Wartime Surge in Iran-Tajikistan Trade Draws Scrutiny

Bilateral trade between Iran and Tajikistan has skyrocketed during the first quarter of 2026, a timeframe coinciding with the start of the US/Israeli-Iran war. The jump in trade raises questions about whether Iran is trying to open a conduit via Tajikistan to procure technology and goods with military applications, and/or obtain essential goods for civilian use. Iran’s ambassador in Dushanbe, Alirizo Hakikiyon, met with top Tajik Transport Ministry officials on April 14 for discussions on expanding and expediting overland trade between the…