Pakistan, July 6 -- A reported dispute over control of mineral resources has intensified in Afghanistan's Badakhshan province, with local commander Juma Khan Fateh refusing to surrender to the Taliban authorities. According to Afghan media reports, the standoff has exposed growing tensions within Taliban ranks. The reported confrontation could further destabilise security in the resource-rich province.

Reports said differences emerged between the Taliban administration and Juma Khan Fateh over the distribution and control of mineral resources in Badakhshan. Afghan media claimed Taliban Supreme Leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada had declared the commander a rebel and ordered military action against him. These claims have not been indepen...