Taliban Suspends Mining Operations in Badakhshan Pending New Regulations

DID Press: Taliban has suspended operations at part of the mining sector in Afghanistan’s northeastern Badakhshan Province while it reviews extraction regulations, citing illegal mining, disorder and the alleged seizure of mineral resources.

Zabihullah Mujahid announced that mining activities in parts of Badakhshan have been halted until revised extraction guidelines are finalized.

According to Mujahid, the decision was taken in response to what he described as disorder, illegal extraction and the unlawful appropriation of mining sites. He said operations would remain suspended until the new regulatory framework is completed and implemented.

The move follows weeks of heightened tensions in Badakhshan, where reports have pointed to disputes over control of mineral resources and alleged disagreements between local Taliban commanders and the group’s central leadership.

Badakhshan is home to some of Afghanistan’s most valuable mineral deposits, including gemstones and other strategic resources, making control of the province’s mining sector economically significant.