran's inaction reflects its strategic interests in maintaining a cordial relationship with the Taliban, which is seen as beneficial for Iran's regional objectives. The Iranian government has reportedly handed over its embassy in Tehran and consulate in Mashhad to Taliban representatives, further complicating the security landscape for Afghan refugees.
Rising Threats Against Anti-Taliban Figures
Reports indicate that threats against anti-Taliban leaders in Iran have intensified, with many former military personnel increasing their security measures. Sari’ had received warnings about potential threats prior to his assassination, yet he chose to remain in Iran to assist fellow exiled military members. This atmosphere of fear underscores the Taliban's broader strategy of intimidation against former Afghan soldiers, extending their reach beyond Afghanistan's borders.
Criticism of Iran's Handling of the Situation
Critics of the Iranian government have expressed outrage over its failure to protect Afghan military personnel, highlighting a perceived conspiracy between Tehran and the Taliban. Hossein Jafarian, a figure associated with the National Resistance Front, criticized Iran's relationship with the Taliban, suggesting that the Islamic Republic has sacrificed the safety of former Afghan soldiers to preserve diplomatic ties.
Conclusion
The assassinations of General Ikramuddin Sari’ and Ma’ruf Ghulami signal a troubling trend for former Afghan military personnel in Iran, who now face threats even outside their home country. As the Taliban continues to assert its influence, the responsibility of the Iranian government to safeguard these individuals remains a contentious issue, raising questions about the future safety of Afghan refugees in the region.
