RASC News Agency: Karen Decker, the Charge d’Affaires at the United States Embassy in Afghanistan, has emphasized that Washington maintains significant security interests in Afghanistan. Speaking during a virtual briefing with journalists on Monday, Nov 25, Decker affirmed that the United States’ top priority is the safety of its citizens, including those currently detained in Afghanistan. Decker further clarified that human rights should be viewed through a security lens, underscoring the intersection between national security and the protection of human rights. She stressed that if the Taliban seek improved relations with the rest of the world, they must first establish better relationships with their own people both women and men.
According to Decker, any legitimacy or support the Taliban request from the international community must originate with the Afghanistani people. The American diplomat also emphasized, “We want girls to return to their classrooms, but until that time, we will do everything in our power to ensure they can continue their education online.” She reiterated that the United States will persist in its efforts to advocate for the rights of Afghanistani women and girls.
Earlier, Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US State Department, had stated that the Taliban’s detention of American citizens is an obstacle to positive engagement between Washington and the group. Notably, the United States has provided the Taliban with significant financial, political, and intelligence support over the past three years, investing billions of dollars while simultaneously preventing the strengthening of anti-Taliban armed groups.
