What justification does the US cite for seizing Afghan funds?

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The US cites compensation for 9/11 victims as justification for seizing Afghan funds.

US President Joe Biden has ordered the seizure of US$7 billion in assets previously held by the Afghan government. This decision is intended to allocate half of the funds, US$3.5 billion, towards compensation for victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks. The remaining US$3.5 billion is designated for humanitarian aid for the Afghan people and the future of Afghanistan.
Compensation for 9/11 Victims

Families of those killed or injured in the 9/11 attacks have faced significant challenges in securing compensation from Al-Qaeda and other responsible parties. Despite obtaining default judgments in US lawsuits against Al-Qaeda and the Taliban, these victim groups have been unable to collect any funds. The seized assets now present an opportunity for these victims to pursue access to the frozen funds.
Humanitarian Aid for Afghanistan

The White House has stated that a portion of the seized funds, US$3.5 billion, will be directed into a humanitarian aid trust. This initiative aims to benefit the Afghan people and support the future of Afghanistan, reflecting an effort by Washington to provide assistance while navigating the complexities of the current political landscape.
Taliban's Reaction and Stance

The Taliban have strongly condemned the seizure, labeling it as "theft" and a manifestation of US "moral decay." They argue that the 9/11 attacks were unrelated to Afghanistan and that any appropriation of Afghan assets under this pretext constitutes a violation of agreements made with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. The group has warned that they may reconsider their policy towards the US if Washington does not reverse its decision and release the funds unconditionally.
Origin of the Seized Funds

According to a US official, the majority of the US$7 billion in assets originated from foreign assistance provided to the former Western-backed Afghan government. These funds had been held in the New York Federal Reserve since the Taliban's assumption of power in the previous year. The Taliban government, which has not yet received international recognition, controls Afghanistan and faces an ongoing economic crisis.

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What justification does the US cite for seizing Afghan funds?

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