Taliban Takes Leadership Void in Afghanistan

The November 1999 public execution of Zarmeena, an Afghan woman convicted of murdering her husband. The execution was carried out by the Taliban inside the Ghazi stadium in Kabul. It was filmed with a hidden camera by members of the Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan and aired by almost all major TV channels around the world. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

Evacuation flights are underway again after militants stormed the tarmac and shut down Kabul’s airport on Monday. Most embassies are closing amid ongoing turmoil, and diplomats search for the soonest chance to leave.

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There are ongoing talks between Taliban and Afghan political leaders and plans for an “inclusive” future, Associated Press reports. Afghanistan’s president fled shortly after the Taliban entered Kabul, leaving behind a power vacuum.

Samuel* of Redemptive Stories says the Taliban’s intent is clear, and it’s not good news for Christians. “Taliban and ISIS have similar roots and similar understandings of theology, based on their particular schools of thought related to Islam,” Samuel says.

“They view themselves as a legitimate government that wants to be the primary voice for Afghanistan.”

The Taliban wants to display a “more moderate” public image, but world leaders have their doubts. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid promised a season of calm in yesterday’s press conference yet worrisome reports poured in.

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SOURCE: Mission Network News, Kevin Zeller

CALL TO ACTION

• Pray the Lord will use this situation as a catalyst to make His name known in Afghanistan.
• Ask God to protect Afghan Christians, and give them His strength.