Rapid Summary
- In Afghanistan, a power struggle has emerged within the Taliban between leader Hibatullah Akhundzada and Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani.
- Sirajuddin Haqqani, head of the Haqqani network and a U.S.most-wanted terrorist, reportedly resigned from his post after traveling to UAE and Saudi Arabia for 50 days.
- The conflict is centered around dominance between the Kandahar-based faction led by Akhundzada and Kabul loyalists like Haqqani.
- Following his return from abroad, Haqqani relocated to Khost province due to fears for his safety in Kabul.
- Pakistani media suggests that internal Taliban conflicts may have led to the murder of Khali lUr-Rahman Haqqani; however, it is also speculated that Pakistani intelligence might be involved.
- Ibrahim Sadr has been appointed as the new Interior Minister by akhundzada.
Indian Opinion Analysis
The resignation of Sirajuddin Haqqani indicates deep divisions within the Taliban’s ranks. This power struggle not only destabilizes Taliban governance but may also led to shifts in regional dynamics. The replacement of key figures like Ibrahim sadr could reshuffle alliances both internally among factions and externally wiht countries such as Pakistan or Saudi Arabia. For India, these changes might influence security concerns given Afghanistan’s proximity.
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