Taliban Condemns "US IS Airstrikes as Attacks on Afghan Territory"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The Taliban has condemned the U.S. retaliatory airstrikes against the Islamic State (IS), which claimed responsibility for the Kabul airport terror attack in Afghanistan, calling them indiscriminate attacks on their territory. As concerns grow that the U.S. military may extend its withdrawal deadline under the pretext of retaliatory strikes against IS, the Taliban is also expected to soon announce the formation of its cabinet.

On the 28th (local time), Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban spokesperson, criticized in a press conference, "The drone airstrike operation against IS Khorasan (IS-K) is a clear attack on Afghan territory." Earlier, the U.S. Department of Defense announced that it conducted drone airstrike operations targeting IS-K strongholds in Afghanistan as retaliation for the Kabul airport bombing, reporting that two senior IS-K members were killed in the operation.

Spokesperson Mujahid also stated, "We expect the Taliban to take full control of Kabul airport soon after the U.S. military leaves," adding, "We will announce the cabinet formation within a few days." Previously, the Taliban had declared that they would form and announce a new inclusive government in early September, immediately after the U.S. troop withdrawal. The Taliban has consistently emphasized the need to adhere to the withdrawal deadline, fearing any announcement of an extension.

Furthermore, Mujahid said, "Managers to operate key government institutions, including the Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Education, and the Central Bank, have already been appointed." Earlier, the Taliban had appointed acting ministers to many key government positions. Even with the formation of an inclusive government, all major posts remain filled by Taliban personnel.

He also hinted at the possibility that promises made to the international community regarding women's rights and job security might be neglected. Mujahid stated, "It is difficult to predict whether women will be included in the cabinet," adding, "The final decision on this matter will be made by the supreme leader."

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