Martyrs’ Week commemorates the sacrifices of thousands of women and men who gave their lives for the freedom, independence, justice, and dignity of Afghanistan. The High Council of National Resistance for the Salvation of Afghanistan extends its condolences to the honorable people of Afghanistan, the beloved families of the martyrs, and all freedom-seekers and those who have struggled for justice in the country on the occasion of Martyrs’ Week and the anniversary of the martyrdom of Afghanistan’s National Hero, Ahmad Shah Massoud.
The National Hero was not merely a military commander; he was a symbol of resistance, the pursuit of freedom, and the defense of Afghanistan’s dignity and independence. He stood against occupation and tyranny and fought for an Afghanistan in which all ethnic groups and citizens would enjoy equal rights and live in a free and just society. His beliefs were firmly rooted in freedom, social justice, human dignity, and the political participation of both women and men. National unity, education, and the active role of women were integral parts of his vision for Afghanistan’s future—one grounded in Islamic and human values and in an independent and united Afghanistan.
The role and legacy of Martyr Ahmad Shah Massoud hold a special place in Afghanistan’s contemporary history. During the jihad against the Soviet invasion, he led the popular resistance in Panjshir and transformed the region into a symbol of resilience and resistance. He later stood against Taliban extremism and fought in defense of Afghanistan’s independence, territorial integrity, and the rights of its people. His steadfastness and sacrifices have immortalized his name in the history of the Afghan people’s resistance.
Alongside Martyr Ahmad Shah Massoud, the High Council of National Resistance for the Salvation of Afghanistan also honors the memory of the Martyr of Peace, Professor Burhanuddin Rabbani; the Martyr of National Unity, Professor Abdul Ali Mazari; Professor Abdul Qadir Zabihullah; Haji Abdul Qadir; Sayed Mustafa Kazemi; Commander Abdul Haq; Abdul Mutalib Beg; General Abdul Raziq; Professor Sabur Farid; General Mohammad Daoud Daoud; and all the martyrs of jihad and resistance, the martyrs of the Republic era, and the victims of recent years—men and women who sacrificed their lives in defense of the people and the future of Afghanistan.
Today, at a time when Afghanistan is once again confronting authoritarian rule, political exclusion, and the deprivation of a large segment of society of its fundamental rights, remembering the martyrs is not merely about recalling the past; it also represents a responsibility toward the future. Their aspirations should guide us toward an Afghanistan that is free, united, just, and founded upon the will of its people.
The Supreme Council of National Resistance for the Salvation of Afghanistan, while paying tribute to the honored status of all the country’s martyrs, commemorates the memory and legacy of the National Hero, Martyr Ahmad Shah Massoud; the Martyr of Peace, Professor Burhanuddin Rabbani; the Martyr of National Unity, Professor Abdul Ali Mazari; and all those who sacrificed their lives in the cause of freedom and justice. The Council prays to Almighty God to grant mercy to all the martyrs and patience and fortitude to their families.