Statement from Gen. Joseph Votel, commander, U.S. Central Command on Taliban acceptance of Afghanistan ceasefire

“U.S. Central Command welcomes the announcement by the Taliban of a three day Eid ceasefire. We hope that their positive response to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’s initial ceasefire announcement will lead to the reduction of violence and future dialogue towards a lasting Afghan-owned peace that is strongly desired by the people of Afghanistan. We applaud President Ghani and the government of Afghanistan’s bold leadership in support of reconciliation and peace.”