Taliban Takes Over Kabul Ending Reign of President Ashraf Ghani

Taliban insurgents seized control of Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan as of this morning after nearly two decades of war with American forces. Footage of Taliban forces in the presidential palace was seen in the broadcasting media. President Ashraf is reported to have already fled the country a day earlier and left a taped message of encouragement for his people. His message also highlighted that he fled as he wanted to avoid bloodshed.

 

Mohammad Naeem, spokesman of the Taliban’s political office told Al Jazeera TV “Today is a great day for the Afghan people and the mujahideen. They have witnessed the fruits of their efforts and their sacrifices for 20 years. Thanks to God, the war is over in the country”.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani left the country yesterday, saying that the escape was to prevent further bloodshed.

 

The development comes weeks after U.S. President Joe Biden orders withdrawal of troops from the country. Civilians are reported to have stormed to the airport with the hope of getting a seat in the flight out of the country. In a joint press release, more than 60 countries have reached a resolution to facilitate willing Afghan citizens out of the country. As of Sunday, the U.S military took control of the airport as western countries rush to get their diplomatic personnel out of the country.

President Biden issued an order to send 4,000 U.S troops from extradition of the U.S and other diplomats and civilians safely.

 

Experts warned this war might spread beyond the border of Afghanistan which heightens tensions in the Middle East Region. Futures of Crude Oil WTI fell -1.22% whereas Brent Oil fell -1.15% as of writing this report.