In response to the invasion, Muslim countries provided manpower for the Afghan war effort. The US contributed significant financial resources and supplied the Mujahideen with training and advanced weaponry, including Stinger missiles to counter Russian helicopters. Pakistan played a central role by offering logistical support to the Mujahideen and facilitating communication between them and the US. The Soviet Union suffered substantial economic losses, leading to its eventual disintegration into smaller states. This outcome marked a victory for the US in the Cold War, which formally ended worldwide in 1991.
After the conclusion of the Afghanistan war, the US withdrew from the region without offering substantial support to the war-torn country. The Muslim nations that had supplied fighters disowned them, revoking their nationalities and leaving them stranded in Afghanistan. This abandonment led to a civil war, resulting in numerous casualties. Eventually, the Taliban emerged victorious and established control in 1996. Despite their victory, the Afghan people continued to suffer due to lack of recognition and isolation from the international community. Lacking experience in governance and diplomacy, they faced significant challenges.
Pakistan was the first country to recognize the Taliban government. However, after the events of 9/11, the Taliban government was given an ultimatum: surrender Osama bin Laden or face military action. Refusing to hand over Bin Laden due to tribal traditions, the Taliban’s refusal prompted the US-led invasion of Afghanistan.
