Taliban internal divisions have come into the spotlight after reports of growing tensions between the group’s central leadership and local commanders in Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province.
The dispute reportedly intensified following clashes over the region’s mineral resources and rising public protests. In response, Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada issued a strict directive aimed at restoring control in the province.
According to media reports, the Taliban administration has formed a high-level delegation to investigate the assets of dissatisfied commanders and officials in Badakhshan. Local commanders who refuse to follow orders from the leadership have reportedly been threatened with immediate arrest.
Authorities have also deployed a special military force to suppress ongoing protests and what officials describe as an expanding internal rebellion in the province.
Reports further suggest that the Kandahar-based leadership faction has begun detaining figures linked to dissatisfied Taliban leaders in Badakhshan. Local commander Musa Kake and former mines director Islamuddin were reportedly arrested and transferred to an undisclosed location.
International analysts say the unrest in Badakhshan highlights deepening ethnic and political disagreements within the Taliban movement. They argue that the conflict reflects broader challenges facing the Taliban leadership as it seeks to maintain unity and control across Afghanistan.
Observers also note that emerging opposition movements inside and outside the country are increasingly challenging the Taliban’s claims of complete control and widespread public support.