You have commented 339 times on Rantburg.

Your Name
Your e-mail (optional)
Website (optional)
My Original Nic        Pic-a-Nic        Sorry. Comments have been closed on this article.
Bold Italic Underline Strike Bullet Blockquote Small Big Link Squish Foto Photo
Afghanistan
The Taliban's "Rules"
2006-12-07

This is the time of year that fighting traditionally tapers off in Afghanistan as winter sets in, so it's probably not too surprising that the Taliban's latest offensive is on the propaganda front.
Ah. The cockroaches are becoming civilized.
First there were videos, including one obtained by CNN that shows multiple beheadings as well as preparations for attacks and recruitment of suicide bombers.

Now, the Taliban has put out a code of conduct for its commanders and fighters -- including when to kill teachers and how to prevent sexual abuse. According to Pakistani journalist Khawar Mehdi Rizvi, who obtained a copy of the 30-point plan and provided it to CNN, the instructions have been issued to district level commanders in Afghanistan in a small handbook.

The document, which says it was approved by the elusive Taliban leader Mullah Muhammad Omar, was apparently first given to members of the insurgent group's Shura council during a secret meeting in late September or October.
Posted by:gorb

#3  Â“This rule sheet reads like an effort to put a kinder, gentler, more moderate and professional face on the movement."

Seems to be working. Even though they saw the head off an occasional teacher, the US State Dept. still refers to the Taliban as simply an “Insurgent Group” that occasionally uses terrorist methods to achieve their goals. It’s called “Branding” Bayybee!
Posted by: DepotGuy   2006-12-07 18:52  

#2  It would probably also help if the Afghan soldier was paid 100% more than the Taliban gets. I keep reading reports it's the other way around.
Posted by: Anguper Hupomosing9418   2006-12-07 16:59  

#1  I'll worry about increased professionalization when they stop throwing recruits still covered with Peshawar dust across the border to become part of 200:1 casualty ratios. This document is compounded of equal parts wishful thinking and "My eyes are closed, you can't see me" toddler conjuration, by hidden commanders who can only hope they are far enough from the border that the Americans won't try to hunt them down.
Posted by: trailing wife   2006-12-07 06:07  

00:00