Secluded in his stronghold in southern Afghanistan, reclusive Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada is the cornerstone of the movement that has ruled the country unchallenged since reclaiming power in 2021, strictly enforcing Islamic law.
"Brothers! Our responsibility of service to religion, ruling according to sharia (Islamic law), is our lifelong responsibility," Akhundzada said in an address in August 2024 marking the third anniversary of the Taliban takeover.
