Taliban Leader’s Eid Message: Seeking Good Relations with world and Respect for Internal Affairs

Hibatullah Akhundzada, the leader of the Taliban, in a message for Eid al-Fitr, called for strengthening relations with the Islamic world and other countries based on “Islamic brotherhood” and mutual principles.

In this message, which was published today (Thursday, March 27) on the Al-Emarah website, the performance of the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice was praised as an institution fighting corruption and reforming the people.

Akhundzada emphasized the importance of respecting the culture and beliefs of the Afghan people, urging the international community to “respect the beliefs and values of the people of Afghanistan, not interfere in our internal affairs, and not hinder the stability and progress of the country.”

The Taliban has always rejected criticism regarding human rights violations, particularly the widespread restrictions on women and girls, calling them interference in domestic affairs and disrespect for Afghan culture and traditions.

The Taliban leader supported the work of the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, which human rights organizations have accused of widespread violations of women’s rights and arbitrary detentions.

He claimed that this ministry, by “preventing corruption” and “reforming people,” has reduced “immorality” and called on the people and institutions to cooperate with the ministry to “eradicate corruption.”

Akhundzada, referring to two decades of war in Afghanistan, described the current security situation as a “great divine blessing” and said: “Today, we celebrate in a secure and prosperous environment, while before, bombings and destruction of homes were ongoing.” He urged Afghans to strengthen their unity and protect the “security and happiness achieved.”

In his message, the Taliban leader announced the implementation of economic projects to improve the livelihood of the people and called on religious scholars to explain the group’s laws, including those related to the promotion of virtue and prevention of vice, to the people and cooperate in their implementation.

Although the Taliban emphasizes the sovereignty of security and progress in Afghanistan, the severe restrictions on women (banning education and work), the one-ethnic and one-language governance, and human rights violations have led to the group’s rejection on the international stage.

Human rights organizations have repeatedly expressed concern about the increasing harassment of women by the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice officials and have urged the international community to hold the Taliban accountable for their actions.