Following is the May 2023 installment of “Afghanistan Terrorism Report.” The authors provide a monthly analysis concerning the developing terrorist threat in Afghanistan as well as a comprehensive overview of that month’s al-Qaeda and ISIS-K propaganda.

In May, the general trend with ISIS-K-linked propaganda outlets no longer reporting on their attacks in Afghanistan unless they are of significant size or symbolic importance continued. This pattern was already visible during the past few months. Interestingly, the ISIS-linked Al-Naba Newsletter did not feature attack reports by ISIS-K between May 4 and 25. External observers also did not note significant ISIS-K terror operations in the country in May. This parallels a drop in activities by ISIS-core in Syria in the same month. In both areas, ISIS structures have been under sustained pressure and suffered some leadership losses. However, it would be premature to expect that this reduced number of ISIS-K terror operations in recent months indicates that the group’s ability has been sustainably diminished. The latest United Nations Monitoring Team report assesses ISIS-K resources to be substantial. Furthermore, the group’s operational capabilities had already been significantly reduced prior to the August 2021 takeover of power by the Taliban, only for it to recover quickly. In other regions, such as West Africa, ISIS affiliates continue to operate with continued intensity.

However, despite this clear slowdown in operational tempo, pro-ISIS-K propaganda outlets continued their ideological campaign against the Taliban regime, continuously criticizing its actions domestically and internationally. As expected, the dispute between the Taliban regime and Iran concerning the division of water from the Helmand River featured in pro-ISIS-K online propaganda in May. The water supply that the river affords both to Afghanistan and Iran is crucial for both countries. To a significant extent, the Iranian provinces of Sistan and Baluchistan depends on the river’s water supply. Several Afghan provinces, including Helmand province with its agricultural area, are equally supplied by the river as a primary source of fresh water. Since 1973, a treaty between Iran and Afghanistan regulates the water distribution from the river. However, in recent years, Afghanistan constructed a range of dams, significantly reducing the water flow towards Iran. This led to frequent protests from the Iranian side. Although in 2022 and the beginning of 2023, discussions between Iranian officials and the Taliban seemed to have made headway in resolving this dispute. Both sides clashed at the border in May and at the beginning of June. As expected, pro-ISIS-K propaganda posts accused the Taliban of being “captives” of Iran.

Another foreign policy issue that pro-ISIS-K propaganda highlighted is the developing relationship between the Taliban regime and China. In several propaganda posts, pro-ISIS outlets argue that the Taliban are signing agreements with China even though China does not recognize them as the legitimate government. Indeed in May, several potentially significant new agreements were signed. Most prominently, the Taliban regime, Pakistan, and China agreed to extend the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative to Afghanistan. Furthermore, since the beginning of 2023, agreements were penned between several Chinese companies and the Taliban regime concerning rare earth minerals and oil. However, given the near complete lack of infrastructure in Afghanistan, it remains to be seen when and how these agreements translate into tangible economic development. Pro-ISIS-K propaganda also highlighted the ongoing oppression of the Uyghur community in China. In its May issue, pro-ISIS Voice of Khorasan Web Magazine devoted an article to the persecution of the Uyghurs in an apparent attempt to criticize the ongoing cooperation of the Taliban regime with China.

Interestingly, although pro-ISIS-K propaganda continuously highlights internal Taliban disagreements and in May focused on criticizing the close relationship between the leadership of the Haqqani Network and Pakistan, pro-ISIS-K outlets did not comment on the replacement of the interim prime minister of the Taliban regime, Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund. Hassan Akhund, one of the movement’s founders, served in various positions in the previous Taliban regime until 2001 and was a member of the Taliban leadership structure (Quetta Shura) until 2021. Due to his prominence within the movement, Hassan Akhund was sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council in January 2001. He had been appointed interim prime minister in September 2021. The Taliban regime claims that Akhund is only temporarily stepping down due to health issues. However, observers have questioned this claim and have spoken of a replacement. The new interim prime minister of the Taliban regime is Abdul Kabir Mohammad Jan, who currently also retains his position as the deputy prime minister for political affairs of the Taliban regime. He was sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council on the same day in 2001 as Hassan Akhund. After the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001, Abdul Kabir Mohammad Jan remained part of the Taliban leadership structure. In 2007 when he was responsible for Taliban operations in Eastern Afghanistan, a suicide attack killed more than 70 Afghans, including children, during a visit to a factory in Baghlan by a parliamentary delegation. Since the return to power by the Taliban in 2021, he has been involved in talks between the Taliban and the United States in Doha. It remains to be seen if the hopes expressed by some observers that he is a more pragmatic Taliban leader open to a dialogue with the international community will lead to any change in the hardline decision-making of the regime. His role in the failed intra-Afghan talks following the U.S.-Taliban Doha Agreement does not bode particularly well.

Finally, the clashes between ISIS and al-Qaeda affiliates in West Africa have continued to be featured in Afghanistan-related ISIS-linked propaganda outlets. In May, the pro-ISIS Voice of Khorasan web magazine devoted a highly critical article on the operations of al-Qaeda in Africa. The article claimed that al-Qaeda in Africa is only interested in expanding its power and does not work towards establishing a true Islamic state. This sharp criticism is a reaction to a string of significant attacks of the Islamic State Greater Sahara (ISGS) targeting forces of the al-Qaeda-affiliated coalition Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM), which occurred in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger throughout May.

Afghanistan Terrorism Report

May 2023

Table of Contents

1. ISIS Al-Naba Newsletters, May 2023
2. Pro-ISIS Online Chatter
3. ISIS Amaq Statements
4. Pro-ISIS Voice of Khorasan Web Magazine Issue 25, Released on May 19, 2023
5. Pro-ISIS Hadm Al-Aswar Post on Telegram, Released May 21
6. Pro-ISIS Al-Azaim Video, Released May 25

1. ISIS Al-Naba Newsletters, May 2023

ISIS Al-Naba Newsletter Edition 389, Published May 4, 2023

• There were no ISIS-K news items in this week’s al-Naba.

ISIS Al-Naba Newsletter Edition 390, Published May 11, 2023

• “Assassination of a militia member loyal to the Pakistani government”

“This week, the soldiers of the Caliphate in the province of Khorasan assassinated an element loyal to the Pakistani government in northwest Pakistan. In detail, by the grace of God Almighty, the soldiers of the Caliphate targeted, on Friday (15/Shawwal), a member of the militia loyal to the apostate Pakistani government, in the village of (Inayat) in the (Bajaur) region, by detonating an explosive device, which led to his death, praise be to God.”

ISIS Al-Naba Newsletter Edition 391, Published May 18, 2023

• There were no ISIS-K news items in this week’s al-Naba.

ISIS Al-Naba Newsletter Edition 392, Published May 25, 2023

• There were no ISIS-K news items in this week’s al-Naba.

2. Pro-ISIS Online Chatter

• May 1: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that unknown gunmen murdered a pro-Taliban preacher in his home in Kabul.

“#Khorasan. The death of the preacher loyal to the apostate #Taliban militia called Mufti Qari Ruhollah Usmani, the apostate was killed in the nineteenth district of #Kabul by gunmen shooting in his home.”

• May 2: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban are not invited to the May Doha meeting to discuss Afghanistan.

“Atheist nations; ‘The Taliban are not welcome and are not invited to the meeting of atheist nations in Doha regarding Afghanistan.’

After all the concessions and submission to disbelief and entering into apostasy even the chins… she is still rejected…”

• May 2: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that foreign countries fly drones in Afghan airspace, despite the Taliban being “victorious and empowered.”

“#a witness. The sky of the militia #the apostate_Taliban victorious and empowered and the master of its command they claimed.”

• May 2: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram claiming that the scholar Dr. Hassan Abbas wrote that Mullah Mansour “had two Iranian visas” and that when traveling, he would purchase “Arab perfumes” and interact with Russian sex workers. The post states that Mansour would meet with the Iranian Revolutionary Guards and Russian FSB in Dubai and Iran, where he received money. 

“In the book of Hassan Abbas, a former intelligence officer, it says: ‘The passport of Mullah Mansour, the former Taliban leader, had two Iranian visas... He had a special passion for Arab perfumes and Russian prostitutes. On every trip, he would buy a lot of Arab perfumes and have fun with a lot of Russian prostitutes.’

It seems that Mullah Akhtar Mansour had foreign activities in Dubai, especially in Iran, when he was going to meet his contacts in the Iranian Revolutionary Guards and the Federal Security Service, where he also received millions of dollars.”

• May 3: Pro-ISIS RocketChat post stating that former Taliban interior ministry spokesperson Qari Saeed Khosty tweeted that Taliban critics in exile must be killed. However, he later deleted the tweet in question.

“The apostate adulterous dog Khosty in a tweet that he later deleted: Kill the fugitives with knives one by one, whoever opposes us and stands against us, go away, they are disrespectful, they are animals, so why don't you kill them?”

• May 4: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban previously attacked foreign NGOs and development organizations, such as USAID, declaring them legitimate targets. The post says that the Taliban no longer does this now that they receive foreign aid money and that the “Taliban itself has become a member and inseparable part of these American organizations.”

“#contemplation. This was the office of the United States Agency for International Development, attacked by the Taliban militia in 2010 and turned it into ruins, because at that time the militia declared that all non-governmental organizations or relief organizations belong to atheist nations, whether they work as medical facilities that help in natural disasters such as earthquakes, distribute polio medicines, distribute subsidies to the poor, even treating the wounded for free or participating in building Afghanistan. Since it is affiliated with or working under the cover of America, it is the enemy of Islam and a legitimate target for it.

So what changed today? Did these organizations repent or did America convert to Islam?

What has changed so that all organizations have become infidels and atheists, and all work for intelligence agendas, without exception, are welcomed, but the apostate #Taliban militia is making efforts to defend and protect it.

Haram money yesterday became halal good! 40 million dollars a week.

What happened is that the apostate Taliban itself has become a member and an inseparable part of these American organizations, and this is the outcome and the clear truth.”

• May 4: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that envoys from the Taliban and China are meeting in Pakistan to extend China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

“Taliban and Chinese envoys meet in Pakistan to extend the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative.”

Text:

“Pakistan to extend the Belt and Road Initiative

ISLAMABAD - DPA: The Taliban's foreign minister, Amir Khan Mottaki, is due to travel to Pakistan later this week for talks with his Chinese counterpart, Qin Gang, may include extending the Belt and Road Initiative into Afghanistan. And Bloomberg news agency reported on Wednesday that Mottaki will discuss the issue of ‘regional stability and interdependence during the meeting’ according to Hafiz Zia Ahmed, deputy spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Mottaki will also participate in the sixth trilateral meeting, which Chen and Wazir will attend with Pakistan's Foreign Ministry, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. The Chinese and Pakistani officials had previously discussed extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, worth $60 billion, to Afghanistan. The financially troubled Taliban government has expressed its readiness to introduce this pioneering project of the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping, depending on the possibility of providing much-needed infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Taliban have expressed hope that China will boost its investment in the country’s rich resources, which are estimated to be worth nearly $1 trillion.”

• May 5: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban Foreign Minister Mottaki arrived in Islamabad to meet with the Foreign Ministers from China and Pakistan. The post notes that the Chinese Special Representative for Afghanistan said they will not recognize the Taliban until it can “protect its neighbors from the threat of international terrorists.”

“#Pakistan. A delegation from the apostate #Taliban militia, headed by the foreign tyrant Mottaki, flew to Islamabad. The group includes officials and businessmen who obtained permission from atheist nations to spend 4 days in the Pakistani capital to hold a tripartite meeting with representatives of China and Pakistan.

Chinese foreign juggernaut Qin Gang arrived to attend the meeting, and Pakistani foreign juggernaut will also attend.

It is worth noting that the Chinese Special Representative for Afghanistan said earlier that Beijing has no plans to recognize the new apostate militia regime until it fulfills its promise to protect its neighbors from the threat of international terrorists.”

• May 5: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the former Taliban anti-terrorism head in Kandahar was released after being imprisoned approximately six months ago for “adultery and fornication.” The post states that he was welcomed home, and his friends fired weapons in the air, which is supposed to be forbidden. 

“#contemplation. The former tyrant of the anti-terrorism department of the apostate #Taliban_militia in #Kandahar, the apostate Abdul Ghani Haqbin, who was imprisoned by the apostate militia in late 2022 on charges of committing adultery and fornication, was released yesterday.

His friends welcomed him warmly and also celebrated his release by firing bullets, which is supposed to have been prevented by the apostate militia previously.

The immoral adulterer, Ghani Haqbin, is from the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar Province. He inherited power in his area from a notorious former leader, Mullah Sirajuddin Haqbeen.”

• May 5: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that many Taliban supporters were angry that Abdul Ghani Haqbin was not stoned for his crimes. The post states that religious law is only applied to the poor.

“#contemplation. Meanwhile, many supporters of the apostate #Taliban_militia expressed their anger at the release of the perpetrator of indecency without applying God’s ruling, which is stoning, saying that the militia does not enforce the hudud except for the poor.

While some accounts of the apostate militia fools on Twitter condemned the shooting by supporters of the adulterer Ghani Haqbin in Kandahar and demanded the leadership of the apostate militia to punish the violators.”

• May 7: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that an imam was killed in Baghlan and that locals accused the Taliban of perpetrating the killing because he did not praise or mention the Taliban in his sermons. The post states that another preacher was killed in Ghor, but the cause is unknown.

“#Khorasan. With the killing of one of the imams of the Nahrin region of Baghlan province, his name was Mullah Nooruddin. The locals accused the apostate Taliban militia, considering it as punishment for not mentioning and praising the militia's tyrant in his sermons.

Another religious preacher, Muhammad Nazir Mawan, was killed in Firouzko, Ghor state. The cause or suspects are unknown.”

• May 7: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that Taliban leaders, including Foreign Minister Amir Khan Mottaki, met with Pakistani political leaders “in the presence of a large number of Deobandi women.”

“#contemplation. A meeting that brought together the tyrants of the apostate Taliban militia and their Pakistani masters, in the presence of a large number of Deobandi women.”

• May 7: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram claiming that the head of the Taliban counter-terrorism department in Kandahar, Mullah Haqbin Noorzai, claimed he was “arrested for slander” and that the Taliban could not prove his guilt during a trial. He was held for six months before being released. The post states that a video clip from the arrest showed Noorzai with several others and illegal drugs and implicated them in same-sex acts “with a young man who was being held captive with them” and that Noorazi was arrested for adultery. The post alleges that he was released because he is related to Akhundzada, and that many Afghans and Taliban members are angry about the outcome. 

“#a witness. The release of the head of the counter-terrorism department in Kandahar, Mullah Haqbin Noorzai, is widely discussed in Afghan society. According to him, he was arrested for slander and during the trial, which lasted 6 months, it was not possible to prove his guilt (at the same time, for the release of Noorzai, a full decree of the Taliban leader had to be issued).

Earlier, a video clip was posted on the network showing the moment the apostate Noorzai and his companions were arrested. Lots of drugs were found with them, and they were doing Lot's act with a young man who was being held captive with them. Earlier, it was said that the leader of the apostate Taliban militia was brought to court in the case of adultery, then it became clear that he had committed an indecency towards the people of Lot.

The apostate al-Fahish was released because his tribe is related to the tyrant Akhundzada, the emir of the militia. This case angered the Afghans and the militia members themselves.

The #Islamic_State learned of the spread of abominations among the leaders and sons of the leaders of the apostate militia after the arrival of allegiance from Khorasan.”

• May 7: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Mottaki met with Asim Munir, the head of the staff of the Pakistani army, to discuss fighting ISIS-K. The post notes that the Pakistani military is fighting the Pakistani Taliban and al-Qaeda.

“#contemplation. The foreign tyrant of the apostate Taliban militia, and with the full blessing of the militia, meets with the tyrant of the staff of the Pakistani army, the same apostate army in the custom of the Pakistani Taliban militia, which is being fought by apostasy, and the same apostate army in the custom of the captives of the apostate al-Qaeda.

The two damned discussed ways to cooperate militarily against their only common enemy; #Islamic State.”

• May 8: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that following a meeting in Islamabad, the Taliban, China, and Pakistan have agreed to extend the Belt and Road Initiative to Afghanistan through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

“The Taliban agreement with China and Pakistan to extend the ‘Belt and Road’ Initiative to include Afghanistan.”

Text:

“Taliban Agreement with China and Pakistan Extending the Belt and Road Initiative to Afghanistan

Beijing - dpa: The Taliban have agreed with China and Pakistan to extend the Belt and Road Initiative to Afghanistan, which could draw in billions of dollars to fund infrastructure projects in the country hit by sanctions. Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang and his Pakistani counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari held a meeting in Islamabad on Saturday and pledged to work together on the process of rebuilding Afghanistan, including extending the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to include Afghanistan, which is ruled by the Taliban, according to Bloomberg News Agency on Sunday.

Following the meeting, the two sides agreed to continue their humanitarian and economic assistance to the Afghan people and to enhance development cooperation in Afghanistan, including through the extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan, said a joint statement issued by the Pakistani Foreign Ministry. The fourth strategic dialogue between Pakistan and China was followed by a joint press conference between Zardari and Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang, Chinese and Pakistani officials had previously discussed extending the project to Afghanistan, which was built under President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative that began nearly a decade ago.”

• May 8: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that Afghanistan’s inclusion in the Belt and Road Initiative will mean Chinese economic projects in Afghanistan and the lowering of trade barriers between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The post notes, “Chinese companies have already purchased many sources of various primary resources in Afghanistan and are planning to build their own mines and factories there.”

“The apostate Taliban militia joins the One Belt and One Road project in China.

This came in a joint statement issued by Pakistan's Foreign Minister – ‘The two sides agreed to continue providing humanitarian and economic assistance to the Afghan people and to enhance development cooperation in Afghanistan, including by expanding the Belt and Road Initiative to Afghanistan.’

Thus, many Chinese economic projects can be launched in Afghanistan. Iranian media also reported that Pakistan decided to remove trade barriers between the two countries.

It is worth noting that Chinese companies have already purchased many sources of various primary resources in Afghanistan and are planning to build their own mines and factories there.”

• May 9: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the governor of Bamyan province opened a girls’ school but that the Taliban “prevent Sunni girls from their right to education.” The post noted that Iran decided to provide education for women and girls in Afghanistan and that this is another example of Shiite and Iranian influence in the country. 

“#Khorasan. Blatant blasphemy. With the blessing and funding of the apostate Taliban militia, the apostate ruler of Bamyan, Abdullah Sarhadi, participated in the opening of the ‘Zainabiyya’ school for girls in the Wars district. The apostate militia continues to prevent Sunni girls from their right to education.

Earlier, a meeting was held in Iran for representatives of Iran and the apostate Taliban militia on the issue of Afghan women's rights and their status as immigrants. Tehran said it would provide education for female Afghan immigrants and those who remained in Afghanistan.

It is well known that the Afghan Rafidites widely use Iran's influence on the apostate militia, and they themselves are tools for this influence.

Accordingly, the gap in the form of a lack of female education will be filled by pro-Iranian lobbies, as well as in many other areas.

Such a policy would allow Tehran not only to influence the new regime, but also to promote Shiism on a larger scale among ordinary Sunnis in Afghanistan, under the complete silence of the apostate militia.”

• May 10: Pro-ISIS post on RocketChat that “the Taliban continue to build relationships with their puppet masters (Pakistan and especially the ISI).” The post states that “the regime of Pakistan has never worked in favor of Muslims.” The photo shows Taliban leaders and Pakistani officials standing in front of the Karachi Port Trust Building. 
   
• May 10: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that another $40 million has arrived in Afghanistan.

“#concrete. The arrival of a financial package of $40 million in cash from atheist nations, donated to the apostate Taliban militia.”

• May 11: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that Sirajuddin Haqqani said all people regardless of ethnicity should participate in government.

“Mukhabarat Haqqani: All people should be partners in our government.

Agent Sirajuddin Haqqani, a leader of the Haqqani Network, and an internal tyrant of the apostate Taliban militia. He implicitly criticized the monopoly of power by the Pashtun militia, and said that all people should participate in their government...

The foreign tyrant of the apostate Taliban militia added that the militia system should not be so exclusive that members of only one nationality see themselves as deserving of it.

The apostate Haqqani said, ‘Everyone is a partner in this system, and this system was not created to save ourselves. Rather, it was built to save the country.’”

• May 12: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that Wang Wenbin, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said that the Taliban “was committed to fighting the Uyghur militants” and preventing their attacks, or attacks from other groups, from Afghan territory. The post stated that the Taliban agreed to this during recent negotiations in Islamabad, where Afghan inclusion into the Belt and Road Initiative was decided. The post notes that “Uyghur Muslims living in Afghanistan will face serious pressure from the…regime” and that Uyghur leaders in Afghanistan were in danger.

“#contemplation. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said; The infidel pagan Wang Wenbin said that the apostate Taliban militia was committed to fighting the Uyghur militants and preventing the attacks launched by them or other armed groups from the territory of #Afghanistan on the Buddhist Republic of China.

And that this is what the apostate Taliban promised in writing during the recent talks in Islamabad.

It is now expected that the Uyghur Muslims living in Afghanistan will face serious pressure from the apostate regime, and there is also the possibility of launching operations against Uyghur armed leaders.

I have noticed the apostate Taliban militia applying the terms of the treaty already in the fight against the Islamic State, as well as in helping to fight the Pakistani Taliban militia for the benefit of neighboring countries and America.”

• May 12: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that Iran’s former ambassador to Afghanistan praised Sirajuddin Haqqani on Twitter for his “demand for change and insight” for not limiting the government followers of the Deobandi movement only.

“Former Iranian ambassador to Kabul: Haqqani's difference with other Taliban leaders is courage and insight.’

Majusi Mohammad Reza Bahrami, Iran's former ambassador to Afghanistan, said that the difference between Haqqani and other Taliban leaders is ‘courage and foresight’ against the backdrop of the recent statements of agent Sirajuddin Haqqani, an internal tyrant of the apostate Taliban militia.

The former Iranian ambassador to Kabul added in a tweet: ‘The difference between Haqqani and other leaders of this pragmatic group is the courage to repeat the demand for change and insight.’

Referring to the apostate Sirajuddin Haqqani's recent statements about the monopoly of power by the Pashtuns, Rafidi Bahrami expressed his hope that his words would be a continuation of the demand for a change in the way of ruling the apostate militia.

This former Iranian official said: ‘It seems that Sirajuddin Haqqani sees the danger of the survival of the Taliban more than the external factor in the closed positions of the government.’

It is noteworthy that the apostate Sirajuddin Haqqani, last Thursday, while commemorating the death of Mullah Omar, the founder of the Taliban movement, once again implicitly criticized the monopoly of power in the militia government and said that their government should not be limited to members of the Deobandi school only.”

• May 12: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban asked Qatar to help build trust between them and the international community. The post notes that Muhammad Hassan Akhund met with the head of Qatari intelligence in Kandahar and that the two countries agreed to “cooperate in the fields of education, health, and the economy.”

“The apostate Taliban militia asks the state of Qatar to play a greater role in building trust between Afghanistan and the international community.

The apostate trumpet announced the sacrifice of apostasy, the meeting of the apostate Muhammad Hassan Akhund, the tyrant of the ministers of the militia, with the apostate Muhammad bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani, the tyrant of the ministers of the statelet of Qatar.

And the lying trumpet added in a news message today (Friday) that the tyrant of the ministers and the tyrant of the Qatari intelligence met with the tyrant of the militia ministers during a trip to Kandahar.

The bulletin stated that the high-level Qatari delegation, in its meeting with the apostate Muhammad Hassan Akhund, pledged to strengthen relations and trust with Afghanistan and cooperate in the fields of education, health and the economy.

At this meeting, Taghut called on the militia ministers to ‘play a bigger role’ in order to build trust between Afghanistan and the international community.”

• May 14: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the U.S. has sent another installment of $40 million to the Taliban.

“#Khorasan. Worshipers of the Cross send 40 million dollars in cash to his dogs, the Taliban.”

• May 15: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban have received $80 million in two days from the West.

“#contemplation. In a new record time, the Global Crusader Alliance sent 80 million dollars in cash in just two days to the pockets of the apostate Taliban militia.”

• May 16: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that two children were killed in a drone strike in the village of Bahramkhel in Khost in an attack on the house of an imam. The post asks, “in which cave in Tora Bora did the…Taliban leave their manhood?” before stating that the West bought the Taliban, who would presumably not protest this attack or civilian casualties.

“#Khorasan. A drone strike on the village of Bahramkhel in Khost, on the house of Mufti Farooq, killed at least two children.

The mufti, who hails from Waziristan, has been an imam in a local mosque for 8 years, and belongs to the Gul Bahadur group.

The question here is not about the owners of the raid, were they American or Pakistani, but rather in which cave in Tora Bora did the tyrants of the apostate Taliban militia leave their manhood?

Then when you remember 80 million dollars in two days, you understand that their manhood, not religion; there is no religion for them and the Lord of the Kaaba; Bought in dollars...

Then the captives of Sankoh yelled: The Taliban defeated America!”

• May 16: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram alleging that the Taliban’s loyalties are for sale.

“#contemplation. Everyone buys and sells in the ranks of the apostate Taliban militia. Magi of Iran, Pakistan and America.”

• May 16: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram alleging that Pakistani intelligence, “the guardians of the Haqqani Network,” were responsible for the drone strike that killed Mufti Farooq’s daughters.

“#follows. It turns out that those behind the raid that killed Mufti Farooq's daughters in #Khost are the guardians of the Haqqani Network; Pakistan intelligence.”

• May 16: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban were paid for protecting Kabul International Airport.

“#conspiracy. It will be written in history that the guardians of the foolish and perishing captives fought and captured the Muslims in revenge for the perishing of the worshipers of the Cross at Kabul International Airport, and it will be written that the apostate militia gets the right of its heinous act in millions of dollars.”

• May 17: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram saying that the Iranian Foreign Minister stated that access to water rights from Helmand was a “practical demand” and that border security was crucial. The post also states that despite “drought and technical issues” in Afghanistan, Mottaki “affirmed Iran’s right to water in accordance with the Treaty of Helmand” and promised to “solve the water problem as well as border issues.”

“#contemplation. In a telephone conversation with the apostate Taliban militia, the Iranian foreign affairs tyrant, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, described providing Iran's water rights from Helmand as a practical demand from Tehran and stressed the militia's responsibility not to repeat border tensions.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry added: ‘Commitment to the security of the common borders is our red line.’

According to the statement of the Iranian Foreign Ministry, the apostate Amir Khan Mottaki, referring to Afghanistan's problems, including drought and technical issues, once again affirmed Iran's right to water in accordance with the Treaty of Helmand and explained the efforts of the Afghan side to solve the water problem as well as border issues.

Magi order and their captives apply.”

• May 18: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the president of Iran warned the Taliban about violating Iranian rights regarding water from the Helmand River.”

“#a witness. The Iranian tyrant threatens the leaders of the apostate Taliban militia:

‘I warn the rulers of Afghanistan against giving the right of water to the people of Sistan and Baluchestan. We will not allow the rights of our people to be violated. Take my word for it, so you don't complain later.’”

• May 19: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban had intended to steal “a thousand acres of grassland” in Takhar held by Uzbeks to give it to Pashtuns, but the Uzbeks prevented it.

“#Khorasan. The apostate Taliban militia planned to usurp a thousand acres of grassland of Uzbek origin in the village of Moghal Qishlaq in Takhar and distribute it to the Pashtuns, but its original owners confronted it.”

• May 20: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram claiming that the Iranian ambassador to Afghanistan stated that Iran would take drastic measures to secure water from the Helmand River if it is not provided by the Taliban, as required by treaty.

“Will the apostate Taliban militia submit to its humiliated rejectionist masters?

Hassan Kazemi Qomi, the Iranian tyrant's special representative to Afghanistan, said that within a month, the Taliban must give the right to Iran. The polytheist Kazemi Qomi added that if there is water and the Taliban did not give it, then this is complete evidence for Iran that this issue is one of the rights of the nation and how it should act (bombing the dam or war).

According to the Majusia News Agency, the Iranian ambassador said in a televised interview regarding the apostate Taliban militia’s dealings with Helmand’s rights: ‘According to what they say, the Taliban must provide water within the framework of the 1351 Treaty, but if there is water and they did not provide it, they must be held accountable for not providing it.’

Oh God, strike the oppressors with the oppressors.”

• May 20: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that a Taliban official from Paktia Province posted on Twitter regarding the price for women as brides in the province. The post says that the official later deleted the tweet and that the Taliban had decreed in December 2021 that forced marriage was forbidden and that women were not property under the law.

“#a witness. Quoting the apostate Khaliqyar Ahmadzai, Director of Information and Culture of the apostate Taliban militia in Paktia Province, TaandNet reported that the Ahmadzai tribe has set new bride prices in the province. Khaliqyar called it a big step and announced the details as follows:

1. 400,000 Afghani for the virgin.
2. 200,000 Afghani for a widow.
3. 600,000 Afghanis for the second wife.
4. 500,000 Afghani for the virgin to the widowed husband.

Then the apostate later deleted his tweet...

In December 2021, the despot in the decree banned forced marriage and said that women should not be considered property to be bought and sold.”

• May 21: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that a helicopter crashed after hitting power lines in Samangan, killing both pilots.

“#Khorasan. A helicopter crashes and its two pilots die after colliding with power lines in Samangan.”

• May 21: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram claiming that Iran is “threatening” the Taliban over access to water from the Helmand River from previously signed treaties. The post states that the former Afghan government did not follow the agreement, but the Taliban promised to abide by it. The Iranians, however, have noted that the Taliban are not correctly abiding by the former agreement, and a meeting was held between Iranian and Afghan officials to resolve the situation, with the Taliban declaring that they wanted “all kinds of cooperation with Tehran.”

“#Khorasan. Magian (Magician/ Zoroastrian) pressure on the apostate Taliban militia.

In recent days, officials in Tehran have begun threatening the new apostate regime. The reason for this is the issue of water resources of the Helmand River, of which Iran claims a part, in connection with the old agreements.

Under the replaced regime, this agreement was not respected and the apostate Taliban militia promised to fulfill it instead of them, but according to the Iranian side, sufficient efforts were not made for this purpose, and doubts arose as to obstructing that. Tehran promised a stern response if Iran received evidence of a direct violation of the treaty by the apostate militia.

After that, a meeting was held for the delegations of the two countries. The militia was represented by the deputy tyrant of the general staff of the new financial system, the apostate Khan Sadiq, and the Iranian tyrant's magus (magician/Zoroastrian) represented the diplomatic mission in Afghanistan, Hassan Kazemi Qomi. The apostate Taliban militia indicated its adherence to the path of all kinds of cooperation with Tehran and friendly relations.

The Iranians positively evaluated the actions of their dog in various fields and expressed their desire to solve problems through negotiations.”

• May 21: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban uses Pashtun law instead of religious law.

“#contemplation. This is how the militia of the apostate #Taliban establishes the boundaries of Pashtun martial law.”

• May 22: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating the former police commander in Ahmadabad, Paktia, Hamid Khorasani, resigned due to “disagreements with” Taliban leaders. The post says there were “clashes…between the police and representatives of the Ministry of Defense” and that Khorasani was temporarily arrested. The post states that the Taliban divide income from “smuggling routes, drug smuggling, humanitarian aid, or just troubled areas.”

“#Khorasan. The apostate Hamid Khorasani, formerly appointed Police Commander of the apostate Taliban militia in Ahmadabad, Paktia province, has resigned. He made his decision due to disagreements with the leadership of the apostate militia, as reported by local media. It is known that several clashes took place between the police and representatives of the Ministry of Defense of the new apostate regime in this region, as well as the temporary arrest of the apostate Hamid Khorasani himself, which apparently became one of the reasons for his second resignation.

The leaders of the apostate Taliban militia often divide smuggling routes, drug smuggling, humanitarian aid, or just troubled areas among themselves. Khorasani was indeed a tyrant of the Ministry of Interior in Panjshir Province, but he resigned from his post due to disagreements and he spoke about those disagreements himself.”

• May 22: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that former Taliban leader Akhtar Mansour’s property in Pakistan is being auctioned for 100 million rupees (approximately $350,800). The post says that Mansour was involved in smuggling drugs into Iran and Russia and had a relationship with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. Mansour invested in real estate in Karachi using a Pakistani passport and identity card. 

“#contemplation. The property of the mortal apostate Akhtar Mansour in #Pakistan, the emir of the apostate #Taliban militia and the first suspect in the killing of Mullah Omar; At auction for sale at 100 million rupees.

Al-Hulk was behind drug smuggling and opened a new relationship with Iran and Russia in 2007. Al-Hulk earned millions of dollars from drug trafficking and his relationship with the Iranian Magi Guard.

The malignant was investing some of it in real estate in Karachi, Pakistan, using a Pakistani identity card and passport.”

• May 22: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that Akhtar Mansour was held for six months in northern Afghanistan in 1997 by General Abdul Malik. The post states that after 9/11, Mansour “was running the (Taliban) militia in Pakistan and Iran” while “using a Pakistani passport.”

“#a witness. It is noteworthy that Mansour al-Taghut (disbeliever, worshipped beside God), the former leader of the apostate Taliban militia and the Sanakih captives, who was killed by the CIA near Quetta, Pakistan in 2016, was arrested by General Malik for six months in northern Afghanistan in 1997. After the events of September 11, he was running the militia in Pakistan and Iran. Using a Pakistani passport.”

• May 22: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram claiming that Mansour was “issuing statements in the name of Mullah Omar” for two years after his death.

“#comment. Note that the mortal Akhtar was issuing statements in the name of Mullah Omar after his murder for two full years.”

• May 24: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban officer in charge of “combating criminal offenses in the Hazrati Sultan area of Samangan” was killed by unknown individuals.

“#Khorasan. The death of the so-called Mufti Abdul Hamid, an officer of the apostate Taliban militia in charge of combating criminal offenses in the Hazrati Sultan area of Samangan province last night at the hands of unknown gunmen.”

• May 26: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that Akhundzadeh has approved the formation of morality police units composed of Shiites in Bamyan, Daykundi, and Ghazni, and Shiite neighborhoods in Kabul.

“#contemplation. The Taliban refused.

The apostate Khaled Hanafi Taghut said, ‘Enjoining evil and forbidding good,’ said that a decision was taken to appoint ‘morality police’ from among the polytheistic Rafidah in the areas of their spread.

The initiative was supported by the militia tyrant, Hibatullah Akhundzadeh. According to him, this has already been done in the provinces of Bamyan, Daykundi and Ghazni, as well as in the polytheistic Rafidah Hazara neighborhoods of Kabul.

Will the rejectionist deviation police apply the Jaafari Shirk or Hanafi jurisprudence? The latter is, of course, unlikely.”

• May 27: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that Taliban and Iranian border guards fought and that the Iranians used artillery as the situation arising from the Helmand River water dispute worsened.

“#Khorasan. Clashes between imaginary border guards, in which the Magusian side used artillery, in light of increasing tensions due to the water crisis.”

• May 27: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that there was an explosion of unknown origin in Taleqan, the capital of Takhar Province.”

“#urgent. #Khorasan. An explosion sounded in the capital of Takhar province.”

• May 28: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that al-Qaeda associate Mustafa Hamed blamed the U.S. (on Twitter and his website) for the recent water dispute between the Taliban and Iran due to the construction of the Kamal Khan Dam. The post states that Hamed urged the Taliban to remember their prior Iranian support and to hold meetings with Iranian leaders to resolve the crisis. The post said that Iran protects Saif al-Adl, and therefore it is in al-Qaeda’s interest to promote good relations between Iran and the Taliban. 

“#contemplation. The apostate Mustafa Hamed, the father-in-law of Saif al-Adl, the Iranian Sofih Al-Sharzma, has now published his vision of the border conflict between the Iranian Magians and the Taliban apostates.

In his opinion, this position was triggered by America's actions before leaving Afghanistan, namely the construction of the Kamal Khan Dam, with the expectation that this would lead to problems in the implementation of the apostate Taliban militia's implementation of the Helmand River division agreements from 1973.

He also urged the leadership of the new apostate Taliban militia to remember what the wise men of Iran did to support this malicious movement. In addition, the apostate suggested holding a meeting of the senior militia leaders and the Rawafid magi to discuss border issues and the water problem.

It is known that the current tyrant of the extinct organization is in captivity #Tehran and it is not in his interest for there to be a conflict between these parties.

After yesterday's exchange of fire, calm prevailed on the border again, and the crossing was reopened this afternoon, and the two sides announced that the water had returned to normal.”

• May 28: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that a Taliban spokesperson hoped for fair elections in Turkey during the second round of voting. The post calls the elections “polytheistic.”

“#contemplation. The media tyrant of the apostate Taliban militia: ‘We are closely following the elections in Turkey, hoping that the elections will be fair.’

And yes, today the second round of polytheistic elections begins in Ataturkia between the apostates Erdogan and his opponent.”

• May 28: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs congratulated Erdogan for winning Turkey’s “polytheistic elections to arbitrate the law of democracy.”

“#contemplation. Widen the breach on the designated.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the apostate Taliban militia officially congratulates, in five languages, the infidel Ataturk, Erdogan, on his victory in the polytheistic elections to arbitrate the law of democracy.”

• May 29: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that at a meeting of Taliban ministers led by the Prime Minister met to discuss water issues, among other topics. The post said that the Taliban ministers decided to comply with the Helmand River Water Treaty of 1973 in the interests of good relations with Iran.

“#Khorasan. Paper lion.

The political committee of the apostate #Taliban militia, led by the taghut of ministers, Mullah Abdul Kabir, met to discuss a number of issues. Among them was the issue of water resources, which greatly concerned the Iranian magi.

The meeting was also attended by the tyrant of water resources and energy, Abdul Latif Mansur.

As a result, the apostate Taliban militia considered the most appropriate solution to be full compliance with the 1973 Treaty, emphasizing the importance of good relations with the wise men of Tehran.”

• May 30: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram claiming that a 15-year-old Afghan child was kidnapped and killed in Iran for his organs by traffickers.

“#Iran. The kidnapping of a 15-year-old Afghan child and the theft of his organs by human organ traffickers.”

• May 31: Pro-ISIS post on Telegram stating that the head of the Afghan embassy in Qatar, Mohammad Naeem Wardak, posted on Twitter following clashes between Taliban and Iranian border guards that Iranians were “brotherly peoples” and that comments should not be made that might endanger the peace.

“#contemplation

After the recent skirmishes between the border guards of the Shirk Magi and the Taliban, some tyrants came out threatening and arrogant and wishing that the apostate #Taliban_militia would do such and such.

The official croaker replied to them that these tyrants are rambunctious children, and that the rejected Magi are brothers and sisters in the religion of the juggernaut.”

3. ISIS Amaq Statements

• May 28: ISIS-K claims to have killed an alleged Pakistani government spy in Peshawar.

“Khorasan Province, by the grace of God Almighty, the soldiers of the Caliphate targeted a spy of the apostate Pakistani government, in the area of (Bilal Kaloni) in the city of (Peshawar), with pistol shots, which led to his death.”

4. Pro-ISIS Voice of Khorasan Web Magazine Issue 25, Released on May 19, 2023

Article 1: Oh Allah, Guide Us on the Straight Path

• Citing the story of the Egyptian Pharoah.
  • Only God can deliver a people from tyranny.
  • God controls your fate, the same as the opening of the Red Sea for the fleeing Israelites (called Bani Israelites in the magazine).
• The Israelites still abandoned God and began worshipping idols despite the miracles performed while they fled Egypt.
  • Faith is crucial to not follow the same path.

Article 2: The Timeless Role Model in Islam: Abu Bakr

• Abu Bakr as-Siddiq should be considered the correct role model to follow.
  • He became a Muslim and spent his life as an honorable, ethical, and pious man.
  • Compare this to Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman in Saudi Arabia.
    • MBS is described as focusing on material wealth, has lessened the power of religious authorities, invited non-Muslims to Saudi Arabia, loosened some of the policies towards women, allowed music performances and the celebrations of non-Muslim holidays, accepted Christian tourism, is developing relations with Israel, and bombed Yemen.
  • While Abu Bakr was a wealthy merchant, he was generous and selfless. This is unlike wealthy businesspeople today, who horde their wealth.
  • Abu Bakr showed his leadership skills in the Ridda Wars after the death of the Prophet Muhammad.
  • The world is heading towards the end times. People, especially in Saudi Arabia, should follow Abu Bakr as a role model.

Article 3: Mottaki, Don’t Cry

• The article states that because it was permissible for the Taliban to fight against foreign occupation, and occupation continues, that fighting against the Taliban is obligatory.
• Amir Khan Mottaki, the Taliban’s Foreign Minister, declared that there is no legitimate religious fighting in Afghanistan now that the country has been freed from foreign occupation.
• The Taliban however, are new mercenaries for the U.S.
• Mottaki claimed that the Taliban had defeated ISIS-K when even the U.S. and the Western coalition could not.
• ISIS-K message to Mottaki: “We are fighting with you, because you are an American project.”
• Afghanistan is still under foreign occupation. It is a military, political, economic, and cultural occupation.
  • Military occupation
    • Foreign militaries and intelligence agencies still operate in Afghanistan.
    • Foreign drones fly overhead. The Taliban does not control their airspace.
  • Political occupation
    • The Taliban enforces the laws of the United Nations because the former wants inclusion into the global system.
    • The Taliban is in favor of “globalization,” and wants good relations with all other countries.
    • There is no war with unbelievers, there is no tax on Christians and Jews.
    • There is peace with the unbelievers at their request.
    • The UN has been associated as a partner with God, because their laws are being followed, instead of religious law.
  • Economic occupation
    • Every week the U.S. sends the Taliban $40 million. Additional unspecified secret money is also sent.
    • The Quran states that others will spend money to corrupt one from the correct religious path.
  • Cultural occupation
    • The secular curriculum is still taught in schools and universities.
    • There are no plans to change it, meaning that in the future these very students could become secular.
    • The Taliban participates in the religious and political ceremonies of others, such as celebrating Turkish Independence Day at their embassy.
  • In light of all of this, how can the Taliban be considered independent? Mottaki stated that the foreign occupation was the cause of the war, but Afghanistan is still occupied.
  • The Taliban are now protecting ancient idols, when previously they were smashed.
  • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is making deals with the Aga Khan Development Network “to promote idolatry.”
  • Shiites are appointed to high-ranking roles in government. A Sufi is the Minister of Higher Education.
  • There are also members of the former government who currently have roles in the Taliban government.
    • This even extends to many former Foreign Ministry employees.
  • The Taliban are protecting foreigners in the country, including hotels and embassies.
  • Violence and crime within Afghanistan are also increasing.

Article 4: The Worship of Spending in the Cause of Allah

• The article encourages supporting ISIS financially.

Article 5: Al-Qaeda in Africa: The Traitors Wearing the Cloak of Jihad in Africa

• Al-Qaeda did not establish the Islamic State. Instead, al-Qaeda fights against it.
• Al-Qaeda wants to portray themselves as supporters of local movements to gain legitimacy.
  • They claim they are building a consensus for the eventual creation of an Islamic State.
  • If al-Qaeda truly believed in the creation of an Islamic State, they would join ISIS.
• Recently, al-Qaeda has only focused on conflicts against leaders and factions in Africa and the Middle East, and not on fighting the U.S. and the West.
• The articles stated that in 2006, al-Qaeda began a process of reconciliation with Gaddafi’s son, Saif al Islam. Later, in 2014, AQ fought against ISIS in Libya.
  • This is why former AQ members joined ISIS, in order to spread the Islamic State.
• Al-Qaeda eventually will become part of the international system they claim to fight against.
  • They will betray others in this path.
  • Their only hope for salvation is to join ISIS.

Article 6: Istishhadi: Amaliyyah in the Light of Shari’ah

• There is a difference between suicide and killing oneself while fighting enemies in battle.
• The former is forbidden, while the latter not only approved, but desirable.
• A soldier who is killed while fighting against the enemies of religion will receive paradise in the hereafter.
• The article lists stories from the Quran and Sunnah that support this.
• A story of the Siege of Acre, when Muslim soldiers sunk their ship, killing themselves, to avoid their equipment being captured by a significantly larger force loyal to King Richard of England.
  • Salahudeen considered them martyrs.
• One of the reasons the U.S. lost the Vietnam War was because Vietnamese sappers carried out similar attacks.
• The psychological effect of these attacks is unparalleled.
• The definition of suicide does not apply to Istishhadi operations, because they die while performing religiously mandated fighting.

Article 7: MEMRI Plans but “Allah Is the Best of Planners,” by Abu Muhammad al-Italy

• Multiple research organizations create reports on ISIS and pro-ISIS newsletters, magazines, and other content.
  • These groups portray ISIS in a negative light, as terrorists and extremists.
  • The purpose of this is to prevent people from joining ISIS and to spread fear of the group.
• MEMRI is provided as the prime example of these groups.
• The article stated that MEMRI makes ISIS appear heroic and showcases their accomplishments, and is therefore strengthening ISIS.
• The article also accuses MEMRI of seeking financial donations from their readers.
• Other organizations and individuals are similarly described as broadcasting ISIS’s message.
  • The Counter Extremism Project (CEP) also shares summaries of Voice of Khorasan.
  • Voice of Khorasan was also mentioned in Foreign Policy Magazine.
  • Aaron Zelin, of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy also offers Voice of Khorasan and other publications for download.
  • Uran Botobekov has also helped spread Voice of Khorasan.

Article 8: So Flee to Allah…

• An article about how one can take the correct and truthful path, or one that “leads them to destruction.”

Article 9: To Them, Practicing Islam is Extremism

• The West and East claim to believe in equality, but this does not apply to their approach towards Muslims.
• Secularism “bears tolerance to all except the Muslims.”
• Human Rights Watch has identified that China flags Uyghurs as “violent extremists” for practicing Islam.
• Uyghurs are under extreme surveillance.
  • Their phones are monitored to see if they access information related to Uyghur identity, the Tiananmen Square Massacre, or ISIS.
  • Chinese police have forced students to download surveillance software on their phones which allows law enforcement to monitor the contents of their mobile devices.
  • Many are falsely identified as being supporters of violent extremism for their interest in religion.
• Approximately one million Muslims have been held by China in concentration camps.
  • The Chinese authorities use phone surveillance, biometric data collection, and facial recognition.
  • The Chinese government denies that they commit abuses against the Uyghurs.

5. Pro-ISIS Hadm Al-Aswar Post on Telegram, Released May 21

• Propaganda posts from the pro-ISIS online group Hadm Al-Aswar (Demolition of Walls). The text originally appeared in al-Naba issue 391.
• Summary: The eulogy for the ISIS commander Abu Mubashir, who was killed by the Taliban.
  • Described as being close with Abu Malik Al-Tamimi.
  • Abu Mubashir fought against both the Russians and the Americans.
  • Described as pious, and uncorrupt (not interested in looting), unlike others who fought against the Russian invasion of Afghanistan.
  • Described as mobilizing and recruiting early to fight against the U.S. and coalition forces in Kunar and Nuristan.
  • Successfully participated in risky attacks on U.S. military bases.
  • Wounded in battle but he continued fighting.
  • Pledged his allegiance to ISIS.
  • “He spent most of his life fighting the unbelievers and the apostates, acquiring patience and faith, and searching for the truth and legal knowledge that would reach him to the ranks of salvation.”
  • Described as possessing many “good qualities and good morals”
  • Led ISIS fighters throughout Afghanistan, and when he was killed he was commanding ISIS fighters in Wazir Tanki. He died from wounds received while fighting the Taliban.
  • The Taliban are alleged to have dug up Abu Mubashir’s grave.

6. Pro-ISIS Al-Azaim Video, Released May 25

Summary: On May 25, the pro-ISIS al-Azaim Foundation released an approximately 90-minute video declaring the Taliban an illegitimate government. The video repeated several claims previously made in al-Azaim publications, including Voice of Khorasan issue 25 (released on May 19), including that the Taliban have not instituted religious law, have lied about punishments, are hypocrites, and are part of an ongoing political, military, economic, and cultural occupation of Afghanistan. The video stated that fighting against the Taliban is obligatory.