Number of ISIS Fighters in Afghanistan Between 100-200, Claims Taliban Spokesperson

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s spokesperson, stated in an interview with the Iranian media outlet "IRAF" that the number of ISIS fighters in Afghanistan could be between 100 and 200.

He mentioned that these fighters are hiding in mountainous and hard-to-reach areas but are being actively pursued by the Taliban forces.

Mujahid assured that they pose no significant threat and are unable to carry out any activities.

These comments come in the wake of the ISIS-Khorasan branch claiming responsibility for an explosion on Sunday, August 11, in the Dashte Barchi area of western Kabul, which targeted Shia Muslims and resulted in approximately 13 casualties, according to a statement released by ISIS on its Telegram channel.

ISIS has previously claimed responsibility for multiple attacks in Kabul and other regions.

Last week, Vladimir Voronkov, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, reported to the Security Council that the financial and logistical capabilities of ISIS-Khorasan have improved over the past six months, and the group has intensified its recruitment efforts.

In response, Mujahid dismissed these claims as "propaganda”.