Taliban changes Afghanistan’s name to ‘Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’

National state flags of Afghanistan and Taliban together (Source: ShutterStock)

A day after Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani stepped down from his post and the Taliban took over control of Kabul, Taliban Leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, was on August 16, declared the new President of Afghanistan, Sentinel Assam reported.

Additionally, Afghanistan's name was changed to the “Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan” – a name that was given to the country 20 years ago by the Taliban government that was ousted by United States-led forces after the twin tower attack in September 2001.

The Afghan Taliban had ruled the country for nearly six years from 1996 to 2001, establishing an Islamic state.

Also Read: What the Taliban victory in Afghanistan means for India and the world, explained

Although a US intelligence report had estimated that the fall of Kabul would take around 90 days, the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in less than two weeks.

According to an AFP report, the Taliban was able to achieve this by putting deals and surrender arrangements in place reportedly long before the launch of their blitz in May.

From individual soldiers and low-level government officials to apparently provincial governors and ministers, the insurgents pressed for deals -- with the Taliban all but victorious, why put up a fight?

This strategy proved immensely effective for the Taliban.

(With agency inputs)