Tribute to a timeless hero: Ahmed Shah Massoud, known as Commander Massoud (1953-2001)

Today, we honor the memory of Ahmed Shah Massoud, a legendary figure who was both a fighter and a poet, a symbol of the struggle for freedom and human dignity. He was not only a brilliant military leader, but also a visionary with a profound poetic sensibility, nurturing a profound dream of a free and peaceful Afghanistan. Massoud never separated combat from reflection, wielding the pen with as much finesse as the sword, demonstrating a humanist vision rare among warlords.

Beyond his military bravery in the resistance against the Soviets and later against the Taliban, Massoud was also an early whistleblower. He was already warning the international community of the rise of al-Qaeda and the way in which hegemonic powers were exploiting terrorist groups to further their geopolitical interests. He understood, long before the world fully grasped the scale of the threat, that this strategy of interference, under the guise of terrorism, would plunge the region and beyond into chaos.

His assassination on September 9, 2001, on the eve of the September 11 attacks, marked a symbolic turning point. Massoud, the visionary warrior-poet, fell after trying, in vain, to alert the West to the imminent danger. His enforced silence foreshadowed the tragic events that would shake world history.

Today, this macabre strategy of interference through the instrumentalization of terrorist groups is clearly evident. Regions such as the Sahel, Libya, and Ukraine are testing grounds for this instrumentalization, with hegemonic powers using terror to weaken nations, divide them, and better control them. Massoud's fight for the sovereignty of his people and his struggle against the forces that used terrorism as a tool of manipulation are more relevant than ever.

At United Souls, we are honored to present this vibrant work of art, created by artist Joy Hanoun, which pays tribute to this man of rare foresight. The struggle continues, not only for peace and justice, but also against extremism, interference, and the cynical use of terrorism as a lever for global domination.

The poet's voice has fallen silent, but his struggle remains alive in every heart that yearns for freedom.

Join us in paying tribute to this historic figure and wear this symbol of resistance with pride.