Link to article: https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-taliban-uae-ambassador-aa4dc1dede644f661b4d3eff20dcf689
The Taliban, a terrorist organization that has taken governmental power in Afghanistan, have recently made efforts to create ties to other governments. This started with a Taliban ambassador appointed in China last December, and then mid-August with the Taliban meeting the Uzbek Prime Minister, and has continued with the United Arab Emirates accepting the credentials of an ambassador of the Taliban. The United Nations does not believe that recognition of Taliban-run Afghanistan will come anytime soon, due to their restrictions and severe treatment of women. Additionally, a human rights expert working with the UN has denounced the Taliban decision to ban him from Afghanistan, calling it “a step backwards and sending a concerning signal” about their relationship with the UN and their view on human rights.
The Taliban gaining more diplomatic power and forming relations with other oil rich countries with more stable governments could be a negative for the US and countries allied with the US, and civilians under Taliban rule. This could even go so far as to lead into another conflict with the Taliban and/or war in the Middle East/South-Central Asia. Typically, when authoritarian governments gain more power, they are even harsher on their nation’s population, meaning women could face even more adverse restrictions and steps back on civil rights in Afghanistan. The Taliban gaining more influence could also lead to increased racism towards Muslim people in other parts of the world, take for example the treatment of Japanese Americans during and after World War II, when many Americans are wary of another race after a conflict or attack, it is often accompanied by racism.
This could mean a allyship between Afghanistan and the UAE, potentially making both countries richer due to the crude oil found in both countries. Alternatively, relations between the US and UAE could lead to military operations to take down the Taliban. Due to the almost hostile response from the Taliban towards the United Nations human rights expert, the Taliban will likely not be gaining any worldwide power or recognition soon.
The Taliban is an authoritarian, nationalist terrorist organization that plays a large role in influencing the government and the sovereignty of Afghanistan, while enforcing Sharia law, religious regulations many Muslim people follow. The Taliban having ambassadors in other countries means they are better equipped to handle foreign affairs.