Taliban's Viral Tourism Video Sparks Outrage

A Taliban-linked promotional video inviting American tourists to Afghanistan has gone viral, drawing widespread condemnation for its mix of dark humor, scenic landscapes, and militant imagery, including a mock hostage scene and rifles labeled 'Property of US Government.' The campaign, styled like a travel vlog, is part of the Taliban's attempt to rebrand Afghanistan and attract foreign visitors since regaining control in 2021. Despite a reported increase in thrill-seeking tourists, Western governments, including the US and UK, maintain strict travel advisories against visiting Afghanistan due to continued risks of terrorism, kidnapping, and unrest. The video has also been criticized for its perceived hypocrisy, as it promotes tourism while Afghan women face strict social restrictions under Taliban rule. Online reaction has been overwhelmingly negative, with many interpreting the campaign as more of a grim warning than a genuine invitation. The effectiveness and ethics of using violent imagery for tourism promotion remain highly controversial.