KABUL - In response queries of Senators, acting Minister of Defense Enayatollah Nazari on Monday reported that the insurgents operating in regions of Afghanistan have labeled themselves as ISIS when in fact they are Taliban fighters.

"Our investigations reveal that Taliban commanders in Afghanistan have changed their physical appearance and are acting as ISIS militants are in fact the Taliban," Nazari told the Senators.

In addition, acting Minister of Interior Mohammad Ayoub Salangi said that the Afghan National Police (ANP), despite the lack of efficient weaponry and tolerating massive casualties, is determined to defend the country against threats posed by terrorists.

"Our air force sector has not developed causing us to face several issues even while transferring our wounded and martyred soldiers," Salangi said at the session.

On Monday the Senate summoned the acting Minister of Defense, acting Minister of Interior, and First Deputy of the National Directorate of Security (NDS) to inquire about the recent rumors about the activities of ISIS in Afghanistan. Several Senators raised concern of what they believe to be a rise in terrorist activities throughout the country that illustrate the presence of ISIS in the country.

"There is visible increase in activities of Taliban and ISIS militants in Faryab province," Senator Mohammad Gul Rassouli said. Adding to the statement, Senator Mohammad Haleem Hassanyar said that "activities of the group have been witnessed in borders of Ghazni province."

Concluding the session, the Senate appreciated the commitments and achievements of the security forces for maintaining security in the country. (Tolonews)