The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has firmly defended its newly enacted Sharia-based laws, dismissing concerns raised by international entities such as the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) as "baseless."

In a statement released Monday, the government emphasized that the laws, developed by the Ministry of Vice and Virtue, are rooted in Islamic principles and Hanafi jurisprudence.

The Sharia law in question comprises an introduction, four chapters, and 35 articles. The government asserts that every article and clause is derived from credible Islamic sources, with documented references in the law’s footnotes. The statement underlines that the laws are consistent with the values and principles of Islam, urging non-Muslims who express concern to first "familiarize themselves with Islamic laws and show respect for Islamic values."

For Muslims, the government recommends self-education on these Sharia-based laws and consultation with religious scholars. It warns that any Muslim who rejects or criticizes these laws may demonstrate "ignorance of their religion" and could be jeopardizing their faith.

Reiterating Afghanistan’s identity as an Islamic country, the statement argues that Islamic laws are inherently enforceable in such a society. The government cites Quranic texts to justify the establishment of the Ministry of Vice and Virtue, stating that it is the duty of every Muslim and the Islamic government to "command good and forbid evil."

The Islamic Emirate also assures that the implementation of these laws will be carried out with "great leniency" and without "oppression, injustice, or transgression against anyone." It dismisses the "unfounded concerns" of various parties and reaffirms its commitment to enforcing Sharia law in line with the aspirations of the "Mujahid nation and our pure martyrs.". (ILKHA)