TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A promotional tourism video for Afghanistan, circulating on social media, has caught widespread attention. The video uniquely invites tourists from the United States to visit Afghanistan by featuring a blend of dark comedy, military visuals, and the country's beautiful rural scenery.
The Times of India reports that the video was created by Yosaf Aryubi, founder of Raza Afghanistan, a tour agency based in Kabul. This agency aims to transform the conflict-affected country into a unique and adventurous tourist destination.
Shared by accounts affiliated with the Taliban, the video appears to be an attempt by its creator to challenge the long-established global perception of Afghanistan.
The video opens with provocative imagery: five armed Afghan men positioned behind three individuals with covered heads kneeling, mimicking extremist hostage recordings. One of the men menacingly announces, "We have one message for America." Suddenly, an Afghan man removes the head covering of a Caucasian man, who then grins, gives a thumbs-up, and exclaims, "Welcome to Afghanistan!"
Several white visitors are then shown enjoying local cuisine, dressed in traditional Afghan clothing, and warmly welcomed by local residents. These scenes aim to depict Afghanistan as a challenging yet friendly destination.
American Tourists' Recent Visits
American adult film star Whitney Wright recently traveled to Afghanistan and shared photos on Instagram in March. Her posts showcased her in Afghan attire, posing with a rifle at various tourist spots.
Hindustan Times also mentioned that American influencer Marian Abdi recently visited the country and documented her trip.
Several Afghans criticized the Taliban for allowing these visits while simultaneously prohibiting local women from working, receiving education, and participating in public life, the report added. "This is fundamentally hypocritical," one critic stated.
Despite these efforts to alter the world's perception of Afghanistan, Western governments continue to warn against travel to the country.
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Afghanistan, citing risks of terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. In 2021, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul was closed and is currently unable to provide consular support for American citizens there.
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