Taliban Prepares for Large-Scale Operation Against Opponents in Badakhshan

The Taliban is reinforcing its military presence in Badakhshan province, including by deploying additional forces to Zebak district and establishing new checkpoints in areas such as Yaftal. The moves are described as preparation for a large-scale operation against growing attacks by opposition groups, particularly the Afghanistan Freedom Front and the newly established Hezb-e Sepah-e Mihan front.

High-level Taliban officials Amanuddin Mansour and Fasihuddin Fitrat are present in the province. Their arrival follows the assassination of Taliban information chief Zabiullah Amiri, who was killed in an attack on the Baharak-Fayzabad road. Amanuddin Mansour attended the funeral of the slain official.

Opposition forces have recently carried out attacks in Zebak and Yaftal districts. The Hezb-e Sepah-e Mihan front briefly controlled Yaftal-e Pain and disarmed Taliban forces there, while the Afghanistan Freedom Front claimed to have attacked Taliban positions in Zebak, captured some positions, and downed two drones. The Taliban has expressed concern over unidentified attackers and the opposition's access to heavy weaponry in the mountainous terrain.