"Women and girls suffer under the Taliban's 2-year rule in Afghanistan"

Two years after seizing power in Afghanistan, the Taliban have solidified their rule with no significant opposition. While they have improved domestic security and kept the economy afloat through investment talks, their bans on Afghan women and girls have drawn international condemnation. The restrictions on women's education, employment, and public spaces have hindered the Taliban's quest for international recognition and led to a decline in foreign aid, exacerbating the country's already dire living conditions. The Taliban's leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, holds absolute power and any changes to the bans will depend on his orders. Despite their isolation, the Taliban have engaged in bilateral relations and are seeking an end to sanctions, but face challenges in finding common ground with the international community. There is currently no significant armed or political opposition to the Taliban.