Differences within the Afghan Taliban government intensify, Sirajuddin Haqqani resigns as Interior Minister

Sirajuddin Haqqani, the head of the powerful Haqqani Network within the Afghan Taliban government, has resigned from his position as the acting Interior Minister of Afghanistan. This claim was made by Indian media, which further stated that Haqqani’s resignation is due to serious differences with the Taliban's supreme leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, reflecting the growing rebellion within the Taliban leadership.

Rising internal rift within Taliban leadership?

Indian media, citing internal Taliban sources, reported that Sirajuddin Haqqani strongly opposed several Taliban policies, particularly those related to women's education, foreign policy, and governance. Sources revealed that he had traveled abroad for medical treatment and is now resting after returning to Kabul.

Differences between Taliban factions escalate since 2021 takeover

Reports indicate that several senior leaders, including those from the powerful Haqqani Network, are dissatisfied with Haibatullah Akhundzada's rigid policies. Key issues of disagreement include the ban on women's education, the Taliban's hard stance on international relations, and internal governance strategies.

Power struggle within Taliban factions

Experts believe that the power struggle within the Taliban is intensifying, as Akhundzada’s loyalists are trying to limit the influence of the Haqqani Network.

Last month, internal differences within the Taliban became evident when a 14-member Afghan delegation was barred from attending the “Afghanistan Future Thought Forum” in Qatar.

Reportedly, Taliban officials removed some members from a Fly Dubai flight, while others were prevented from boarding an Air Arabia flight.

According to Afghanistan's “Amu TV,” the Afghan delegation included two women, which was a major reason behind the decision.

Sources suggest that this move is also a result of the ongoing internal conflict and power struggle between the Haqqani Network and Akhundzada’s supporters within the Taliban.