Afghan Military Leaders Back the Emir’s Decree
Kabul-May 29, 2025: Zalmay Khalilzad, the former U.S. envoy to Afghanistan, has called the Islamic Emirate’s non-participation in jihad outside Afghanistan a positive step. His statement comes as senior Afghan Taliban officials echo the same message in strong terms.
Mullah Yaqoob, the acting defense minister and second deputy leader of the Islamic Emirate, has urged strict action against anyone disobeying the Amir’s command. He emphasized that any defiance should face consequences. His message reinforces the Emir’s recent directive banning fighters from joining jihadist campaigns abroad.
Commander Saeedullah Saeed of the Hazrat Hamza Military Academy gave a similar statement before Mullah Yaqoob. He emphasized that loyalty to the Emir and focus on national defense must come first. As a cleric and military leader, his endorsement adds religious and operational weight to the decree. Later, Mullah Yaqoob urged stricter enforcement against those who disobey the Amir’s orders.
International Support Builds Around Taliban’s Shift
Zalmay Khalilzad posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the Taliban leader’s order was “clear and welcome.” He noted that members of the Islamic Emirate are prohibited from joining any armed group outside Afghanistan under the pretext of jihad.
This aligns with growing internal consensus. Both Mullah Yaqoob and Commander Saeedullah Saeed, key figures in the Taliban regime, are backing the Emir’s decision. Their unified message reflects a possible shift in the group’s broader priorities—from transnational militancy to domestic consolidation.
Moreover, Khalilzad’s support highlights a potential change in global perception. He termed the decision “good” and suggested it could reduce suspicion and build confidence with neighboring countries.
As the region continues to observe the Taliban’s evolving policy framework, signs of internal discipline are gaining attention. If enforced, this approach could limit cross-border threats and open space for diplomatic engagement.
In the long run, the Islamic Emirate’s non-participation of forces in jihad outside Afghanistan may indeed prove to be a positive step.
