Taliban capture provincial capital in southwestern Afghanistan

For the first time since 2016 and the gradual withdrawal of Western troops, the Taliban have succeeded in capturing a provincial capital in Afghanistan.

Zaranj is the capital of Nimruz province on the border with Iran. Vice-Governor Ruh Gul Chairsad confirmed this to the German news agency DPA on Friday.

According to local officials, the small but important city, due to its location, fell into the hands of the Taliban almost without a fight. Images of Taliban fighters in front of the provincial governor’s seat were seen on social media.

Since the withdrawal of US and NATO forces began in early May, the Taliban have made significant gains.

They conquered several border crossings and besieged at least ten of the 34 provincial capitals.

The US mission in Afghanistan ends on August 31, currently, more than 95 per cent of the troops have been withdrawn.