Taliban Spokesman Says U.S. Drones Still Operating Over Afghanistan

Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman for the Taliban administration, has told Iranian state media that U.S. unmanned aerial vehicles continue to operate in Afghan airspace since the group’s takeover. According to Mujahid, these drones enter Afghanistan via neighboring countries, though he did not specify which nations are allowing such overflights.

Speaking about international recognition, Mujahid claimed the Taliban currently maintains 40 diplomatic missions in various countries. He asserted that relations with some, including Islamic and neighboring countries, are ‘good.’ He also stated that a number of nations are ready to formalize ties with the Taliban, though he offered no concrete evidence to support this claim.

In the interview, Mujahid criticized current Western and European policies, saying their view of Afghanistan remains ‘militarized’ and must change. He condemned international sanctions imposed on Taliban-linked individuals and institutions, calling for the immediate lifting of these restrictions.

While the Taliban points to ‘positive’ relations with Islamic nations, the lack of formal recognition by any United Nations member state raises ongoing questions about the regime’s future legitimacy. Additionally, recurring U.S. drone flights are seen as a sign of the Taliban administration’s limited control over Afghan airspace, posing potential threats to the lives and security of Afghan citizens.