FBI
BBC: Taliban leader Mullah Omar backs Afghanistan peace talks
The leader of the Afghan Taliban, Mullah Mohammed Omar, has backed peace talks with the Afghan government, in a statement released to the media.
A message, marking the festival of Eid al-Fitr, made no direct reference to the talks but said Islam did not bar "peaceful interaction" with enemies.
Afghan government officials last week met Taliban representatives in negotiations brokered by Pakistan.
The Taliban have stepped up attacks on Afghan security forces.
WNU Editor: If this is true .... it is a major shift for the Afghan Taliban leader who for years has been completely against any talks to end the war. My guess on why this shift is happening now is the realization that (1) the war is now primarily being fought between the Afghans themselves, (2) the public is getting and sick and tired of the war and are making their sentiments known to the Taliban leadership, and (3) the rise of the Islamic State has clearly spooked them as a real and dangerous alternative to them.
More News On Reports That Taliban Leader Mullah Omar Is Now Supporting The Afghan Peace Talks
Taliban leader Mullah Omar backs Afghan peace talks -- CNN
Message in name of Taliban's Mullah Omar favors Afghan peace process -- Reuters
Taliban peace talks with Afghan government 'endorsed' by Mullah Omar -- The Guardian
Taliban Leader Backs Afghan Peace Talks -- WSJ
Taliban leader Mullah Omar backs Afghan peace talks -- Al Jazeera
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