Maroc - EURASIAREVIEW.COM - A la une - 14/Aug 12:01

Reinforcing Sanctions Against The Taliban – OpEd

The recent UN report on sanctions against the Taliban reveals a troubling reality: Afghanistan under Taliban rule has become a breeding ground for terrorism and instability. Released in early July, the report highlights the regime’s ongoing support for extremist groups and its failure to manage various insurgent factions. This situation calls for urgent action to strengthen international sanctions and hold the Taliban accountable for their actions. According to the report, Afghanistan remains a central hub for over two dozen terrorist groups, with the Taliban’s General Directorate of Intelligence reportedly overseeing their activities. The resurgence of Al-Qaeda is particularly alarming, with the report noting the expansion of training camps and the integration of Al-Qaeda operatives into Taliban security forces. This development poses a significant threat not only to regional stability but also to global security. The Taliban’s inability to control ISIS-K, a regional offshoot of ISIS, further exacerbates the crisis. Despite being a significant concern, the regime has shown little capability or willingness to contain ISIS-K’s activities. Additionally, the Taliban’s failure to manage the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), an anti-Pakistan insurgent group, adds another layer of instability to the region. The practice of issuing Afghan identities and passports to foreign fighters illustrates the Taliban’s role in facilitating terrorism and undermining regional security. The Taliban’s use of terrorism as a means of maintaining power is evident from the report’s findings. The establishment of “jihadi madrassas” to indoctrinate young students into extremist ideology highlights the regime’s commitment to perpetuating its radical views. These religious schools serve as breeding grounds for future militants and contribute to continued violence and instability. The report details numerous acts of terror perpetrated by the Taliban against Afghan civilians. These include the targeting of former government officials—such as those in the intelligence, military, and judicial sectors—for detention, disappearance, and extrajudicial killings. This brutal approach serves as a tool for consolidating power and silencing opposition. Additionally, the consolidation of suicide bombing capabilities under the Supreme Leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, underscores the Taliban’s commitment to using terror as a method of control. Gender persecution remains a critical issue, with the report highlighting the regime’s continued enforcement of gender apartheid. This policy has led to widespread domestic violence and a rise in suicides among women. The Taliban’s oppressive policies severely restrict women’s rights and freedoms, creating a climate of fear and oppression. The effectiveness of UN sanctions as a tool of international diplomacy is at risk. The Taliban’s blatant disregard for sanctions undermines their efficacy and signals a broader challenge for global foreign policy tools. The report reveals that the Taliban has appointed 61 individuals from the sanctions list to senior positions within the regime. This not only flouts international intent but also demonstrates the Taliban’s defiance of global norms. Additionally, there have been numerous instances of listed individuals traveling internationally, such as Sirajuddin Haqqani’s trips to Saudi Arabia and the UAE. These actions further erode the credibility and effectiveness of sanctions, as requests for exemptions are often made after the trips have already commenced or concluded. This behavior highlights the need for stronger enforcement and greater international cooperation to ensure that sanctions are respected and upheld. To address the current crisis, it is imperative to strengthen the sanctions regime. The report identifies Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada as a central figure in perpetuating terrorism and human rights abuses. His consolidation of power and control over the Taliban’s security apparatus, as well as his role in the regime’s ideological indoctrination efforts, make him a prime candidate for sanctions. Including Akhundzada, along with other key figures such as Taj Mir Jawad and Hajji Najib Rahmatullah, on the sanctions list would send a strong message of international condemnation and accountability. Concerns about jeopardizing humanitarian efforts or American hostages are valid but should not deter from enforcing sanctions. The UN has mechanisms to deliver aid independently of sanctions listings, and past strategies of engaging with the Taliban to combat ISIS-K have proven ineffective. Strengthening the sanctions regime is crucial for maintaining global order and reinforcing a commitment to human rights. Balancing humanitarian considerations with the need to uphold international norms is essential. Strengthening the sanctions regime is necessary for maintaining global stability and demonstrating a commitment to human rights and rule of law. The current leniency towards the Taliban undermines the effectiveness of sanctions and risks further destabilizing the region. In conclusion, the UN report highlights the urgent need to reinforce the sanctions regime against the Taliban. By holding key figures accountable and reinforcing the international commitment to peace and security, the global community can work towards addressing the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan and ensuring justice for its citizens. The international community must act decisively to uphold global norms and protect the rights and safety of Afghan civilians.