Qadam Shah Shahim, the general commander of the National Resistance Front (NRF) of Afghanistan, says that other political and military factions joining the armed struggle against the Taliban has raised hopes for expanding the war. In a special interview with Afghanistan International, he said these groups have concluded that armed resistance is the only way to confront the Taliban.
Mr. Shahim cited increased public awareness and the "unmasking of the Taliban's face" as other reasons for the front's optimism. According to him, internal disputes among the Taliban and public cooperation with resistance forces have also paved the way for expanding armed activities.
The NRF's general commander claimed that his forces have a physical presence in parts of Baghlan, Panjshir, Samangan, Nuristan, and Laghman provinces and enjoy the support of local people in some areas. Specifically regarding Badakhshan, he claimed that 95 percent of the province's population has turned away from the Taliban.
He added that about 85 percent of the local Taliban forces in Badakhshan have also distanced themselves from the group, forcing the Taliban to deploy about four thousand fighters from other provinces to Badakhshan. Shahim said these forces are mostly stationed in Faizabad and border areas.
Regarding the NRF's military equipment, Qadam Shah Shahim said his forces have conventional weapons, such as Kalashnikovs, and have recently acquired a number of drones. He described the Taliban's use of drones as "very basic" and claimed that "foreign terrorists" are helping the group with this technology.
The NRF commander also praised the activities of the Afghanistan Freedom Front (AFF), stating that the front has carried out attacks against the Taliban in the Zibak district of Badakhshan. He emphasized that many groups and people now understand that a political solution with the Taliban is not possible.
Source: Afghanistan International
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