Mohammad Ismail Khan has reacted to reports of arrests and the mistreatment of women in Herat, describing these actions as “unforgivable and intolerable.”
In a statement, Ismail Khan said that the rising harassment of women and the widespread arrests of them in Herat have created serious concern among citizens. He also warned the Taliban that historical experience shows that no government has ever achieved lasting success through force, repression, and humiliation of its people.
This jihadist leader called on the women of Herat to remain resilient in the face of pressure, emphasizing that the current situation will not last.
In parts of his message, he described certain behaviors toward citizens as “primitive, amateurish, and ignorant,” stating that actions which harm the dignity, reputation, and human and Islamic honor of the people are unjustifiable.
He also characterized the restrictions imposed on women and girls in Herat as “arbitrary,” saying that such measures constitute disrespect toward the dignity and social standing of the city’s residents. In his view, promoting religious teachings through improper and arbitrary methods can lead to consequences such as reduced trust and the distancing of parts of society from religious values.
Referring to issues such as poverty, lawlessness, and the absence of accountable governance, the former commander said that exerting pressure on women under such conditions amounts to the humiliation of the people of Herat.
He further wrote: “The honor of our people is our red line, and remaining silent in the face of injustice against women is a betrayal of Afghanistan’s identity.”
He also addressed the girls of Herat, saying: “Your voice is the voice of the awakened conscience of society.”
Writer:Salima Aryaei
