KABUL (Pajhwok): The Taliban could take over much of Afghanistan if US forces leave exit the country before the warring sides ink a power-sharing deal, warn American intelligence agencies.
The New York Times reported on Friday, citing a US intelligence assessment, the insurgent movement could seize Afghanistan two or three years after the departure of international troops.
The bleak assessment, which was first made during the Trump administration, was not previously disclosed. It recommended the signing of a power-sharing agreement between the government in Kabul and the militant group.
After the US troops pull out, the Taliban could regain control of the country and pose a serious threat to women’s rights, according to the assessment.
Some former intelligence officials believe the Taliban would initially take care not to roll back women’s rights altogether, at least in major cities, if they take over the entire country.
“It will be difficult to guarantee protections for women, such as education for girls and access to health care,” the leading newspaper said.
The presence of US troops in Afghanistan increases the danger to Americans there, incurs greater financial costs and hands a propaganda victory and recruiting tool to Washington’s foes, opine analysts like the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Adam Smith.
The possible takeover would permit Al Qaeda to rebuild in Afghanistan, the report warned, with the White House refusing to comment on the assessment.
PAN Monitor/mud
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