Forces of Ismael Khan / Herat Militia (Afghanistan)

Country: Afghanistan
Details of Formation: The group was founded by Mohammad Ismail Khan in 2001, who was a former anti-Soviet rebel group that became pro-government when the Soviets were expelled.
Details of Termination: While there are no reports of the PGM being officially disbanded, many fighters were disarmed after 2004 and there are no subsequent reports suggesting they were active. In 2012 Khan claims to have remobilised the group. In 2013, Khan is replaced as minister of energy and water. With his exit from the government, the militia ceases to be pro-government according to our definition.
Purpose: The group was supposed to support government forces in security-related tasks and protect the country from foreign threats.
Organisation: The leader of the group was Mohammad Ismail Khan, who was also Afghanistan’s energy and water minister.
Weapons and Training: Although it is said that the forces were well-equipped, there is no specific information on how they were armed.
Size: --
Reason for Membership: Membership was largely based on loyalty to the Tajik ethnic group.
Treatment of Civilians: --
Other Information: The group was part of the Northern Alliance that took part in the US-supported military action that removed the Taliban from power in 2001. The militia was pro-government from 2001-2004 and then again from 2012-11-14 to 2013-01-01. Also known as Herat militia to indicate its location. The name Forces of Ismael Khan is used by UCDP.
References: Information was taken from news sources listed in the PGMD.