US to Taliban: Agree to permanent ceasefire

KABUL (Pajhwok): The US embassy in Kabul has condemned the Taliban’s violent new offensive against the capitals of three Afghan provinces.

The embassy slammed as unlawful the seizure of Zaranj (Nimroz), the attack on Shiberghan (Jawzjan) and continuing efforts to take over Lashkargah (Helmand) and other provincial capitals.

A statement from the embassy said: “These Taliban actions to forcibly impose their rule are unacceptable and contradict their claim to support a negotiated settlement in the Doha peace process.”

Such actions demonstrated wanton disregard for the welfare and rights of civilians and would worsen the country’s humanitarian crisis, it added.

“We call for the Taliban to agree to a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire and to engage fully in peace negotiations to end the suffering of the Afghan people,” the embassy said.

It hoped the ceasefire and talks would pave the way for an inclusive political settlement that benefitted all Afghans and ensured that the country did not again serve as a safe haven for terrorists.

pr/mud

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