Kabul: The Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said that they are pledging to all world countries that no threat will be posed to any country from Afghanistan. Speaking to the media persons on Tuesday he announced that an Islamic government will be established in Afghanistan Soon.

Talibans convened a first official news briefing on Tuesday after their seizure of Kabul. The Talibans spokesperson said it would respect the rights of women and allow a free media within the framework of Islamic law, suggesting a softer line than during their rule 20 years ago.

We want to establish a government that includes all sides, he said, adding that they want an end to the war. He also said, we don’t want any internal or external enemies. We do not have enmity toward anyone and based on our leader’s orders we have pardoned everyone.

There will be no retribution against anyone, including former military members and those who worked with the foreign forces. No one will search their house, he said. Afghans have the right to apply rules that match the people’s values; therefore, other countries should respect these rules, he added.

Claiming that there will be no discrimination against women, the Taliban spokesperson said they are committed to providing women their rights based on Islam. Women can work in the health sector and other sectors “where they are needed, he said. Zabihullah Mujahid on Tuesday also said the Taliban wants all media outlets to continue their activities. We have three suggestions: No broadcast should contradict Islamic values, they should be impartial, no one should broadcast anything that goes against our national interests, he said.

During their 1996-2001 rules, also guided by Islamic law, or shariah, the Taliban stopped women from working and administered punishments including public stoning. Girls were not allowed to go to school and women had to wear all-enveloping burqas to go out.