Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The United States has officially designated Afghanistan as a “State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention,” accusing the Taliban government of detaining foreign nationals to gain political leverage. While Washington has taken a tough stance against Kabul, India has expressed support for the Afghan people and reiterated its commitment to humanitarian and development assistance.
US Accuses Taliban Of Hostage Diplomacy
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Taliban is using unlawful detentions as a tool to secure policy concessions. He stated that the United States will not tolerate what it described as hostage diplomacy.
Rubio demanded the immediate release of American citizens, including Dennis Coyle and Mahmood Habibi, along with other individuals who have allegedly been detained unjustly in Afghanistan.
Warning Of Serious Consequences
The US Special Presidential Envoy for hostage affairs also issued a strong warning to the Taliban leadership. He said the group had been clearly informed that detaining innocent individuals to exert diplomatic pressure would not be accepted.
According to the envoy, Afghanistan could face serious consequences if such actions continue. Washington also clarified that the warning extends to any country or organization attempting to gain political advantage through unlawful detention of civilians.
What ‘State Sponsor’ Designation Means
Declaring a country a “state sponsor” indicates that it is accused of supporting illegal or coercive activities, including wrongful detention. Such a designation may lead to strong diplomatic and economic measures by the United States.
India Expresses Support For Afghanistan
At the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), India took a different tone by expressing support for the Afghan people. India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Harish Parvathaneni, said India stands with the people of Afghanistan and is proud to partner in their progress.
He highlighted that Afghanistan’s youth are increasingly participating in cricket and that the national cricket team has earned global admiration through its performances.
India Raises Concerns Over Humanitarian Crisis
India also raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, cross-border violence, and disruptions to trade. Parvathaneni noted that India has implemented more than 500 development projects across all 34 provinces of Afghanistan.
India continues to provide assistance in areas such as food security, education, healthcare, and sports. The country also condemned cross-border and aerial attacks targeting civilians in Afghanistan, stating that such actions violate international law and the UN Charter.
