The Taliban’s leaders: Worldly and ‘inclusive’ or ruthless ideologues?

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One issued official blessings for the suicide bombers who killed scores in Afghanistan’s cities. Another enthusiastically deployed these bombers, as well as the gunmen who terrorized Afghan civil society in dozens of targeted assassinations. These are the top leaders of the Taliban, men who have spent years on the run, in hiding, in jail and … Read more

Biden officials place hope in Taliban’s desire for legitimacy and money

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President Joe Biden’s plan to withdraw U.S. troops from Afghanistan has drawn sharp criticism that it could allow a takeover by the Taliban, with brutal consequences, particularly for the rights of women and girls. In response, top Biden administration officials have offered a case for why the outcome may not be so dire: The Taliban, … Read more