Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi has backed a new fatwa issued by top Afghan religious scholars, reaffirming that defending the Islamic system is a duty of every citizen and that Afghan soil will not be allowed to be used for militancy or cross-border attacks.
Speaking at a major gathering, Muttaqi emphasized that the scholars’ decree clearly states that protecting Afghanistan’s Islamic governance and territorial sovereignty is not the sole responsibility of security forces but a religious obligation for all Afghans.
He stressed that if anyone violates Afghanistan’s borders or commits aggression, jihad becomes an individual obligation, and all citizens must stand in defense of the country.
Firm Assurance: No Militant Activity Allowed From Afghan Territory
Muttaqi reiterated the Islamic Emirate’s longstanding commitment that Afghanistan will not serve as a base for attacks against any other state.
He stated that no group or individual will be permitted to use Afghan territory for militancy, and those who attempt to do so will face strict legal action.
Muttaqi added that the Taliban leadership does not allow anyone to travel abroad to participate in armed activities, and any violations of this policy will be dealt with seriously.
Scholars’ Gathering Strengthens Directive
His remarks came shortly after a gathering of more than 1,000 Afghan scholars, clerics, and political figures at Kabul University. The assembly issued a joint declaration urging the Taliban government to ensure that, based on the Supreme Leader’s order, no Afghan citizen is allowed to travel overseas for military purposes.
The fatwa also emphasized that protecting the Islamic system is a collective responsibility, while resisting foreign aggression constitutes an individual duty of jihad.
Regional Context
Muttaqi’s renewed commitment is likely to be closely watched by neighboring countries—particularly Pakistan, which has raised concerns about the presence and movement of militant outfits along the Afghan border.
Pakistan insists that its stance is straightforward:
the Afghan Taliban must prevent and dismantle militant groups operating from their soil.
Beyond this expectation, Pakistan maintains no hostility toward Afghanistan and seeks stability in the region.
