Last chance for peace, Afghan president warns Taliban

KABUL – Agence France-Presse

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani issued an ultimatum to the Taliban on June 6, warning them to embrace peace or “face consequences” after announcing that the death toll from last week’s truck bombing had passed 150.

Ghani has come under mounting public criticism for spiraling insecurity, with a wave of protests and deadly street clashes roiling the Afghan capital as people incensed by the violence call for his government’s resignation.

The president made a strong plea for security at an international peace conference on Afghanistan attended by around two dozen countries.

Armored vehicles patrolled the streets as part of tight security and fighter jets roared over the capital.

“We are offering a chance for peace but this is not an open-ended offer,” Ghani said.

“Time is running out... this is the last chance: take it or face consequences.”