Taliban Spokesperson Calls on U.S. to Hand Over Afghan Embassy in Washington

Kokcha News Agency: In a recent interview with Afghanistan’s national television, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid disclosed that the group has been engaging in direct talks with the United States, including a request for the transfer of the Afghan embassy in Washington to the Taliban-led government.

Mujahid stated, “We have occasional contact with the U.S. As you saw recently, a U.S. representative came to Kabul, and our representatives also meet with them (U.S. officials) when they travel to Qatar or elsewhere. We have requested official recognition and the transfer of the Afghan embassy in America to us. Although we have not received a positive response, the people of Afghanistan are demanding their rights.”

The Taliban’s request comes as the group prepares to mark the fourth anniversary of its return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021. Despite controlling the country, the Taliban-led government has not been officially recognized by any country, including the United States.

Mujahid also referenced Russia’s recent recognition of the Taliban’s Islamic Emirate, calling on other countries to follow suit and formally recognize the Taliban-led government.

The Taliban’s push for international recognition has been met with skepticism, particularly due to the group’s restrictive policies, especially towards women, and its ties to terrorist organizations. The U.S. and other Western nations have consistently demanded that the Taliban improve human rights, particularly women’s rights, and sever ties with extremist groups as conditions for recognition.

The Afghan embassy in Washington has remained under the control of diplomats appointed by the former Afghan government, which was ousted by the Taliban in 2021. The embassy has continued to operate independently, providing consular services to Afghan citizens in the U.S.

Mujahid’s comments highlight the Taliban’s ongoing efforts to gain international legitimacy, despite its failure to meet the demands of the international community. The group’s request for control of the Afghan embassy in Washington underscores its desire to establish diplomatic relations with the U.S., a key player in global politics.