Border Minister Noori Dismisses ISIS and Resistance Presence as Propaganda

Minister of Borders, Tribes and Ethnic Affairs Nurullah Noori stated that neither the Islamic State nor anti-government resistance groups maintain an operational presence in Afghanistan, characterizing their reported activities as propaganda campaigns aimed at securing international support. The remarks were delivered during a public address in Badakhshan province.

Noori asserted that these groups lack established bases within the country and operate primarily to attract foreign backing. He urged Afghans living abroad to return under a general amnesty, emphasizing that outstanding grievances should be addressed through domestic dialogue rather than external opposition. He cautioned against continued resistance against the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, framing it as counterproductive to national stability.

Addressing regional dynamics, the minister accused Pakistan of pursuing destabilizing objectives in Afghanistan and acting under the direction of foreign powers. He reiterated the government’s longstanding position on the Durand Line, rejecting it as a legitimate international boundary. Noori described the border as a colonial-era imposition and stated that its status remains a sovereign national issue rather than a settled diplomatic matter.

The statements reflect the administration’s ongoing efforts to consolidate control and address both internal security narratives and cross-border diplomatic tensions. Noori did not provide specific operational data to substantiate the claims regarding militant group capabilities or detail the logistical framework for the proposed amnesty program.