Inside Herat, Where a Taliban Campaign Targets a Cosmopolitan Outpost

The Taliban has tightened its grip on Herat, Afghanistan's fifth-largest city, which previously had a more liberal atmosphere despite past Taliban rule. This campaign reflects a broader effort by the Taliban to enforce stricter social norms and conservative values, raising concerns among local residents and activists. The move highlights the group's increasing control and the potential for a more repressive environment, impacting the city's once-vibrant cultural scene. This shift underscores the broader challenges facing Afghanistan as the Taliban consolidates its power.