Taliban Consolidate Power in Afghanistan

Translated into English, the Arabic word "Istihlal" means “regarding otherwise religiously banned actions as permissible.” The term is often used by Al Qaeda-affiliated groups to justify robbing and killing civilians.

By enacting “Istihlal,” the Taliban show that they have fused with Al Qaeda. This explains why the Taliban have adopted Machiavellian methods such as attacking government forces and police stations, making videos of military operations and treating collaborators brutally, and carrying out suicide bombings and kidnappings.

Arabic media offer clues as to how Al Qaeda, one of the reasons behind the toppling of the Taliban, is now helping the movement regain legitimacy and control.

Afghan Defense Minister Abdul Rahim Wardak, for instance, was quoted on Al Jazeera’s Web site as saying that Al Qaeda has brought Arab fighters with expertise from Iraq to train Taliban fighters. Wardak added, “The Taliban forces are organized, armed and brutal and they are now stronger than they were in 2001. The Taliban have more men, equipment, and money. They also have more expertise in planting explosive devises that can be detonated from a distance. We have information that the Taliban have received new weapons and explosives.”

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