U.S. Changes Course: Major Bounties on Taliban Officials Lifted

In a landmark move, the United States has lifted bounties totaling millions of dollars on three top officials of the Taliban, a decision celebrated by the group's leadership. This significant development occurred swiftly after U.S. hostage envoy Adam Boehler's historic diplomatic visit to Kabul. During this visit, Boehler successfully negotiated the release of an American detainee who had been held captive for over two years. The lifting of the bounties is seen as a victory for the Taliban, particularly amid internal divisions within the group regarding its governance approach.

Previously, the U.S. had offered bounties of up to $20 million for information about Sirajuddin Haqqani, Abdul Azizi Haqqani, and Yahya Haqqani, all influential leaders within the Haqqani network, notorious for its violent actions during the Afghan war. Their removal from the U.S. Rewards for Justice program marks a pivotal change in stance, particularly contrasted with the more isolationist policies of the Biden administration. The implications of this shift may pave the way for a moderated Taliban regime seeking broader international recognition.