UAE Recognizes Taliban Ambassador, Fuels Diplomatic Tensions

The United Arab Emirates has accepted the credentials of the Taliban's ambassador, marking a major diplomatic achievement for Afghanistan's rulers, who are not recognized as the legitimate government. This move highlights the international divide on dealing with the Taliban-led administration, especially in light of ongoing human rights concerns.

The United Arab Emirates on Wednesday formally accepted the credentials of the Taliban's ambassador, a significant diplomatic breakthrough for Afghanistan's rulers, who are not officially recognized as the country's legitimate government.

This is the first appointment of a Taliban ambassador since one was designated to China last December, underscoring the international divide over how to approach the new regime in Kabul.

In Kabul, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the news regarding Badruddin Haqqani on social media platform X. Haqqani, previously the Taliban's envoy to the UAE, is not related to Acting Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, a leading figure in the Taliban and wanted by the U.S. for orchestrating deadly attacks.

Despite their isolation from the West, the Taliban have forged bilateral ties with major regional players. Last week, Uzbekistan's Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov visited Afghanistan, marking the highest-level foreign visit since the Taliban's return to power.

The United Nations reiterated that official recognition of the Taliban-run government remains "nearly impossible" while they impose restrictions on women and girls.

Separately, a UN-appointed rights expert condemned the Taliban for barring him from Afghanistan. Richard Bennett, the special rapporteur on human rights, frequently criticizes the Taliban's treatment of women. Bennett urged the Taliban to reverse their decision, calling it a "step backwards."

Abdul Qahar Balkhi, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry in Kabul, stated that Bennett's activities were counterproductive to Afghanistan's interests and suggested he work from his office rather than visiting the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)