Taliban's Control Sparks Concerns Over Weapons Trafficking, Regional Stability

The Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan, culminating in their 2021 takeover of Kabul, has sparked global concern over their rule, which is characterized by strict religious extremism and the suppression of women, contrasting sharply with Western humanitarian ideals. Analysts argue that to fully understand the Taliban's durability and power, it is necessary to view them not only as ideological fighters but also as an organized crime network with hierarchical structures, similar to the Mafia, capitalizing on the chaos left after decades of war. The aftermath of the US withdrawal left behind large stockpiles of advanced weapons, many of which have reportedly been smuggled out of Afghanistan and are now being used by terrorist groups in neighboring countries, notably Pakistan. Despite international calls for accountability, the US has continued some forms of engagement with the Taliban, while Pakistan has instituted stricter border controls and repatriation measures to counter the influx of weapons and militants. These developments underscore ongoing regional instability and raise questions about the effectiveness of international and local responses to the evolving threat posed by the Taliban and affiliated groups.