Germany Nears Deportation Deal With Taliban for Afghan Criminals

Germany has engaged in direct technical talks with Taliban authorities in Kabul to establish a mechanism for the regular deportation of Afghan nationals convicted of crimes in Germany. High-ranking officials from Germany's Federal Ministry of the Interior met with senior Taliban figures, including Mohammad Nabi Omari, to discuss repatriation logistics and alternatives to costly charter flights. The Taliban confirmed the discussions were positive and emphasized that deported individuals would be treated according to Sharia law upon return. While Germany does not officially recognize the Taliban government, these talks represent a significant step toward resuming systematic deportations, with Germany potentially becoming the first EU country to do so under the Islamic Emirate. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt highlighted the necessity of direct negotiations to ensure consistent deportations amid domestic political pressure to tighten immigration policies. The move is controversial given the Taliban's human rights record and international isolation but may signal a shift toward normalized engagement that other EU countries could follow.