In a further sign that the hard-liners had prevailed, the white Taliban flag was raised over the presidential palace, replacing the Afghan national flag. On Tuesday, the Taliban foreign minister, Amir Khan Mutaqi, dismissed such reports as “propaganda.”Baradar had been noticeably absent from key functions. Another Taliban figure said Baradar was visiting family he had not seen in 20 years of war. Analysts say the friction may not amount to a serious threat to the Taliban — for now. “Still, the Taliban will be under a lot of pressure as it tries to consolidate its power, gain legitimacy, and address major policy challenges.
