The Coming Carnage Between the Taliban and Their Jihadist Rivals
The attacks on civilians at Kabul airport could be a precursor to bloodier confrontations as terrorist groups, including Islamic State affiliates, draw inspiration and supporters on the back of the Taliban's success.
A scene after two explosions at the Kabul airport on Aug. 26.
Photographer: WAKIL KOHSAR/AFPThe global jihadist community has had a mixed reaction to the Taliban’s remarkable sweep to power in Afghanistan.
Al-Qaeda — Osama bin Laden’s alma mater — was brimming with enthusiasm, heralding a triumphant new era of Islamic rule that proves jihad, and not the “democracy game,” is the way to achieve power. The al-Qaeda linked news agency, the Global Islamic Media Front, released a statement of congratulations that said: “May Allah grant the mujahideen in Somalia, the African Sahel, Yemen, Syria, Pakistan, the Indian subcontinent and everywhere the same victory.”