Document Attributed to Taliban Leadership: Directive to Coordinate and Host Several Jihadist Figures

Kabul Times News | Investigative Report

A copy of a document sent to Kabul Times News by a source reveals a directive addressed to the Taliban’s Ministry of Defense, instructing it to coordinate and make the necessary arrangements for the travel and presence of several individuals identified in the text as "Sheikh" and "Mujahid."

The document, addressed to the Taliban Ministry of Defense, lists the names of several individuals—including Sheikh Talha Iraqi, Mawlawi Abdullah Mohammad, Sheikh Abu Osama Masri, Sheikh Abdul Haq Turkistani, and others. The text also mentions individuals and groups linked to jihadist movements outside Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for coordination regarding their travel, hospitality, and related matters.

Another section of the document, under the heading "It is hereby directed," apparently mandates that the Ministry of Defense coordinate with relevant authorities and facilitate the necessary arrangements for the travel and presence of the aforementioned individuals. The text stresses that this process must be carried out through coordination and in a confidential manner.

The significance of this document lies in the fact that, if its authenticity is confirmed, it could raise serious questions regarding the nature of the Taliban's ties to foreign jihadist individuals and networks, the manner of their entry and movement, and the role of Taliban security agencies in facilitating this process.

This matter gains further significance given that the Taliban’s Ministry of Justice—in its official profile—describes itself as responsible for strengthening the legal system and enforcing the law in the country, and maintains a dedicated office to provide information to the media.

However, Kabul Times News has not yet independently verified the authenticity of this document, its exact date of issuance, its registration number, or the definitive identities of all the individuals named within it. Therefore, the content of this document should currently be treated as a text attributed to the Taliban leadership—provided by a source—rather than as a definitive, verified document.

Should the document be officially confirmed, a key question will arise: for what purpose were these individuals traveling to Afghanistan, and why was the Taliban’s Ministry of Defense tasked with coordinating and facilitating arrangements for them?

Kabul Times News is prepared to publish the perspective of the Taliban’s Ministry of Defense or relevant bodies regarding this report, should any explanations be provided.