UN Monitoring Team Warns of Growing Terrorist Threats From Afghanistan

United Nations Monitoring Team Coordinator Colin Smith has highlighted growing concerns over terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan and their potential threat to regional and international security.

In an interview with Afghanistan International, Smith said that at least 20 terrorist groups are currently operating in Afghanistan, while expressing concern over reported links between the Taliban and various militant organisations.

According to Smith, there is information indicating that the Taliban provide shelter and different forms of support to several terrorist groups. He also said there are indications of relationships between Taliban intelligence and terrorist organisations.

Smith further stated that information exists suggesting that Afghan authorities have provided Afghan identity documents to members of various terrorist groups. He said several members of the UN Security Council have expressed concern over alleged Taliban support for terrorist organisations.

Regarding the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Smith said the group has received active support and cooperation from the Taliban. He noted an increase in cross-border attacks by the TTP from Afghanistan into Pakistan, describing the development as a serious concern not only for Pakistan but also for the wider region and Asia.

Smith stressed that evidence concerning the close relationship between the TTP and Taliban needs to be taken seriously.

He also said that Al-Qaeda remains present in Afghanistan and has supported the Taliban during their dispute with Pakistan. According to Smith, Al-Qaeda has also supported the TTP’s activities against Pakistan.

The UN official said reports by the United Nations have repeatedly highlighted links between Al-Qaeda and the TTP. He added that Al-Qaeda trainers have provided training to TTP members to strengthen their capabilities.

Smith described the continued links between Al-Qaeda and the TTP as a matter of serious concern for the United Nations.

Regarding Daesh-Khorasan (ISKP), Smith described it as one of the most active terrorist organisations operating in Afghanistan. He said an estimated 2,000 ISKP fighters are present in the country and that the group continues to retain the capability to carry out major attacks from Afghan territory.

According to Smith, threats emerging from ISKP in Afghanistan have been linked to several terrorist attacks in Europe. He said the group has carried out attacks in Iran, Moscow and various European countries.

Smith also highlighted ISKP’s use of cryptocurrency-based financing networks, saying the group’s activities pose a threat to both regional and international security.

He concluded that the continued presence and activities of terrorist organisations in Afghanistan remain a significant concern for the UN Security Council, particularly because of their potential to carry out attacks beyond Afghanistan’s borders.