Islamabad – 19 April 2025: A recent British media report alleges that the Taliban sold approximately 500,000 US weapons to various militant groups. These arms, left behind during the 2021 US withdrawal, have reportedly surfaced in black markets and among terrorist factions. Afghan weapon sale is raising a global security concerns.
The United Nations expressed concern over the Afghan weapons sale and confirmed that al-Qaeda affiliates received some of the arms. A UN Security Council committee reported that the Taliban admitted losing track of at least half of the military equipment.
Taliban officials strongly refuted these allegations. Moreover, Deputy spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat claimed they securely stored all weapons and denied involvement in any smuggling. He reaffirmed the group’s commitment to protecting all military assets.
Meanwhile, a journalist in Kandahar revealed that local markets openly sold U.S. weapons for nearly a year. He added that the weapons trade has now shifted underground.
On the other hand, SIGAR disclosed that the sudden U.S. withdrawal left behind over $7 billion in military equipment. The inventory included 78 aircraft, 40,000 vehicles, and more than 300,000 weapons.
Additionally, Reports revealed that the Taliban distributed 20% of the captured weapons to local commanders. This action directly fueled a rise in black market activity across Afghanistan.
Observers worldwide raised alarms over this Afghan weapons sale, fearing a renewed threat from terrorist groups in the region. They warned that the unchecked flow of advanced weaponry could destabilize neighboring states.
They also emphasized that the spread of arms could undermine international counterterrorism efforts. The situation revealed critical gaps in global arms tracking and disposal mechanisms.
As tensions mount, governments and watchdogs called for detailed investigations into the weapons’ fate. They urged nations to enforce stricter controls and ensure accountability in conflict zones.
The international community now faces urgent pressure to act. Officials must prevent these weapons from reaching groups that threaten peace and regional stability. Policymakers continue to demand stronger cooperation and long-term solutions. They aim to prevent future weapons leaks and reduce the power of extremist networks worldwide.
Disclaimer: This report on the Afghan weapons sale is based on information from British media and official statements. The details have been corroborated by international watchdogs and local sources.
