Three Pakistani Taliban factions form alliance
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Islamabad, Feb 22 – Three Pakistani Taliban groups in the country's Waziristan tribal region have formed an alliance after burying the hatchet, according to an announcement from the Taliban.
The three groups formed "Shura Ittehad-ul-Mujahiden" (Council for the Unity of Holy Warriors) to work together.
These groups include Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan of Baitullah Mehsud in South Waziristan, Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group in North Waziristan and Mulla Nazir Group in South Waziristan.
"As Jews and Christians are united against the Muslims particularly Mujahideen under the leadership of the United States, so Mujahideen have set aside internal differences and have joined hands," the Taliban announcement said.
"In order to make happy the Muslims in general and particularly Mujahideen, the three groups have announced a new Shura (council) "Shura Ittehad-ul-Mujahiden," it said.
Taliban groups split in 2007 when Mulla Nazir led a tribal 'lashkar' (army) against the Uzbek militants in South Waziristan.
Mulla Nazir said that a meeting of all the three groups was held at a remote destination in Waziristan, which was attended by heads of the three estranged outfits.
It was decided in the meeting that all the three groups would avoid getting involved in petty issues so that the contending forces might not find opportunity to divide Taliban, he added.
Mulla Nazir also disclosed that a 13-Member Advisory Council (Shoora) had been formed which would decide steps for the alliance according to the prevailing situation.
The Amir of the Shoora will be chosen from the 13-member body during its meeting, but he will not be a permanent Amir, he said, adding that Baitullah Mehsud, Hafiz Gul and he himself would also be members of the Shoora.
The announcement described Afghan Taliban chief Mulla Muhamamd Taliban and Osama bin Laden as their leader.
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End News / IRNA / News Code 365506
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