Taliban’s Second Rule More Repressive Than Its First, Says Former US Envoy To Afghanistan
Ryan Crocker, former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, has stated that the Taliban’s current rule is even more oppressive than its first regime in the 1990s.
Ryan Crocker, former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, has stated that the Taliban’s current rule is even more oppressive than its first regime in the 1990s.
Speaking on Monday at the Herat Security Dialogue in Madrid, Crocker expressed deep concerns over Afghanistan’s security situation, warning that terrorism remains a significant threat in the country.
He further emphasised that the worst course of action for the international community would be to grant recognition to the Taliban government.
Crocker, who served as the U.S. ambassador in Kabul from 2011 to 2012, highlighted the extensive restrictions imposed by the Taliban since their return to power in August 2021. He noted that the group has reinstated oppressive policies, particularly targeting freedom of expression and women’s rights, echoing the repressive measures of their first rule in the 1990s.
The 12th Herat Security Dialogue, an annual conference organised by the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies, commenced on Monday in Madrid, Spain. The event has brought together experts, former Afghan government officials, human rights activists, and politicians to discuss Afghanistan’s security outlook and future.
Several U.S. diplomats and regional political figures are also participating in the discussions at the Herat Security Dialogue.
