Over the weekend, Taliban Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund issued an amnesty pledge to Afghans who had left the country since the collapse of the Western-backed government. In a message for the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha, also referred to as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” Akhund promised that those who return will be safe.
“Afghans who are outside the country should come back to their nation,” Akhund wrote on the social network X, “No one will harm them.” He also urged, “Return to your fatherland and reside in an environment of peace.” The prime minister also directed officials to provide returning refugees with suitable shelter and care.
Regional and International Pressures Weigh on Afghan Diaspora
The amnesty move is just a short while after US President Donald Trump placed a general travel ban on 12 nations, including Afghanistan. The restrictions substantially curtail Afghans’ chances of moving to the United States permanently or visiting temporarily, for instance, to pursue studies. A central refugee resettlement program was suspended earlier in January by Trump, which meant that much of the US assistance to Afghans who had sided with American troops was brought to an end, leaving tens of thousands stranded.
At the same time, many Afghans living in neighboring Pakistan face a deportation campaign led by the Islamabad government. Nearly one million Afghans have fled Pakistan since October 2023, attempting to avoid arrests and forced expulsions.
Taliban Leader Criticizes Media and Reaffirms Islamic Governance
In addition to the amnesty, Akhund also condemned the media for propagating “false judgments” regarding the policies and regime of the Taliban. He called for, “We must not let the torch of the Islamic system be put out,” and also demanded that the media refrain from downplaying the achievements of the government. “Although difficulties do arise, we should be cautious,” he mentioned.
Background: Taliban’s 2021 Seizure Triggers En Mass Exodus
The Taliban rapidly captured Kabul and most of Afghanistan in August 2021, coinciding with the final withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces after 20 years of conflict. The swift takeover led to chaotic scenes at Kabul airport, with tens of thousands desperately seeking evacuation. Many Afghans fled across borders to Iran and Pakistan, including former government officials, journalists, activists, and those who had worked with U.S. forces.
Akhund’s recent amnesty call aims to encourage internally displaced people to return home and help rebuild the country under Taliban rule.
