The Forgotten Fate of Former Afghan Soldiers under Taliban Rule

The forced deportation of Afghan migrants from Iran has once again exposed former Afghan military personnel to widespread persecution—including arrest, torture, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances. A recent UNAMA report confirms that several deportees have faced retaliation upon return. Even the Taliban, while claiming a “general amnesty,” admitted that some individuals were targeted—attempting to downplay it as personal revenge rather than systematic policy.

Taliban Responsibility and Complicity

Whether motivated by personal grievances or not, the Taliban—as the ruling authority—bear full responsibility for ensuring security. Their failure to investigate or punish those committing these crimes only deepens suspicions of official complicity. Not a single Taliban fighter has been held accountable, and such acts are often silently encouraged.

Why Former Soldiers Are Being Targeted

The Taliban view former soldiers as potential leaders of future resistance. Despite no current organized opposition, the group fears the expertise and discipline these veterans carry—traits proven during two decades of war. Their elimination is a preemptive strike to prevent any credible challenge to Taliban rule.

A Deafening Silence

During the Republic, Afghan soldiers were widely respected and celebrated as national defenders. Today, they are abandoned. Western nations—once vocal allies—have failed to protect them or address asylum claims. Some have even endangered them by sharing sensitive information with the Taliban. Human rights organizations have remained largely inactive, and the Taliban’s opponents have offered no real support. Inside Afghanistan, society has responded with troubling silence.

Conclusion

This silence—both domestic and international—has emboldened the Taliban to continue persecuting former soldiers without fear of consequences. Until the world breaks this silence, the systematic targeting of Afghanistan’s former military personnel will persist.

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