The Taliban seized control of Kabul after a series of intense battles, marking a significant turning point in Afghanistan's ongoing civil conflict, which had escalated in the years following the Soviet withdrawal in 1989. By the mid-1990s, multiple factions vied for dominance over the war-torn country, leading to widespread violence and instability. The Taliban, a group composed primarily of Pashtun former students of Islamic schools in Pakistan, capitalized on the chaos and disillusionment of the Afghan people, presenting themselves as a force for order and reform. Their entry into Kabul was characterized by rapid military conquests of key positions and minimal resistance from rival factions, which had been weakened by years of infighting.Following their victory, the Taliban quickly established the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, enforcing a strict interpretation of Sharia law. They implemented various social regulations that targeted women and imposed harsh penalties for those who violated their laws. The Taliban's governance style was marked by a focus on creating a homogeneous society based on their religious beliefs, which drew both support and condemnation from different corners of the globe. Their rise not only changed Afghanistan internally but also had significant implications for international relations, leading to increasing isolation and eventual sanctions from numerous countries, particularly due to their harboring of terrorism and oppressive policies. This period laid the groundwork for future conflicts that would engulf Afghanistan and alter its geopolitical landscape for years to come.