Kabul: Afghanistan's Taliban-led government has downplayed the security threat posed by the Islamic State (IS), claiming that security forces have arrested 600 IS militants in the last three months.

"In the last three months, the Islamic Emirate's security forces have destroyed 21 IS bases in different provinces, including Kabul, Nangarhar, and Herat, and captured about 600 militants," according to reports.

In response to a question, Mujahid stated that Afghanistan places a high value on strengthening ties with its neighbours and aims to increase trade and economic cooperation. Mujahid claimed that the group does not have Afghan support and that its activities are under control. The spokesman also stated that the armed group's crackdown would continue. Acting Foreign Minister Mullah Amir Khan Muttaqi is currently in Islamabad, according to Mujahid, to discuss issues of mutual interest with Pakistani officials, including trade and economic cooperation.

Khalil Hamraz, the head of public relations for the General Directorate of Intelligence, the country's counter-intelligence agency, also spoke at the briefing, saying that the agency would continue to crack down on IS operatives and criminals, including kidnappers, thieves, and those who break the law.

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