In a development that has raised political and ethical questions, the Taliban have taken control of the Afghan embassy in Berlin, according to Heute. This marks the first time the group has assumed authority over an Afghan diplomatic mission in Europe, highlighting its growing international presence despite limited global recognition.
Germany does not officially recognize the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan. However, the situation in Berlin reflects a more complicated reality. A Taliban member, identified as Nebrasul H., is now serving as the chargé d’affaires, effectively leading the embassy. He originally arrived in Germany in July as one of two consular officials, with the approval of the German government. At the time, authorities were not made aware that he would later be placed in charge of the diplomatic mission.
Reports based on investigative findings suggest that the previous acting head of the embassy, Abdul P., was removed from his position in early January. Although he is still listed as the official representative on government websites, his role has reportedly been reduced to that of a symbolic figure. The Taliban leadership in Kabul is believed to have lost trust in him, partly because he was appointed by the former Afghan government and does not belong to their ranks.
This shift in Berlin is not an isolated case. The Taliban are said to have taken control of Afghan diplomatic missions in several other countries, including China, Russia, Qatar, Turkey, and Iran. These moves appear to be part of a broader effort to strengthen their international standing and assert control over Afghanistan’s representation abroad.
At the same time, Germany’s approach reflects a careful balance between principle and practicality. Despite not recognizing the Taliban government, German officials have engaged with them on specific issues. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, for example, has coordinated with Taliban authorities on deportation matters. In late February, Germany deported 20 Afghan nationals convicted of crimes back to Afghanistan, marking the first such action.
The situation illustrates the difficult choices governments face when dealing with regimes that are not formally recognized but hold power in reality.
