A BBC reporter has been praised for her professionalism after receiving a call from a Taliban spokesperson while live on air.
On Sunday evening, Taliban soldiers took control of Afghanistan's capital city of Kabul, forcing Afghan President Ashraf Ghani to flee the country, along with many high-ranking officials. As reported by CNBC, the Taliban entered the presidential palace and declared the war "over".
Ghani has since said in a statement that he fled to prevent "a flood of bloodshed", adding: "The Taliban have won with the judgment of their swords and guns, and are now responsible for the honor, property, and self-preservation of their countrymen."
Also on Sunday night, BBC World News anchor Yalda Hakim received a call from Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen while she was presenting live on air.
After looking visibly stunned by the call, Hakim was able to put Shaheen on loudspeaker and conduct an interview for the next 30 minutes.
The Metro reports that a microphone was placed next to Hakim's cell phone so that viewers were able to hear Shaheen.
Over the next half an hour, Hakim pushed for answers on the Taliban's intentions in Afghanistan, as concerns continue to grow surrounding the possible implementation of strict interpretations of Sharia law - such as girls being banned from schools and corporal punishments.
During the interview. Shaheen stated: "We assure the people in Afghanistan, particularly in the city of Kabul, that their properties, their lives are safe – there will be no revenge on anyone.
"We are the servants of the people and of this country."
Shaheen added: "Over the next few days, we want a peaceful transfer of power."
"Secondly, people will be able to resume their normal [lives]," she continued. "Thirdly, there is no revenge on all those who are working with the Kabul administration or with the foreign forces.
"We want all embassies to continue their work, there will be no risk to diplomats or to anyone. All should continue as if they were continuing in the past."
Following the interview, Hakim received an outpouring of praise on Twitter for her conduct throughout the unforeseen interview.
TV floor manager, @swimmersjackson, tweeted: "Have never witnessed anything quite like what happened in studio this morning, pointing our guest mic at @BBCYaldaHakim own mobile phone as a Taliban spokesman rang it in the middle of her juggling another live interview.
"Timing is everything, there was no rearranging this."
Another Twitter user added: "Getting the Taliban spokesman on your own phone while you’re presenting live. @BBCYaldaHakim nailing it, all while dealing with an incredibly upsetting story. Wow".
Fellow broadcaster Aasmah Mir added: "That BBC Taliban interview is just mind-blowing. All 32 minutes of it. Yalda Hakim is an absolute boss."
