InternetDesk: The systematic exploitation of Afghanistan's wealth of archaeological sites has been revealed by a team of researchers from the University of Chicago. The study indicates that 37 archaeological sites have been destroyed since the Taliban assumed power, with satellite images being employed for identification.

The looted items include artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age and those that are a thousand years old. The researchers identified a total of 29,000 ancient historical sites throughout Afghanistan, encompassing areas such as Bactria and the Alexander period.

Between 2018 and 2021, the researchers noted the looting of ancient treasures in approximately 162 locations. Bulldozers and silos were observed in satellite images at many of these sites, indicating the severity of the issue. The report suggests that, on average, one location is plundered per week. The stolen artifacts were then transported through Iran and Pakistan to museums in Europe, North America, and East Asia.

Despite the Taliban's assurances upon returning to power that they would respect ancient treasures, no visible efforts have been made to address the issue. Shockingly, the plundering of approximately 37 sites continued unabated.