Editorial: Taleban still a threat

The Taleban came to power during Afghanistan’s long civil war, and ruled Afghanistan from 1996 until 2001. Although they managed to hold 90 per cent of the country’s territory, their policies -including their treatment of women and support for terrorism– left them ostracised from the world community. The Taleban were ousted from power in December 2001 by the U.S. military and its Afghan allies in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack on the United States. The present situation in Afghanistan remains precarious thanks to the continuing activity of the Taleban. In this regard, the comments by a senior US general about the increase in violence are a matter of great concern for Afghans. According to the general, NATO plans to deploy troops in the southern region to put down the rebellions. Last year, more than 1,500 people, including nearly 70 foreign troops, were killed. Since January this year, Taleban activities have claimed the lives of around 100 people, including four American soldiers. With these figures in mind, it is easy to estimate the potential losses if we do not stop this violence in time. The emerging Taleban should be crushed in order to bolster peace initiatives.