According to the Afghanistan section of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Mullah Mohammad Rasool declared himself the successor to the former Taliban leader, Mullah Mohammad Omar, on Sunday in front of his supporters. This meeting was held for the allegiance of the Taliban from the provinces of Herat, Farah, and Helmand to Mullah Mohammad Rasool. In this meeting, Mullah Mohammad Rasool stated that 'ISIS and Al-Qaeda are our brothers,' but emphasized that they should continue their struggles in their own countries and that the Taliban will not allow them to operate in Afghanistan. Mullah Mohammad Rasool, who appeared before thousands of his supporters and revealed the formation of a new leadership for the Taliban during his speech, expressed his determination to continue jihad and also urged Mujahideen and other groups in Afghanistan not to protest why a split occurred within the Taliban. Meanwhile, an Afghan official reported that at least 50 people were killed in clashes between two groups of Taliban militants in Zabul province. According to Mohammad Nasratyar, the governor of Arghandab, these clashes occurred in recent days between supporters of Mullah Mohammad Rasool, the leader of the splinter group from the Taliban, and Mullah Akhtar Mansour, the leader of the Taliban. Mr. Nasratyar stated that militants from the Islamic Caliphate group in southern Afghanistan have also joined Mullah Mohammad Rasool's group. A few months ago, following the announcement of Mullah Mohammad Omar's death, Mullah Akhtar Mansour declared himself the new leader of the Taliban, but a group of commanders and their supporters separated from him.
Mullah Mohammad Rasool, the 'New Leader' of the Taliban
Mullah Mohammad Rasool has declared himself the new leader of a splinter faction of the Taliban, emphasizing the need for jihad while distancing from ISIS and Al-Qaeda. This declaration comes amidst violent clashes between factions within the Taliban, highlighting internal divisions and the ongoing struggle for power. The situation is significant as it reflects the instability within the Taliban and its implications for Afghanistan's security.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Mullah Mohammad Rasool declared himself the new leader of a splinter faction of the Taliban, asserting the need for jihad while distancing from ISIS and Al-Qaeda. This declaration follows violent clashes between his supporters and those loyal to Mullah Akhtar Mansour.
- Rasool's faction has gained support from militants in southern Afghanistan.
- At least 50 people were killed in recent clashes between the two Taliban factions.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The Taliban has faced internal strife following the death of its founder, Mullah Omar, leading to competing factions vying for power. This fragmentation poses risks for Afghanistan's governance and security.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
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