The Taliban is suspended in Afghanistan due to gambling fears

The Taliban government in Afghanistan has banned chess until further notice due to fears that the game is a source of gambling.

The officials said the game was banned indefinitely so that its compatibility with Islamic law could be determined.

Chess is the latest sport bound by the Taliban. Women are mainly prevented from participating in sports at all.

Since the seizure of energy in August 2021The Taliban steadily imposed laws and regulations that reflect their strengthening vision of Islamic law.

On Sunday, Atal Machouani, a spokesman for the Taliban Sports Government Directorate, said that chess in Islamic law “is a means of gambling.”

“There are religious considerations related to chess,” he told AFP.

“Until these considerations are addressed, chess is suspended in Afghanistan.”

One of the café owners in Kabul, who hosted unofficial chess competitions in recent years, said that he would respect the decision but will harm his work.

Aziz Allah Gulzada said: “Young people do not have many activities these days. Many people came here every day.”

“They will have a cup of tea and challenge their friends in chess.”

He also indicated that chess is played in other Islamic majority countries.

Last year, the authorities banned free fighting, such as mixed martial arts (MMA) in the professional competition, saying it was “violent” and “a problem with regard to Sharia.”

It turns out that sport is a problem with regard to Sharia and has many contradictory aspects with the teachings of Islam. The Taliban spokesman said last August.

MMA competitions were actually banned in 2021 when the Taliban presented legislation prohibiting the “face”.