Taliban asks US to hand over Afghan embassy in Washington, pushes for formal ties

The Taliban has formally requested the United States to transfer control of Afghanistan’s embassy in Washington, DC, marking a significant step in its efforts to gain international recognition. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the request in an interview with Al Arabiya on March 25, 2025, revealing that the issue was raised during a recent meeting between a Taliban delegation and US officials.

In addition to seeking control of the Washington embassy, the Taliban has urged the US to reopen its own diplomatic mission in Kabul, signalling a push for formal engagement. However, Washington has yet to respond to the demands, maintaining its stance of cautious diplomatic interaction without official recognition of the Taliban government.

The Taliban’s request is part of broader negotiations with the US, which have been ongoing despite tensions between the two sides. While the US does not recognise the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan, discussions have taken place on security and humanitarian issues.

Mujahid pointed to recent developments, including the removal of key Taliban leaders from Washington’s most-wanted list, as positive steps toward easing strained relations. Among those removed is Sirajuddin Haqqani, Afghanistan’s Interior Minister, who was previously sanctioned for his involvement in attacks against US forces.

Despite lacking official recognition, the Taliban claims control of 40 Afghan embassies worldwide, with countries like China and the UAE accepting Taliban-appointed diplomats. Securing control of the Afghan embassy in Washington is seen as a key objective in its ongoing diplomatic efforts.

The discussions come on the heels of a US delegation’s recent visit to Kabul-the first since the Taliban’s return to power. The visit led to the release of an American citizen, George Goldsmith, in what was perceived as a goodwill gesture. However, multiple US citizens remain in Taliban custody, an issue that continues to complicate negotiations.

Even as concerns over human rights violations in Afghanistan persist, there have been reports of intelligence cooperation between the US and the Taliban in countering the Islamic State (ISIS).