As ISIS carried out one of its deadliest attacks in Kunduz city on Tuesday, killing dozens of Taliban members, the Taliban’s Foreign Ministry continues to claim that the terrorist group has been eliminated in Afghanistan and no longer has the ability to conduct military operations. These statements appear to be a response to Pakistani officials, who have once again raised concerns over terrorist activities in Afghanistan.
Abdul Qahar Balkhi, spokesperson for the Taliban’s Foreign Ministry, stated on Tuesday, February 11, that all ISIS hideouts in Afghanistan have been destroyed and that the group’s activities have been completely halted. He added that “any security incident occurring in Afghanistan is caused by elements who have crossed the Durand Line”—a veiled reference suggesting that Pakistan is responsible for recent security issues.
However, the Kunduz attack, which directly targeted Taliban forces, contradicts the Taliban’s claims. Over the past few months, ISIS has carried out multiple attacks against the Taliban and other targets, indicating that the group’s military operations are still active under the Taliban’s watch in Afghanistan.
These rising tensions coincide with growing international concerns over the presence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan. In a recent United Nations Security Council meeting, members stressed that Afghanistan should not become a safe haven for terrorist organizations.
Meanwhile, tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan continue to escalate. Islamabad has repeatedly accused the Taliban of harboring militant groups that are conducting attacks against Pakistan’s security forces. The Taliban, however, denies these allegations and has accused regional powers of attempting to isolate its government.
The Kunduz attack is yet another indicator that ISIS remains active in Afghanistan. While the Taliban insists it has full control over security, the repeated and devastating attacks by ISIS suggest that the terrorist threat is far more significant than what the Taliban is willing to admit.
