Taliban accuses US of drone intrusions; says flights must stop ‘as soon as possible’

Kabul: Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has alleged that US drones are continuing to enter Afghanistan’s airspace, flying in from “some neighbouring countries,” in what he described as a violation of Afghanistan’s sovereignty.

Afghan media on Saturday widely highlighted Mujahid’s interview with Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, where he reiterated the Taliban’s demand that US drone missions over Afghanistan must be stopped “as soon as possible.” He said Taliban officials have raised objections “in the limited meetings available to them.”

“Mujahid did not specify which neighbouring country's airspace the drones reportedly crossed before entering Afghanistan, although he has previously accused Pakistan of providing access to US aircraft. Mujahid said the Taliban had implemented 70 per cent of their programmes during their four years in power. He cited sanctions on Taliban leaders, travel restrictions and the absence of international recognition as the administration's main challenges,” Afghanistan International reported.

Taliban outlines foreign policy; denies return of US or Chinese troops

During the interview, Mujahid said the Taliban were pursuing a “balanced, economy-focused” foreign policy, seeking engagement with all countries — including the United States — as long as Afghanistan’s sovereignty is respected.

“Asked whether US forces could return to Afghanistan, he said the Taliban would never allow even an inch of Afghan territory to fall under foreign control and insisted no foreign troops would be permitted on Afghan soil. He also denied reports of a Chinese presence at Bagram air base, saying neither US nor Chinese forces had returned and that the Taliban would not allow any country to establish a military base in Afghanistan,” Afghanistan International reported.

Tensions with Pakistan

Last week, Mujahid again expressed concerns over Pakistan violating the ceasefire by opening fire in Spin Boldak, just ahead of the third round of peace talks in Istanbul.

"While the third round of negotiations with the Pakistani side has begun in Istanbul, unfortunately, this afternoon Pakistani forces once again opened fire on Spin Boldak, causing concern among the local population," he posted on X.