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Taliban Bans Chess in Afghanistan Over Islamic Concerns

5/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Taliban has imposed a ban on chess in Afghanistan, citing fears that it encourages gambling, a violation of Islamic law. Sports directorate spokesperson Atal Mashwani announced that the ban will persist until religious concerns are resolved. This move underscores the Taliban's rigid enforcement of Islamic regulations, affecting sports participation for both men and women since their rise to power in 2021.

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Story summary

The Taliban has imposed a ban on chess in Afghanistan, citing fears that it encourages gambling, a violation of Islamic law. Sports directorate spokesperson Atal Mashwani announced that the ban will persist until religious concerns are resolved. This move underscores the Taliban's rigid enforcement of Islamic regulations, affecting sports participation for both men and women since their rise to power in 2021.