Taliban Takes Control of 39 Afghan Diplomatic Missions Worldwide

On Thursday, Taliban 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi announced that the group is now managing 39 diplomatic missions worldwide, despite not being officially recognized as a legitimate government by any state. This development follows the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021, after the collapse of the U.S.-backed government. The Taliban has been able to establish diplomatic relations with several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Iran, indicating a willingness from some nations to engage with the group despite its controversial status. Muttaqi's announcement highlights the Taliban's efforts to present itself as a legitimate governing body, calling for a pragmatic approach from the international community. The group has also expressed interest in China's Belt and Road Initiative, offering Afghanistan's mineral resources in exchange for cooperation. Notably, the Taliban has successfully lobbied Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan to remove it from their lists of banned terrorist organizations, with Russia potentially following suit. The Biden administration's handling of the situation in Afghanistan has faced criticism, particularly regarding its failure to effectively counter the Taliban's rise. Reports indicate that the U.S. has paid the Taliban nearly $11 million in various fees since the group's return to power, raising questions about the implications of such financial interactions. As the Taliban consolidates its power and expands its diplomatic reach, the international community remains divided on how to engage with the group, balancing concerns over human rights violations with geopolitical interests.