Taliban spokesman calls Valentine's Day 'day of moral downfall'

Sayf Khaybar, spokesman for the Taliban's Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, described Valentine's Day, or Lovers' Day, as "a day of moral downfall and imitation of the West."

In a thread on X, Khaybar stated that Valentine's Day "is valued only for one day to soothe and calm human psychological instincts." He expressed regret that Afghan citizens celebrate the day, saying that if a young man observes it, "he has followed his nafs," referring to base desires.

Valentine's Day on February 14 is celebrated worldwide as a day of love and expressing affection to spouses, friends and family through exchanges of roses, chocolates and greeting cards. Its origins trace back to the ancient Roman Christian saint Valentine, who was executed for secretly marrying young couples against the emperor's orders.

Some Afghan citizens view the day as an opportunity to express love and interest to their spouses or fiancés, with whom they plan to spend their lives.

Since regaining power, the Taliban have imposed strict restrictions on Valentine's Day alongside other rights and freedoms. They have in some cases harshly prevented citizens, particularly young couples and fiancés, from celebrating it.

Some citizens report that Taliban forces from the ministry patrol in front of shops and restaurants on this day to prevent celebrations.

Previously, sources in Herat told Amu TV that in Tergi Park -- a location with hundreds of restaurants and several flower shops popular among Herat residents, especially on special occasions like Valentine's Day -- Taliban officials placed "Valentine's forbidden" stickers on flower shops.