ISLAMABAD (AP) — The Taliban on Thursday denied using force to divert international aid in Afghanistan, responding to a U.S. watchdog report that said authorities used “every means at their disposal, including force,” to ensure that aid goes where they want it to.

The 118-page report, published a day earlier by the U.S. Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, said the Taliban use their regulatory power to determine which NGOs may operate, and under what conditions.

The report added that the Taliban block and redirect aid to ensure it benefits Pashtun communities over minority Hazara or Tajik groups, and that they refuse to allow NGOs to operate unless they hire Taliban-affiliated businesses, NGOs, and individuals.

Until recently, the U.S. was the largest donor to Afgha

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