Cold War and the Rise of the Taliban

During the Soviet-Afghan War, Osama Bin Laden joined the Afghan resistance, supported by the US, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia. Initially seen as a non-threat by the CIA, Bin Laden was involved in construction and refugee care. Media theories suggest CIA trained Afghan Arabs, but evidence shows Arab fighters had independent funding. The war displaced millions of Afghans, leading to the establishment of madrasas funded by Saudi Arabia. These schools later became training grounds for the Taliban, who fought the Soviets with US support.

What was the primary reason for Osama Bin Laden's arrival in Afghanistan during the Cold War?

• To support the Soviet Union

• To join the Afghan resistance against the Soviets

• To establish a new government

• To promote peace talks

What expertise did Osama Bin Laden bring to the Afghan resistance?

• Political expertise

• Medical expertise

• Construction expertise

• Agricultural expertise

How did the CIA view Osama Bin Laden during the Afghan-Soviet War?

• As a major threat

• As an ally against the Soviets

• As a neutral party

• As a potential spy

What was the source of financial support for foreign Arab fighters in Afghanistan?

• The Soviet Union

• The CIA

• The United Nations

• Saudi Arabia

What was the impact of Saudi Arabia's financial contributions during the Afghan conflict?

• It supported the Soviet Union

• It helped the Afghan resistance and civilians

• It funded the CIA operations

• It was used for building infrastructure

What was the primary purpose of the madrasas established along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border?

• To act as diplomatic centers

• To serve as hospitals

• To offer free education to Afghan refugee children

• To provide military training

Who were the students of the madrasas known as?

• Mujahadin

• CIA operatives

• Taliban

• Soviets

What role did Muhammad Omar play in the context of the madrasas?

• He was a local mula and teacher

• He was a Saudi diplomat

• He was a CIA agent

• He was a Soviet leader

What was the perception of the Taliban during the Soviet War according to Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf?

• They were ignored

• They were viewed as neutral

• They were considered heroes

• They were seen as terrorists

What was the primary activity of the Taliban during the Soviet War?

• Building infrastructure

• Fighting the Soviets

• Engaging in peace talks

• Providing humanitarian aid