Afghan Taliban's chief Mullah Omar. — File Photo

KABUL: The Afghan Taliban are denying their leader Mullah Omar wrote to President Barack Obama last July.

Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid describes as ''baseless allegations'' reports that Omar had sent a letter indicating an interest in talks key to ending the war in Afghanistan. Mujahid's statement was emailed to media organisations on Saturday.

Current and former US officials told The Associated Press the letter purportedly from Omar was unsigned. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the letter and its contents are part of sensitive diplomacy with a fighting force that still targets US troops.

Two officials said the Obama administration did not directly respond to the letter, although it has broadened contacts with Omar's emissaries since then.

Opinion

Editorial

Business concerns
Updated 26 Apr, 2024

Business concerns

There is no doubt that these issues are impeding a positive business clime, which is required to boost private investment and economic growth.
Musical chairs
26 Apr, 2024

Musical chairs

THE petitioners are quite helpless. Yet again, they are being expected to wait while the bench supposed to hear...
Global arms race
26 Apr, 2024

Global arms race

THE figure is staggering. According to the annual report of Sweden-based think tank Stockholm International Peace...
Digital growth
Updated 25 Apr, 2024

Digital growth

Democratising digital development will catalyse a rapid, if not immediate, improvement in human development indicators for the underserved segments of the Pakistani citizenry.
Nikah rights
25 Apr, 2024

Nikah rights

THE Supreme Court recently delivered a judgement championing the rights of women within a marriage. The ruling...
Campus crackdowns
25 Apr, 2024

Campus crackdowns

WHILE most Western governments have either been gladly facilitating Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza, or meekly...