Afghan Embassy in Tokyo to Close; Possible Transfer to Taliban Raised.
Informed sources say there is a growing possibility that the Afghan embassy in Japan may be handed over to the Taliban.
The speculation follows an announcement by the Afghan Embassy in Tokyo stating that all its activities and services will be suspended as of January 31, 2026, until further notice an action some observers interpret as preparation for a potential change in the embassy’s status.
According to the embassy’s statement, all political, economic, cultural, and consular services will be halted.
The statement also notes that the Japanese government, in accordance with the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, will continue to respect and protect the embassy premises, properties, and archives of Afghanistan.
The Afghan Embassy in Japan expressed its gratitude to the government and people of Japan for their continued support and cooperation throughout its presence in Tokyo.
It has also urged Afghan citizens residing in Japan to seek any urgent consular services before January 31, 2026. So far, no official confirmation has been issued regarding the embassy’s future or its possible transfer to the Taliban.
