The Taliban, explained

Historical Context and Soviet Invasion00:01:44

In 1979, the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan to support a Communist government. This triggered rural resistance from the mujahideen, who were fueled by tribal traditions and Islam, eventually leading to a decade-long war and total societal collapse.

The Emergence of the Taliban00:04:13

Following the Soviet withdrawal and subsequent civil war, the Taliban, a group of madrassa students led by Mohammed Omar, emerged in 1994. They promised order and captured Kabul in 1996, establishing a brutal regime governed by a strict interpretation of Islamic law.

US Intervention and Rebuilding Failures00:08:15

After the 9/11 attacks, a US-led coalition toppled the Taliban. However, attempts to build a democracy were undermined by systemic government corruption, the diversion of resources to the Iraq war, and the alienation of rural populations through military operations.

Taliban Resurgence and Current State00:10:14

The Taliban successfully regrouped by recruiting marginalized Afghans and utilizing flexible governing tactics. Following the US withdrawal in 2021, they reclaimed power. The current regime faces challenges in unifying its diverse base and dealing with international expectations for human rights.