Against all predictions, the Taliban took the Afghan capital in a matter of hours. This is the story of why and what came after, by a reporter and photographer who witnessed it all.
Tag: Karzai, Hamid
On Shaky Ground, Former President Karzai Stays in Afghanistan
He and the Taliban have long been enemies, but he has stayed in Afghanistan, hoping to work with the militants and help shape a new government.
Did the War in Afghanistan Have to Happen?
In 2001, when the Taliban were weak and ready to surrender, the U.S. passed on a deal. Nearly 20 years later, the Taliban hold all the cards.
Chaos Persists at Kabul Airport as Taliban Discuss New Government
The militants have engaged the former officials Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah, as well as Moscow, to seek help in building an “inclusive” government while cementing their rule.
Kabul’s Sudden Fall to Taliban Ends U.S. Era in Afghanistan
A takeover of the entire country was all but absolute as the Afghan government collapsed and the U.S. rushed through a frenzied evacuation.
From the Afghan Peace Deal, a Weak and Pliable Neighbor for Pakistan
If the U.S. military withdrawal does not lead to a further descent into chaos in Afghanistan, next-door Pakistan could be the real winner.
3 Afghan Schools, 165 Accounts of Students Being Raped
An advocacy group says it has documented systematic sexual abuse by teachers, principals and other authorities of dozens of boys in one rural area.
Afghanistan Presidential Vote Presses On Despite Concerns About Legitimacy
Accusations of systemic fraud and fears of Taliban threats have compromised an election that is likely to have the fewest voters since the first presidential vote in 2004.
Young Afghan General Tries to Reform Police With American Way of War
Coming up through elite U.S. and British training, he is a favorite of Western commanders. But his police forces are under siege, and corruption is still a problem.
Taliban Peace Talks in Moscow End With Hope the U.S. Exits, if Not Too Quickly
The most significant contact between insurgents and Afghan politicians was informal at best as the government was absent, but the Taliban offered some clarity on their positions.