RASC News Agency: According to a report by “The Independent”, Muhammad Agha Hakim, the Taliban-appointed governor of Panjshir, is closely linked to al-Qaeda and has been actively involved in strengthening terrorist elements within the province. Published on Sunday, October 13, the report highlights that Hakim has been pushing an agenda of extremism, targeting the youth in Panjshir and attempting to radicalize them. He frequently threatens residents, warning that any defiance of Mullah Hibatullah, the Taliban’s leader, will result in severe consequences, including death.
Moreover, the report indicates that Hakim, who reportedly feels unsafe, constantly travels with a heavily armed convoy of bulletproof vehicles for protection. In an alarming disclosure, “The Independent” reveals Hakim’s deep ties to al-Qaeda, stating that he plays a key role in safeguarding the group’s arms depots in Panjshir, reflecting the growing cooperation between Taliban leadership and terrorist organizations. This news follows a recent “Telegraph” report, which confirmed that al-Qaeda has established training camps and weapon caches in Afghanistan since the Taliban regained control. The report notes that the withdrawal of U.S. forces has significantly enhanced al-Qaeda’s capabilities, and powerful factions within the Taliban continue to offer support and protection to the terrorist network.
Neighboring countries have increasingly expressed concerns about the resurgence of terrorism stemming from Afghanistan soil. Various reports have indicated that the Taliban continues to provide safe havens to several terrorist organizations, including al-Qaeda and the Pakistani Taliban. This alliance is raising alarm within the international community, as fears grow over the destabilizing effects of Afghanistan’s unchecked extremist resurgence.
