Kabul (Web Desk/Agencies): Tensions within the leadership of the Afghan Taliban continue to escalate as Sirajuddin Haqqani, a key figure from the powerful Haqqani network, has stepped down from his position as the country’s interior minister.
His resignation comes amid growing reports of a significant rift between him and the Taliban’s Supreme Leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada.
Haqqani, a vocal critic of several key Taliban policies, particularly those concerning foreign relations, girls' education, and internal governance, has distanced himself from the current administration’s direction.
Since the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, infighting has simmered within the movement, with various factions opposing Akhundzada’s more rigid approach to governance.
Several high-ranking members of the Taliban have expressed dissatisfaction with the Supreme Leader’s hardline stance.
The tension between the factions has now reached a critical point, with experts warning that the internal strife could lead to further instability under the Taliban’s rule.
Adding to the complexity, the Taliban’s internal divisions were highlighted recently when a number of senior members were barred from traveling to Qatar.
This reflects not only the ongoing political struggle within the organization but also the broader international challenges facing Afghanistan.
The country has increasingly been accused of sheltering groups like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), as well as operatives from the Taliban and Haqqani Network, many of whom are said to have links to external state actors.
These groups continue to carry out operations both within Afghanistan and across borders, contributing to a growing regional security concern.