While a broad array of insurgents in Afghanistan and Pakistan often get labeled as simply the 'Taliban,' in reality there are several groups fighting the Afghan government and Western forces. They often act independently of one another and have distinct command structures, ideologies, and strategies. Here, the Monitor maps out the diversity of the insurgency.
The most established group is the Taliban that led the Afghan government in the 1990s. Led by Mullah Omar and others who held top positions in the pre-invasion government, the Taliban has traditionally held the most sway in southern Afghanistan, where it has deep roots. US officials believe that senior leaders are based in Pakistan, possibly Quetta.
