The fighting has fallen largely to small groups of elite forces and the Afghan air force. AdvertisementThe success of the Taliban blitz has added urgency to the need to restart the long-stalled talks that could end the fighting and move Afghanistan toward an inclusive interim administration. Meanwhile, the Taliban military chief released an audio message to his fighters Tuesday ordering them not to harm Afghan forces and government officials in the territories they conquer. When the Taliban last ruled Afghanistan, only three countries recognized their rule: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Senior Afghan officials may travel to Doha in the coming days, including Abdullah Abdullah, who heads the government’s reconciliation council.

Source: Los Angeles Times August 10, 2021 11:36 UTC