History of Taliban in Timeline
The Taliban, also known as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, is a militant group that combines Pashtun nationalism with Deobandi Islamic fundamentalism. They previously ruled most of Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001 until being ousted by a US-led invasion. After 20 years of insurgency, they regained control of Kabul and the entire country in August 2021. However, their government lacks international recognition due to widespread condemnation for human rights abuses, particularly against women and girls.
1920: Birth of Isaac Levy
Isaac Levy was born around this year. He would later become one of the last two Jews known to be living in Afghanistan during the first period of Taliban rule.
1975: First Assassination Attempt on Massoud
The first attempt on Massoud's life took place in 1975 when he was 22 years old, orchestrated by Hekmatyar and Pakistani ISI agents.
1979: Soviet Intervention in Afghanistan
The Soviet Union's intervention and occupation of Afghanistan in 1979 marked a pivotal moment in the country's history, leading to the emergence of the Mujahideen resistance, which included future Taliban leaders.
April 1992: Peshawar Accord and the Fall of the Soviet-Backed Regime
Following the fall of the Soviet-backed regime in April 1992, the Peshawar Accord was signed, leading to the creation of the Islamic State of Afghanistan. However, the agreement failed to prevent further conflict and instability.
1992: Disillusionment with Post-Communist Rule
Following the collapse of the Soviet-backed regime in 1992, Mullah Omar and his followers became disillusioned with the lack of Islamic law implementation in Afghanistan, which contributed to the Taliban's formation.
1992: Islamic State of Afghanistan Gains Recognition
From 1992 to 2002, the international community, including the United Nations, recognized the Islamic State of Afghanistan as the legitimate government of Afghanistan.
1992: Start of the Warlord Period in Afghanistan
The Warlord period in Afghanistan began in 1992, marked by widespread conflict and instability.
September 1994: Founding of the Taliban
In September 1994, Mullah Mohammad Omar, along with 50 students, founded the Taliban in Kandahar, aiming to establish their rule based on Islamic law and eliminate warlordism.
September 1994: Taliban Emerges in Afghan Civil War
In September 1994, the Taliban emerged as a prominent faction in the Afghan Civil War. Comprised mainly of students from Pashtun areas, they aimed to establish their rule over the country.
October 1994: Pakistan's Early Support for the Taliban
Reports suggest that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence agency (ISI) began supporting the Taliban as early as October 1994, aiming to establish a pro-Pakistan regime in Afghanistan.
November 1994: Taliban Conquers Kandahar City
On November 3, 1994, the Taliban launched a surprise attack on Kandahar City, successfully capturing it and establishing a key stronghold for their expanding influence.
1994: Pakistani Support for the Taliban (1994-1999)
Between 1994 and 1999, an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 Pakistanis received training and fought in Afghanistan in support of the Taliban.
1994: Founding of the Taliban with ISI Support
Starting in 1994, Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) played a significant role in the formation of the Taliban. The ISI aimed to use the Taliban to establish a regime in Afghanistan that would favor Pakistan's interests, seeking strategic depth.
January 1995: Taliban Gains Control of 12 Afghan Provinces
By January 4, 1995, the Taliban's rapid expansion saw them gain control over 12 Afghan provinces, often facing little resistance from existing militias.
March 1995: Taliban Suffers Defeat Near Kabul and Faces Criticism
In March 1995, the Taliban's attempt to capture Kabul was met with a significant defeat by government forces. Their subsequent shelling of the city resulted in civilian casualties and drew criticism from the Afghan population.
September 1995: Taliban Captures Herat, Sparks Diplomatic Tensions
On September 5, 1995, the Taliban captured the western city of Herat, further expanding their control. Allegations of Pakistani support for the group led to an attack on the Pakistani embassy in Kabul.
1995: Taliban's Military Campaign (1995-2001)
From 1995 to 2001, the Taliban's military objective was to reassert Pashtun dominance in northern Afghanistan, echoing the rule of Abdur Rahman (the Iron Emir).
1995: Pakistan's Continued Support for the Taliban
Throughout 1995, Pakistan continued to provide support to the Taliban, recognizing their potential to shape Afghanistan's political landscape.
April 1996: Mullah Omar and the Cloak of the Prophet
On 4 April 1996, Mullah Omar took the Cloak of the Prophet Mohammed from its shrine for the first time in 60 years and wrapped himself in it. He appeared on the roof of a building in Kandahar while hundreds of Pashtun mullahs below declared him 'Amir al-Mu'minin' (Commander of the Faithful).
September 1996: Taliban Takeover of Kabul
In September 1996, as the Taliban prepared for a major offensive, Massoud ordered a retreat from Kabul to the northeastern Hindu Kush mountains, choosing to continue resistance rather than engage in urban warfare. The Taliban seized Kabul on September 27, 1996, establishing the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. Analysts at the time suggested the Taliban were evolving into a proxy force serving Pakistan's regional interests.
September 1996: Formation of the United Front (Northern Alliance)
In late 1996, Ahmad Shah Massoud and Abdul Rashid Dostum, former enemies, formed the United Front to oppose the Taliban, who were preparing attacks on their remaining territories.
October 1996: Massoud's forces maintain human rights record
Human Rights Watch reported no human rights abuses by forces under Ahmad Shah Massoud's direct command from October 1996 to his assassination in September 2001.
1996: Beginning of Systematic Massacres by Taliban
A UN report detailed the Taliban's systematic massacres of civilians between 1996 and 2001, deeming these acts as war crimes.
1996: Taliban's Involvement in Drug Trade
Between 1996 and 1999, Mullah Omar reversed his stance on the drug trade, allowing the Taliban to control 96% of Afghanistan's poppy fields and make opium its largest source of taxation. This funded their war efforts and became a mainstay of their income.
1996: Al-Qaeda establishes a presence within the Taliban state
Between 1996 and 2001, Osama bin Laden's Al-Qaeda, along with Ayman al-Zawahiri, established themselves as a state within the Taliban's control. Bin Laden sent Al-Qaeda militants from Arab and Central Asian countries to join the fight against the United Front, including his Brigade 055.
1996: Taliban's Complex Relationship with Pakistan
By 1996, the Taliban's relationship with Pakistan remained complex, with the group seeking to balance its independence with the need for external support.
1996: Taliban Gains Control of Most of Afghanistan
By 1996, the Taliban, under the leadership of Mullah Omar, had gained control over a significant portion of Afghanistan, marking a turning point in the country's civil war.
1996: Humanitarian Crisis in Afghanistan Under Taliban Rule
By 1996, when the Taliban assumed control, two decades of relentless conflict had severely damaged Afghanistan's infrastructure and economy. The nation faced a lack of running water, limited electricity, minimal telephone service, inadequate roads, and unreliable energy sources. Essential resources like water, food, housing were desperately scarce. The prolonged warfare had also fractured the clan and family structures that had traditionally provided social and economic support. Afghanistan's infant mortality rate was the highest globally, with a quarter of children dying before reaching five years old, significantly exceeding the rates in most other developing nations.
1996: Taliban's Rise to Power and Early Relations with Shias
During their first rule from 1996 to 2001, the Taliban attempted to gain the support of Afghan Shias, including Hazaras. They made deals with Shia political figures and secured support from some Shia religious scholars.
1996: Taliban Enforces Strict Interpretation of Sharia Law
From 1996 onwards, during their rule, the Taliban enforced a strict interpretation of Sharia law, leading to widespread condemnation for their human rights abuses and suppression of freedoms.
1996: Taliban's Suspicion of UN and NGOs (1996-2001)
From 1996 to 2001, despite receiving aid, the Taliban harbored suspicion towards the UN and NGOs due to their non-Muslim status and differing views on aid.
1996: Taliban Regime Gains Limited Recognition
From 1996 to 2001, during its rule over 90% of Afghanistan, the Taliban regime received diplomatic recognition from only three states: the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, all of which provided substantial aid.
1996: Taliban's Religious and Political Philosophy Shaped by Influential Figures
From its inception, the Taliban's religious and political ideology was heavily influenced by figures like Abul A'la Maududi and the Jamaat-e-Islami movement. During their first regime from 1996, Grand Mufti Rashid Ahmed Ludhianvi and his writings played a significant role in shaping their governance.
1996: Taliban Establishes First Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
In 1996, after gaining control over approximately three-quarters of Afghanistan, the Taliban established the First Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. This marked the beginning of their rule characterized by a strict interpretation of Sharia law.
1996: Taliban Ban Recreational Activities
In 1996, during their first rule of Afghanistan, the Taliban banned many recreational activities and games including association football, kite flying, and chess. They also banned various forms of entertainment such as televisions, cinemas, music with instrumental accompaniments, VCRs, satellite dishes, and visual representations of living creatures. However, the daf, a type of frame drum, was not banned.
1996: Economic Policies and Taxes
In 1996, the Taliban imposed a 50% tax on any company operating in Afghanistan and a 6% import tax on goods. They established control over major airports and border crossings, creating a monopoly on trade.
1996: Taliban Rule and Enforcement of Sharia Law
The Taliban's rule in Afghanistan began in 1996, marked by their strict interpretation and enforcement of Sharia law.
1996: End of the Warlord Period and the Rise of the Taliban
The Warlord period in Afghanistan ended in 1996 with the Taliban's rise to power. The Taliban, despite their oppressive rule, brought a degree of order and unity to the war-torn country.
August 1997: Taliban Attack on Sheberghan
On August 1, 1997, the Taliban launched an assault on Sheberghan, the primary military base of Abdul Rashid Dostum. Dostum attributed the attack's success to the participation of 1,500 Pakistani commandos and support from the Pakistani Air Force.
September 1997: Expulsion of UN Officials from Kandahar
Around September 1997, three UN agency heads were expelled from Kandahar after objecting to the Taliban's demand that a female UN High Commissioner for Refugees attorney speak from behind a curtain, concealing her face.
1997: Pakistan provides financial aid to the Taliban
After the Taliban captured Kabul in 1997, Pakistan gave them $30 million in aid and an additional $10 million for government salaries.
1997: Conscription of Children
In 1997, the Taliban began the widespread conscription of children. Thousands of orphaned boys joined various militias for employment, food, shelter, protection, and economic opportunities. Each land-owning family had to provide one young man and $500 in expenses.
1997: Taliban Attorney General's Objection to UN Aid (1997)
In 1997, the Taliban's Attorney General, Maulvi Jalil-ullah Maulvizada, publicly expressed fundamental objections to the type of assistance offered by the UN.
February 1998: Intensified Restrictions on Women in Kabul
In February 1998, the Taliban imposed stricter restrictions on women in Kabul, banning them from the streets, requiring male escorts, and enforcing the burqa.
July 1998: Taliban Closes NGO Offices (July 1998)
In July 1998, the Taliban forcibly shut down all NGO offices following the organizations' refusal to relocate to a designated bombed-out former Polytechnic College. A month later, UN offices were also shut down.
July 1998: Closure of NGO Offices in Kabul
In July 1998, the Taliban forcibly shut down all NGO offices in Kabul after they declined to relocate to a bombed-out former Polytechnic College as instructed.
August 1998: Massacre in Mazar-i-Sharif and Accusations of Takfir
Following the August 1998 massacre of approximately 8,000 mostly Shia Hazara civilians in Mazar-i-Sharif, accusations of takfir (declaring someone an infidel) were directed at the Taliban. This further strained relations between the Taliban and the Shia community.
August 1998: Destruction of Puli Khumri Public Library
In a devastating act of cultural vandalism, the Taliban destroyed the Puli Khumri Public Library in August 1998. The library housed a priceless collection of over 55,000 books and ancient manuscripts, representing a significant loss of Afghanistan's cultural heritage.
August 1998: Attack on Mazar-i-Sharif
On August 8, 1998, the Taliban attacked Mazar-i-Sharif, killing thousands of people, including Iranian diplomats, and displacing thousands more.
1998: UNICEF Report Highlights Educational Crisis
A 1998 UNICEF report painted a grim picture of the state of education in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, revealing that a staggering 9 out of 10 girls and 2 out of 3 boys were not enrolled in school.
1998: Pakistani Military Support for the Taliban
A 1998 US State Department document reported that 20-40% of regular Taliban soldiers were Pakistani.
1998: Control of Trade
By 1998, the Taliban had control over major airports and border crossings, allowing them to establish a monopoly on all trade in Afghanistan.
1998: Taliban Control Over Afghanistan
By 1998, the Taliban's Emirate had gained control over 90% of Afghanistan.
1998: Humanitarian Crisis and Displacement Under Taliban Rule
By 1998, years of conflict had resulted in over a million deaths in Afghanistan, leaving 98,000 families headed by widows. Kabul, ravaged by rocket attacks, saw more than half of its 1.2 million residents relying on aid from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for basic necessities, including drinking water. The ongoing civil war and the constant flow of refugees persisted throughout the Taliban's rule. Offensives in Mazar, Herat, and the Shomali valley displaced over 750,000 civilians, with the Taliban employing scorched earth tactics to prevent support for their adversaries. Under Omar Mujahid's directive, the historic Buddhas of Bamiyan were demolished.
1998: Iranian and Russian Accusations Against Pakistan
In 1998, Iran accused Pakistan of deploying its air force to bomb Mazar-i-Sharif in support of the Taliban and directly implicated Pakistani troops in war crimes committed in Bamiyan. During the same year, Russia held Pakistan responsible for the Taliban's military expansion in northern Afghanistan, alleging the deployment of a large contingent of Pakistani troops, some of whom were subsequently captured by the anti-Taliban United Front.
1998: Defeat of Abdul Rashid Dostum and Continued Resistance of Ahmad Shah Massoud
In 1998, after prolonged fighting, the Taliban and their allies defeated Abdul Rashid Dostum and his Junbish forces, leading to Dostum's exile. Despite this, Ahmad Shah Massoud remained a prominent anti-Taliban leader within Afghanistan, successfully defending significant portions of his territory.
1998: Child Conscription Continues
In 1998, the Taliban continued the conscription of children, with many orphaned boys joining militias. The practice was a means for these boys to gain employment, food, and shelter.
1998: Mazar-i-Sharif Massacre
The 1998 Mazar-i-Sharif massacre, a reprisal for the killing of Taliban fighters and fueled by rumors of Hazara involvement in the death of a Taliban leader, caused significant distrust between the Taliban and Afghan Shias.
1998: Taliban Accused of Blocking Food Aid
The UN accused the Taliban of denying emergency food supplies to 160,000 people in 1998, alleging the Taliban used aid as a weapon.
July 1999: US Implements Trade Sanctions
In July 1999, US president Bill Clinton signed an executive order imposing a complete ban on trade between the US and the Taliban regime.
1999: Pakistani Support for the Taliban (1994-1999)
Between 1994 and 1999, an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 Pakistanis received training and fought in Afghanistan in support of the Taliban.
1999: Massoud's focus on civilian protection and order
By 1999, Massoud initiated the training of police forces specifically to maintain order and safeguard civilians in areas that might come under United Front control, demonstrating his foresight and commitment to protecting non-combatants.
1999: Displacement and Scorched Earth Policy
By 1999, the Taliban had displaced hundreds of thousands from the Shomali Plains and other regions, employing a scorched earth policy that destroyed homes and farmland.
1999: Ongoing Conscription of Children
By 1999, the Taliban's conscription of children remained widespread, with thousands of orphaned boys joining militias for survival and economic opportunities.
1999: Continued Opium Trade
By 1999, the Taliban's control over poppy fields and opium trade continued, making it a significant source of their income and funding for the war.
1999: Record Opium Harvest
In 1999, Afghanistan had a record opium harvest, contributing significantly to the Taliban's income and war efforts.
1999: Mullah Omar's Decree on Buddha Statues
In 1999, Mullah Omar issued a decree calling for the protection of the Buddha statues at Bamyan, showcasing a potential shift in the Taliban's ideology. However, this contrasted with their later destruction in 2001.
1999: Taliban Leader Orders Protection of Bamiyan Buddha Statues
In 1999, Mullah Omar, the leader of the Taliban, issued a decree calling for the protection of the Bamiyan Buddha statues. These ancient statues, carved into a cliff in central Afghanistan, held significant cultural and historical value.
1999: Human Trafficking and Kidnapping of Women
In 1999, during an offensive in the Shomali Plains, the Taliban and al-Qaeda kidnapped over 600 women, subjecting them to trafficking and sexual slavery.
1999: Taliban Ban Kite Flying
In 1999, the Taliban banned kite flying in Afghanistan, a popular activity among children. This ban motivated Khaled Hosseini to write a short story about two boys flying kites in Kabul, which he later developed into his first novel, The Kite Runner.
1999: Renewed efforts for unity and the grand Pashtun-Tajik alliance
Starting in 1999, a renewed effort for unity emerged, spearheaded by Ahmad Shah Massoud and Abdul Haq, to bring together all ethnic groups in Afghanistan. As Massoud united Tajiks, Hazara, Uzbeks, and some Pashtun commanders under the United Front, Abdul Haq, a respected Pashtun commander, attracted an increasing number of defectors from the Taliban as their popularity waned.
1999: Capture of Bamian and Forced Labor
The Taliban seized Bamian in 1999, executing civilians and forcing others into labor.
December 2000: UN Security Council Resolution 1333
In December 2000, the UN Security Council issued Resolution 1333, acknowledging the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, condemning the Taliban's use of its territory for training terrorists, and denouncing their harboring of Osama bin Laden. This resolution imposed stringent sanctions on Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
December 2000: UN Resolution 1333
In December 2000, the UN passed resolution 1333, demanding a freeze on Taliban assets and the closure of their offices worldwide, including Ariana Afghan Airlines.
2000: Formation of a new alliance for a post-Taliban Afghanistan
By 2000, Massoud, Haq, and others formed a new alliance, with international support, to plan for a post-Taliban Afghanistan. This alliance, referred to as the "grand Pashtun-Tajik alliance," aimed to work under the exiled Afghan king Zahir Shah for an ethnically balanced government. They held a meeting in northern Afghanistan to discuss a Loya Jirga (a traditional council of elders) as part of their peace plan, signifying a significant step towards unity and stability.
2000: Education System Decimated Under Taliban Rule
By the year 2000, the Taliban's repressive policies had severely crippled the Afghan education system, with fewer than 4-5% of children receiving primary education and even fewer attending secondary school or university.
2000: UN imposes arms embargo on the Taliban
During 2000, the UN Security Council imposed an arms embargo to stop military support to the Taliban, specifically pointing out Pakistan's role.
2000: Opium Ban and Production Drop
In 2000, Mullah Omar passed a decree banning the cultivation of opium, causing production to drop significantly. However, many observers believed this was a strategic move to raise opium prices and profit from existing stockpiles.
2000: Taliban Bans Opium Cultivation and Trafficking
In 2000, Mullah Omar, the leader of the Taliban, issued a decree banning opium cultivation and drug trafficking in Afghanistan. This decision led to a significant decrease in opium production, demonstrating the Taliban's strict approach to drug control.
2000: UN Sanctions Against Taliban (2000)
In 2000, the UN imposed sanctions on Taliban officials and leaders due to their harboring of Osama bin Laden, leading to the deaths of several Taliban leaders.
January 2001: Massacre in Yakaolang
The Taliban executed approximately 300 people in Yakaolang in January 2001, including Hazara elders.
March 2001: Destruction of the Buddhas of Bamiyan
In March 2001, under the direct order of Taliban leader Mullah Omar, the Buddhas of Bamiyan, ancient and culturally significant statues, were destroyed using dynamite. This act of cultural destruction sparked international outrage and condemnation.
March 2001: Taliban Destroys Bamiyan Buddha Statues Despite Earlier Decree for Protection
In a controversial move that drew international condemnation, the Taliban, in March 2001, destroyed the ancient Buddha statues at Bamiyan. This act contradicted an earlier decree by Mullah Omar in 1999 ordering the statues' protection, highlighting the complexities and contradictions within the Taliban's stance on cultural heritage.
May 2001: Taliban Imposes Restrictions on Religious Minorities
In May 2001, the Taliban announced a decree that required Hindus in Afghanistan to wear special badges, drawing comparisons to the persecution of Jews in Nazi Germany. This marked a significant escalation in the Taliban's discriminatory policies against religious minorities.
July 2001: International accusations against Pakistan for supporting the Taliban
In July 2001, several countries, including the United States, accused Pakistan of violating U.N. sanctions by providing military aid to the Taliban.
September 2001: Massoud as a barrier against the Taliban
Between October 1996 and September 2001, an estimated 400,000 to 1 million Afghans sought refuge from the Taliban in areas under Massoud's control. National Geographic, in their documentary "Inside the Taliban," portrayed Massoud as a significant obstacle to further Taliban atrocities.
September 2001: Assassination of Massoud
In September 2001, Ahmad Shah Massoud, a prominent Afghan leader, was killed in a suicide attack by individuals posing as journalists. This event occurred in the Takhar Province of Afghanistan.
September 2001: Opium Cultivation Resumes
In September 2001, before the 11 September attacks on the United States, the Taliban allegedly authorized Afghan peasants to resume opium cultivation.
September 2001: President Bush Addresses Congress
In September 2001, following the September 11 attacks, US President George W. Bush addressed a joint session of Congress. During his address, he attributed blame to Al-Qaeda for the attacks, highlighting their influence in Afghanistan and support for the Taliban regime. President Bush condemned the Taliban regime and outlined non-negotiable demands.
September 2001: International Response to September 11 Attacks
In September 2001, following the September 11 attacks, the United States sought support from the international community for a military campaign aimed at overthrowing the Taliban. The UN responded by issuing two resolutions on terrorism, urging nations to enhance cooperation and fully implement relevant international conventions related to terrorism.
September 2001: John P. O'Neill's Warning and Death
John P. O'Neill, a counter-terrorism expert, expressed concerns about an impending significant event, linking it to events in Afghanistan, specifically mentioning the assassination of Massoud. Tragically, he died on September 11, 2001, during the World Trade Center attacks.
October 2001: US-led Invasion of Afghanistan
In October 2001, a US-led coalition, including the Afghan Northern Alliance, invaded Afghanistan, leading to the overthrow of the Taliban regime. The Taliban leadership sought refuge in Pakistan.
November 2001: ISI Support for the Taliban
Following the fall of Kabul to anti-Taliban forces in November 2001, Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) provided support to retreating Taliban militias. They facilitated the evacuation of Taliban, Al-Qaeda fighters, and ISI operatives from Kunduz to Pakistan Air Force bases using Pakistan Army cargo aircraft.
November 2001: United Front's control and influence in Afghanistan
From the Taliban's takeover of Kabul in September 1996 until November 2001, the United Front maintained control over approximately 30% of Afghanistan's population.
November 2001: Kunduz Airlift
In November 2001, prior to the capture of Kunduz by United Front troops, a significant number of Taliban and Al-Qaeda commanders, fighters, Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence agents, military personnel, and other supporters were evacuated from Kunduz by Pakistan Army aircraft.
December 2001: United Front Gains Control
Following the September 11 attacks, Massoud's United Front, with support from Abdul Rashid Dostum's forces and American air support, successfully ousted the Taliban from power in Kabul. By December 2001, the United Front had gained control over a significant portion of the country and played a vital role in establishing the interim government under Hamid Karzai.
December 2001: Bonn Agreement and Exclusion of the Taliban
In December 2001, the Bonn Agreement was reached, shaping the future of Afghanistan after the fall of the Taliban. However, the Taliban were not invited to participate in the agreement, a decision attributed to their perceived defeat and a condition imposed by the US.
December 2001: Taliban Overthrown by US-Led Invasion
The Taliban's control over most of Afghanistan ended in December 2001 when they were overthrown by a US-led invasion following the September 11 attacks.
2001: Taliban Regime Falls, Support Shifts
After the Taliban regime's fall in late 2001, support for the Taliban shifted, with Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, China, Qatar, and private donors emerging as primary funders.
2001: Economic Collapse
By 2001, Afghanistan's economy was close to total collapse, with a per capita income of under $200. The Taliban's economic policies had led to significant economic challenges.
2001: Taliban's Social Restrictions and Elimination of Opium Production
By 2001, the Taliban's rule had imposed strict social regulations, including bans on women working and girls attending schools, enforcement of purdah and awrah, and punishments for violations. Men were mandated to grow beards and wear turbans, prayer was enforced, and gambling was banned. Notably, the Taliban's ban on opium cultivation in 2000 resulted in a near eradication of opium production.
2001: Taliban Rule Devastates Infrastructure
By 2001, under Taliban rule, Afghanistan's infrastructure was in ruins, with telecommunications crippled, roads destroyed, and government buildings on the verge of collapse. The illegal timber trade also led to significant deforestation.
2001: End of Taliban's First Regime: Ideological Influences and Legacy
By the end of the Taliban's first regime in 2001, their ideology, heavily influenced by figures like Abul A'la Maududi and Grand Mufti Rashid Ahmed Ludhianvi, had left a profound mark on Afghanistan's social, political, and religious landscape.
2001: Destruction of Buddha Statues
Contradicting a previous decree for their protection, the Taliban destroyed the Buddha statues at Bamyan in 2001, sparking international condemnation.
2001: Taliban and Salafists: A Complex Relationship
Despite not being Salafists themselves, the Taliban suppressed the Salafi movement in Afghanistan after coming to power in the 1990s. However, following the US invasion in 2001, the Taliban and Salafists joined forces against NATO, with Salafists remaining under Taliban command.
2001: Pakistani Involvement in the War in Afghanistan
During 2001, approximately 28,000-30,000 Pakistani nationals, 14,000-15,000 Afghan Taliban fighters, and 2,000-3,000 al-Qaeda militants, forming a force of roughly 45,000, fought against anti-Taliban forces in Afghanistan.
2001: International Conference on Afghanistan and Massoud's Vision
During the 2001 International Conference on Afghanistan in Bonn, Afghan diplomat Humayun Tandar highlighted Massoud's belief that education was crucial to overcoming longstanding Afghan traditions. Massoud aimed to create unity beyond language, ethnicity, region, and even religion, as shared by Jean-José Puig, illustrating Massoud's inclusive approach.
2001: Taliban Confiscates Torah Scroll
During the Taliban's rule in 2001, they confiscated the Torah scroll from the synagogue in Kabul, further demonstrating their disregard for religious freedom.
2001: Taliban Adopts New Tactics and Faces Resurgence
Following the US-led invasion in 2001, the Taliban resorted to new tactics, including suicide attacks, marking a shift from their previous strategies. Factors like support from Pakistan, the drug trade, and limited NATO forces contributed to their resurgence.
2001: Taliban's Military Campaign (1995-2001)
From 1995 to 2001, the Taliban's military objective was to reassert Pashtun dominance in northern Afghanistan, echoing the rule of Abdur Rahman (the Iron Emir).
2001: Taliban's Suspicion of UN and NGOs (1996-2001)
From 1996 to 2001, despite receiving aid, the Taliban harbored suspicion towards the UN and NGOs due to their non-Muslim status and differing views on aid.
2001: Taliban's Control and Economic Collapse
In 2001, the Taliban controlled 85% of Afghanistan, primarily its major cities and highways. Despite this control, the per capita income of the 25 million population was under $200, and the country was close to total economic collapse.
2001: Taliban Overthrown by US Invasion
In 2001, the Taliban's rule in Afghanistan came to an end after being overthrown by a US-led invasion following the September 11 attacks. This marked a turning point in the country's history and led to the establishment of a new government.
2001: Massoud's Strategic Shift and Advocacy for Democracy
In early 2001, Ahmad Shah Massoud adopted a new strategy that combined local military pressure with global political appeals. Recognizing the growing discontent with Taliban rule, he promoted "popular consensus, general elections, and democracy" on an international scale.
2001: Massoud's address to the European Parliament
In early 2001, Ahmad Shah Massoud, along with other Afghan ethnic leaders, addressed the European Parliament in Brussels. He appealed for international humanitarian aid for the Afghan people and warned about an imminent large-scale attack on US soil based on intelligence gathered. Massoud criticized the Taliban and Al-Qaeda for their misrepresentation of Islam, highlighting their dependence on external support. This visit emphasized the global stage Massoud occupied and his role as a voice for a democratic Afghanistan.
2001: Meeting with Captured Taliban Fighters
In the spring of 2001, in Afghanistan's Panjshir Valley, Ahmad Shah Massoud, the leader of the Afghan resistance against the Taliban, met with 30 captured Taliban fighters. During this meeting, the Taliban fighters defended their destruction of the Buddha statues earlier that year, stating that worshiping anything outside of Islam was unacceptable.
2001: End of Taliban's First Rule
The Taliban's first rule came to an end in 2001, marked by their overthrow by US-led forces following the September 11 attacks. This period witnessed significant human rights violations and a brutal regime.
May 2002: Taliban Forms Leadership Council in Exile
In May 2002, following their overthrow, exiled members of the Taliban established the Council of Leaders (Rahbarī Shūrā) in Quetta, Pakistan, to continue their struggle.
2002: Significant Opium Stockpiles
In 2002, the United Nations reported the existence of significant opium stockpiles that had been accumulated during previous years of bumper harvests.
2002: Formation of the Quetta Shura
In mid-2002, exiled Taliban leaders based in Pakistan started to reestablish contact with one another. This led to the formation of the Quetta Shura in Quetta, Pakistan.
2002: End of the Islamic State of Afghanistan
The Islamic State of Afghanistan ended in 2002.
June 2003: Taliban Regroups and Prepares for Guerrilla War
In June 2003, high-ranking Taliban officials announced the group's regrouping and readiness to engage in guerrilla warfare to expel US forces from Afghanistan.
2003: Taliban Resurgence
By 2003, the Taliban began showing signs of resurgence, eventually launching an insurgency that reignited conflict in Afghanistan.
2003: Taliban Condemns Sectarianism
Following the American invasion of Iraq in 2003, Taliban leader Mullah Omar published a message condemning sectarianism and addressing both the Iraqi and Afghan people, urging unity.
2003: Taliban Portrayed in "The Kite Runner" (2003)
The Taliban were portrayed in Khaled Hosseini's popular 2003 novel, "The Kite Runner."
2004: Mullah Omar Announces Insurgency
In 2004, Mullah Omar, the leader of the Taliban, announced an insurgency against the US and the transitional Afghan government, aiming to regain control of Afghanistan.
2004: Growing Hostility Towards Foreigners in Afghanistan
Since 2004, there had been a growing resentment and hostility towards foreigners in Afghanistan. This sentiment was exacerbated by incidents like the US military truck accident and civilian casualties from airstrikes, contributing to the Taliban's resurgence.
2005: Study Examines Taliban Funding Sources
A study examining Taliban funding sources from 2005 to 2015 was conducted.
2005: Death of Isaac Levy
Isaac Levy, one of the last two known Jews living in Afghanistan during the first period of Taliban rule, passed away in 2005.
May 2006: Kabul Riot Erupts After US Military Truck Accident
In May 2006, a US military truck accident in Kabul sparked a riot that resulted in multiple casualties. The incident, fueled by growing anti-American sentiment, highlighted the escalating tensions between the Afghan population and foreign forces.
2006: Taliban Depicted in Hindi Cinema (2006)
Hindi cinema portrayed the Taliban in the film "Kabul Express," released in 2006.
2006: The Washington Post Editorial on US Operations in Afghanistan
In 2006, The Washington Post published an editorial by John Lehman, reflecting on the US military operations in Afghanistan. The editorial likely provided insights or perspectives on the events surrounding the US involvement in Afghanistan.
2006: Lakhdar Brahimi's Admission
In 2006, UN negotiator Lakhdar Brahimi acknowledged that excluding the Taliban from the Bonn Agreement was a significant mistake, referring to it as "our original sin".
2006: Escalation of Violence Against Civilians
In 2006, the Taliban significantly increased their attacks on Afghan civilians, with bombings and other violent acts leading to a sharp rise in casualties. Human Rights Watch reported at least 669 civilian deaths in over 350 attacks, many of which appeared to deliberately target non-combatants.
May 2007: Assassination of Mullah Dadullah
The assassination of Mullah Dadullah in May 2007, while a significant event, did not significantly disrupt the Taliban due to its leadership structure. However, it strained the nascent relationship between the Taliban and Pakistan.
September 2007: Karzai's Peace Talk Offer Rejected by Taliban
In September 2007, Afghan President Hamid Karzai offered peace talks with the Taliban. However, the Taliban rejected the offer, citing the presence of foreign troops as a non-negotiable condition for talks.
2007: Economic Recovery
As of 2007, Afghanistan's economy had begun to recover, with estimated foreign reserves of three billion dollars and a 13% increase in economic growth.
2007: Taliban in Film Adaptation of "The Kite Runner" (2007)
The Taliban were featured in the 2007 film adaptation of Khaled Hosseini's novel, "The Kite Runner."
2007: Rising Civilian Casualties in Afghan War
The United Nations reported a concerning trend in 2007, with civilian deaths caused by both the Taliban and pro-government forces increasing by almost 50% between 2007 and 2009. The Taliban's use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) contributed to this rise, as they increasingly targeted civilian locations, including girls' schools.
August 2008: Murder of Aid Workers in Kabul
In a tragic incident in August 2008, three female aid workers from Britain, Canada, and the United States were murdered in Kabul. The Taliban claimed responsibility for their deaths, accusing them of being foreign spies. These women were working for the International Rescue Committee.
October 2008: Murder of British Aid Worker Gayle Williams
In October 2008, Gayle Williams, a British aid worker associated with the Christian charity SERVE Afghanistan, was murdered near Kabul. The Taliban claimed they targeted her because her organization was allegedly preaching Christianity in Afghanistan.
2008: Attacks on Aid Workers Begin
Starting in 2008, the Taliban began targeting and assassinating Western and Afghan medical and aid workers in Afghanistan. They justified these attacks with claims that the workers were spies, proselytizing Christianity, or involved in a plot to sterilize Muslim children with polio vaccines.
February 2009: Taliban Leadership Located in Quetta, Pakistan
In February 2009, US military officials identified Quetta, Pakistan as the location of the Taliban leadership, highlighting the group's external support and safe haven.
December 2009: Taliban Offers Guarantees to US, Receives No Response
The Taliban offered "legal guarantees" to the United States in December 2009, assuring that they would not allow Afghanistan to be used for attacks against other countries. The US did not respond to this offer.
2009: UN Reports Surge in Civilian Deaths
By 2009, the United Nations reported a continued upward trend in civilian casualties in the Afghan war. The Taliban's tactics, including the use of IEDs, were identified as a major factor contributing to the increasing number of civilian deaths.
2009: Karzai's Re-Election and Call for Peace Jirga
Following his re-election in 2009, Afghan President Hamid Karzai announced his intention to host a Peace Jirga, aiming to bring together different factions involved in the conflict and find a peaceful resolution.
2009: Calls for Talks with Taliban (2009)
In 2009, British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband and US Secretary Hillary Clinton proposed talks with 'regular Taliban fighters,' excluding top leaders considered committed to global jihad. UN official Kai Eide urged talks with top Taliban leadership, including Mullah Omar, despite Omar's dismissal of negotiations while foreign troops remained in Afghanistan.
2009: Comparison of Taliban and Hamas Tactics
In 2009, Colonel Richard Kemp, a former commander of British forces in Afghanistan, compared the Taliban's tactics and strategies to those employed by Hamas in Gaza. This comparison highlighted the similarities in their approaches to conflict and governance.
2009: Clinton Highlights Taliban Funding Source
In 2009, then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton identified "protection money" as a significant source of funding for the Taliban.
2009: High Civilian Casualties Attributed to Taliban
The UN reported that the Taliban and its allies were responsible for 76% of Afghan civilian casualties in 2009.
February 2010: Taliban Leader Abdul Ghani Baradar Captured in Pakistan
Abdul Ghani Baradar, a co-founder of the Taliban and an advocate for peace talks, was captured in a joint US-Pakistani raid in February 2010. The arrest raised concerns and angered the Afghan government, who saw it as an attempt to sabotage peace negotiations.
June 2010: Karzai Hosts Peace Jirga, Taliban and Hizb-i Islami Refuse to Attend
In June 2010, Afghan President Hamid Karzai organized a Peace Jirga, a traditional assembly, to initiate peace talks. Despite invitations, the Taliban and Hizb-i Islami Gulbuddin refused to participate, highlighting the challenges in achieving a negotiated settlement.
August 2010: Massacre of Medical Aid Workers
In August 2010, ten medical aid workers, including six Americans, one Briton, one German, and two Afghans, were tragically killed in Badakhshan Province. While both the Taliban and Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin claimed responsibility, the Taliban stated they targeted the group for allegedly proselytizing Christianity. The victims were associated with the International Assistance Mission.
October 2010: NATO Facilitates Talks with Imposter Taliban Leader
In October 2010, NATO officials were tricked into facilitating peace talks with an individual posing as a high-ranking Taliban leader. The incident highlighted the complexities and challenges in establishing credible communication channels with the Taliban.
2010: UN Lifts Sanctions Against Taliban (2010)
In 2010, the UN lifted sanctions against the Taliban and requested the removal of Taliban leaders and others from terrorism watch lists. The US and Europe also expressed support for President Karzai's renewed peace negotiation efforts with the Taliban.
2010: High Civilian Casualties Attributed to Taliban
The United Nations reported that the Taliban and their allies were responsible for 76% of Afghan civilian casualties in 2010.
June 2011: Secret Talks Between US and Taliban Begin
In June 2011, secret talks were confirmed to be taking place between the US and the Taliban.
2011: Continued High Civilian Casualties and Justification for Past Brutality
The Taliban and their allies were responsible for 80% of Afghan civilian casualties in 2011, according to the UN. Former Taliban ambassador to Pakistan, Mullah Abdul Salam Zaeef, stated that the Taliban's past cruelty was "necessary".
2011: Taliban Condemns 2011 Afghanistan Ashura Bombings
The Taliban condemned the 2011 Afghanistan Ashura bombings that targeted Shia Afghans in Kabul and Mazar-i-Sharif. In response to the attacks, Taliban official Abdul-Qahhar Balkhi released a statement denouncing the sectarian killings as a dangerous conspiracy.
2011: Targeted Killings by the Taliban
Throughout 2011, the Taliban carried out targeted killings of prominent anti-Taliban figures. Victims included former Afghan President Burhanuddin Rabbani, the police chief of northern Afghanistan, the commander of the anti-Taliban 303 Pamir Corps, Mohammad Daud Daud, and the police chief of Kunduz, Abdul Rahman Saidkhaili, all associated with the Massoud faction of the United Front.
January 2012: US-Taliban Talks Collapse
By January 2012, the secret talks between the US and the Taliban that began in June 2011 had collapsed.
March 2012: Attempts to Restart Talks Cancelled
Further attempts to resume talks between the US and the Taliban were canceled in March 2012.
December 2012: Attacks on Polio Workers in Pakistan
In December 2012, four female UN polio workers were killed in Karachi, Pakistan. The incident raised concerns about the safety of polio vaccination campaigns, particularly in light of the Taliban's previous opposition to such initiatives.
2012: Attacks on Aid Workers Continue
The Taliban's campaign of violence against aid workers persisted until 2012. Their continued attacks, fueled by distrust and suspicion, significantly hampered humanitarian efforts in the region.
2012: Sustained High Civilian Casualties from Taliban
The UN reported that the Taliban and their allies were responsible for 80% of civilian casualties in Afghanistan in 2012.
March 2013: Suspension of Polio Vaccinations in Nuristan
By March 2013, the Afghan government was forced to halt polio vaccination efforts in Nuristan Province due to the Taliban's strong influence in the region and their continued opposition to the program.
May 2013: Taliban Shifts Stance on Polio Vaccinations
In a significant policy shift in May 2013, the Taliban's leadership announced their support for polio vaccinations. They acknowledged the vaccine's importance in preventing polio and pledged to cooperate with immunization volunteers, provided they respected Islamic values and local customs.
June 2013: Talks Cancelled Again over Taliban Office Dispute
In June 2013, another attempt to restart talks between the US and the Taliban was cancelled following a dispute regarding the Taliban's political office in Qatar.
2013: Death of Mullah Mohammed Omar
In 2013, Mullah Mohammed Omar, the supreme commander of the Taliban, passed away.
2013: Taliban Featured in "Lone Survivor" (2013)
The Taliban were depicted in the American film "Lone Survivor," released in 2013, which is based on a true story.
2014: Taliban Receives Nearly $900 Million in External Support
In 2014, the Taliban received close to $900 million in external support.
August 2015: Taliban Kills 50 People in Kabul Attack
In a devastating attack in August 2015, the Taliban killed approximately 50 people in Kabul, underscoring their capacity for violence and the ongoing security challenges in Afghanistan.
2015: Study Concludes on Taliban Funding Sources
A study concluded that, from 2005 to 2015, the Taliban received most of its financial support from governments (Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, China, Qatar), private donors (Saudi Arabia), al-Qaeda, and briefly, the Islamic State.
2015: Formation of the High Council of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
Abdul-Manan Niazi, the commander responsible for the 1998 Mazar-i-Sharif massacre, later formed the rebellious High Council of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in 2015. He was later killed, reportedly by the Taliban.
2015: Mullah Akhtar Mansour Becomes Leader
In 2015, following the death of Mullah Mohammed Omar, Mullah Akhtar Mansour was elected as the new leader of the Taliban.
January 2016: Four-Way Talks in Pakistan without Taliban
Pakistan hosted a round of four-way talks with Afghan, Chinese, and American officials in January 2016, however the Taliban did not attend.
May 2016: Mullah Akhtar Mansour's Death
In May 2016, Mullah Akhtar Mansour, who had become the Taliban leader in 2015 after the death of Mullah Mohammed Omar, was killed in a US drone strike. Following his death, Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada became the group's leader.
July 2016: Taliban Controls 20% of Afghanistan, Helmand Province as Stronghold
By July 2016, the Taliban's control had expanded to an estimated 20% of Afghanistan, with Helmand Province as their primary stronghold.
December 2016: Taliban Controls 10% and Contests 26% of Afghanistan
By December 2016, the US military estimated that the Taliban directly controlled 10% of Afghanistan and were actively contesting another 26%, indicating their growing influence and the challenges faced by the Afghan government.
2016: Hazara Fighters Join the Taliban Insurgency
Several Hazara Shia Taliban commanders, particularly from Bamyan and Daikundi provinces, participated in the Taliban insurgency. Notably, the Qarabaghi tribe, with ties to Taliban-supporting Sunni Pashtuns, saw voluntary enlistment. Additionally, a pro-government Shia Hazara militia called Fedayi defected to the Taliban a few years before 2016.
August 2017: Taliban Vows to Continue Fighting After Trump's Speech
In response to a speech by US President Donald Trump in August 2017, a Taliban spokesman vowed to continue their fight against "American invaders" demonstrating their unwavering commitment to their ideology and goals.
August 2017: Trump Accuses Pakistan of Harboring Taliban
US President Donald Trump first accused Pakistan of harboring the Taliban and of inaction against terrorists in August 2017.
December 2017: UN Reports Continued Attacks on Education
Even after the Taliban's removal from power, attacks on educational institutions persisted. In December 2017, the United Nations reported over 1,000 schools destroyed, damaged, or occupied, and a tragic toll of 100 teachers and students killed by the Taliban.
January 2018: Trump Again Accuses Pakistan
In January 2018, US President Donald Trump again accused Pakistan of harboring the Taliban and of inaction against terrorists.
January 2018: Taliban Suicide Bombing Kills Over 100 in Kabul
In January 2018, a Taliban suicide bomber, using an ambulance as a disguise, detonated a bomb in Kabul, killing over 100 people. This attack highlighted the brutality and devastation caused by the group.
February 2018: Afghan President Proposes Unconditional Peace Talks
Following increased violence, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani proposed unconditional peace talks with the Taliban in February 2018, offering them recognition as a legal political party and the release of Taliban prisoners.
December 2019: Lawsuit Alleges US Contractors Funded Taliban
In December 2019, a lawsuit filed by Gold Star families alleged that some US defense contractors in Afghanistan made illegal "protection payments" to the Taliban, contributing to the deaths and injuries of American personnel.
February 2020: US-Taliban Deal Signed in Doha
The US–Taliban deal, officially titled Agreement for Bringing Peace to Afghanistan, was signed in Doha, Qatar in February 2020. The deal included provisions for the withdrawal of US and NATO troops, a Taliban pledge to prevent al-Qaeda operation in their controlled areas, and talks between the Taliban and Afghan government.
April 2020: Taliban Attacks Surge Despite Peace Agreement
Despite the peace agreement signed in February 2020, insurgent attacks by the Taliban against Afghan security forces surged. Between March 1st and April 15th 2020, over 4,500 attacks were conducted, a 70% increase from the same period the previous year.
May 2020: Mullah Yaqoob Assumes Leadership Roles within the Taliban
In May 2020, Mullah Yaqoob, son of Mullah Omar, took on significant leadership roles within the Taliban, including head of the military commission, effectively making him the insurgents' military chief.
September 2020: Afghan Government and Taliban Begin Talks in Doha
Talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban commenced in Doha on September 12th, 2020. Though set for March, the negotiations had been delayed due to a prisoner exchange dispute.
2020: Taliban Overtakes ISIL as Most Dangerous Terrorist Group
By 2020, the Institute for Economics & Peace designated the Taliban as the most dangerous terrorist group globally, surpassing ISIL. This assessment was based on the Taliban's territorial expansion and ongoing campaigns of violence.
2020: Taliban Income Estimated at $1.6 Billion
In 2020, the Taliban's income was estimated at $1.6 billion, primarily generated through activities such as drugs, mining, extortion, taxes, donations, and exports.
May 2021: Taliban Launches Offensive Leading to Fall of Kabul
In May 2021, under the leadership of Hibatullah Akhundzada, the Taliban initiated a large-scale military offensive that ultimately resulted in the fall of Kabul in August 2021.
July 2021: Taliban Launches Major Offensive
In the midst of the US troop withdrawal, the Taliban led a major offensive in Afghanistan, taking control of over half of Afghanistan's districts by July 23rd, 2021.
August 2021: Taliban Retakes Control of Afghanistan
After a swift military campaign, the Taliban successfully retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, leading to the collapse of the Islamic Republic and the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate.
August 2021: Taliban Takes Control of Kabul, Ghani Flees
By mid-August 2021, the Taliban had taken control of every major city in Afghanistan. As Kabul was nearly seized, the Taliban occupied the Presidential Palace, and President Ashraf Ghani fled to the United Arab Emirates.
August 2021: Departure of Last Jew from Afghanistan
In August 2021, Zablon Simintov, the last remaining Jew in Afghanistan, left the country, marking the end of centuries of Jewish presence in Afghanistan.
August 2021: Taliban Recaptures Kabul and Returns to Power
In August 2021, the Taliban recaptured Kabul after the departure of most coalition forces, marking their return to power after nearly 20 years. This event led to the collapse of the Islamic Republic and the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate.
August 2021: Taliban Returns to Power
The Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in mid-August 2021.
September 2021: Taliban Seeks International Recognition
Despite international criticism, the Taliban sought international recognition for its Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. They sent a letter to the UN in September 2021 to accept Suhail Shaheen as their Permanent Representative, a request rejected by the UN Credentials Committee.
September 2021: Taliban Reopens Primary Schools for Both Genders, Announces Plans for Segregated Secondary Education
In September 2021, the Taliban reopened primary schools for both boys and girls, while announcing plans to reopen secondary schools exclusively for boys. Although they pledged to allow female college students to continue their education with segregation, concerns arose about the future of girls' education beyond primary school.
September 2021: Taliban Government Divisions
In mid-September 2021, deputy Prime Minister Abdul Ghani Baradar mysteriously disappeared for several days, leading to rumors of injury after a brawl with other Taliban members. This highlighted the profound divisions within the Taliban government between the Kandahar faction and the Haqqani network.
October 2021: ISIS Carries Out Suicide Bombings
Despite Taliban claims of defeating ISIS, the group carried out suicide bombings in October 2021 at Shia mosques in Kunduz and Kandahar, resulting in the deaths of over 115 people.
October 2021: Russia Hosts Taliban Talks, Seeking Influence
In October 2021, Russia hosted the Taliban in Moscow, aiming to increase its influence in Central Asia. Officials from 10 countries discussed the Taliban's request for UN recognition, economic aid, and concerns about the Islamic State's presence.
November 2021: Human Rights Watch Report Reveals Taliban Killings
A Human Rights Watch report released in November 2021 revealed that the Taliban had killed or forcibly disappeared over 100 former members of Afghan security forces in the three months since their takeover.
November 2021: Taliban Mandates Afghani for Transactions
In November 2021, the Taliban mandated the use of Afghanis for all economic transactions in Afghanistan, prohibiting the use of foreign currencies.
2021: Taliban Seeks Shia Unity After Reclaiming Power
After retaking Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban, attempting to improve their image and relations with Shia-majority Iran, stressed unity between Shiites and Sunnis. They appointed a Shia governor, recruited Hazaras against ISIS-K, and pledged protection for the Shia community.
2021: Taliban Responds to Criticism Over Lack of Diversity
In 2021, in response to international criticism regarding the lack of diversity within their ranks, the Taliban appointed an ethnic Hazara as deputy health minister and an ethnic Tajik as deputy trade minister.
2021: Taliban's New Era: Moderation, Economic Crisis, and International Demands
In 2021, the Taliban, having swiftly taken over Afghanistan, projected an image of moderation, distancing themselves from their past. However, the nation faced a severe economic crisis due to frozen assets and halted international aid, leading to widespread food insecurity. The international community urged the Taliban to form an inclusive government, uphold human rights, and prevent terrorism in exchange for recognition.
2021: Taliban Emphasize "Softness" of Revolution
The Taliban seized power from the established government in 2021. Senior Taliban leaders have emphasized the "softness" of their revolution and desire for good relations with the US in discussions with American journalist Jon Lee Anderson.
2021: Taliban Returns to Power, Reinstates Restrictions
Upon their return to power in 2021, the Taliban reinstated many of their restrictive policies, including limitations on women's rights and freedoms, drawing international condemnation.
January 2022: International Response to Oslo Talks
At a UN Security Council meeting on January 26, 2022, the Norwegian Prime Minister described the Oslo talks as "serious" and "genuine" but not an endorsement of the Taliban. Russia urged the return of frozen Afghan funds, while China criticized the politicization of aid.
January 2022: Taliban Holds Talks in Oslo, Faces Human Rights Pressure
In January 2022, a Taliban delegation visited Oslo, marking their first official trip to Western Europe since returning to power. Western diplomats linked humanitarian aid to human rights improvements, while the UN Security Council extended travel ban exemptions for some Taliban members.
February 2022: Haqqani Network's Control
By February 2022, the Haqqani network, led by Sirajuddin Haqqani as acting interior minister, controlled a majority of security positions in Afghanistan. The network is closely linked to Pakistan's secret services and is interested in global jihad.
February 2022: Taliban Detains International Journalists, Raising Concerns About Press Freedom
In February 2022, the Taliban detained several international journalists, including Andrew North, signaling a decline in press freedom under their rule. Despite their release after several days, the incident, along with subsequent arrests and restrictions on access, drew criticism from press freedom organizations.
February 2022: Kabul University Reopens with Gender Segregation and Dress Code
Kabul University reopened in February 2022 under Taliban rule, implementing gender-segregated classes and a mandatory dress code for women, requiring an abaya and hijab. Despite low attendance on the first day, the reopening marked a significant development in higher education.
March 2022: Taliban Abruptly Halts Girls' Secondary Education, Citing Uniform Concerns
In March 2022, the Taliban abruptly reversed course on plans to allow girls to return to secondary school, even with segregation. Citing concerns over appropriate uniforms for female students, the decision effectively limited girls' education to the sixth grade, raising international condemnation.
March 2022: UN Extends Travel Ban Exemption
The UN Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee extended a travel ban exemption until March 21, 2022, for 14 listed Taliban members to facilitate talks.
December 20, 2022: Taliban Bans Women from Universities, Revoking Access to Higher Education
On December 20, 2022, the Taliban issued a decree banning female students from attending universities, effectively barring women from higher education. This decision marked a significant escalation in restrictions on women's rights and access to education.
December 21, 2022: Taliban Imposes Blanket Ban on Girls' and Women's Education in Afghanistan
On December 21, 2022, the Taliban imposed a complete ban on education for all girls and women, extending from primary to higher education. This sweeping ban, along with restrictions on female staff, effectively eliminated women from the education sector, one of the few remaining professional fields open to them.
2022: Afghanistan Under Taliban Rule: Food Insecurity and International Pressure
By 2022, Afghanistan under the Taliban was grappling with a dire food insecurity crisis, with millions on the brink of famine. The international community continued to press the Taliban on issues of human rights, inclusive governance, and counterterrorism.
2022: Balkhab Uprising
Despite generally peaceful relations with most Shiites, the 2022 Balkhab uprising resulted in the deaths of some Hazaras, highlighting ongoing tensions.
2023: Taliban Restricts Religious Practices of Minority Communities
As of 2023, reports emerged that the Taliban government was preventing Afghanistan's Sikh and Hindu communities from celebrating their religious holidays, raising concerns about religious freedom.
2023: Taliban Movement Officially Illegal Until 2023
Until 2023, the Taliban movement was considered officially illegal in several countries.
April 2024: Former Sikh MP Returns to Afghanistan Amidst Religious Restrictions
In April 2024, Narendra Singh Khalsa, the former lone Sikh member of parliament, returned to Afghanistan, marking the first time since the Republic's fall. This came despite reports of the Taliban restricting religious practices of minority communities, including Sikhs and Hindus, although the Taliban claimed to protect their rights and property.
April 2024: Taliban Abolishes Pension System
In April 2024, the Taliban abolished Afghanistan's pension system, deeming it "un-Islamic", sparking protests from retirees and veterans that were subsequently dispersed.
