Taliban warned that there will be consequences if the US and UK sought an extension to the August 31 deadline for the US-led troop withdrawal from the war-torn country.
Taliban spokesperson Dr Suhail Shaheen stated that the month-end deadline was a red line, as any extension would imply an extended occupation of the country.
The Taliban leader said the timeline had been laid out by US President Joe Biden and threatened consequences if the US and UK sought an extension to that deadline. It’s a red line. President Biden announced that on 31 August they would withdraw all their military forces. So if they extend it that means they are extending occupation while there is no need for that, Shaheen said.
If the US or UK were to seek additional time to continue evacuations – the answer is no. Or there would be consequences. It will create mistrust between us. If they are intent on continuing the occupation it will provoke a reaction, he said.
There have been widespread fears of reprisals and attacks in Afghanistan on those perceived as supporting the US-led NATO operation in the country and a regression in women’s rights under the Taliban, which believe in upholding a very strict interpretation of Islam.