Ahmad Massoud says Taliban have sacrificed Afghanistan to geopolitical and security games

Ahmad Massoud, leader of the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan, blamed the Taliban for recent Pakistani military strikes on Afghan territory, calling their actions 'foolish' and linking them to the group's support for terrorist organizations.

Speaking virtually on Friday at the 31st anniversary commemoration of Abdul Ali Mazari's killing, the late leader of the Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan, Massoud said the Taliban have turned the country into a playground for security and geopolitical games by sheltering groups including al-Qaida, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, Jaish al-Adl, Ansar Allah and others.

Massoud argued that the Taliban's attempts to rally people against Pakistan lack domestic and international legitimacy, especially since the population has been excluded from the power structure, and thus cannot effectively defend the country.

He stressed that any 'freedom' in Afghanistan must come from its people themselves and warned against deals or interventions without public consultation, saying denying people's votes and opinions cannot resolve the country's crises.

Massoud urged political leaders to seize the current opportunity for Afghanistan's freedom by acting in a 'coordinated, organized and unified' manner.

He also expressed concern over the impact of Middle East conflicts on Afghanistan's economy, noting rising prices of essential goods and widespread despair among the population.

Massoud emphasized the renewed importance of Mazari's 'justice-seeking thought' today.

The Supreme Council of the National Resistance for the Salvation of Afghanistan hosted the virtual event with some politicians in attendance.