The Daily The Taliban’s Advance
Aug 10, 2021
Carlotta Gall, the Istanbul bureau chief for The New York Times, shares her extensive experience reporting from Afghanistan as the Taliban rapidly seizes control of cities. She discusses the Taliban's strategic maneuvers and the fear they instill among locals with the re-enforcement of harsh Sharia law. Gall highlights the stark contrast between American optimism for the Afghan government and the grim reality on the ground. The conversation reveals the critical challenges facing Afghan forces and the aspirations of a people yearning for peace amid chaos.
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Rapid Takeover of Cities
- The Taliban swiftly captured several provincial capitals, starting with Zaranj on the Iranian border.
- Kunduz, a major city, fell next, followed by three more towns on Sunday, marking a significant shift in their strategy.
Taliban Strategy
- The Taliban's strategy involves seizing rural districts, border posts, and customs points to gain leverage.
- This allows them to control resources and strategically encircle major cities like Kabul.
Life Under Taliban Rule
- The Taliban occupation includes occupying houses, placing mines, and enforcing strict Sharia law.
- Reports from Spinboldak reveal the execution of 44 people who worked with the government, raising concerns about wider reprisals.