Fourth, the United States should support a political settlement process in Afghanistan and, if needed, encourage the UN and other Western countries to support such a process. Since social, economic, and political development is interlinked, addressing economic challenges without addressing political issues will be challenging. There is no doubt that forging a political settlement and reconciliation in Afghanistan requires a consistent and organized political process by committed and dedicated Afghans. This vision cannot be realized without solid backing for an inclusive process where all Afghans from different ethnic groups and religious sects see meaningful representation in their country’s government and institutions.

The United States is at a crucial juncture in determining how it will shape its policy in Afghanistan. There is still an opportunity to prevent the country from falling into further crisis. The Taliban have been given considerable time since signing the Doha agreement and coming into power but have exhibited little willingness to change their hardline tactics and cut ties with the transnational terrorist organizations. For this reason, it is time for the United States to assume a more firm position to reduce security threats and prevent the country from becoming a hub for transnational terrorist groups while ensuring that the dignity and human rights of Afghans are restored.

Nilofar Sakhi is a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s South Asia Center.

Image: Reuters.