Afghanistan: The supreme leader of the Taliban, Mr. Haibatullah Akhunzada, asserted that his government has implemented measures to improve the lives of women in Afghanistan. Mr. Akhunzada, who rules from the Taliban’s birthplace in Kandahar, stated that steps had been taken to ensure women enjoy a “comfortable and prosperous life according to Islamic Sharia.”

Mr. Akhunzada claimed that women were being liberated from “traditional oppressions,” including forced marriages, through the adoption of Islamic governance. He emphasized that women’s status as free and dignified individuals had been restored, and all institutions were obligated to assist women in securing their marriage, inheritance, and other rights. Mr. Akhunzada also mentioned that negative aspects related to women’s attire, such as the wearing of hijabs, and what he referred to as “misguidance,” would soon come to an end.

Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, they have imposed strict restrictions on women and girls. These restrictions include barring them from attending high school or university, prohibiting their access to parks, gyms, and public baths, and enforcing dress codes when leaving their homes.

Mr. Akhunzada’s claims come in the wake of warnings from the United Nations, which stated that the restrictions on women and girls make international recognition of the Taliban government “nearly impossible.”

In his message, Mr. Akhunzada called for other countries to refrain from interfering in Afghanistan’s internal affairs. The Taliban leader expressed the Taliban government’s desire for positive political and economic relations with the world, particularly with Muslim-majority countries.

Mr. Akhunzada also condemned Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians and urged the people and government of Sudan to put aside their differences and work towards unity and brotherhood.

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