Taliban Struggle For Diplomatic Recognition

But increasing religious radicalism turns off allies

By: Salman Rafi Sheikh

Unlike the 1990s, when the Taliban won recognition quickly from their allies in the Muslim world – Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE – the current regime, which came into power almost six weeks ago, is struggling to win diplomatic acknowledgment.

Pakistan, their closest ally, hasn’t recognized them even as Islamabad continues to m…