Opposition leaders warn Taliban rule will not continue during Mazari anniversary event

Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum, leader of the Islamic National Movement of Afghanistan, warned on Friday that the "medieval" rule of the Taliban will not continue in this form. He emphasized that resistance against the Taliban continues in various ways.

Dostum made the statement in a message marking the 31st anniversary of the killing of Abdul Ali Mazari, the late leader of the Wahdat Islamic Party. He described the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran as an "aggression" and condemned them.

The Supreme National Resistance Council for Saving Afghanistan held a virtual meeting on Friday to commemorate the anniversary. Attendees included political figures and former government officials such as Mohammad Mohaqeq, Ahmad Massoud and Sarwar Danish.

Sarwar Danish, former vice president, spoke about Mazari's character, ideas and methods, as well as Afghanistan's current situation. He referenced border clashes between the Taliban and Pakistan, stating that the Taliban are unable to ensure peace and stability, and their actions have caused tensions with neighbors and civilian casualties.

Danish called on the Taliban to immediately stop supporting terrorist groups and to foster good relations with regional countries. He argued that any engagement with or recognition of the Taliban lacks legal legitimacy. Referencing Mazari's views on federal governance, Danish stressed the rights of all ethnic groups and said the Taliban lack legitimacy and connection to the Afghan people's will.

Ahmad Massoud, participating virtually, accused the Taliban of sheltering groups like al-Qaida, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, Jaish al-Adl, Ansarallah and others, turning Afghanistan into a playground for security and geopolitical games. He said the Taliban's attempts to mobilize people against Pakistani attacks cannot succeed without domestic and international legitimacy.

Massoud warned against any "deals" or "interventions," insisting that freedom must come from the Afghan people themselves. He urged political leaders to seize the opportunity for Afghanistan's liberation through coordinated action. He also expressed concern over Middle East conflicts worsening Afghanistan's economy, with rising prices for essentials leaving people in despair.