Hizb-i Islami (Afghanistan)

Hizb-i Islami (Afghanistan)

Introduction

Hizb-i Islami (Afghanistan) is an Afghan political movement initially created and led by Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and Maulavi Yunus Khales. The group was notably active during the Afghan war from 1978 to 1992 and became influential due to its combined ideology of scriptural fundamentalism and revolutionary practice.

Etymology and Translations

• Etymology: The term “Hizb-i Islami” translates to “Islamic Party” in English.
• Arabic: حزب إسلامي (Hizb al-Islami)
• Turkish: İslami Parti

Historical Background

Hizb-i Islami played a significant role during the Soviet-Afghan War. It became one of the major Mujahideen factions fighting against the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. The movement was initially unified but later fragmented into various factions due to internal ideological differences and external pressures. It was mainly supported financially, logistically, and militarily by countries like Iran, Pakistan, and the United States.

Ideological Foundations

The ideology of Hizb-i Islami integrates:

• Scriptural Fundamentalism: Emphasis on strict adherence to Islamic texts and principles.
• Revolutionary Practice: The use of militant actions and revolutionary activities to achieve political and ideological goals.

Notable Leaders

• Gulbuddin Hekmatyar: Founder and primary leader known for his staunch Islamism and militancy.
• Maulavi Yunus Khales: Co-founder who later led a faction independent from Hekmatyar.

External Support and Influence

During the Soviet occupation:

• Iran, Pakistan, and the United States: These countries provided significant financial, logistical, and military support to Hizb-i Islami, viewing it as a strategic partner against Soviet influence.

Post-Soviet Era

After the collapse of the Soviet occupation in 1992, Hizb-i Islami found itself excluded from the newly formed Islamic-oriented coalition government. This exclusion led to further fragmentation and regional conflicts, impacting the movement’s overall unity and influence.

Books for Further Studies

For those seeking to delve deeper into the study of Hizb-i Islami and its impact on Afghan history and politics, consider the following scholarly resources:

• “Afghanistan: A Modern History” by Angelo Rasanayagam
• “Taliban: Militant Islam, Oil and Fundamentalism in Central Asia” by Ahmed Rashid
• “The Afghan Wars: History in an Hour” by Rupert Colley

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Hizb-i Islami (Afghanistan) serves as an important case study in understanding the interplay between militant Islamism, regional politics, and international relations during the late 20th century. Key takeaways include:

• The significant influence of external support in shaping internal power dynamics in militant Islamic movements.
• The challenges of maintaining ideological unity within revolutionary groups.
• The impact of geopolitical shifts on Islamic political movements.

Further Thoughts

The story of Hizb-i Islami underscores the complexities involved in the nexus of religion, politics, and warfare. It also highlights the long-term ramifications for countries involved in such conflicts, affecting both regional stability and international diplomacy.

Sources:

1. Rasanayagam, A. (2005). “Afghanistan: A Modern History.” I.B. Tauris.
2. Rashid, A. (2002). “Taliban: Militant Islam, Oil and Fundamentalism in Central Asia.” Yale University Press.