The United States on Wednesday (March 4) conducted an airstrike against Taliban. It is the first such attack since the troop withdrawal agreement was signed.

First US airstrike against Taliban since peace deal

The United States and the Taliban signed the historic peace deal in Doha on Saturday after After 18 years of war in Afghanistan. Reacting to the peace deal, US President Donald Trump Warned the Taliban that the US Will go back if bad things happen again in Afghanistan.

On the campaign trail, Trump had declared that he would end America's long wars and bring back American soldiers, and with this peace deal, the president seems to be moving in that very direction.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/whats-in-the-landmark-us-taliban-deal-283511">What's in the landmark US-Taliban deal?</a>

Speaking after the deal-signing, Trump said that both sides were tired of the long and drawn-out war. He paid tribute to all the men, women and children who lost their lives over the last 20 years in Afghanistan.

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And said that he would personally meet Taliban leaders in the near future. But the president also had a subtle warning for the Taliban. He said that if the Taliban went back on its promises, the United States would return to the country with speed and force like no one has ever seen.

Along with the US, several NATO troops have also been deployed in Afghanistan.

As the Taliban and US signed the peace deal in Doha, NATO chief Stoltenberg and Pentagon chief Mark Esper were holding talks with Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani. Welcoming the deal, Stoltenberg said that the path to peace would be long and difficult.

Pentagon chief Esper asked US troops in Afghanistan to stay vigilant. He said that Afghanistan is still a very dangerous place and that it was America's responsibility to ensure the safe transfer of power to the Afghan security forces.

Meanwhile, US Sectretary of State Mike Pompeo urged Taliban to keep their end of the deal and cut ties with al-Qaeda. Taliban responded by saying that they are committed to the agreement and will enforce it.

The United States and the Taliban signed the historic peace deal in Doha on Saturday after After 18 years of war in Afghanistan. Reacting to the peace deal, US President Donald Trump Warned the Taliban that the US Will go back if bad things happen again in Afghanistan.

The United States and the Taliban signed the historic peace deal in Doha on Saturday after After 18 years of war in Afghanistan. Reacting to the peace deal, US President Donald Trump Warned the Taliban that the US Will go back if bad things happen again in Afghanistan. On the campaign trail, Trump had declared that he would end America's long wars and bring back American soldiers, and with this peace deal, the president seems to be moving in that very direction. Also read: What's in the landmark US-Taliban deal? Speaking after the deal-signing, Trump said that both sides were tired of the long and drawn-out war. He paid tribute to all the men, women and children who lost their lives over the last 20 years in Afghanistan. × And said that he would personally meet Taliban leaders in the near future. But the president also had a subtle warning for the Taliban. He said that if the Taliban went back on its promises, the United States would return to the country with speed and force like no one has ever seen. Along with the US, several NATO troops have also been deployed in Afghanistan. As the Taliban and US signed the peace deal in Doha, NATO chief Stoltenberg and Pentagon chief Mark Esper were holding talks with Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani. Welcoming the deal, Stoltenberg said that the path to peace would be long and difficult. Pentagon chief Esper asked US troops in Afghanistan to stay vigilant. He said that Afghanistan is still a very dangerous place and that it was America's responsibility to ensure the safe transfer of power to the Afghan security forces. Meanwhile, US Sectretary of State Mike Pompeo urged Taliban to keep their end of the deal and cut ties with al-Qaeda. Taliban responded by saying that they are committed to the agreement and will enforce it.

Trump hails historic Doha peace deal between US and Taliban  

The United States signed a deal with Taliban insurgents on February 29 which will lead to the full withdrawal of foreign soldiers from Afghanistan over the next 14 months. The U. President Donald Trump on February 29 said he would be personally meeting leaders of the Taliban in the near future.

8,600 US troops in Afghanistan to be withdrawn in 14 months | Afghan Peace Deal

Donald Trump: I'll be meeting personally with Taliban leaders

India will be part of of the Afghan peace deal that will be signed today between the US and the Taliban later today.

Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a congratulatory letter to newly elected Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and said India was committed to a principled position of support for an inclusive Afghan-led, Afghan-owned &amp; Afghan controlled peace &amp; reconciliation process.&nbsp;

In November 2018, India sent two retired diplomats -- former envoy to Kabul Kumar Sinha and former high commissioner to Pakistan TCA Raghavan -- to the Afghan peace conference. The duo represented New Delhi at the Moscow talks but with a disclaimer that they were representing on 'non-official' level.

That was a major departure from India's gameplan in the war-torn country.

It was the first time India shared a table with the Taliban and now India has been officially invited to the signing of the peace deal.

India has always refused to engage or negotiate with the Taliban. In the past, for strategic purposes, India sided with other forces.

In the 1980s India formed a failed alliance with the Afghan communists alongside the Soviet Union. A similarly futile effort in the 1990s saw it backing the so-called northern alliance with the support from Iran and Russia.

The northern alliance fought a defensive war against the Taliban government-backed by Pakistan, which ended with the US invasion and its dissolution.

Since 2001, under the security umbrella of US-led NATO forces, India has built a sizeable developmental and considerable intelligence footprint.

Today, India values its role as a constructive regional player helping Afghanistan in political, military and economic terms.

India has pumped in more than $2 billion in aid and infrastructural development and has reopened consulates across the country. While it does not have the financial resources like the US to support state-building, India needs to protect its presence and interests.

And for that, it has to deal with the Taliban.

India is at a crossroads in its foreign policy strategy in Afghanistan.

That which was considered mainstream has now been relegated to the sidelines.

And that which was on the fringes is now set to become a mainstay.

India will be part of of the Afghan peace deal that will be signed today between the US and the Taliban later today. Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a congratulatory letter to newly elected Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and said India was committed to a principled position of support for an inclusive Afghan-led, Afghan-owned & Afghan controlled peace & reconciliation process.

India will be part of of the Afghan peace deal that will be signed today between the US and the Taliban later today. Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a congratulatory letter to newly elected Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and said India was committed to a principled position of support for an inclusive Afghan-led, Afghan-owned & Afghan controlled peace & reconciliation process. In November 2018, India sent two retired diplomats -- former envoy to Kabul Kumar Sinha and former high commissioner to Pakistan TCA Raghavan -- to the Afghan peace conference. The duo represented New Delhi at the Moscow talks but with a disclaimer that they were representing on 'non-official' level. That was a major departure from India's gameplan in the war-torn country. It was the first time India shared a table with the Taliban and now India has been officially invited to the signing of the peace deal. India has always refused to engage or negotiate with the Taliban. In the past, for strategic purposes, India sided with other forces. In the 1980s India formed a failed alliance with the Afghan communists alongside the Soviet Union. A similarly futile effort in the 1990s saw it backing the so-called northern alliance with the support from Iran and Russia. The northern alliance fought a defensive war against the Taliban government-backed by Pakistan, which ended with the US invasion and its dissolution. Since 2001, under the security umbrella of US-led NATO forces, India has built a sizeable developmental and considerable intelligence footprint. Today, India values its role as a constructive regional player helping Afghanistan in political, military and economic terms. India has pumped in more than $2 billion in aid and infrastructural development and has reopened consulates across the country. While it does not have the financial resources like the US to support state-building, India needs to protect its presence and interests. And for that, it has to deal with the Taliban. India is at a crossroads in its foreign policy strategy in Afghanistan. That which was considered mainstream has now been relegated to the sidelines. And that which was on the fringes is now set to become a mainstay.

India to be part of historic Afghan peace deal between US and Taliban 

A few hours from now, a major peace deal will be signed in Doha between representatives of America and the Taliban. The peace agreement will pave the way for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan.

A few hours from now, a major peace deal will be signed in Doha between representatives of America and the Taliban. The peace agreement will pave the way for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan. American soldiers have been in the country fighting against the Taliban for the last 18 years. × Ahead of the signing, the Taliban had agreed to implement a "Reduction in violence" which began on February 22 as a Confidence Building Measure (CBM), something that assured the Americans that the Taliban are willing to sign the deal. Also read: How India changed its gameplan on tackling the Taliban in Afghanistan However, experts believe that this agreement in no way will kickstart an era of peace in Afghanistan. America will make a big deal out of this agreement as it is election season in the United States, the added. US President Donald Trump, who is fighting to be re-elected this year, will claim that he kept his promise of getting American troops out of Afghanistan. The US, which currently has between 12,000 and 13,000 troops in Afghanistan, could draw that number down to 8,600 within months of the agreement being signed. In exchange, the Taliban will promise to not provide any shelter to foreign terrorist groups like the al-Qaeda and begin negotiations with civilian politicians and community leaders. Representatives from 26 countries are participating in today's event including Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. Qatar has also asked India to send a representative which New Delhi accepted.

Afghanistan's future in the balance as US, Taliban set to sign historic peace deal

The European Union described the historic peace deal between the US and the Taliban, and a separate US-Afghanistan declaration, as &nbsp;"important first steps towards a comprehensive peace process" in Afghanistan.

Reacting to the official signing, EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement that "the current opportunity to move towards peace should not be missed" and the bloc expected "Afghan-owned and Afghan-led negotiations to start without delay in an inclusive manner and aiming at a lasting peace".

Borrell also said the EU stood ready to help with an Afghan peace process in which "all political factions, where notably Afghan women and minorities as well as the civil society, are represented in a meaningful manner".

"It is vital that all people of Afghanistan feel represented in the next government and in peace negotiations. This would help address grievances, including in the context of the recent electoral process, and promote reconciliation," he added.

The United States signed a deal with Taliban insurgents on Saturday that could pave the way toward a full withdrawal of foreign soldiers from Afghanistan over the next 14 months and represent a step toward ending the 18-year-war in the nation.

While the agreement creates a path for the United States to gradually pull out of its longest war, many expect the talks to come between the Afghan sides may be much more complicated.

There are hopes it will put an end to nearly two decades of conflict in Afghanistan, where US-led forces have propped up the government in Kabul in the face of an unceasing Taliban insurgency.

To achieve peace, though, the accord will have to lead to intra-Afghan talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban.

The Afghan government was not directly involved in the negotiations resulting in Saturday's deal signed in Doha. But US Defense Secretary Mark Esper was in Kabul to make a joint declaration with the government.

Saudi Arabia also welcomed the peace agreement.

In a statement, the foreign ministry hoped that the deal would lead to a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire and nationwide peace in Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union described the historic peace deal between the US and the Taliban, and a separate US-Afghanistan declaration, as "important first steps towards a comprehensive peace process" in Afghanistan.

The European Union described the historic peace deal between the US and the Taliban, and a separate US-Afghanistan declaration, as "important first steps towards a comprehensive peace process" in Afghanistan. Reacting to the official signing, EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement that "the current opportunity to move towards peace should not be missed" and the bloc expected "Afghan-owned and Afghan-led negotiations to start without delay in an inclusive manner and aiming at a lasting peace". Borrell also said the EU stood ready to help with an Afghan peace process in which "all political factions, where notably Afghan women and minorities as well as the civil society, are represented in a meaningful manner". "It is vital that all people of Afghanistan feel represented in the next government and in peace negotiations. This would help address grievances, including in the context of the recent electoral process, and promote reconciliation," he added. The United States signed a deal with Taliban insurgents on Saturday that could pave the way toward a full withdrawal of foreign soldiers from Afghanistan over the next 14 months and represent a step toward ending the 18-year-war in the nation. While the agreement creates a path for the United States to gradually pull out of its longest war, many expect the talks to come between the Afghan sides may be much more complicated. There are hopes it will put an end to nearly two decades of conflict in Afghanistan, where US-led forces have propped up the government in Kabul in the face of an unceasing Taliban insurgency. To achieve peace, though, the accord will have to lead to intra-Afghan talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban. The Afghan government was not directly involved in the negotiations resulting in Saturday's deal signed in Doha. But US Defense Secretary Mark Esper was in Kabul to make a joint declaration with the government. Saudi Arabia also welcomed the peace agreement. In a statement, the foreign ministry hoped that the deal would lead to a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire and nationwide peace in Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

US-Taliban deal first step to Afghanistan peace process, says European Union

India will continue to extend all support to the Afghanistan government and its people in realising their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic future, Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-sign-historic-afghan-peace-deal-in-doha-america-to-withdraw-troops-within-14-months-283481">signing of the landmark deal</a> between the United States and Taliban insurgents.

"India's consistent policy is to support all opportunities that can bring peace, security, and stability in Afghanistan," MEA said in an official statement.

"We note that the entire political spectrum in Afghanistan, including the government, the democratic polity and civil society, has welcomed the opportunity and hope for peace and stability generated by these agreements," the statement read.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-state-secretary-pompeo-sees-significant-reduction-in-afghanistan-violence-283394">US State Secretary Pompeo sees 'significant reduction' in Afghanistan violence</a>

The United States signed a deal with Taliban insurgents on Saturday that could pave the way toward a full withdrawal of foreign soldiers from Afghanistan over the next 14 months and represent a step toward ending the 18-year-war in the nation.

While the agreement creates a path for the United States to gradually pull out of its longest war, many expect the talks to come between the Afghan sides may be much more complicated.

The deal was signed in the Qatari capital Doha by US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Taliban political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was on hand to witness the ceremony.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said that while the accord would be a good step, the road ahead would not be easy.

Representatives from 26 countries including Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and India's foreign secretary have also witnessed the signing of the landmark deal.

 
&nbsp;

India will continue to extend all support to the Afghanistan government and its people in realising their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic future, Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday after the signing of the landmark deal between the United States and Taliban insurgents.

India will continue to extend all support to the Afghanistan government and its people in realising their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic future, Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday after the signing of the landmark deal between the United States and Taliban insurgents. "India's consistent policy is to support all opportunities that can bring peace, security, and stability in Afghanistan," MEA said in an official statement. "We note that the entire political spectrum in Afghanistan, including the government, the democratic polity and civil society, has welcomed the opportunity and hope for peace and stability generated by these agreements," the statement read. Also read: US State Secretary Pompeo sees 'significant reduction' in Afghanistan violence The United States signed a deal with Taliban insurgents on Saturday that could pave the way toward a full withdrawal of foreign soldiers from Afghanistan over the next 14 months and represent a step toward ending the 18-year-war in the nation. While the agreement creates a path for the United States to gradually pull out of its longest war, many expect the talks to come between the Afghan sides may be much more complicated. The deal was signed in the Qatari capital Doha by US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Taliban political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was on hand to witness the ceremony. US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said that while the accord would be a good step, the road ahead would not be easy. Representatives from 26 countries including Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and India's foreign secretary have also witnessed the signing of the landmark deal.

Will continue to extend all support to Afghanistan government, its people: India on historic peace deal

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-future-in-the-balance-as-us-taliban-sign-deal-283420">Afghanistan's future in the balance as US, Taliban sign deal</a>

<img alt="Peace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d84e3796-8a31-4825-9e7d-578d3674f722" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_14.jpg" />

The deal, drafted over a tempestuous year of dialogue marked by the abrupt cancellation of the effort by US President Donald Trump in September, is expected to lay out a timetable for a US force withdrawal.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-turmoil-takes-new-twist-as-mahathir-and-anwar-ally-again-283421">Malaysian turmoil takes new twist as Mahathir and Anwar ally again</a>

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Mahathir has thus secured the likely support he needs to return as prime minister full-time, less than a week after he resigned and was appointed as interim leader.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-faces-global-criticism-over-its-handling-of-coronavirus-outbreak-283422">Iran faces global criticism over its handling of coronavirus outbreak</a>

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A spokesperson from Iran's health ministry accused BBC of spreading lies and said that Iran's transparency in publishing information regarding the virus had stunned many people.

&nbsp;

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Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Afghanistan's future in the balance as US, Taliban sign deal The deal, drafted over a tempestuous year of dialogue marked by the abrupt cancellation of the effort by US President Donald Trump in September, is expected to lay out a timetable for a US force withdrawal.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Afghanistan's future in the balance as US, Taliban sign deal The deal, drafted over a tempestuous year of dialogue marked by the abrupt cancellation of the effort by US President Donald Trump in September, is expected to lay out a timetable for a US force withdrawal. Malaysian turmoil takes new twist as Mahathir and Anwar ally again Mahathir has thus secured the likely support he needs to return as prime minister full-time, less than a week after he resigned and was appointed as interim leader. Iran faces global criticism over its handling of coronavirus outbreak A spokesperson from Iran's health ministry accused BBC of spreading lies and said that Iran's transparency in publishing information regarding the virus had stunned many people.

Morning News Brief: Afghan peace deal, Malaysian turmoil, and more

In a bid to end the 18-year-old war in Afghanistan, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/want-responsible-withdrawal-of-us-troops-from-afghanistan-pak-foreign-minister-283458">United States and Taliban</a>&nbsp;representatives&nbsp;officially signed the historic peace deal on Sunday in the Qatari capital Doha.

Under the signed deal, the United States and its allies will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-future-in-the-balance-as-us-taliban-set-to-sign-historic-peace-deal-283420">withdraw all their forces from the war-torn country</a> within 14 months if the Taliban abide by an agreement,&nbsp;Washington and Kabul said during the joint declaration.&nbsp;

After an initial reduction of troops to 8,600 within 135 days of Saturday's signing, the US and its partners "will complete the withdrawal of their remaining forces from Afghanistan within 14 months... and will withdraw all their forces from remaining bases," the declaration stated.

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The deal was signed by US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Taliban political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar in presence of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.

Representatives from 26 countries including Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and India's foreign secretary have also witnessed the signing of the landmark deal.

The agreement is expected to lead to a dialogue between the Taliban and the Kabul government that, if successful, could ultimately see an end to the grinding 18-year old conflict.

The historic deal with the Taliban "would pave way for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fear-and-panic-as-virus-threatens-afghanistan-pakistan-282928">peace in Afghanistan</a>,"&nbsp;President Ashraf Ghani said&nbsp;during the&nbsp;joint declaration.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-state-secretary-pompeo-sees-significant-reduction-in-afghanistan-violence-283394">US State Secretary Pompeo sees 'significant reduction' in Afghanistan violence</a>

The US also promised to help Afghanistan in fighting Al-Qaeda in the country; while it also sought an assurance from the Taliban to not use the Afghan soil for terrorism.

The United States also ensured political independence to Afghanistan and not carry out any attack in the south-Asian country.

'We will make sure that Afghanistan never again serves as the base of international terrorism', US State of Secretary Mike Pompeo said in his address.

"Keep up your promises to not side with Al-Qaeda and to defeat Islamic State", Pompeo said while referring to the Taliban.

In pics:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-india-changed-its-gameplan-on-tackling-the-taliban-in-afghanistan-283344"> How India changed its gameplan on tackling the Taliban in Afghanistan</a>

"Afghanistan people have rejoiced", Pompeo added.

Meanwhile,&nbsp; US Defence Chief said that Washington &nbsp;"will not hesitate to nullify" the deal if Taliban failed to hold its promises as per the deal.

On a visit to Kabul, Mark Esper said,&nbsp;"Should the Taliban fail to honour their commitments they will forfeit their chance to sit with fellow Afghans and deliberate on the future of their country."

In pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/afghanistan-since-the-taliban-regime-fell-in-2001-283150">Afghanistan since the Taliban regime fell in 2001</a>

"Moreover the United States would not hesitate to nullify the agreement," he added.

The signing comes after a week-long, partial truce that has mostly held across Afghanistan, aimed at building confidence between the warring parties and showing the Taliban can control their forces.

Since the US-led invasion that ousted the Taliban after the September 11, 2001 attacks, America has spent more than $1 trillion in fighting and rebuilding in Afghanistan.

About 2,400 US soldiers have been killed, along with unknown tens of thousands of Afghan troops, Taliban fighters and Afghan civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

In a bid to end the 18-year-old war in Afghanistan, the United States and Taliban representatives officially signed the historic peace deal on Sunday in the Qatari capital Doha.

In a bid to end the 18-year-old war in Afghanistan, the United States and Taliban representatives officially signed the historic peace deal on Sunday in the Qatari capital Doha. Under the signed deal, the United States and its allies will withdraw all their forces from the war-torn country within 14 months if the Taliban abide by an agreement, Washington and Kabul said during the joint declaration. After an initial reduction of troops to 8,600 within 135 days of Saturday's signing, the US and its partners "will complete the withdrawal of their remaining forces from Afghanistan within 14 months... and will withdraw all their forces from remaining bases," the declaration stated. × The deal was signed by US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Taliban political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar in presence of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. Representatives from 26 countries including Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and India's foreign secretary have also witnessed the signing of the landmark deal. The agreement is expected to lead to a dialogue between the Taliban and the Kabul government that, if successful, could ultimately see an end to the grinding 18-year old conflict. The historic deal with the Taliban "would pave way for peace in Afghanistan," President Ashraf Ghani said during the joint declaration. Also read: US State Secretary Pompeo sees 'significant reduction' in Afghanistan violence The US also promised to help Afghanistan in fighting Al-Qaeda in the country; while it also sought an assurance from the Taliban to not use the Afghan soil for terrorism. The United States also ensured political independence to Afghanistan and not carry out any attack in the south-Asian country. 'We will make sure that Afghanistan never again serves as the base of international terrorism', US State of Secretary Mike Pompeo said in his address. "Keep up your promises to not side with Al-Qaeda and to defeat Islamic State", Pompeo said while referring to the Taliban. In pics: How India changed its gameplan on tackling the Taliban in Afghanistan "Afghanistan people have rejoiced", Pompeo added. Meanwhile, US Defence Chief said that Washington "will not hesitate to nullify" the deal if Taliban failed to hold its promises as per the deal. On a visit to Kabul, Mark Esper said, "Should the Taliban fail to honour their commitments they will forfeit their chance to sit with fellow Afghans and deliberate on the future of their country." In pics: Afghanistan since the Taliban regime fell in 2001 "Moreover the United States would not hesitate to nullify the agreement," he added. The signing comes after a week-long, partial truce that has mostly held across Afghanistan, aimed at building confidence between the warring parties and showing the Taliban can control their forces. Since the US-led invasion that ousted the Taliban after the September 11, 2001 attacks, America has spent more than $1 trillion in fighting and rebuilding in Afghanistan. About 2,400 US soldiers have been killed, along with unknown tens of thousands of Afghan troops, Taliban fighters and Afghan civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

US-Taliban sign historic Afghan peace deal in Doha; America to withdraw troops 'within 14 months'

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in Qatar's capital city, Doha on Saturday to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-future-in-the-balance-as-us-taliban-set-to-sign-historic-peace-deal-283420">witness the signing of a historic deal with Taliban insurgents</a> in an effort to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan.

Pompeo arrived on a flight from Washington and was due to hold a meeting with the Qatari Emir before attending the signing ceremony.

The deal paves the way for the United States to gradually withdraw its troops from Afghanistan. But there are doubts over whether it will lead to a lasting peace as it merely paves the way for talks between the Afghan sides that many expect could be much more complicated.

Hours before the deal, the Taliban ordered all its fighters in Afghanistan "to refrain from any kind of attack ... for the happiness of the nation."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-india-changed-its-gameplan-on-tackling-the-taliban-in-afghanistan-283344">How India changed its gameplan on tackling the Taliban in Afghanistan</a>

"The biggest thing is that we hope the US remain committed to their promises during the negotiation and peace deal," said Zabiullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the hardline Islamist group.

Mujahid said it was "irritating and provocative" that foreign military aircraft continued to fly over Taliban territory, but militia fighters were following the order to stand-down.

'Monumental Day'

Millions of Afghans are hoping that the deal could pave the way for an end to America's longest war, fought in their country.

The war, which has killed tens of thousands of people, began when the United States launched attacks on Afghanistan just weeks after the September&nbsp;11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington by the Afghanistan-based al Qaeda militant group.

Watch: US-Taliban peace deal would lead to complete withdrawal of US troops?

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Washington accused the Taliban of harbouring al Qaeda and its leader Osama bin Laden, and with its allies ousted the group from power. But the Taliban has remained a potent force and currently controls about 40% of Afghan territory.

For U.S President Donald Trump, the deal represents a chance to make good on his promise to bring US troops home. But security experts have also called it a foreign policy gamble that would give the Taliban international legitimacy.

"Today is a monumental day for Afghanistan," the US&nbsp;Embassy in Kabul said on Twitter. "It is about making peace and crafting a common brighter future. We stand with Afghanistan."

A 31-member Taliban delegation was in Qatar to oversee the signing by their political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar.

Foreign ministers and bureaucrats from Pakistan, Indonesia, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan arrived at the venue ahead of the signing ceremony, slated to take place at the Sheraton hotel in Doha.

Trump said in a statement on Friday said the deal will pave way for US&nbsp;troop numbers to drop to 8,600 from about 13,000 in the weeks following the deal.

Further reductions of Western forces will hinge on the Taliban adhering to a "reduction in violence" pledge, a condition that will be assessed by the United States.

'My country deserves it'

For millions of Afghans, the deal represents some hope for an end to years of bloodshed.

"Peace is extremely simple and my country deserves it. Today is the day when maybe we will see a positive change," said Javed Hassan, 38, a school teacher living on the outskirts of Afghan capital, Kabul.

Hassan's children were killed in a bomb blast carried out by the Taliban in 2018. Since then, he has been writing letters to world leaders urging them to end the Afghan war.

But prospects for peace remain uncertain given the next step is reaching agreement with the Afghan government.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper arrived in Kabul on Saturday, in a move officials and experts said was aimed at reassuring the Afghan government about the United States' commitment to the country.

Under the deal, the Taliban wants 5,000 fighters to be released from Afghan-run jails, but it is not clear whether the Afghan government will agree.

There are also questions about whether Taliban fighters loyal to hardline Islamist splinter groups will be willing to adhere to the reduction in violence agreement.

Some senior commanders of the Taliban who arrived in Doha for the signing said they will ensure that the US and Afghan governments accept all the conditions laid down by the group, according to Afghan defence officials.

Sources in the Taliban earlier this month said they were prepared to launch a spring offensive and had recruited more than 6,000 fighters and suicide bombers if the agreement collapses.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in Qatar's capital city, Doha on Saturday to witness the signing of a historic deal with Taliban insurgents in an effort to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in Qatar's capital city, Doha on Saturday to witness the signing of a historic deal with Taliban insurgents in an effort to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan. Pompeo arrived on a flight from Washington and was due to hold a meeting with the Qatari Emir before attending the signing ceremony. The deal paves the way for the United States to gradually withdraw its troops from Afghanistan. But there are doubts over whether it will lead to a lasting peace as it merely paves the way for talks between the Afghan sides that many expect could be much more complicated. Hours before the deal, the Taliban ordered all its fighters in Afghanistan "to refrain from any kind of attack ... for the happiness of the nation." Also read: How India changed its gameplan on tackling the Taliban in Afghanistan "The biggest thing is that we hope the US remain committed to their promises during the negotiation and peace deal," said Zabiullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the hardline Islamist group. Mujahid said it was "irritating and provocative" that foreign military aircraft continued to fly over Taliban territory, but militia fighters were following the order to stand-down. 'Monumental Day' Millions of Afghans are hoping that the deal could pave the way for an end to America's longest war, fought in their country. The war, which has killed tens of thousands of people, began when the United States launched attacks on Afghanistan just weeks after the September 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington by the Afghanistan-based al Qaeda militant group. Watch: US-Taliban peace deal would lead to complete withdrawal of US troops? × Washington accused the Taliban of harbouring al Qaeda and its leader Osama bin Laden, and with its allies ousted the group from power. But the Taliban has remained a potent force and currently controls about 40% of Afghan territory. For U.S President Donald Trump, the deal represents a chance to make good on his promise to bring US troops home. But security experts have also called it a foreign policy gamble that would give the Taliban international legitimacy. "Today is a monumental day for Afghanistan," the US Embassy in Kabul said on Twitter. "It is about making peace and crafting a common brighter future. We stand with Afghanistan." A 31-member Taliban delegation was in Qatar to oversee the signing by their political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. Foreign ministers and bureaucrats from Pakistan, Indonesia, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan arrived at the venue ahead of the signing ceremony, slated to take place at the Sheraton hotel in Doha. Trump said in a statement on Friday said the deal will pave way for US troop numbers to drop to 8,600 from about 13,000 in the weeks following the deal. Further reductions of Western forces will hinge on the Taliban adhering to a "reduction in violence" pledge, a condition that will be assessed by the United States. 'My country deserves it' For millions of Afghans, the deal represents some hope for an end to years of bloodshed. "Peace is extremely simple and my country deserves it. Today is the day when maybe we will see a positive change," said Javed Hassan, 38, a school teacher living on the outskirts of Afghan capital, Kabul. Hassan's children were killed in a bomb blast carried out by the Taliban in 2018. Since then, he has been writing letters to world leaders urging them to end the Afghan war. But prospects for peace remain uncertain given the next step is reaching agreement with the Afghan government. US Defense Secretary Mark Esper arrived in Kabul on Saturday, in a move officials and experts said was aimed at reassuring the Afghan government about the United States' commitment to the country. Under the deal, the Taliban wants 5,000 fighters to be released from Afghan-run jails, but it is not clear whether the Afghan government will agree. There are also questions about whether Taliban fighters loyal to hardline Islamist splinter groups will be willing to adhere to the reduction in violence agreement. Some senior commanders of the Taliban who arrived in Doha for the signing said they will ensure that the US and Afghan governments accept all the conditions laid down by the group, according to Afghan defence officials. Sources in the Taliban earlier this month said they were prepared to launch a spring offensive and had recruited more than 6,000 fighters and suicide bombers if the agreement collapses.

US-Taliban set to sign troop withdrawal deal as Pompeo lands in Doha

Afghan officials met Taliban members in Qatar on Friday to discuss a prisoner swap plan ahead of the US and Taliban deal that will set the timeline for the withdrawal of American troops who have been fighting in Afghanistan for 18 years.

The meeting in Doha was part of a crucial confidence-building mechanism between the warring sides, two senior government officials in Kabul said.

The Taliban wants the release of over 5,000 detainees before launching direct negotiations with the Afghan side for a permanent ceasefire, a stumbling block in efforts to end the war.

A senior Taliban leader in Doha said both sides were working on "different angles to overcome the difference on prisoner swap".

The Afghan delegation has no authority to agree on a prisoner swap. It will consult and report back to the president, another official said

Shepherding the Afghan government and Taliban towards intra-Afghan negotiations has been one of the biggest headaches for US negotiators, according to western diplomats.

A senior official in Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's office said Ghani was reluctant to send a delegation to discuss the prisoner swap with the Taliban before the US-Taliban deal is formalised as Afghanistan is not a signatory to that bilateral agreement.

"But he now realises that a meeting is crucial at this juncture. This golden opportunity cannot be lost," said the official, requesting anonymity.

The seven-day "Reduction in Violence" (RIV) pact that took effect on Feb. 22 and is set to culminate in the signing of an agreement between top US&nbsp;and Taliban negotiators on Saturday in Doha, the Taliban's political headquarters.

The RIV period has passed off largely successfully, and the United States and Taliban look set to sign the agreement to establish a timetable for the withdrawal of American troops in exchange for guarantees from the Taliban not to allow militant groups such as al-Qaeda to operate in Afghanistan.

Sediq Seddiqi, a spokesman for the President Ashraf Ghani said RIV has been an important step towards an enduring ceasefire as the number of attacks have been low by the Taliban.

"Our monitoring groups will provide us with their assessment of the week. We hope that RIV continues after signing of US, Taliban agreement, leading to a ceasefire."

The Taliban now hold sway over half the country, and are at their most powerful since the US invasion in 2001.

The US-Taliban agreement, if inked on Saturday, would begin a phased withdrawal of American and coalition forces and would also require the Taliban to initiate a formal dialogue with the Afghan government and other political and civil society groups on a permanent nationwide ceasefire and power-sharing in post-war Afghanistan.

Taliban commanders said once the deal is signed the group will release 1,000 Afghan prisoners. In exchange, the Taliban expects the Afghan government to release their 5,000 fighters.

Afghan officials met Taliban members in Qatar on Friday to discuss a prisoner swap plan ahead of the US and Taliban deal that will set the timeline for the withdrawal of American troops who have been fighting in Afghanistan for 18 years.

Afghan officials met Taliban members in Qatar on Friday to discuss a prisoner swap plan ahead of the US and Taliban deal that will set the timeline for the withdrawal of American troops who have been fighting in Afghanistan for 18 years. The meeting in Doha was part of a crucial confidence-building mechanism between the warring sides, two senior government officials in Kabul said. The Taliban wants the release of over 5,000 detainees before launching direct negotiations with the Afghan side for a permanent ceasefire, a stumbling block in efforts to end the war. A senior Taliban leader in Doha said both sides were working on "different angles to overcome the difference on prisoner swap". The Afghan delegation has no authority to agree on a prisoner swap. It will consult and report back to the president, another official said Shepherding the Afghan government and Taliban towards intra-Afghan negotiations has been one of the biggest headaches for US negotiators, according to western diplomats. A senior official in Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's office said Ghani was reluctant to send a delegation to discuss the prisoner swap with the Taliban before the US-Taliban deal is formalised as Afghanistan is not a signatory to that bilateral agreement. "But he now realises that a meeting is crucial at this juncture. This golden opportunity cannot be lost," said the official, requesting anonymity. The seven-day "Reduction in Violence" (RIV) pact that took effect on Feb. 22 and is set to culminate in the signing of an agreement between top US and Taliban negotiators on Saturday in Doha, the Taliban's political headquarters. The RIV period has passed off largely successfully, and the United States and Taliban look set to sign the agreement to establish a timetable for the withdrawal of American troops in exchange for guarantees from the Taliban not to allow militant groups such as al-Qaeda to operate in Afghanistan. Sediq Seddiqi, a spokesman for the President Ashraf Ghani said RIV has been an important step towards an enduring ceasefire as the number of attacks have been low by the Taliban. "Our monitoring groups will provide us with their assessment of the week. We hope that RIV continues after signing of US, Taliban agreement, leading to a ceasefire." The Taliban now hold sway over half the country, and are at their most powerful since the US invasion in 2001. The US-Taliban agreement, if inked on Saturday, would begin a phased withdrawal of American and coalition forces and would also require the Taliban to initiate a formal dialogue with the Afghan government and other political and civil society groups on a permanent nationwide ceasefire and power-sharing in post-war Afghanistan. Taliban commanders said once the deal is signed the group will release 1,000 Afghan prisoners. In exchange, the Taliban expects the Afghan government to release their 5,000 fighters.

Afghan officials discuss prisoner swap with Taliban ahead of US troop withdrawal agreement

The United States and the Taliban again appear to be taking steps toward peace in Afghanistan after U.S. officials announced a seven-day reduction of violence on Friday at the Munich Security Conference.

South Asia Diary: The First Steps Toward an Afghan Peace Deal

Afghan government forces and Taliban insurgents waged war against each other in the past 24 hours despite US&nbsp;officials saying there had been a breakthrough in recent days in peace talks to end the 18-year-old conflict.

While negotiators from the warring sides pressed on with meetings in Doha, Qatar, the Taliban and the Afghan government both reported fighting on the ground.

The Afghan defence ministry said an air strike had killed a senior Taliban commander in northern Balkh province on Thursday evening.

"As result of a targeted air strike by Afghan air forces, Mawlavi Sardar Mohammad, a key member of the Taliban military commission was killed along with eight others," the ministry said in a statement.

The Taliban did not confirm the air strike.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-have-negotiated-proposal-for-7-day-reduction-in-violence-pentagon-chief-280596">US, Taliban have negotiated proposal for 7-day reduction in violence - Pentagon chief</a>

A Taliban spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said the insurgents had killed six Afghan soldiers, including two officers, in an attack on a checkpoint in northern Kunduz province. 
Afghan, Taliban and US&nbsp;sources said a peace deal could be signed this month, allowing a withdrawal of some of 13,000 U.S. troops and thousands of other NATO personnel that remain in Afghanistan following the US&nbsp;intervention to oust the Taliban in 2001.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said on Thursday there was a "good chance" of reaching an agreement with the Taliban on a reduction of US&nbsp;troops in Afghanistan.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said an important breakthrough had been made in peace talks with the Taliban in recent days, and Defence Secretary Mark Esper said they had negotiated a proposal for a week-long reduction in violence.

Details about when that was set to begin were not immediately clear but a Taliban official said it would be this week.

Attacks in Afghanistan jumped to record levels in the last quarter of 2019 compared with previous years.&nbsp;

Afghan government forces and Taliban insurgents waged war against each other in the past 24 hours despite US officials saying there had been a breakthrough in recent days in peace talks to end the 18-year-old conflict.

Afghan government forces and Taliban insurgents waged war against each other in the past 24 hours despite US officials saying there had been a breakthrough in recent days in peace talks to end the 18-year-old conflict. While negotiators from the warring sides pressed on with meetings in Doha, Qatar, the Taliban and the Afghan government both reported fighting on the ground. The Afghan defence ministry said an air strike had killed a senior Taliban commander in northern Balkh province on Thursday evening. "As result of a targeted air strike by Afghan air forces, Mawlavi Sardar Mohammad, a key member of the Taliban military commission was killed along with eight others," the ministry said in a statement. The Taliban did not confirm the air strike. Also read: US, Taliban have negotiated proposal for 7-day reduction in violence - Pentagon chief A Taliban spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said the insurgents had killed six Afghan soldiers, including two officers, in an attack on a checkpoint in northern Kunduz province. Afghan, Taliban and US sources said a peace deal could be signed this month, allowing a withdrawal of some of 13,000 U.S. troops and thousands of other NATO personnel that remain in Afghanistan following the US intervention to oust the Taliban in 2001. US President Donald Trump said on Thursday there was a "good chance" of reaching an agreement with the Taliban on a reduction of US troops in Afghanistan. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said an important breakthrough had been made in peace talks with the Taliban in recent days, and Defence Secretary Mark Esper said they had negotiated a proposal for a week-long reduction in violence. Details about when that was set to begin were not immediately clear but a Taliban official said it would be this week. Attacks in Afghanistan jumped to record levels in the last quarter of 2019 compared with previous years.

Taliban, Afghan forces clash despite talk of breakthrough in peace deal

The Taliban on Sunday vowed to continue attacking US troops in Afghanistan until a peace deal is sealed.

"Until there is no agreement with the US we will continue the attacks on US troops, and we do not talk to the Kabul administration under the government`s title and we have denied such talks before," Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the militant group, told Sputnik.

Peace talks between the United States and the Taliban that would have seen US forces withdrawn in return for promises that the militants would not give safe haven to foreign terrorists broke off last month over a bombing in Kabul that killed a US serviceman.

New talks on Afghan peace have been underway between the Taliban and Pakistan, although the Afghan government did not endorse them.

The Taliban regard the administration in Kabul as a US puppet and have denied them credibility.

Daud Sultanzoy, a former adviser to an Afghan president, told Sputnik that countries involved in the peace talks needed to build confidence with the rest of the participants and criticized "parallel" efforts at bringing stability to the war-torn country. 
&nbsp;

The Taliban on Sunday vowed to continue attacking US troops in Afghanistan until a peace deal is sealed. "Until there is no agreement with the US we will continue the attacks on US troops, and we do not talk to the Kabul administration under the government`s title and we have denied such talks before," Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the militant group, told Sputnik.

The Taliban on Sunday vowed to continue attacking US troops in Afghanistan until a peace deal is sealed. "Until there is no agreement with the US we will continue the attacks on US troops, and we do not talk to the Kabul administration under the government`s title and we have denied such talks before," Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the militant group, told Sputnik. Peace talks between the United States and the Taliban that would have seen US forces withdrawn in return for promises that the militants would not give safe haven to foreign terrorists broke off last month over a bombing in Kabul that killed a US serviceman. New talks on Afghan peace have been underway between the Taliban and Pakistan, although the Afghan government did not endorse them. The Taliban regard the administration in Kabul as a US puppet and have denied them credibility. Daud Sultanzoy, a former adviser to an Afghan president, told Sputnik that countries involved in the peace talks needed to build confidence with the rest of the participants and criticized "parallel" efforts at bringing stability to the war-torn country.

Taliban vows to continue attack on US troop until peace deal is sealed

Taliban militants launched a major attack in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-supporters-cheer-us-withdrawal-plans-247894"> Afghanistan</a>'s western province of Farah on Friday, the latest in a series of assaults on provincial centres just a day after a deadly suicide bombing in Kabul, officials said.

A surge in violence has convulsed Afghanistan despite a draft peace deal struck between the United States and the hardline Islamists for thousands of US troops to pull out of the country in return for various Taliban security promises.

Taliban insurgents set ablaze an Afghan army recruitment centre after a coordinated attack launched overnight from several points around Farah city, said Mohibullah Mohib, a police spokesman in Farah.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-kill-at-least-five-people-in-horrifying-attack-in-kabul-247740">Taliban fighters</a> are pushing to take over the prison but the security forces are resisting," Mohib added.

However, there were no immediate reports of casualties among either the Afghan forces or the Taliban.

Main roads were deserted and gunshots could be heard from surrounding areas, said Shah Mohmoud Naeemi, a provincial council member in Farah, which came close to falling to the insurgents last year.

The Taliban also took control of several positions in civilian areas, including a school, although senior security officials in Kabul said Farah was still in government control.

On Thursday, a Taliban suicide blast killed at least 10 civilians and two NATO soldiers in an area near the headquarters of Afghanistan's international military force and the US embassy in Kabul.

A senior Afghan human rights officer was killed after being kidnapped and killed in a separate incident that Afghan security officials blamed on the Taliban.

Abdul Samad Amiri, the acting head of the Independent Human Rights Commission for the western province of Ghor, was kidnapped while travelling there in a car from Kabul. His body was found on Thursday.

The Taliban have not immediately commented on the killing, which rights group Amnesty International condemned as a "war crime".

"Even as the Taliban claims to be pursuing peace, it continues to kill people in the most gruesome way," Samira Hamidi, its South Asia researcher, said in a statement.

"This tragedy underscores the grave dangers that human rights defenders in Afghanistan face."

The Taliban control or influence roughly half of Afghanistan and are said to be at their strongest since the United States invaded in 2001 and overthrew their government.

Insurgent groups continue to negotiate with the United States and have demanded that all foreign forces leave.

The United States ended its combat role in 2014, although 20,000 U.S. and NATO forces remain. They still train and support Afghan troops fighting the Taliban who fear being left vulnerable if the United States leaves.

Taliban militants launched a major attack in Afghanistan's western province of Farah on Friday, the latest in a series of assaults on provincial centres just a day after a deadly suicide bombing in Kabul, officials said.

Taliban militants launched a major attack in Afghanistan's western province of Farah on Friday, the latest in a series of assaults on provincial centres just a day after a deadly suicide bombing in Kabul, officials said. A surge in violence has convulsed Afghanistan despite a draft peace deal struck between the United States and the hardline Islamists for thousands of US troops to pull out of the country in return for various Taliban security promises. Taliban insurgents set ablaze an Afghan army recruitment centre after a coordinated attack launched overnight from several points around Farah city, said Mohibullah Mohib, a police spokesman in Farah. "Taliban fighters are pushing to take over the prison but the security forces are resisting," Mohib added. However, there were no immediate reports of casualties among either the Afghan forces or the Taliban. Main roads were deserted and gunshots could be heard from surrounding areas, said Shah Mohmoud Naeemi, a provincial council member in Farah, which came close to falling to the insurgents last year. The Taliban also took control of several positions in civilian areas, including a school, although senior security officials in Kabul said Farah was still in government control. On Thursday, a Taliban suicide blast killed at least 10 civilians and two NATO soldiers in an area near the headquarters of Afghanistan's international military force and the US embassy in Kabul. A senior Afghan human rights officer was killed after being kidnapped and killed in a separate incident that Afghan security officials blamed on the Taliban. Abdul Samad Amiri, the acting head of the Independent Human Rights Commission for the western province of Ghor, was kidnapped while travelling there in a car from Kabul. His body was found on Thursday. The Taliban have not immediately commented on the killing, which rights group Amnesty International condemned as a "war crime". "Even as the Taliban claims to be pursuing peace, it continues to kill people in the most gruesome way," Samira Hamidi, its South Asia researcher, said in a statement. "This tragedy underscores the grave dangers that human rights defenders in Afghanistan face." The Taliban control or influence roughly half of Afghanistan and are said to be at their strongest since the United States invaded in 2001 and overthrew their government. Insurgent groups continue to negotiate with the United States and have demanded that all foreign forces leave. The United States ended its combat role in 2014, although 20,000 U.S. and NATO forces remain. They still train and support Afghan troops fighting the Taliban who fear being left vulnerable if the United States leaves.

Taliban attack Afghan province as violence overshadows peace deal

US special peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Friday held talks with India Ambassador to US Harsh Vardhan Shringla on the Afghan peace process to end two decades of insurgency in the war-torn country.

Khalilzad, who recently concluded seven-round of talks with the Taliban, indicated the launch of "another mission" to make further progress.

He also met Germany Ambassador to US Emily Haber and Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Khafizovich Kamilov of Uzbekistan."In addition to briefing management while in DC, I had the opportunity to consult w/ Amb Haber of #Germany, Amb Shringla of #India &amp; Foreign Minister Kamilov of #Uzbekistan on the #AfghanPeaceProcess. Getting ready to launch on another mission in hope of making further progress," tweeted Khalilzad.

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In addition to briefing management while in DC, I had the opportunity to consult w/ Amb Haber of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Germany?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Germany</a>, Amb Shringla of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> &amp; Foreign Minister Kamilov of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Uzbekistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Uzbekistan</a> on the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AfghanPeaceProcess?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AfghanPeaceProcess</a>. Getting ready to launch on another mission in hope of making further progress. <a href="https://t.co/SyFCveB5vv">pic.twitter.com/SyFCveB5vv</a>
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1152376101370564608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Recently, Khalilzad concluded the seven-round of talks with the Taliban in Doha.

He termed the last round of talks "most productive".

An earlier round of intra-Afghan talks, which were to be held in April, was called off after the Taliban did not agree on the list of Kabul officials who were supposed to attend the peace talks.

Khalilzad has held scores of talks with the Afghan government in Kabul and abroad, with the Taliban and neighbour Pakistan.

The Taliban have consistently refused to hold direct talks with President Ashraf Ghani's government calling it a puppet administration.

They have, however, readily agreed to talks with any Afghan, including from within the government, but as an ordinary Afghan.

Meanwhile, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, who has been conspicuously quiet about the upcoming intra-Afghan dialogue, has consistently demanded Taliban talk directly with the government.&nbsp;

US special peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Friday held talks with India Ambassador to US Harsh Vardhan Shringla on the Afghan peace process to end two decades of insurgency in the war-torn country.

US special peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Friday held talks with India Ambassador to US Harsh Vardhan Shringla on the Afghan peace process to end two decades of insurgency in the war-torn country. Khalilzad, who recently concluded seven-round of talks with the Taliban, indicated the launch of "another mission" to make further progress. He also met Germany Ambassador to US Emily Haber and Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Khafizovich Kamilov of Uzbekistan."In addition to briefing management while in DC, I had the opportunity to consult w/ Amb Haber of #Germany, Amb Shringla of #India & Foreign Minister Kamilov of #Uzbekistan on the #AfghanPeaceProcess. Getting ready to launch on another mission in hope of making further progress," tweeted Khalilzad. In addition to briefing management while in DC, I had the opportunity to consult w/ Amb Haber of #Germany, Amb Shringla of #India & Foreign Minister Kamilov of #Uzbekistan on the #AfghanPeaceProcess. Getting ready to launch on another mission in hope of making further progress. pic.twitter.com/SyFCveB5vv — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) July 20, 2019 × Recently, Khalilzad concluded the seven-round of talks with the Taliban in Doha. He termed the last round of talks "most productive". An earlier round of intra-Afghan talks, which were to be held in April, was called off after the Taliban did not agree on the list of Kabul officials who were supposed to attend the peace talks. Khalilzad has held scores of talks with the Afghan government in Kabul and abroad, with the Taliban and neighbour Pakistan. The Taliban have consistently refused to hold direct talks with President Ashraf Ghani's government calling it a puppet administration. They have, however, readily agreed to talks with any Afghan, including from within the government, but as an ordinary Afghan. Meanwhile, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, who has been conspicuously quiet about the upcoming intra-Afghan dialogue, has consistently demanded Taliban talk directly with the government.

US' Zalmay Khalilzad holds talks with Indian envoy ahead of another Afghan peace mission

A US service member was killed in action in Afghanistan on Saturday, NATO said, the latest international casualty that comes as the US tries to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

It is the 10th member of the US military to be killed this year, compared to 12 in all of 2018.

"The name of the service member killed in action is being withheld until 24 hours after notification of next of kin is complete," Resolute Support, the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, said in a statement.

NATO did not provide any additional details about what happened, and no insurgent group immediately claimed responsibility.

Two US troops were killed last month in an attack claimed by the Taliban, and the US and Afghan forces continue to conduct daily operations against the insurgents.

The US now has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan -- down from a peak of around 100,000 -- most of them deployed to train and advise Afghan counterparts.

In the nearly 18 years since the US-led invasion to oust the Taliban in late 2001, nearly 2,300 American soldiers have died and more than 20,400 have been wounded.

President Donald Trump has said he wants America out of Afghanistan as soon as possible and his special envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad, is pushing for a peace deal that would see international forces pull out in return for various guarantees.&nbsp;

A US service member was killed in action in Afghanistan on Saturday, NATO said, the latest international casualty that comes as the US tries to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

A US service member was killed in action in Afghanistan on Saturday, NATO said, the latest international casualty that comes as the US tries to forge a peace deal with the Taliban. It is the 10th member of the US military to be killed this year, compared to 12 in all of 2018. "The name of the service member killed in action is being withheld until 24 hours after notification of next of kin is complete," Resolute Support, the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, said in a statement. NATO did not provide any additional details about what happened, and no insurgent group immediately claimed responsibility. Two US troops were killed last month in an attack claimed by the Taliban, and the US and Afghan forces continue to conduct daily operations against the insurgents. The US now has some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan -- down from a peak of around 100,000 -- most of them deployed to train and advise Afghan counterparts. In the nearly 18 years since the US-led invasion to oust the Taliban in late 2001, nearly 2,300 American soldiers have died and more than 20,400 have been wounded. President Donald Trump has said he wants America out of Afghanistan as soon as possible and his special envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad, is pushing for a peace deal that would see international forces pull out in return for various guarantees.

US soldier killed in Afghanistan: NATO

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tuesday he hopes for a peace deal with the Taliban "before September 1", speaking as he made his first visit to Kabul since Washington launched talks with the insurgents last year.

Pompeo met with President Ashraf Ghani as well as General Scott Miller, who leads NATO's Afghanistan mission and the US war effort in the country, as well as other high-level Afghan officials during the unannounced one-day visit to the Afghan capital.

He said peace was Washington's "highest priority". Last September the US began a fresh push to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end America's longest war. "I hope we have a peace deal before September 1, that's certainly our mission set," Pompeo said during the visit.

US officials have previously said they are hoping for a deal before the upcoming Afghan presidential elections, which have already been delayed twice and are now set for September.

The next round of talks between the Taliban and the US are set to begin on June 29 in Doha.

The talks have centred on four issues: counter-terrorism, the foreign troop presence, an intra-Afghan dialogue, and a permanent ceasefire.

The Taliban have insisted that foreign troops must leave, and refused to speak with the Afghan government in Kabul, whom they deem "puppets".

Pompeo said the US is nearly ready to conclude a "draft text" outlining Taliban promises never to allow Afghanistan to be used as a base for international terrorism again.

"In light of this progress we've begun discussions with the Taliban regarding foreign military presence which today remains conditions-based," he said.

"And while we've made clear to the Taliban that we're prepared to remove our forces, I want to be clear we've not yet agreed on a timeline to do so." Huge swathes of Afghan society worry that if the US does make a deal with the Taliban, the militant Islamists would try to seize power and undo advances in women's rights, media freedoms, and legal protections.

Pompeo's visit also came amid an escalating regional standoff with neighbouring Iran, as Washington announced sanctions against supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and US President Donald Trump warned of "overwhelming" retaliation to any attack.

Analysts have warned war with Tehran could have a devastating impact on Washington's efforts to secure a peace deal in Afghanistan.

Iran and Afghanistan share a 900 kilometre (600 mile) border and have long had a complex relationship.

Iran nearly went to war with the Sunni Taliban regime in 1998, and quietly backed the US invasion of 2001.

But Tehran has more recently sought to build relations with the Taliban, mindful of preserving interests in the neighbouring country.

US officials have accused Iran of providing material support, including anti-tank guided missiles and other weaponry, to the Taliban since at least 2007.

"Maybe this fact is too obvious to mention in the news coverage, but the United States' efforts to negotiate an exit from the Afghan war would explode into a thousand pieces in the event of conflict with Iran," Graeme Smith, a Kabul-based consultant with the International Crisis Group, tweeted recently.

Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, a ruthless former warlord, told AFP on the sidelines of a conference in Pakistan on Saturday that "of course" a US war with Iran would affect the Afghan peace process.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tuesday he hopes for a peace deal with the Taliban "before September 1", speaking as he made his first visit to Kabul since Washington launched talks with the insurgents last year.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tuesday he hopes for a peace deal with the Taliban "before September 1", speaking as he made his first visit to Kabul since Washington launched talks with the insurgents last year. Pompeo met with President Ashraf Ghani as well as General Scott Miller, who leads NATO's Afghanistan mission and the US war effort in the country, as well as other high-level Afghan officials during the unannounced one-day visit to the Afghan capital. He said peace was Washington's "highest priority". Last September the US began a fresh push to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end America's longest war. "I hope we have a peace deal before September 1, that's certainly our mission set," Pompeo said during the visit. US officials have previously said they are hoping for a deal before the upcoming Afghan presidential elections, which have already been delayed twice and are now set for September. The next round of talks between the Taliban and the US are set to begin on June 29 in Doha. The talks have centred on four issues: counter-terrorism, the foreign troop presence, an intra-Afghan dialogue, and a permanent ceasefire. The Taliban have insisted that foreign troops must leave, and refused to speak with the Afghan government in Kabul, whom they deem "puppets". Pompeo said the US is nearly ready to conclude a "draft text" outlining Taliban promises never to allow Afghanistan to be used as a base for international terrorism again. "In light of this progress we've begun discussions with the Taliban regarding foreign military presence which today remains conditions-based," he said. "And while we've made clear to the Taliban that we're prepared to remove our forces, I want to be clear we've not yet agreed on a timeline to do so." Huge swathes of Afghan society worry that if the US does make a deal with the Taliban, the militant Islamists would try to seize power and undo advances in women's rights, media freedoms, and legal protections. Pompeo's visit also came amid an escalating regional standoff with neighbouring Iran, as Washington announced sanctions against supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and US President Donald Trump warned of "overwhelming" retaliation to any attack. Analysts have warned war with Tehran could have a devastating impact on Washington's efforts to secure a peace deal in Afghanistan. Iran and Afghanistan share a 900 kilometre (600 mile) border and have long had a complex relationship. Iran nearly went to war with the Sunni Taliban regime in 1998, and quietly backed the US invasion of 2001. But Tehran has more recently sought to build relations with the Taliban, mindful of preserving interests in the neighbouring country. US officials have accused Iran of providing material support, including anti-tank guided missiles and other weaponry, to the Taliban since at least 2007. "Maybe this fact is too obvious to mention in the news coverage, but the United States' efforts to negotiate an exit from the Afghan war would explode into a thousand pieces in the event of conflict with Iran," Graeme Smith, a Kabul-based consultant with the International Crisis Group, tweeted recently. Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, a ruthless former warlord, told AFP on the sidelines of a conference in Pakistan on Saturday that "of course" a US war with Iran would affect the Afghan peace process.

Pompeo hopes for Afghan peace deal 'before September 1'