KABUL (SW) – Analysts believe that the US pressure on the Taliban has led to serious changes in the group’s operations.
The Taliban’s military commission recently issued a letter ordering the group’s fighters to refrain from sheltering foreign fighters arbitrarily in their ranks. The letter also warned that anyone who disobeys the order will be punished.
Assadullah Nadim, an expert on military and intelligence affairs, said the new US administration is working closely with Pakistan, which has more influence over the Taliban. He said many foreigners are still in the Taliban ranks. “Secret and confidential diplomacy has been used in this regard since President Joe Biden came, especially on behalf of Pakistan. Several high-ranking US officials have traveled to Pakistan and met with Pakistani officials because Pakistan has good relations with the Taliban”, he said.
Ahmadullah Alizai, an exprt on political and military affairs, said that with the new US administration in power, pressure on the Taliban has surged. “Now, that the new US administration is headed by Joe Biden, Afghan officials and the people must work to seize this opportunity for the benefit of their country to end the war,” he said.
Meanwhile, military officials in Kandahar said yesterday that al-Qaeda, Pakistani and Chechen fighters have been figting alongside the Taliban against the Afghan forces in Arghandab district since weeks.
This claim has been denied by the Taliban.
ENDS
