Although Iran's expansionist aspirations are primarily aimed at the Middle East, the states of the South Caucasus and Central Asia remain in Tehran’s sights.
At least 1,200 residents of a Hazara-dominated community were ordered by Taliban fighters to leave their homes in Daikundi province, declaring the land as "disputed".
Iran and the Taliban appeared to have reached some degree of regional understanding. But it turned out to be a short-lived optimism with Tehran showing signs of unease.
Only now have Western nations woken up to the continued threat to Afghan minorities and women.
By decreasing sectarian tensions, a changing Taliban and post-revolution Iran, the two anti-American neighbours, have shown signs of goodwill to each other in recent years.
The armed group has a history of targeting the ethnic group using brutal methods of torture, abductions and executions.
Authorities have promised the arrest of the attackers, payment of compensation to the bereaved families and better security for the Hazaras.
How the city's persecuted minority survives the trauma caused by extremist militant groups who target them for practising their faith.
Most of the victims belong to the Shia Hazara community and the assailants were reportedly a mixed group of Taliban and Daesh fighters, but the Taliban denies any involvement.
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