Taliban Bans Chess in Afghanistan

The Taliban government in Afghanistan has banned chess indefinitely, citing concerns that it violates Sharia law and is considered a means of gambling. This decision, announced by the Afghanistan — Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, has led to the dissolution of the Afghanistan Chess Federation. Atal Mashwani, spokesman for the Taliban's sports directorate, confirmed the ban, stating that the game is suspended until religious considerations are addressed. This move is part of a broader pattern of restrictions imposed by the Taliban since taking power in 2021, which includes banning women from sports and prohibiting other activities like mixed martial arts. While some, like cafe owner Azizullah Gulzada, deny gambling takes place and note chess is played in other Muslim countries, the Taliban maintains its strict interpretation of Islamic law.