Afghanistan requests that the US release frozen assets

Afghan government officials and analysts have urged the US to release the frozen assets of Afghanistan’s central bank to those in need. Since the departure of US forces in August 2021, the US has contributed $17.19 billion in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan and Afghan refugees. However, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has asked for Afghans to have access to their liberated money. The suspension of Afghan assets and the transfer of $3.5 billion to a special fund adds uncertainty to Afghanistan’s financial system, causing severe economic damage and exacerbating the humanitarian situation that affects millions of Afghans. UN authorities have also asked for the return of frozen assets to the Afghans.