As Afghanistan enters 2026, deep fractures inside the Taliban leadership threaten the regime's grip on power in part due to Supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada's isolationist rule.

By Bruce Pannier When they returned to power in August 2021, the Taliban promised that no group would use Afghan soil to plot or carry out an attack on any of Afghanistan’s neighbours. Yet several attacks experienced in southern Tajikistan in recent months,

At the apex of the Taliban system stands Hibatullah Akhundzada, who exercises undisputed authority as Amir al-Mu’minin. Unlike conventional heads of state, Akhundzada does not operate through formal institutions or collective decision-making structures.

A BBC investigation reveals how attitudes to women, the internet and religion are dividing the group at the very top.

An Islamic State attack targeting Chinese citizens killed at least seven people on a crowded street in Afghanistan on Monday.

A powerful blast ripped through Kabul’s upscale Shahr-e-Naw district, shattering the Taliban’s claims of control. Smoke billowed over hotels and cafes as panic swept the streets. Hospitals reported rising casualties,

In Afghanistan, Taliban regime is exploiting its own people to sustain the illegal rule through extortion, seizure of property and looting of natural resources. According to the Afghan newspaper Hasht-e Subh, Taliban have intensified their seizure of gold mines in the northeastern provinces of Afghanistan.

Chinese investments in mining, oil and infrastructure provide quick cash and come without human rights conditions, a combination that strengthens Akhundzada’s grip on power.

The first Taliban -appointed diplomat to be posted to India since the group’s return to power has arrived in Delhi to take charge of the Afghanistan embassy in the national capital. Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor, a senior member of the Taliban, has assumed the role of Charge d’Affaires at the Afghan mission in Delhi, according to reports.