Taliban Status Under Review: Is The US Willing To Cooperate?

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed that Washington is actively discussing the possibility of changing its official stance on the Taliban, which currently controls Afghanistan. This issue remains a major topic in US political debates and is influenced by multiple strategic considerations.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States is currently reviewing whether to designate the Taliban as a foreign terrorist organization. Rubio made these remarks on Wednesday, May 21, during a hearing of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

In response to a question by Representative Tim Burchett about whether the US would officially classify the Taliban as a terrorist group, Rubio said the matter is under active consideration. This signals potential shifts in US policy regarding the group following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan.

Rubio stated during congressional hearings that the Taliban's designation as a“Specially Designated Global Terrorist” (SDGT) is under serious review. He noted that the Taliban could potentially be added to the“Foreign Terrorist Organizations” (FTO) list, which would trigger broad economic and political sanctions.

Rubio highlighted recent diplomatic developments, pointing to the release of several American citizens by the Taliban as a sign of growing trust. These releases, resulting from negotiations, suggest a cautious but emerging channel of communication between the US and the Taliban.

In March 2024, George Glazemann, a US citizen, was freed in Afghanistan. Additionally, in January, two other Americans returned home through a prisoner exchange deal. These moves underscore the delicate, ongoing cooperation between the two sides.

Despite the Taliban's history and links to extremist groups like Al-Qaeda, Rubio expressed willingness to explore cooperation in counterterrorism efforts. He stressed that this pragmatic approach aims to safeguard US interests in global security amid evolving geopolitical realities.

As Afghanistan faces humanitarian and political challenges, US policy continues to balance counterterrorism priorities with the need for diplomatic dialogue and aid delivery. This review is part of broader efforts to address the evolving security landscape in South Asia and protect American interests worldwide.

MENAFN21052025000228011069ID1109579605