Taleban Declares Three-Day Ceasefire for Islamic Ramadan End Festival

Afghan Government Also Welcomes Ceasefire Declaration
Launches Fierce Attacks Immediately After US Troop Withdrawal Begins

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The Taliban, an armed group engaged in combat with the Afghan government forces, has declared a three-day ceasefire to celebrate Eid al-Fitr (Eid), the festival marking the end of Ramadan, the largest Islamic holiday. Peace negotiations between the Taliban, which has launched a relentless offensive since the withdrawal of U.S. troops, and the Afghan government continue to face difficulties.

According to foreign media including AFP on the 9th (local time), the Taliban stated in a press release, "From the first day of Eid to the third day, all offensive operations against the enemy nationwide will be suspended," adding, "However, if the enemy launches an attack during this period, we are prepared to defend strongly." Eid al-Fitr is a festival celebrating the end of Ramadan and is expected to begin on the 13th or 14th this year, depending on when the new moon appears.

The Taliban also declared a ceasefire during Eid last year. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of the Afghan government's High Council for National Reconciliation, welcomed the Taliban's ceasefire declaration. Chairman Abdullah has been overseeing peace talks with the Taliban since September last year. This ceasefire declaration by the Taliban came two days after a bomb attack near a school in Kabul on the 8th, which killed 68 people. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani blamed the Taliban for the attack, but the Taliban continue to deny involvement.

Since the U.S. began withdrawing troops on the 1st, the Taliban have launched large-scale offensives in several areas including Helmand Province. With the Taliban reportedly controlling more than 60% of Afghanistan, concerns are rising about the potential collapse of the Afghan government.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.