Mujahideen resistance (and some rare photos!)
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Mujahideen resistance (and some rare photos!)

The Mujahideen resistance was a key player in the Soviet-Afghan War, which lasted from 1979 to 1989. The Mujahideen was a coalition of various factions that fought against the Soviet army and the Afghan communist government that was backed by the Soviets. The Mujahideen's resistance was critical to the Soviet army's eventual withdrawal from Afghanistan, and it serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved through courage and determination.


Mujahideen fighters
Mujahideen fighters in the early days of the war. Note how they are all armed with single action rifles

The Mujahideen resistance began in 1979, shortly after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. The Soviets had hoped to establish a friendly government in Afghanistan, but they were met with fierce resistance from the Afghan people, who viewed the Soviet presence as an act of aggression. The Mujahideen formed as a coalition of Afghan resistance groups, including Islamic fundamentalists, nationalists, and tribal leaders.


Mujahideen fighters
Mujahideen fighters with AKM rifle in snowy mountains

The Mujahideen was not a single cohesive group but a coalition of various factions, each with its own agenda and leadership structure. However, they all shared a common goal: to drive the Soviet army out of Afghanistan and restore Afghan independence. The Mujahideen's resistance was not just military; they also worked to gain support from the Afghan people and the international community.


Chinese DSHK
Captured photo of Mujahideen fighters with Chinese DSHK heavy machine gun

One of the Mujahideen's most significant achievements was their ability to secure funding and weapons from outside sources. They received support from the United States, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, who saw the Soviet presence in Afghanistan as a threat to their own interests. The Mujahideen used these resources to great effect, and their guerrilla tactics proved to be effective against the Soviet army's conventional warfare.


Mujahideen fighters
Mujahideen fighters

The Mujahideen's resistance was not without its challenges. The Soviet army had superior firepower, and they were able to maintain control over major cities and strategic locations. The Mujahideen relied on hit-and-run tactics, ambushes, and surprise attacks to wear down the Soviet army's morale and resources. Despite these difficulties, the Mujahideen continued to fight and gain ground against the Soviet army.


destroyed russian helicopter
Mujahideen hunters and their prey

The Mujahideen's resistance was critical to the Soviet army's eventual withdrawal from Afghanistan. The Mujahideen's efforts weakened the Soviet army's morale, resources, and reputation, and forced them to withdraw from Afghanistan in 1989. The Mujahideen's resistance inspired others around the world to fight against oppressive regimes and foreign occupations.


Afghan tribe with Soviet forces
Members of an Afghan tribe with Soviet forces

In conclusion, the Mujahideen resistance was a powerful example of what can be achieved through courage, determination, and the desire for freedom. The Mujahideen's resistance against the Soviet army and Afghan communist government was a crucial factor in the eventual Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. The Mujahideen's story serves as a reminder of the power of resistance and the importance of fighting for one's beliefs and values.

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