Who was the first country to support the Taliban? This question has intrigued many, as the rise of the Taliban in Afghanistan has been a topic of significant debate and controversy. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as several countries played a role in supporting the Taliban during its formation and growth. However, it is widely believed that Pakistan was the primary country to support the Taliban.
The origins of the Taliban can be traced back to the late 1980s when Afghanistan was in the midst of a civil war following the Soviet invasion. During this time, various mujahideen groups were fighting against the Soviet forces. Among these groups were the mujahideen fighters who were supported by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the United States.
Pakistan, under the leadership of Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, was a key player in the region during the Soviet-Afghan War. The country provided financial, military, and logistical support to the mujahideen, including the Taliban. Pakistan’s strategic interest in Afghanistan was to create a friendly government that would support its regional ambitions and counterbalance Indian influence in the region.
The Taliban, which emerged in the early 1990s, was initially seen as a force that could help stabilize Afghanistan and provide a strong, Islamic government. Pakistan, along with Saudi Arabia, provided the Taliban with weapons, training, and funding. This support allowed the Taliban to gain momentum and eventually seize control of Afghanistan in 1996.
The United States also played a role in supporting the Taliban, albeit indirectly. The U.S. provided military aid to the mujahideen during the Soviet-Afghan War, including the Taliban’s precursor groups. However, it is important to note that the U.S. did not have a direct relationship with the Taliban until after the 9/11 attacks.
In conclusion, while several countries supported the Taliban during its rise, Pakistan is widely considered the first country to support the Taliban. This support was driven by Pakistan’s strategic interests in Afghanistan and its desire to counterbalance Indian influence in the region. The complex relationship between the Taliban and its supporters has had a lasting impact on the region and continues to be a source of contention and conflict.
