Last week, the Taliban carried out a series of deadly attacks throughout Afghanistan, leaving over 500 dead and dozens wounded. Although a peace offer remains on the table, the Taliban are on the move, destroying any hope for peace and reconciliation.

The Ghazni attack was an embarrassment for the Afghan government and the international community. It revealed one of the most critical security challenges for the Afghan and U.S. security forces. The Taliban have 20,000 to 40,000 active fighters and control roughly 43 percent of Afghan territory. They maintain a feared presence across the entire country, and international support for law and order against them is starting to dwindle.

Recommended Stories

US withdrawal from Afghanistan requires Kabul government and Taliban to strike peace deal first

‘Taliban Five’ go from Guantanamo Bay to new Afghan government

‘Who thought it was a good idea?’: Chris Wallace questions timing of planned Taliban talks