Khalilzad Highlights Taliban’s Compliance with Doha Agreement Amid Concerns Over Women’s Rights

Zalmay Khalilzad, the former U.S. special representative for Afghanistan, emphasized that the Taliban has adhered to the Doha Agreement regarding counter-terrorism, noting that there have been no attacks on the U.S. from Afghan soil in the past five years.

Taliban’s Commitment to the Doha Agreement

Zalmay Khalilzad stated that the Taliban is fulfilling its commitments under the Doha Agreement regarding counter-terrorism and has prevented any insurgent groups, including al-Qaeda, from operating against the U.S. from Afghanistan.

No Attacks from Afghan Territory

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Khalilzad remarked that although he is no longer active in the U.S. government, he has received reports from individuals closely monitoring Afghanistan that the Taliban has upheld its commitments. He also noted that there were predictions suggesting attacks on the U.S. might occur following the withdrawal of American forces; however, such incidents have never materialized.

Taliban’s Fight Against Insurgents

The former U.S. representative identified insurgents as a serious threat to Afghanistan’s security, stating that the Taliban is actively engaged in combat against these groups and has targeted them.

Restrictions on Women and Girls

Khalilzad also addressed the Taliban’s restrictions on women and girls, highlighting that the ban on education for girls beyond the sixth grade is “terrible” for Afghanistan’s future. He stressed that these restrictions empower the Taliban’s opponents and should be lifted. Khalilzad emphasized that no country can support the ban on girls’ education, and the Taliban must reconsider its policies regarding the rights of women and girls.