Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, a prominent figure in the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, revealed that numerous fighters had been killed or detained in recent operations. Emphasizing the defeat of ISIS in Afghanistan, he reiterated the commitment of the Taliban regime to prevent, per the Doha Agreement, the use of Afghan territory for attacks on other nations.
During a press conference of the Security and Clearing Affairs Commission, the acting Defense Minister, on the eve of 2024, outlined the security accomplishments over the past year. He highlighted that attacks on religious sites, scholars, and public gatherings, primarily executed by foreign elements—Tajikistan and Pakistani nationals—were curtailed through joint security operations.
Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid claimed that post the Taliban governance, attacks on religious venues and public gatherings were carried out by foreigners, especially Tajikistani citizens, with casualties and arrests recorded. He further noted Pakistani citizens’ involvement in orchestrating several attacks, resulting in casualties and arrests during security operations.
Stressing a resolute campaign against ISIS and other insurgent groups, the Defense Minister asserted the determination to quash any rebellion against the Islamic Emirate. He underscored that military actions against their government would be met with forceful responses.
Mujahid also said there has been a 90 percent decrease in attacks by a Daesh (Islamic State) group affiliate in the past year. The extremist organization has launched violent attacks on educational, medical, and religious institutions, as well as targeting Shiite communities throughout the nation. The Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021 has intensified the conflict with the Daesh branch. Daesh fighters have hit Kabul, the north, and any place with a Shiite presence, whom they regard as heretics.
Appealing to neighboring nations, Pakistan specifically, Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid called for stringent control of borders. He highlighted a 90% reduction in malevolent activities over the past year, attributing this decline to the suppression of operational networks and the elimination or capture of their leaders.
The acting Defense Minister accentuated the success in combating kidnappers, with hundreds arrested or neutralized and over 200 individuals rescued. Additionally, he cited a 99% reduction in smuggling money and valuables within Afghanistan over the past year.
Refuting allegations regarding the smuggling and sale of weaponry left by foreign forces, Mujahid affirmed the establishment of a commission to regulate these armaments. He underscored efforts to prevent arms smuggling both within and outside Afghanistan, with hundreds of smugglers apprehended and numerous weapons confiscated.
Highlighting the significance of border security, the Defense Minister pointed out that 20 provinces sharing borders with six countries had established multiple military bases, centers, and security stations equipped to combat potential threats.