Rift at top of the Taliban: BBC reveals clash of wills behind internet shutdown

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 13 min read 100% complete January 15, 2026 at 07:05 AM

AI Summary

long article 13 min

A BBC investigation revealed a power struggle within the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan. A leaked audio clip from January 2024 features supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada warning of internal divisions that could lead to the collapse of the Islamic Emirate. The investigation, based on over 100 interviews, identified two factions: one loyal to Akhundzada in Kandahar, pushing for strict isolation and religious control, and another in Kabul advocating for engagement with the world, economic development, and education for girls. This rift explains the Taliban's internet shutdown, as the two sides have different visions for the country's future. The Taliban leadership has denied these divisions, but the BBC's findings suggest a significant clash of wills at the highest levels.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States 35% Kabul ×245% Kandahar ×250% Sirajuddin Haqqani 60% Mohammad Yaqoob 60% BBC ×475% Afghanistan ×380% Hibatullah Akhundzada ×385% Taliban ×895%

Keywords

taliban rift 100% internal disagreements 80% islamic emirate 70% hibatullah akhundzada 60% kandahar versus kabul 60% strict interpretation of islam 50% internet shutdown 50% women's education 40%