The Taliban, an Islamist militant group, has taken two more regional capitals in Afghanistan and is approaching Kabul, TV3 News reports.
The day has seen news that two more cities have fallen in Afghanistan, with the Taliban taking control of Sharan in Paktika Province and Assadabad in Kunar Province. As a result, the Taliban, an Islamist militant group, now owns more than half of the provincial capitals.
According to the United Nations, the situation in Afghanistan is becoming out of control, with devastating consequences for the population. The UN Secretary-General has called on the Taliban to immediately suspend the offensive and begin talks to prevent a protracted civil war.
Antonio Guteres, UN Secretary-General
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“The message of the international community to those on the war must be clear. Capturing power by military force, a tactic of losers that can only lead to a protracted civil war or the complete isolation of Afghanistan. “
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In his brief address on television, the Afghan president emphasized that the government’s main priority was to re-mobilize the country’s security and defense forces.
“I know you are worried about your future. As your President, I can assure you that I am focused on preventing further instability, violence, and the fact that more and more people are being forced to flee their homes, ”said Afghan President Ashraf Gani.
The President of Afghanistan has also indicated that he has started extensive consultations with both political leaders and international partners on how to reduce the conflict.
Meanwhile, Afghans continue to lose strength in the fight against the Taliban, which are approaching the capital, Kabul. U.S. intelligence predicts that Kabul could fall in a month.
U.S. forces have arrived in the capital to help evacuate embassy staff. Six hundred British troops are also on their way to ensure the evacuation of British citizens. Thousands of locals are also trying to leave Kabul, although it is not easy to get plane tickets.
Abdul Abed, a resident of Kabul
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“In the current situation, there is no longer any guarantee as to the future of Afghanistan. The battle takes effect day by day and the opposition prevails. While working, I have cooperated with foreigners, so I do not feel safe. I live in stress every day. ”
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The Taliban, overthrown by American-led forces in 2001 following the terrorist attacks in the United States on 9/11, began to regain control with the withdrawal of American and Allied troops from Afghanistan.-
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