Islamic State of Afghanistan facts for kids

The flag of Afghanistan from 1992 to 2001. This was used after the Soviets left and before the Taliban took over.

The Islamic State of Afghanistan was the official name for the country of Afghanistan for a period of time. This name was used when a group called the United Islamic Front for the Salvation of Afghanistan was in charge. After the year 2001, the country's name was changed to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

What Was the Islamic State of Afghanistan?

The Islamic State of Afghanistan was the government that ruled Afghanistan from 1992 to 2001. This government took over after the previous communist government fell. It was formed by different groups who had fought against the Soviet Union's influence in Afghanistan.

A Time of Change

After the Soviet Union's forces left Afghanistan in 1989, the country faced many challenges. Various groups, known as Mujahideen, had fought against the Soviet-backed government. In 1992, these groups finally took control of the capital city, Kabul. They then established the Islamic State of Afghanistan.

Challenges and New Rulers

Even after forming the new government, peace was hard to find. Different groups within the Islamic State of Afghanistan sometimes disagreed. This led to more fighting within the country. Later, a new group called the Taliban grew powerful. They began to take control of more and more areas of Afghanistan. By 1996, the Taliban had captured Kabul. They then established their own government, which they called the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

The End of the Islamic State

Even though the Taliban controlled most of the country, the Islamic State of Afghanistan still existed. It was supported by the Northern Alliance, a group that continued to fight against the Taliban. The Islamic State of Afghanistan was still recognized by some other countries as the official government. After the Taliban government fell in late 2001, a new temporary government was set up. In 2002, the country officially became the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. This marked the end of the Islamic State of Afghanistan.

Images for kids

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  Faction control in Kabul (1992)

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  Factions after the fall of Najibullah (1992)

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  Factions after Taliban conquered Kabul (1996)

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  Taliban–Northern Alliance war (2000)

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  Progress of the war (1992–2001)

See also

In Spanish: Estado Islámico de Afganistán para niños