Taliban security forces in Afghanistan announced Sunday that they successfully neutralized a significant threat in Nangarhar province. The operation targeted a hideout belonging to Islamic State Khorasan, also known as IS-K, a local faction of the international extremist organization.
According to Al-Mersaad, an official Taliban media outlet, the raid resulted in the death of “Zakirullah,” alias Abu Sher, identified as the military leader of IS Khorasan in Achin district. The operation, conducted by Taliban special forces, concluded in the Mohmand Dara district.
Independent verification of Al-Mersaad’s claims remains unavailable. Taliban government officials have not commented on the operation in Nangarhar, where IS Khorasan has been active since 2015, with Achin serving as its headquarters.
The Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021 following the withdrawal of United States-led NATO forces after nearly two decades of involvement in the Afghan conflict. During their tenure, U.S. forces frequently targeted IS Khorasan, eliminating several key leaders.
Since the Taliban’s resurgence, IS Khorasan has intensified attacks, particularly against Afghan security forces and Shiite communities. The violence has claimed numerous lives, including those of Taliban leaders and religious figures.
Taliban authorities assert that their ongoing military operations against IS Khorasan have significantly diminished the group’s ability to threaten Afghanistan and the wider region.
Afghanistan’s de facto authorities have accused Pakistan and Tajikistan of harboring and supporting IS Khorasan operatives, allegations both countries have dismissed. They, in turn, blame Kabul’s leadership for failing to prevent transnational terrorist activities.
A U.S. Department of Defense report from late May highlighted IS Khorasan’s increased capability for transnational terrorism, citing major attacks in neighboring countries.
In March, General Michael Kurilla of the U.S. Central Command warned Congress about the growing threat posed by Islamic State affiliates based in Afghanistan, emphasizing their potential to target the United States and European allies.
Despite assurances to deny terrorist groups sanctuary, the Taliban have been accused of sheltering senior al-Qaeda leaders while denying allegations of using Afghan territory for attacks against other nations.
A United Nations Security Council report from January emphasized that IS Khorasan remains a significant threat in Afghanistan and the region, despite territorial losses and leadership casualties.
