Because of the throngs of people who have poured out onto the runways, all military and civilian aircraft have been suspended at the Kabul airport, according to Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby.&nbsp;

"US military forces are on the scene working alongside Turkish and other international troops to clear the area of people. We do not know how long this will take," Kirby said.

Hundreds of Afghan citizens flocked to Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport to catch the final few flights out of the country a day after the Taliban gained control of Afghanistan's capital city Kabul following the withdrawal of US forces.

Hordes of people crammed aboard an aeroplane to fly out of the country, according to videos published on social media sites.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Because of the throngs of people who have poured out onto the runways, all military and civilian aircraft have been suspended at the Kabul airport, according to Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby.

Because of the throngs of people who have poured out onto the runways, all military and civilian aircraft have been suspended at the Kabul airport, according to Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby. "US military forces are on the scene working alongside Turkish and other international troops to clear the area of people. We do not know how long this will take," Kirby said. Hundreds of Afghan citizens flocked to Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport to catch the final few flights out of the country a day after the Taliban gained control of Afghanistan's capital city Kabul following the withdrawal of US forces. Hordes of people crammed aboard an aeroplane to fly out of the country, according to videos published on social media sites. (With inputs from agencies)

All military and civilian flights halted at Kabul airport: Pentagon

The Taliban will be denied access to any Afghan reserves held in US accounts, a US administration official told AFP on Monday.

As US forces were evacuating Afghanistan's capital after the Taliban's swift takeover, the official said, "Any Central Bank assets the Afghan government have in the United States will not be made available to the Taliban."

The central bank's gross reserves totaled $9.4 billion at the end of April, according to the International Monetary Fund.

But most of those funds are held outside of Afghanistan, according to a person familiar with the matter.

It was not immediately clear what share of the assets are held in the United States.

'Security has deteriorated'

The Taliban's seizure of power comes after NATO withdrew its 9,500-strong mission on the back of a decision from US President Joe Biden to pull out his troops.

Afghan president Ashraf Ghani flew out of the country on Sunday night as the insurgents encircled the capital, capping a military victory that saw them capture all cities in just 10 days.

Washington also could block aid to Afghanistan from multilateral lenders like the IMF and World Bank, as it has done with other countries with governments it does not recognize, like Venezuela.

The IMF in June released the latest installment of a $370 million loan to Afghanistan approved in November to help support the economy amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

At the time, the fund said the government had kept its economic program on track despite the fact "security has deteriorated and uncertainty has risen as the peace talks between the government and Taliban stalled, with the US and NATO troops set to withdraw by September."

The World Bank meanwhile has more than two dozen development projects ongoing in the country and has provided $5.3 billion to date, mostly in grants.

The Taliban will be denied access to any Afghan reserves held in US accounts, a US administration official told AFP on Monday. As US forces were evacuating Afghanistan's capital after the Taliban's swift takeover, the official said, "Any Central Bank assets the Afghan government have in the United States will not be made available to the Taliban.

The Taliban will be denied access to any Afghan reserves held in US accounts, a US administration official told AFP on Monday. As US forces were evacuating Afghanistan's capital after the Taliban's swift takeover, the official said, "Any Central Bank assets the Afghan government have in the United States will not be made available to the Taliban." The central bank's gross reserves totaled $9.4 billion at the end of April, according to the International Monetary Fund. But most of those funds are held outside of Afghanistan, according to a person familiar with the matter. It was not immediately clear what share of the assets are held in the United States. 'Security has deteriorated' The Taliban's seizure of power comes after NATO withdrew its 9,500-strong mission on the back of a decision from US President Joe Biden to pull out his troops. Afghan president Ashraf Ghani flew out of the country on Sunday night as the insurgents encircled the capital, capping a military victory that saw them capture all cities in just 10 days. Washington also could block aid to Afghanistan from multilateral lenders like the IMF and World Bank, as it has done with other countries with governments it does not recognize, like Venezuela. The IMF in June released the latest installment of a $370 million loan to Afghanistan approved in November to help support the economy amid the Covid-19 pandemic. At the time, the fund said the government had kept its economic program on track despite the fact "security has deteriorated and uncertainty has risen as the peace talks between the government and Taliban stalled, with the US and NATO troops set to withdraw by September." The World Bank meanwhile has more than two dozen development projects ongoing in the country and has provided $5.3 billion to date, mostly in grants.

Taliban will not get access to Afghan reserves held in US: Official

As the Taliban seize control of Afghanistan, a Chinese official said on Monday that China is ready to further enhance "friendly and cooperative" relations with the country.&nbsp;

Throughout Washington's withdrawal from Afghanistan, Beijing tried to maintain unofficial ties with the Taliban.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-china-says-embassy-operating-normally-405858">Live Afghanistan crisis: China says embassy 'operating normally'</a></h2>

Afghanistan and China share a 76-kilometer (47-mile) border and in the sensitive border region of Xinjiang, Beijing has long feared that Afghanistan might serve as a staging area for Uyghur separatists.

However, in Tianjin last month, a Taliban delegation met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, promising that Afghanistan wouldn't be used as a base for militants.

Chinese investment and economic support were offered in return for Afghanistan's reconstruction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Monday, at a time when the world watched in horror what was happening in Afghanistan, China said it welcomed the chance to strengthen ties with the country, which has long been coveted by bigger countries due to its geostrategic importance.

"The Taliban have repeatedly expressed their hope to develop good relations with&nbsp;China, and that they look forward to&nbsp;China's participation in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/airlines-reroute-flights-to-avoid-afghanistan-airspace-as-taliban-enters-kabul-405906">Airlines reroute flights to avoid Afghanistan airspace as Taliban enters Kabul</a>

"We welcome this.&nbsp;China&nbsp;respects the right of the Afghan people to independently determine their own destiny and is willing to continue to develop... friendly and cooperative relations with Afghanistan."&nbsp;

By gaining control of Afghanistan, the Taliban have opened up a strategic door for China, filled with both risks and opportunities.&nbsp;

As per analysts, an administration in Kabul that is stable and cooperative could pave the way for Beijing to expand its Belt and Road Initiative through Central Asia.

Meanwhile, China may be seen by the Taliban as a key source of investment and economic support, directly or through Pakistan - the Taliban's chief regional patron and an ally of Beijing.&nbsp;

So far, China has not recognized the Taliban as the new leaders of Afghanistan, although Wang Yi described them as a "decisive military and political force" during last month's meeting in Tianjin.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Taliban seize control of Afghanistan, a Chinese official said on Monday that China is ready to further enhance "friendly and cooperative" relations with the country.

As the Taliban seize control of Afghanistan, a Chinese official said on Monday that China is ready to further enhance "friendly and cooperative" relations with the country. Throughout Washington's withdrawal from Afghanistan, Beijing tried to maintain unofficial ties with the Taliban. Live Afghanistan crisis: China says embassy 'operating normally' Afghanistan and China share a 76-kilometer (47-mile) border and in the sensitive border region of Xinjiang, Beijing has long feared that Afghanistan might serve as a staging area for Uyghur separatists. However, in Tianjin last month, a Taliban delegation met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, promising that Afghanistan wouldn't be used as a base for militants. Chinese investment and economic support were offered in return for Afghanistan's reconstruction. On Monday, at a time when the world watched in horror what was happening in Afghanistan, China said it welcomed the chance to strengthen ties with the country, which has long been coveted by bigger countries due to its geostrategic importance. "The Taliban have repeatedly expressed their hope to develop good relations with China, and that they look forward to China's participation in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters. Also read | Airlines reroute flights to avoid Afghanistan airspace as Taliban enters Kabul "We welcome this. China respects the right of the Afghan people to independently determine their own destiny and is willing to continue to develop... friendly and cooperative relations with Afghanistan." By gaining control of Afghanistan, the Taliban have opened up a strategic door for China, filled with both risks and opportunities. As per analysts, an administration in Kabul that is stable and cooperative could pave the way for Beijing to expand its Belt and Road Initiative through Central Asia. Meanwhile, China may be seen by the Taliban as a key source of investment and economic support, directly or through Pakistan - the Taliban's chief regional patron and an ally of Beijing. So far, China has not recognized the Taliban as the new leaders of Afghanistan, although Wang Yi described them as a "decisive military and political force" during last month's meeting in Tianjin. (With inputs from agencies)

'We welcome this': What China stands to benefit from rise of Taliban in Afghanistan

Life of Afghan civilians: The stark difference between 'then' and 'now'

Taking over Afghanistan by the Taliban represents a failure by the international community, according to British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who is assessing the West's intervention was just half-done.&nbsp;

"All of us know that&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is not finished. It's an unfinished problem for the world and the world needs to help it," he said talking to BBC television.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-china-says-embassy-operating-normally-405858">Live Afghanistan crisis: China says embassy 'operating normally'</a></h2>

According to the former British army officer, US President Joe Biden's predecessor, Donald Trump had secured a "rotten deal" with Islamist militants that allowed their return.

In his opinion, the 20-year US-led intervention in Afghanistan had not been a waste, " it wasn't for nothing," but he accused Western powers of being politically shortsighted.

"If it's a failure, it's a failure of the international community to not realise that you don't fix things overnight," he said.

"I'm afraid when you deal with a country like&nbsp;Afghanistan, that is 1,000 years of history effectively and civil war, you manage its problems and you might have to manage it for 100 years.

"It's not something that you just rock in, rock out and expect something to be fixed."

Former US national security adviser HR McMaster has blasted his government for ignoring the Taliban's ability to take over quickly, calling the lack of awareness "wilful ignorance."

The retired army lieutenant general told Times Radio it was "clear that this kind of collapse was going to happen", after the deal brokered by Trump, who sacked him in 2018.

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According to him, the deal weakened Afghanistan's government and security forces, strengthening the Taliban. He said, "We stood idly by and we turned a blind eye. This was utterly predictable."

Foreign policy 'disaster'

Britain's prime minister Boris Johnson has said Britain will assist 3,000 nationals with their departure, but questions are being raised as to why he didn't fight harder against Washington's withdrawal.

Last month, the United Kingdom withdrew the majority of its remaining 750 troops from Afghanistan but announced that 600 soldiers would be returning to assist with repatriations.

On Saturday and Sunday, 370 embassy employees and British citizens left the country, and 782 Afghans are expected to leave in the next 24 to 36 hours, Wallace told Sky News.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/willing-to-develop-friendly-relations-with-afghanistan-says-china-as-taliban-take-control-405990" hreflang="en">Willing to develop friendly relations with Afghanistan, says China as Taliban take control</a>

Each day, officials plan to evacuate 1,200 to 1,500 people from Afghanistan. His department reported that the first flight returned to a British air force base on Sunday night.

A report in The Times declared the pullout&nbsp;&nbsp;"unforced and unnecessary"&nbsp;and said it was&nbsp;becoming "the greatest disaster in American foreign policy for almost 50 years".

Tom Tugendhat, the head of the foreign affairs committee, compared the situation to the 1956 Suez crisis, which revealed Britain's limitations as a global influence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taking over Afghanistan by the Taliban represents a failure by the international community, according to British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who is assessing the West's intervention was just half-done.

Taking over Afghanistan by the Taliban represents a failure by the international community, according to British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who is assessing the West's intervention was just half-done. "All of us know that Afghanistan is not finished. It's an unfinished problem for the world and the world needs to help it," he said talking to BBC television. Live Afghanistan crisis: China says embassy 'operating normally' According to the former British army officer, US President Joe Biden's predecessor, Donald Trump had secured a "rotten deal" with Islamist militants that allowed their return. In his opinion, the 20-year US-led intervention in Afghanistan had not been a waste, " it wasn't for nothing," but he accused Western powers of being politically shortsighted. "If it's a failure, it's a failure of the international community to not realise that you don't fix things overnight," he said. "I'm afraid when you deal with a country like Afghanistan, that is 1,000 years of history effectively and civil war, you manage its problems and you might have to manage it for 100 years. "It's not something that you just rock in, rock out and expect something to be fixed." Former US national security adviser HR McMaster has blasted his government for ignoring the Taliban's ability to take over quickly, calling the lack of awareness "wilful ignorance." The retired army lieutenant general told Times Radio it was "clear that this kind of collapse was going to happen", after the deal brokered by Trump, who sacked him in 2018. Also read | Airlines reroute flights to avoid Afghanistan airspace as Taliban enters Kabul According to him, the deal weakened Afghanistan's government and security forces, strengthening the Taliban. He said, "We stood idly by and we turned a blind eye. This was utterly predictable." Foreign policy 'disaster' Britain's prime minister Boris Johnson has said Britain will assist 3,000 nationals with their departure, but questions are being raised as to why he didn't fight harder against Washington's withdrawal. Last month, the United Kingdom withdrew the majority of its remaining 750 troops from Afghanistan but announced that 600 soldiers would be returning to assist with repatriations. On Saturday and Sunday, 370 embassy employees and British citizens left the country, and 782 Afghans are expected to leave in the next 24 to 36 hours, Wallace told Sky News. Also read | Willing to develop friendly relations with Afghanistan, says China as Taliban take control Each day, officials plan to evacuate 1,200 to 1,500 people from Afghanistan. His department reported that the first flight returned to a British air force base on Sunday night. A report in The Times declared the pullout "unforced and unnecessary" and said it was becoming "the greatest disaster in American foreign policy for almost 50 years". Tom Tugendhat, the head of the foreign affairs committee, compared the situation to the 1956 Suez crisis, which revealed Britain's limitations as a global influence. (With inputs from agencies)

UK accuses Western powers of being politically short-sighted

Chancellor Angela Merkel's government is planning to deploy soldiers to Afghanistan to help with the evacuation of&nbsp;German&nbsp;nationals and Afghans in danger from the Taliban, parliamentary sources said Monday.

The government will seek a mandate from parliament to allow the deployment of as many as "several hundred soldiers", the sources told AFP, citing a briefing by Merkel to leaders of parliamentary groups late Sunday.

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"An 'air bridge' is to be set up from Kabul, to allow the evacuation of local staff, particularly vulnerable women, human rights activists and other employees from non-governmental organisations, for as long as that is possible," said a source.

The government thinks roughly 2,000 people will need evacuating.

Consultations with the United States suggest it may be possible to run the evacuation operation until August 31, but Berlin may end the deployment earlier, said the sources.

Germany had already begun ferrying out staff from its embassy on Sunday, after moving them to safety at a military section of Kabul airport.

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The first&nbsp;German&nbsp;military aircraft left on Sunday night for the Afghan capital to help with the evacuation.

The military will fly passengers to an unnamed neighbouring country where they will then be put on civilian flights to Germany.

Germany had withdrawn its last troops by the end of June after almost two decades in the country as part of a NATO mission.

The 150,000 people sent by Germany at various points over the years made it the second biggest contributor of NATO troops there, after the United States.

Critics of Merkel's government had however said it had failed to get Afghans who worked for the&nbsp;German&nbsp;military out of the country quickly enough.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's government is planning to deploy soldiers to Afghanistan to help with the evacuation of German nationals and Afghans in danger from the Taliban, parliamentary sources said Monday.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's government is planning to deploy soldiers to Afghanistan to help with the evacuation of German nationals and Afghans in danger from the Taliban, parliamentary sources said Monday. The government will seek a mandate from parliament to allow the deployment of as many as "several hundred soldiers", the sources told AFP, citing a briefing by Merkel to leaders of parliamentary groups late Sunday. LIVE: Afghanistan — Planes 'grounded' amid airport chaos, thousands attempt to flee country "An 'air bridge' is to be set up from Kabul, to allow the evacuation of local staff, particularly vulnerable women, human rights activists and other employees from non-governmental organisations, for as long as that is possible," said a source. The government thinks roughly 2,000 people will need evacuating. Consultations with the United States suggest it may be possible to run the evacuation operation until August 31, but Berlin may end the deployment earlier, said the sources. Germany had already begun ferrying out staff from its embassy on Sunday, after moving them to safety at a military section of Kabul airport. Also read | Willing to develop friendly relations with Afghanistan, says China as Taliban take control The first German military aircraft left on Sunday night for the Afghan capital to help with the evacuation. The military will fly passengers to an unnamed neighbouring country where they will then be put on civilian flights to Germany. Germany had withdrawn its last troops by the end of June after almost two decades in the country as part of a NATO mission. The 150,000 people sent by Germany at various points over the years made it the second biggest contributor of NATO troops there, after the United States. Critics of Merkel's government had however said it had failed to get Afghans who worked for the German military out of the country quickly enough.

German forces to aid Afghan evacuations: Parliamentary sources

Kabul today is a very different place than it was just a few days ago.&nbsp;

The passage of time seems to have passed backwards, 20 years to be exact.&nbsp;

The Taliban are in the city, and the people are scrambling to flee. Governments have abandoned their offices, everyone just wants to get out of the godforsaken city.&nbsp;

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-china-says-embassy-operating-normally-405858">Live Afghanistan crisis: China says embassy 'operating normally'</a></h2>

Compared to the previous days, something has changed drastically. One of the most striking differences is that people on the street have changed their clothing, from jeans and T-shirts to traditional shalwar kameez, and no women are seen on the roads.

Traffic is backed up near the airport. People are engaged in&nbsp;a mad scramble for flights that have been cancelled - as well as for military flights to which civilians don't have access.

Eyewitness reports talk of American helicopters circling the air overhead for hours, with pilots looking down. The American pilots knew that the Taliban were in the city,&nbsp;nothing they did could now prevent the capture of the capital.&nbsp;

Shots ring out throughout the day. There's fear in the air, people are scared, what is going to happen.

Eyewitness account tells of US embassy staff being shuttled to the international airport by helicopters during the day as road travel was considered too dangerous.

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Taliban troops were seen marching through the heart of the country's government just outside the presidential palace.

For days now, tension has been at an all-time high in Kabul. The streets, which are usually crowded with people and cars, are now deserted.

Checkpoints for both the military and law enforcement remain unmanned, once again, Afghan troops seem to have vanished.

Many people are walking around with their belongings, looking for a place to stay. Many are from Mazar and have just arrived trying to escape battles throughout the country.

The day the Taliban returned - triumphant after 20 years - will be remembered by all.

Kabul today is a very different place than it was just a few days ago. The passage of time seems to have passed backwards, 20 years to be exact. The Taliban are in the city, and the people are scrambling to flee.

Kabul today is a very different place than it was just a few days ago. The passage of time seems to have passed backwards, 20 years to be exact. The Taliban are in the city, and the people are scrambling to flee. Governments have abandoned their offices, everyone just wants to get out of the godforsaken city. Live Afghanistan crisis: China says embassy 'operating normally' Compared to the previous days, something has changed drastically. One of the most striking differences is that people on the street have changed their clothing, from jeans and T-shirts to traditional shalwar kameez, and no women are seen on the roads. Traffic is backed up near the airport. People are engaged in a mad scramble for flights that have been cancelled - as well as for military flights to which civilians don't have access. Eyewitness reports talk of American helicopters circling the air overhead for hours, with pilots looking down. The American pilots knew that the Taliban were in the city, nothing they did could now prevent the capture of the capital. Shots ring out throughout the day. There's fear in the air, people are scared, what is going to happen. Eyewitness account tells of US embassy staff being shuttled to the international airport by helicopters during the day as road travel was considered too dangerous. Also read | Airlines reroute flights to avoid Afghanistan airspace as Taliban enters Kabul Taliban troops were seen marching through the heart of the country's government just outside the presidential palace. For days now, tension has been at an all-time high in Kabul. The streets, which are usually crowded with people and cars, are now deserted. Checkpoints for both the military and law enforcement remain unmanned, once again, Afghan troops seem to have vanished. Many people are walking around with their belongings, looking for a place to stay. Many are from Mazar and have just arrived trying to escape battles throughout the country. The day the Taliban returned - triumphant after 20 years - will be remembered by all.

On streets of Afghanistan, an air of despair surround the end of 20-year war

Pakistan's Prime Minister appears to be endorsing the Taliban as they take control of Afghanistan.

On Monday, a video surfaced on social media purporting to show Imran Khan praising the Taliban's takeover of the neighbouring nation.&nbsp;

The Pakistan PM appeared to praise the Taliban in a video broadcast on Pakistani television, saying that "they have freed the chains of mental slavery in Afghanistan." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-where-did-us-go-wrong-in-fight-against-taliban-406022">Also read | Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban?</a>

Khan made these statements while speaking at a ceremony to inaugurate the first phase of the Single National Curriculum (SNC), which is part of his ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party's platform and covers grades 1 to 5. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-kabul-airport-mobbed-as-afghans-make-a-desperate-dash-to-exit-406021#us-soldiers-guard-406014">Pictures | Kabul airport mobbed as Afghans make a desperate dash to exit</a>

The prime minister explained how Pakistan's parallel education system resulted in the establishment of "English medium" schools and the adoption of "someone else's culture."&nbsp;

When you accept someone's culture, you feel it is superior, and you become a slave to it, he said, adding that it creates a mental enslavement system that is worse than physical slavery.

In the same sentence, he compared Afghanistan's continuous turmoil to the country's people "breaking the chains of slavery." &nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-has-broken-shackles-of-slavery-says-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-405858">LIVE: Afghanistan crisis</a>

The longstanding war in Afghanistan reached a watershed moment on Sunday when the Taliban insurgents closed in on Kabul before entering the city and took over the presidential palace, forcing embattled President Ashraf Ghani to join fellow citizens and foreigners to flee the country.

Pakistan is accused of supporting the Taliban insurgency, which culminated in the country's capture 20 years after it was evicted.

Officially, Pakistan has stated that it wants a broad-based, inclusive administration in Afghanistan and that it is hosting Afghan officials to help them reach an agreement for a peaceful transition.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's Prime Minister appears to be endorsing the Taliban as they take control of Afghanistan. On Monday, a video surfaced on social media purporting to show Imran Khan praising the Taliban's takeover of the neighbouring nation.

Pakistan's Prime Minister appears to be endorsing the Taliban as they take control of Afghanistan. On Monday, a video surfaced on social media purporting to show Imran Khan praising the Taliban's takeover of the neighbouring nation. The Pakistan PM appeared to praise the Taliban in a video broadcast on Pakistani television, saying that "they have freed the chains of mental slavery in Afghanistan." Also read | Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban? Khan made these statements while speaking at a ceremony to inaugurate the first phase of the Single National Curriculum (SNC), which is part of his ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party's platform and covers grades 1 to 5. Pictures | Kabul airport mobbed as Afghans make a desperate dash to exit The prime minister explained how Pakistan's parallel education system resulted in the establishment of "English medium" schools and the adoption of "someone else's culture." When you accept someone's culture, you feel it is superior, and you become a slave to it, he said, adding that it creates a mental enslavement system that is worse than physical slavery. In the same sentence, he compared Afghanistan's continuous turmoil to the country's people "breaking the chains of slavery." LIVE: Afghanistan crisis The longstanding war in Afghanistan reached a watershed moment on Sunday when the Taliban insurgents closed in on Kabul before entering the city and took over the presidential palace, forcing embattled President Ashraf Ghani to join fellow citizens and foreigners to flee the country. Pakistan is accused of supporting the Taliban insurgency, which culminated in the country's capture 20 years after it was evicted. Officially, Pakistan has stated that it wants a broad-based, inclusive administration in Afghanistan and that it is hosting Afghan officials to help them reach an agreement for a peaceful transition. (With inputs from agencies)

'They have broken shackles of slavery': Pakistan PM Imran Khan endorses Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan

Reports said hundreds of Afghan soldiers surrendered to Taliban in Kunduz as the militant group seized the ninth provincial capital in Afghanistan on Wednesday.

Faizabad became the latest city to fall to the Taliban as Afghan troops continue to be pushed back. US President Joe&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-do-not-regret-my-decision-says-biden-as-two-more-cities-fall-to-taliban-in-afghanistan-404538">Biden</a> had declared last month that all US troops will be out of Afghanistan by August 31, which is just days away.

"I do not regret my decision" the US president said on Tuesday as the militant group swept a number of provincial capitals&nbsp;in a blistering onslaught.&nbsp;

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-live-broadcast-afghan-children-killed-by-taliban-404480/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Farah city and &nbsp;Pul-e-Khumri in Baghlan had fallen to the Taliban earlier as the militant group confirmed the reports. Six provincial capitals have fallen in the north. The Taliban had begun its offensive in mid-May as US troops began to pull out of the region.&nbsp;

The militant group had initially captured rural areas in the north and south including border crossing along Pakistan, Iran and Tajikistan. In the past two weeks, the militant group has attacked provincial capitals as the Afghan government troops have been leaving the areas.

Heavy fighting is carrying on in Kandahar and Helmand between the Taliban and government troops even as US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad arrived in Qatar to ensure a ceasefire.

The country has been&nbsp;witnessing a refugee crisis as civilians have rapidly left the area as the Taliban has advanced. According to &nbsp;UN's International Organization for Migration over 359,000 people have been displaced so far due to the fighting.

The Taliban had captured Kunduz last week as the militant group declared its forces were headed towards Mazar-e-Sharif as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-brings-back-50-nationals-from-mazar-e-sharif-amid-talibans-surge-404585">India</a> pulled out 50 nationals from the area.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Reports said hundreds of Afghan soldiers surrendered to Taliban in Kunduz as the militant group seized the ninth provincial capital in Afghanistan on Wednesday. Faizabad became the latest city to fall to the Taliban as Afghan troops continue to be pushed back.

Reports said hundreds of Afghan soldiers surrendered to Taliban in Kunduz as the militant group seized the ninth provincial capital in Afghanistan on Wednesday. Faizabad became the latest city to fall to the Taliban as Afghan troops continue to be pushed back. US President Joe Biden had declared last month that all US troops will be out of Afghanistan by August 31, which is just days away. "I do not regret my decision" the US president said on Tuesday as the militant group swept a number of provincial capitals in a blistering onslaught. Watch: Farah city and Pul-e-Khumri in Baghlan had fallen to the Taliban earlier as the militant group confirmed the reports. Six provincial capitals have fallen in the north. The Taliban had begun its offensive in mid-May as US troops began to pull out of the region. The militant group had initially captured rural areas in the north and south including border crossing along Pakistan, Iran and Tajikistan. In the past two weeks, the militant group has attacked provincial capitals as the Afghan government troops have been leaving the areas. Heavy fighting is carrying on in Kandahar and Helmand between the Taliban and government troops even as US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad arrived in Qatar to ensure a ceasefire. The country has been witnessing a refugee crisis as civilians have rapidly left the area as the Taliban has advanced. According to UN's International Organization for Migration over 359,000 people have been displaced so far due to the fighting. The Taliban had captured Kunduz last week as the militant group declared its forces were headed towards Mazar-e-Sharif as India pulled out 50 nationals from the area. (With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban capture another provincial capital, several Afghan soldiers surrender near Kunduz

The US wants Afghanistan's neighbours to refuse to recognise any Kabul government imposed by force, Pakistani newspaper DAWN reported.

The demand, issued at a US State Department briefing on Wednesday, came ahead of a meeting of the Troika Plus nations in Doha.

The group, which includes the United States, Russia, China, and Pakistan, aims to find a political solution to Afghanistan's decades-long war.&nbsp; 
 
The Taliban have taken control of Faizabad in northern Afghanistan, making it the Taliban's ninth provincial capital in less than a week. 
 
"Late last night, the security forces who had been fighting the Taliban for several days came under intense pressure. The Taliban have captured the city now. Both sides have also suffered heavy losses," said lawmaker Zabihullah Attiq.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-captures-another-provincial-capital-several-afghan-soldiers-surrender-near-kunduz-404619">Also read | Taliban captures another provincial capital, several Afghan soldiers surrender near Kunduz</a> 
 
During the press conference, US State Department spokesman Ned Price noted that two important meetings are taking place this week in Doha, bringing together leaders from the region and beyond, as well as multilateral organisations.&nbsp; 
 
The participants will press for a reduction in violence, a ceasefire and a "commitment by the part of these regional and broader governments and multilateral and international institutions not to recognise any government that is imposed by force," Price said, as per the report. 
 
The meetings in the Qatari capital come as the Taliban have stepped up their campaign to defeat the government as foreign forces withdraw. 
 
US Special envoy for Afghanistan Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad is representing Washington in the talks in Doha. 
 
Pakistan has sent its special envoy Muhammad Sadiq and its ambassador to Kabul, Mansoor Khan. Kremlin`s envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov and the newly appointed Chinese envoy for Afghanistan Yue Xiao Yong are representing their countries. 
 
All these countries have major stakes in bringing peace to Afghanistan and are seeking a regional consensus on the Afghan conflict despite their differences. 
 
In the press briefing, Price said that Khalilzad had been sent to Doha to "advance a collective international response to what can only be termed as a rapidly deteriorating security situation". 
 
US Special envoy for Afghanistan Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad is representing Washington in the talks in Doha. 
 
Pakistan has sent its special envoy Muhammad Sadiq and its ambassador to Kabul, Mansoor Khan. Kremlin`s envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov and the newly appointed Chinese envoy for Afghanistan Yue Xiao Yong are representing their countries. 
 
In the press briefing, Price said that Khalilzad had been sent to Doha to "advance a collective international response to what can only be termed as a rapidly deteriorating security situation". 
 
However, the US media on Tuesday reported that Khalilzad was there to warn the Taliban against pursuing a military victory on ground. 
 
He will "deliver a blunt message: A Taliban government that comes to power through force in Afghanistan will not be recognised," media reported. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The US wants Afghanistan's neighbours to refuse to recognise any Kabul government imposed by force, Pakistani newspaper DAWN reported. The demand, issued at a US State Department briefing on Wednesday, came ahead of a meeting of the Troika Plus nations in Doha.

The US wants Afghanistan's neighbours to refuse to recognise any Kabul government imposed by force, Pakistani newspaper DAWN reported. The demand, issued at a US State Department briefing on Wednesday, came ahead of a meeting of the Troika Plus nations in Doha. The group, which includes the United States, Russia, China, and Pakistan, aims to find a political solution to Afghanistan's decades-long war. The Taliban have taken control of Faizabad in northern Afghanistan, making it the Taliban's ninth provincial capital in less than a week. "Late last night, the security forces who had been fighting the Taliban for several days came under intense pressure. The Taliban have captured the city now. Both sides have also suffered heavy losses," said lawmaker Zabihullah Attiq. Also read | Taliban captures another provincial capital, several Afghan soldiers surrender near Kunduz During the press conference, US State Department spokesman Ned Price noted that two important meetings are taking place this week in Doha, bringing together leaders from the region and beyond, as well as multilateral organisations. The participants will press for a reduction in violence, a ceasefire and a "commitment by the part of these regional and broader governments and multilateral and international institutions not to recognise any government that is imposed by force," Price said, as per the report. The meetings in the Qatari capital come as the Taliban have stepped up their campaign to defeat the government as foreign forces withdraw. US Special envoy for Afghanistan Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad is representing Washington in the talks in Doha. Pakistan has sent its special envoy Muhammad Sadiq and its ambassador to Kabul, Mansoor Khan. Kremlin`s envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov and the newly appointed Chinese envoy for Afghanistan Yue Xiao Yong are representing their countries. All these countries have major stakes in bringing peace to Afghanistan and are seeking a regional consensus on the Afghan conflict despite their differences. In the press briefing, Price said that Khalilzad had been sent to Doha to "advance a collective international response to what can only be termed as a rapidly deteriorating security situation". US Special envoy for Afghanistan Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad is representing Washington in the talks in Doha. Pakistan has sent its special envoy Muhammad Sadiq and its ambassador to Kabul, Mansoor Khan. Kremlin`s envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov and the newly appointed Chinese envoy for Afghanistan Yue Xiao Yong are representing their countries. In the press briefing, Price said that Khalilzad had been sent to Doha to "advance a collective international response to what can only be termed as a rapidly deteriorating security situation". However, the US media on Tuesday reported that Khalilzad was there to warn the Taliban against pursuing a military victory on ground. He will "deliver a blunt message: A Taliban government that comes to power through force in Afghanistan will not be recognised," media reported. (With inputs from agencies)

US wants Afghanistan's neighbours not to recognise govt imposed by force as Taliban capture 9th provincial capital

Amid the turmoil in Afghanistan, India has brought back 50 of its nationals from Mazar-e-Sharif. The special flight from Mazar reached Delhi early morning on Wednesday.

The development comes even as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-do-not-regret-my-decision-says-biden-as-two-more-cities-fall-to-taliban-in-afghanistan-404538">Taliban</a> have&nbsp;reached the gates of the city which is the capital of northern Balkh province. The province borders Central Asia and is key to Afghanistan's connectivity with the region.&nbsp;

The Indian consulate in Mazar on Tuesday made an announcement that a special flight will be taking off from the city and will bring back Indian nationals.&nbsp;

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-asks-citizens-to-leave-mazar-e-sharif-as-taliban-avances-its-moves-404463/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India has around 1,500 nationals in the country involved in various development works.&nbsp;In a security advisory, the Indian mission in Kabul has asked "all Indian nationals...to made immediate travel arrangements to return to India before commercial air services are discontinued to their place of stay/visit in Afghanistan."&nbsp;

The development comes even as India is evacuating its diplomats from its Mazar consulate amid an increased spectre of violence as the Taliban makes territorial gains.

India has already brought back its&nbsp;diplomats from Kandahar in southern Afghanistan. Meanwhile, India's embassy in Kabul remains fully functional.&nbsp;

The next 48 hours will see two&nbsp;key meetings on Afghanistan in Doha. The first is the Troika plus meet involving China, US, Russia plus Pakistan.

Thursday will see a regional conference on Afghanistan in the city to which India has been invited.&nbsp;The invite was extended during the visit of the Qatari special envoy for counter-terrorism and mediation in conflict resolution Mutlaq Al Qahtani to Delhi last week.

During his India visit, he met India's external affairs minister Dr&nbsp;S Jaishankar, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla, joint secretary PAI JP Singh, and secretary (CPV and OIA) Sanjay Bhattacharya.

New Delhi has been leading diplomatic engagement and last week as the president of the United Nations Security Council hosted a meet on Afghanistan.&nbsp;

At the meet,&nbsp;India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti called on the Taliban to engage in "negotiations in good faith", "eschew the path of violence" and "severe ties with the Al Qaeda and other terrorist organisations".

The meet took place days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar called India's external affairs minister Dr&nbsp;S Jaishankar to hold a meet as the situation deteriorates in his country.&nbsp;

During the meet, Afghanistan exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country and how the group continues to enjoy a "safe haven".

Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M. Isaczai while&nbsp;speaking at United Nations Security Council said, "Taliban continues to enjoy a safe haven in and supply and logistics line extended to their war machine from Pakistan."

Amid the turmoil in Afghanistan, India has brought back 50 of its nationals from Mazar-e-Sharif. The special flight from Mazar reached Delhi early morning on Wednesday.

Amid the turmoil in Afghanistan, India has brought back 50 of its nationals from Mazar-e-Sharif. The special flight from Mazar reached Delhi early morning on Wednesday. The development comes even as the Taliban have reached the gates of the city which is the capital of northern Balkh province. The province borders Central Asia and is key to Afghanistan's connectivity with the region. The Indian consulate in Mazar on Tuesday made an announcement that a special flight will be taking off from the city and will bring back Indian nationals. Watch: India has around 1,500 nationals in the country involved in various development works. In a security advisory, the Indian mission in Kabul has asked "all Indian nationals...to made immediate travel arrangements to return to India before commercial air services are discontinued to their place of stay/visit in Afghanistan." The development comes even as India is evacuating its diplomats from its Mazar consulate amid an increased spectre of violence as the Taliban makes territorial gains. India has already brought back its diplomats from Kandahar in southern Afghanistan. Meanwhile, India's embassy in Kabul remains fully functional. The next 48 hours will see two key meetings on Afghanistan in Doha. The first is the Troika plus meet involving China, US, Russia plus Pakistan. Thursday will see a regional conference on Afghanistan in the city to which India has been invited. The invite was extended during the visit of the Qatari special envoy for counter-terrorism and mediation in conflict resolution Mutlaq Al Qahtani to Delhi last week. During his India visit, he met India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla, joint secretary PAI JP Singh, and secretary (CPV and OIA) Sanjay Bhattacharya. New Delhi has been leading diplomatic engagement and last week as the president of the United Nations Security Council hosted a meet on Afghanistan. At the meet, India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti called on the Taliban to engage in "negotiations in good faith", "eschew the path of violence" and "severe ties with the Al Qaeda and other terrorist organisations". The meet took place days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar called India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar to hold a meet as the situation deteriorates in his country. During the meet, Afghanistan exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country and how the group continues to enjoy a "safe haven". Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M. Isaczai while speaking at United Nations Security Council said, "Taliban continues to enjoy a safe haven in and supply and logistics line extended to their war machine from Pakistan."

India brings back 50 nationals from Mazar-e-Sharif amid Taliban's surge

US President Joe Biden informed today that "an important milestone" had been reached as the first flight carrying <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-fighting-between-taliban-and-afghan-troops-russia-to-bolster-tajikistans-military-401156">Afghans</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-fighting-between-taliban-and-afghan-troops-russia-to-bolster-tajikistans-military-401156"> </a>who worked as interpreters for the US defence forces landed in America.

"Today is an important milestone as we continue to fulfill our promise to the thousands of Afghan nationals who served shoulder-to-shoulder with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-assassinations-of-afghan-pilots-worrisome-us-government-watchdog-says-401616">American</a> troops and diplomats over the last 20 years in Afghanistan," President Biden said.

The White House informed 200 interpreters arrived in the US and are in the process of completing health checks and other processing details after that they will be sent to their homes across the country.

The interpreters arrived at Fort Lee military base in Virginia for final paperwork and medical examinations to start a new life in the US.

The US initiative called "Operation Allies Refuge" will reportedly bring in Afghans under the Special Immigrant Visas (SIV) allowing them to bring their families.

Watch:

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"These arrivals are just the first of many as we work quickly to relocate SIV-eligible Afghans out of harm's way — to the United States, to US facilities abroad, or to third countries — so that they can wait in safety while they finish their visa applications," President Biden said.

At least 2,500 SIV applicants are set to arrive as part of the first list with several thousand more to follow in subsequent weeks. The SIV programme was created in 2006 for Iraqi and Afghan interpreters who risked retaliation for working with&nbsp;US troops.

Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/positive-thing-says-us-secretary-of-state-blinken-on-chinas-talks-with-taliban-401449">Antony Blinken</a> said the Biden administration is committed to helping those who helped the US in "hard times in Afghanistan over the last 20 years - translators and interpreters".

All US troops are set to pull out over the next four weeks with the deadline set on August 31 by President Biden.

The US Congress on Thursday had cleared $1.1 billion fund to resettle the Afghans who supported the US mission. It will now be tabled&nbsp;in the House of Representatives and will then reach President Biden for his final approval.

(With inputs from Agencies)

US President Joe Biden informed today that "an important milestone" had been reached as the first flight carrying Afghans who worked as interpreters for the US defence forces landed in America.

US President Joe Biden informed today that "an important milestone" had been reached as the first flight carrying Afghans who worked as interpreters for the US defence forces landed in America. "Today is an important milestone as we continue to fulfill our promise to the thousands of Afghan nationals who served shoulder-to-shoulder with American troops and diplomats over the last 20 years in Afghanistan," President Biden said. The White House informed 200 interpreters arrived in the US and are in the process of completing health checks and other processing details after that they will be sent to their homes across the country. The interpreters arrived at Fort Lee military base in Virginia for final paperwork and medical examinations to start a new life in the US. The US initiative called "Operation Allies Refuge" will reportedly bring in Afghans under the Special Immigrant Visas (SIV) allowing them to bring their families. Watch: "These arrivals are just the first of many as we work quickly to relocate SIV-eligible Afghans out of harm's way — to the United States, to US facilities abroad, or to third countries — so that they can wait in safety while they finish their visa applications," President Biden said. At least 2,500 SIV applicants are set to arrive as part of the first list with several thousand more to follow in subsequent weeks. The SIV programme was created in 2006 for Iraqi and Afghan interpreters who risked retaliation for working with US troops. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the Biden administration is committed to helping those who helped the US in "hard times in Afghanistan over the last 20 years - translators and interpreters". All US troops are set to pull out over the next four weeks with the deadline set on August 31 by President Biden. The US Congress on Thursday had cleared $1.1 billion fund to resettle the Afghans who supported the US mission. It will now be tabled in the House of Representatives and will then reach President Biden for his final approval. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Important milestone': First flight of Afghan interpreters arrives in US

Afghanistan's delegation assured Chinese President Xi's regime on Wednesday that it will not use its soil as a base against another country.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-delegation-meets-chinese-foreign-minister-hold-talks-401109">Taliban</a> has been sweeping rural areas and provinces for the past two months as the US troops pull out from the region. President Biden had set August 31 deadline for the final troop withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Watch:

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The Chinese foreign ministry slammed the US saying, "The hasty withdrawal of the United States and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/deeply-challenging-nato-urges-negotiated-settlement-with-taliban-400954">NATO</a> troops from Afghanistan actually marks the failure of the US policy."

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi told the Taliban that it is a "pivotal military and political force" in Afghanistan and was expected to play an important role in peaceful reconciliation in Afghanistan.

The talks come as the Taliban captured key districts in Badakhshan and Kandahar provinces amid heavy fighting with Afghan troops.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken who is on a visit to India said that, "An Afghanistan that commits atrocities against its own people would become a pariah state," referring to the Taliban.

Blinken added that the Biden administration remains engaged in Afghanistan in providing various forms of assistance including security forces.

"There's only one path. And that's at the negotiating table to resolve the conflicts peacefully, and to have an Afghanistan emerge that is governed in a genuinely inclusive way, and that is representative of all its people," Blinken asserted.

Meanwhile, Russia said it will reinforce Tajikistan with military equipment as the Taliban surge continues in the border areas. The Russian defence forces will be conducting joint military exercises with Tajikistan and Uzbekistan along the border with Afghanistan next week.

Russia already has a military base in Tajikistan. Several Afghan soldiers had poured into Tajikistan after losing military posts along the border to the Taliban.

Reports say Tajikistan is ready to accept 100,000 refugees from Afghanistan who are feeling from areas annexed by the militant group.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan's delegation assured Chinese President Xi's regime on Wednesday that it will not use its soil as a base against another country. The Taliban has been sweeping rural areas and provinces for the past two months as the US troops pull out from the region.

Afghanistan's delegation assured Chinese President Xi's regime on Wednesday that it will not use its soil as a base against another country. The Taliban has been sweeping rural areas and provinces for the past two months as the US troops pull out from the region. President Biden had set August 31 deadline for the final troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. Watch: The Chinese foreign ministry slammed the US saying, "The hasty withdrawal of the United States and NATO troops from Afghanistan actually marks the failure of the US policy." Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi told the Taliban that it is a "pivotal military and political force" in Afghanistan and was expected to play an important role in peaceful reconciliation in Afghanistan. The talks come as the Taliban captured key districts in Badakhshan and Kandahar provinces amid heavy fighting with Afghan troops. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken who is on a visit to India said that, "An Afghanistan that commits atrocities against its own people would become a pariah state," referring to the Taliban. Blinken added that the Biden administration remains engaged in Afghanistan in providing various forms of assistance including security forces. "There's only one path. And that's at the negotiating table to resolve the conflicts peacefully, and to have an Afghanistan emerge that is governed in a genuinely inclusive way, and that is representative of all its people," Blinken asserted. Meanwhile, Russia said it will reinforce Tajikistan with military equipment as the Taliban surge continues in the border areas. The Russian defence forces will be conducting joint military exercises with Tajikistan and Uzbekistan along the border with Afghanistan next week. Russia already has a military base in Tajikistan. Several Afghan soldiers had poured into Tajikistan after losing military posts along the border to the Taliban. Reports say Tajikistan is ready to accept 100,000 refugees from Afghanistan who are feeling from areas annexed by the militant group. (With inputs from Agencies)

Amid fighting between Taliban and Afghan troops, Russia to bolster Tajikistan's military

Pakistan reopened its southwestern border crossing with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explainer-us-pays-4-billion-to-afghan-forces-who-is-watching-400926">Afghanistan</a> allowing goods to cross into the country as NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg urged "negotiated settlement" with the Taliban amid heavy heavy fighting with Afghan troops.

Stoltenberg after speaking to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said: "The security situation in Afghanistan remains deeply challenging, and requires a negotiated settlement. NATO will continue to support Afghanistan, including with funding; civilian presence; and out-of-country training."

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/around-33-people-killed-in-afghanistans-kandahar-province-in-targeted-attacks-400593/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kicked-down-a-cliff-afghan-man-says-decorated-australian-soldier-killed-his-handcuffed-uncle-400775">Taliban </a>has made deep inroads into western and northern regions mainly in the rural areas as US troops pull out of the region.&nbsp;

The militant group has seized border crossings along the Pakistan border including with Iran and Tajikistan even as peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban remain inconclusive.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden had announced the last US troops will pull out by August 31, reports say the bulk of NATO troops have already exited from the region.

Meanwhile, Pakistan said it had returned Afghan soldiers who had sought refuge in the country. At least 46 soldiers reportedly returned home through the Nawa Pass border crossing in Bajaur district.

The Afghan soldiers had lost control over key military checkpoints along the Pakistan border and had poured into the neighbouring country. They were provided safe passage into the country by Pakistan authorities after seeking refuge at the border crossing in Chitral in the north.

As the Taliban continues its offensive, US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said the Taliban's military momentum needs to be slowed down as it continues to gain territories&nbsp;even as US Marine General Kenneth McKenzie had said his forces will continue to provide further air support to Afghan troops against the Taliban.

However, it remains unclear whether the US will carry out airstrikes to support the Afghan troops beyond August 31 when the US military mission in Afghanistan comes to an end.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Pakistan reopened its southwestern border crossing with Afghanistan allowing goods to cross into the country as NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg urged "negotiated settlement" with the Taliban amid heavy heavy fighting with Afghan troops.

Pakistan reopened its southwestern border crossing with Afghanistan allowing goods to cross into the country as NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg urged "negotiated settlement" with the Taliban amid heavy heavy fighting with Afghan troops. Stoltenberg after speaking to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said: "The security situation in Afghanistan remains deeply challenging, and requires a negotiated settlement. NATO will continue to support Afghanistan, including with funding; civilian presence; and out-of-country training." Watch: Taliban has made deep inroads into western and northern regions mainly in the rural areas as US troops pull out of the region. The militant group has seized border crossings along the Pakistan border including with Iran and Tajikistan even as peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban remain inconclusive. President Joe Biden had announced the last US troops will pull out by August 31, reports say the bulk of NATO troops have already exited from the region. Meanwhile, Pakistan said it had returned Afghan soldiers who had sought refuge in the country. At least 46 soldiers reportedly returned home through the Nawa Pass border crossing in Bajaur district. The Afghan soldiers had lost control over key military checkpoints along the Pakistan border and had poured into the neighbouring country. They were provided safe passage into the country by Pakistan authorities after seeking refuge at the border crossing in Chitral in the north. As the Taliban continues its offensive, US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said the Taliban's military momentum needs to be slowed down as it continues to gain territories even as US Marine General Kenneth McKenzie had said his forces will continue to provide further air support to Afghan troops against the Taliban. However, it remains unclear whether the US will carry out airstrikes to support the Afghan troops beyond August 31 when the US military mission in Afghanistan comes to an end. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Deeply challenging': NATO urges 'negotiated settlement' with Taliban

Afghan security forces, with the help of airstrikes, repelled an assault by Taliban fighters on the provincial centre of a key northern province bordering Tajikistan on Sunday, officials said.

The Taliban assault was the latest in a string of offensives that have seen insurgents capture territory across Afghanistan as US-led foreign forces are in the final stages of withdrawing troops after almost 20 years of fighting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-controls-85-of-afghan-territory-taliban-official-says-396921">Taliban controls 85% of Afghan territory, Taliban official says</a>

"The enemy's offensive attacks were repelled, and they suffered heavy and unprecedented casualties, as a result of which 55 enemy soldiers were killed and 90 were wounded," the governor of Takhar province Abdullah Qarluq said.

Reuters could not independently confirm his account.

More than a dozen Taliban fighters were killed in airstrikes by the Afghan Air Force on hideouts on the outskirts of Takhar's provincial centre, Taluqan, Afghanistan's defence ministry said on Twitter.

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"The Taliban attacked Taluqan from four directions last night (Saturday), but were faced with strong resistance from security forces and (local) people," Khalil Asir, spokesman for Takhar Police Command, told Reuters.

Taluqan is just the latest provincial capital to come under Taliban pressure. Earlier this week Taliban fighters entered the capital of the western province of Badghis, seizing police and security facilities and attempting to take over the governor's office before special forces pushed them back.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-wideangle-afghan-women-whats-next-397164/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Insurgents have made a fresh push to gain territory in recent weeks, emboldened by the departure of foreign forces. The Pentagon believes that after taking dozens of district centres, the Taliban will make a push for provincial centres.

In southern Afghanistan, too, clashes continued.

India said on Sunday it had temporarily repatriated officials from its consulate in Kandahar, a major city in southern Afghanistan.

"Due to the intense fighting near Kandahar city, India-based personnel have been brought back for the time being," Arindam Bagchi, chief spokesperson at India's foreign ministry, said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-return-of-taliban-in-afghanistan-and-the-us-retreat-396932">In Pictures | The return of Taliban in Afghanistan, and the US retreat</a>

"India is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in Afghanistan," Bagchi said, adding that India's consulate in Kandahar was being run by local staff temporarily.

Taliban officials said on Friday that the Sunni Muslim insurgent group had taken control of 85% of Afghanistan's territory. Afghan government officials dismissed the assertion as propaganda.

Afghan security forces, with the help of airstrikes, repelled an assault by Taliban fighters on the provincial centre of a key northern province bordering Tajikistan on Sunday, officials said.

Afghan security forces, with the help of airstrikes, repelled an assault by Taliban fighters on the provincial centre of a key northern province bordering Tajikistan on Sunday, officials said. The Taliban assault was the latest in a string of offensives that have seen insurgents capture territory across Afghanistan as US-led foreign forces are in the final stages of withdrawing troops after almost 20 years of fighting. Also read | Taliban controls 85% of Afghan territory, Taliban official says "The enemy's offensive attacks were repelled, and they suffered heavy and unprecedented casualties, as a result of which 55 enemy soldiers were killed and 90 were wounded," the governor of Takhar province Abdullah Qarluq said. Reuters could not independently confirm his account. More than a dozen Taliban fighters were killed in airstrikes by the Afghan Air Force on hideouts on the outskirts of Takhar's provincial centre, Taluqan, Afghanistan's defence ministry said on Twitter. "The Taliban attacked Taluqan from four directions last night (Saturday), but were faced with strong resistance from security forces and (local) people," Khalil Asir, spokesman for Takhar Police Command, told Reuters. Taluqan is just the latest provincial capital to come under Taliban pressure. Earlier this week Taliban fighters entered the capital of the western province of Badghis, seizing police and security facilities and attempting to take over the governor's office before special forces pushed them back. Insurgents have made a fresh push to gain territory in recent weeks, emboldened by the departure of foreign forces. The Pentagon believes that after taking dozens of district centres, the Taliban will make a push for provincial centres. In southern Afghanistan, too, clashes continued. India said on Sunday it had temporarily repatriated officials from its consulate in Kandahar, a major city in southern Afghanistan. "Due to the intense fighting near Kandahar city, India-based personnel have been brought back for the time being," Arindam Bagchi, chief spokesperson at India's foreign ministry, said in a statement. In Pictures | The return of Taliban in Afghanistan, and the US retreat "India is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in Afghanistan," Bagchi said, adding that India's consulate in Kandahar was being run by local staff temporarily. Taliban officials said on Friday that the Sunni Muslim insurgent group had taken control of 85% of Afghanistan's territory. Afghan government officials dismissed the assertion as propaganda.

Afghan forces repel Taliban assault on provincial capital, governor says

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban in northern region of the country led to at least 23 casualties for the troops, TOLO news reported on Thursday. The hostilities erupted as the security forces on Wednesday carried out a clearing operation in the Dawlat Abad district.

"At least 23 commandos were killed and six policemen were wounded in the clashes," a source was quoted by TOLO news as saying.

After the unrest, the military relocated from district center to another area,&nbsp;as per the report.

Sohrab Azimi, a retired general, and son of the former spokesman for the defence ministry, was among the deceased.

According to the media outlet, the district center has been taken over by Taliban militants a week ago.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has been beset with violence in spite of the peace talks as international forces withdraw from the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban in northern region of the country led to at least 23 casualties for the troops, TOLO news reported on Thursday. The hostilities erupted as the security forces on Wednesday carried out a clearing operation in the Dawlat Abad district.

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban in northern region of the country led to at least 23 casualties for the troops, TOLO news reported on Thursday. The hostilities erupted as the security forces on Wednesday carried out a clearing operation in the Dawlat Abad district. "At least 23 commandos were killed and six policemen were wounded in the clashes," a source was quoted by TOLO news as saying. After the unrest, the military relocated from district center to another area, as per the report. Sohrab Azimi, a retired general, and son of the former spokesman for the defence ministry, was among the deceased. According to the media outlet, the district center has been taken over by Taliban militants a week ago. Afghanistan has been beset with violence in spite of the peace talks as international forces withdraw from the country. (With inputs from agencies)

23 Afghan troops killed in clashes with Taliban: Report

The Secretary-General of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Jens Stoltenberg on Monday said that the alliance does not intend to withdraw troops from Afghanistan "before the time is right".

On Wednesday and Thursday, ministers of the 30 NATO member states are expected to conduct high-level talks, marking the first such event after Joe Biden took charge as US President.

The top agenda during the conference will ascertain the fate of the mission in Afghanistan, where 9,600 troops are stationed. Former US President Donald Trump had struck a deal with the Taliban, urging them to withdraw troops.

Whether the troops will continue to operate in Afghanistan depends on Biden's rejection or acceptance of the May deadline which requires pulling out all foreign forces.

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"While no ally wants to stay in Afghanistan longer than necessary, we will not leave before the time is right," Stoltenberg said during a media conference.&nbsp;

"Ministers will continue to assess the situation on the ground and monitor developments very closely", Stoltenberg added.

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US President Biden's administration claims that it is currently reviewing the deal. The Pentagon has also accused the Taliban of failing to fulfil its promises, which include reduction of attacks and severing ties with groups like Al-Qaeda. Even then, no concrete announcement on the future of deployment is expected this week.

Allies within NATO want the US to consult them more closely, fearing further cut-offs after Trump cut US troops in January. In the last few months, Taliban violence had increased in the country, and NATO ministers have been warned against seeking a "continuation of occupation and war".

The Secretary-General of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Jens Stoltenberg on Monday said that the alliance does not intend to withdraw troops from Afghanistan "before the time is right".

The Secretary-General of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Jens Stoltenberg on Monday said that the alliance does not intend to withdraw troops from Afghanistan "before the time is right". On Wednesday and Thursday, ministers of the 30 NATO member states are expected to conduct high-level talks, marking the first such event after Joe Biden took charge as US President. The top agenda during the conference will ascertain the fate of the mission in Afghanistan, where 9,600 troops are stationed. Former US President Donald Trump had struck a deal with the Taliban, urging them to withdraw troops. Whether the troops will continue to operate in Afghanistan depends on Biden's rejection or acceptance of the May deadline which requires pulling out all foreign forces. Also read: Afghanistan sends investigators to look into the massive fire at Afghan-Iran border "While no ally wants to stay in Afghanistan longer than necessary, we will not leave before the time is right," Stoltenberg said during a media conference. "Ministers will continue to assess the situation on the ground and monitor developments very closely", Stoltenberg added. Also read: Blasts spotted from space as 100 tankers destroyed in Iran-Afghanistan border US President Biden's administration claims that it is currently reviewing the deal. The Pentagon has also accused the Taliban of failing to fulfil its promises, which include reduction of attacks and severing ties with groups like Al-Qaeda. Even then, no concrete announcement on the future of deployment is expected this week. Allies within NATO want the US to consult them more closely, fearing further cut-offs after Trump cut US troops in January. In the last few months, Taliban violence had increased in the country, and NATO ministers have been warned against seeking a "continuation of occupation and war".

NATO will not withdraw troops from Afghanistan before 'time is right', says Stoltenberg

Fifty Taliban fighters were killed in fierce fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban terrorists in an operation in Lashkargah city of southern Helmand, officials said Sunday.

The Afghanistan Ministry of Defence (MoD) in a statement said the security forces targeted Taliban’s hideouts in the operations in Lashkargah, Garamsir and Nawa districts.

The statement said 50 Talibs were killed, including a commander who led a group of 100 terrorists. Eight others were wounded during the round-the-clock operations.

Nawab Shah Zadran, in-charge of the Afghan Army's 215th Military Corps media office, told Pajhwok Afghan News that security forces on Friday night launched ground and air raids on Taliban in Nawa, Garamsir, Nad Ali districts and Bushran area of Lashkargah, the capital.

The official said Taliban terrorists had assembled in these areas to plan attacks on security forces.

He added Maulvi Abdul Salam, a commander of 100 terrorists, who was killed in the operation was among the 50 others killed and three landmine-planters were among the wounded.

The Taliban have not yet commented in this regard.

(With inputs from agencies)

Fifty Taliban fighters were killed in fierce fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban terrorists in an operation in Lashkargah city of southern Helmand, officials said Sunday.

Fifty Taliban fighters were killed in fierce fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban terrorists in an operation in Lashkargah city of southern Helmand, officials said Sunday. The Afghanistan Ministry of Defence (MoD) in a statement said the security forces targeted Taliban’s hideouts in the operations in Lashkargah, Garamsir and Nawa districts. The statement said 50 Talibs were killed, including a commander who led a group of 100 terrorists. Eight others were wounded during the round-the-clock operations. Nawab Shah Zadran, in-charge of the Afghan Army's 215th Military Corps media office, told Pajhwok Afghan News that security forces on Friday night launched ground and air raids on Taliban in Nawa, Garamsir, Nad Ali districts and Bushran area of Lashkargah, the capital. The official said Taliban terrorists had assembled in these areas to plan attacks on security forces. He added Maulvi Abdul Salam, a commander of 100 terrorists, who was killed in the operation was among the 50 others killed and three landmine-planters were among the wounded. The Taliban have not yet commented in this regard. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan forces kill 50 Taliban terrorists in Helmand

Afghan security personnel have abandoned nearly 200 checkpoints in restive Kandahar province in recent weeks, officials said Wednesday, in some cases leaving behind their weapons to be seized by the Taliban.

Kandahar provincial governor Hayatullah Hayat and a local lawmaker separately confirmed the situation to AFP, saying commanders would be disciplined for their actions.

The defence ministry in Kabul denied the reports, insisting government forces had been making progress in the region.

Government forces and the Taliban have clashed regularly in Kandahar province since October despite peace talks between the warring sides.&nbsp;

"Afghan security forces have retreated from 193 checkpoints and outposts in Zharai, Maiwand, Arghandab and Panjwai districts," Kandahar provincial governor Hayatullah Hayat told AFP.

"Most of the security chiefs and officers who neglected their duties have been dismissed and referred to the judiciary."

Kandahar lawmaker Hashim Alkhozai and a local police officer confirmed the details to AFP.&nbsp;

"The security forces exited the bases leaving behind their weapons and ammunition," Alkhozai said.

Most of those who left were soldiers, said Jan Mohammad, a policeman from Zharai district.

"They left without firing a bullet," he said.

"The Taliban now have all the weapons seized from the army and are using them against us."

Governor Hayat blamed "poor coordination" for the situation amid a shortage of police and troops.

Kandahar is the birthplace of the Taliban, who went on to rule Afghanistan with a harsh version of Islamic sharia law until being overthrown by a US-led invasion in 2001.

Since a US-Taliban deal in February, the insurgents have mostly refrained from carrying out major attacks on cities, but have launched near-daily assaults against Afghan forces in rural areas.

Peace talks between the two sides -- which started in September in the Qatari capital of Doha -- are currently on a break and are due to resume on January 5.

Afghan security personnel have abandoned nearly 200 checkpoints in restive Kandahar province in recent weeks, officials said Wednesday, in some cases leaving behind their weapons to be seized by the Taliban.

Afghan security personnel have abandoned nearly 200 checkpoints in restive Kandahar province in recent weeks, officials said Wednesday, in some cases leaving behind their weapons to be seized by the Taliban. Kandahar provincial governor Hayatullah Hayat and a local lawmaker separately confirmed the situation to AFP, saying commanders would be disciplined for their actions. The defence ministry in Kabul denied the reports, insisting government forces had been making progress in the region. Government forces and the Taliban have clashed regularly in Kandahar province since October despite peace talks between the warring sides. "Afghan security forces have retreated from 193 checkpoints and outposts in Zharai, Maiwand, Arghandab and Panjwai districts," Kandahar provincial governor Hayatullah Hayat told AFP. "Most of the security chiefs and officers who neglected their duties have been dismissed and referred to the judiciary." Kandahar lawmaker Hashim Alkhozai and a local police officer confirmed the details to AFP. "The security forces exited the bases leaving behind their weapons and ammunition," Alkhozai said. Most of those who left were soldiers, said Jan Mohammad, a policeman from Zharai district. "They left without firing a bullet," he said. "The Taliban now have all the weapons seized from the army and are using them against us." Governor Hayat blamed "poor coordination" for the situation amid a shortage of police and troops. Kandahar is the birthplace of the Taliban, who went on to rule Afghanistan with a harsh version of Islamic sharia law until being overthrown by a US-led invasion in 2001. Since a US-Taliban deal in February, the insurgents have mostly refrained from carrying out major attacks on cities, but have launched near-daily assaults against Afghan forces in rural areas. Peace talks between the two sides -- which started in September in the Qatari capital of Doha -- are currently on a break and are due to resume on January 5.

Afghan troops, police abandon nearly 200 checkpoints to Taliban

January 14 in History: From third battle of Panipat to an open war and lot more!

There has been a sharp drop in the size of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-peace-envoy-for-afghanistan-set-to-resume-talks-with-taliban-sources-239765">Afghanistan</a>`s National Defense Security Forces in the past few months due to changes in the way<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-soldier-killed-in-action-in-afghanistan-169758"> troops </a>are counted and an effort to reduce the number of so-called "ghost" soldiers, a US government watchdog said on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said in a report that ANDSF personnel size had gone down by nearly 10 percentage points in the most recent quarter compared to the previous trimester.&nbsp;

The number of ANDSF troops fell by nearly 42,000 compared to roughly the same period, between April and the end of June last year, the report said.

The disclosure comes as Washington attempts to clinch a framework peace agreement with Taliban insurgents that is expected to include a timeline for withdrawing US troops, which now number about 14,000 in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Some 9,000 of those forces are involved with training, advising and assisting Afghan security forces. US officials have long expressed concerns about the strength and capability of the Afghan forces, especially without adequate international support.

SIGAR, citing information from the US-led coalition, said the decline in Afghan force levels owed to a move by the ANDSF to switch their reporting of personnel strength to the number of biometrically validated forces, rather than just the number reported on-hand by officials in the field.&nbsp;

"The change was part of an effort by the United States and its partners to reduce opportunities for corrupt ANDSF officials to report `ghost` (nonexistent) soldiers and police on personnel rolls in order to pocket the salaries," the report said.&nbsp;

With a potential US drawdown looming, recent Taliban attacks in Afghanistan have underscored pressure on Afghanistan’s overstretched security forces.

There has been a sharp drop in the size of Afghanistan`s National Defense Security Forces in the past few months due to changes in the way troops are counted and an effort to reduce the number of so-called "ghost" soldiers, a US government watchdog said on Thursday.

There has been a sharp drop in the size of Afghanistan`s National Defense Security Forces in the past few months due to changes in the way troops are counted and an effort to reduce the number of so-called "ghost" soldiers, a US government watchdog said on Thursday. The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said in a report that ANDSF personnel size had gone down by nearly 10 percentage points in the most recent quarter compared to the previous trimester. The number of ANDSF troops fell by nearly 42,000 compared to roughly the same period, between April and the end of June last year, the report said. The disclosure comes as Washington attempts to clinch a framework peace agreement with Taliban insurgents that is expected to include a timeline for withdrawing US troops, which now number about 14,000 in Afghanistan. Some 9,000 of those forces are involved with training, advising and assisting Afghan security forces. US officials have long expressed concerns about the strength and capability of the Afghan forces, especially without adequate international support. SIGAR, citing information from the US-led coalition, said the decline in Afghan force levels owed to a move by the ANDSF to switch their reporting of personnel strength to the number of biometrically validated forces, rather than just the number reported on-hand by officials in the field. "The change was part of an effort by the United States and its partners to reduce opportunities for corrupt ANDSF officials to report `ghost` (nonexistent) soldiers and police on personnel rolls in order to pocket the salaries," the report said. With a potential US drawdown looming, recent Taliban attacks in Afghanistan have underscored pressure on Afghanistan’s overstretched security forces.

Afghan troop numbers drop sharply in crackdown on 'ghost' soldiers

The death toll among Afghanistan's security forces is nearing 30,000 since the start of 2015, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has said, a figure far higher than anything previously acknowledged.

Ghani appeared via video link this week at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies in Washington, part of a university he once taught at as a professor of anthropology.

Since the start of 2015, when local police and army units succeeded NATO as bearing responsibility for Afghanistan's security, "28,529 of our security forces have lost their lives and become martyrs for our freedom," Ghani said.

In the same timeframe, 58 Americans have been killed, he said.

"I would like to salute the patriotism of the Afghan security forces, every single one of whom is a volunteer," Ghani said.&nbsp;

"We have no conscription, nobody is forced, and if there was not a patriotic impulse I don't think that people would sacrifice their lives for a pay of $200."

The rate at which Afghan forces are dying has long underscored the fragility of the country's security situation, the Taliban's continued strength and raised questions about US claims that the Afghan troops are becoming an increasingly effective fighting force.

In 2015, an estimated 5,000 Afghan security forces were killed and another 15,000 wounded.&nbsp;

The toll increased in 2016 and appears to have accelerated again in 2017 and 2018, contradicting a claim by general John Nicholson, who recently retired as head of NATO and US forces in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

In November 2017, he said casualty rates among Afghan security forces had started to drop as the US increased the tempo of air strikes against the Taliban and as reforms kicked in.

In a recent report, the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) cited the NATO mission in Kabul as saying this summer's toll has been worse than ever for Afghan forces.

"From the period of May 1 to the most current data as of October 1, 2018, the average number of casualties the (Afghan forces) suffered is the greatest it has ever been during like periods," SIGAR said.

Mattis this month said more than 1,000 "Afghan lads" were killed or wounded just in August and September.

More than 17 years since the US-led invasion of Afghanistan, the conflict grinds on and America is trying to find a way out of the war.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad hopes to start a peace process with the Taliban, and on Saturday he met with Ghani.&nbsp;

A Taliban delegation met with Khalilzad in Doha in October to discuss ending the Afghan conflict.

The death toll among Afghanistan's security forces is nearing 30,000 since the start of 2015, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has said, a figure far higher than anything previously acknowledged.

The death toll among Afghanistan's security forces is nearing 30,000 since the start of 2015, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has said, a figure far higher than anything previously acknowledged. Ghani appeared via video link this week at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies in Washington, part of a university he once taught at as a professor of anthropology. Since the start of 2015, when local police and army units succeeded NATO as bearing responsibility for Afghanistan's security, "28,529 of our security forces have lost their lives and become martyrs for our freedom," Ghani said. In the same timeframe, 58 Americans have been killed, he said. "I would like to salute the patriotism of the Afghan security forces, every single one of whom is a volunteer," Ghani said. "We have no conscription, nobody is forced, and if there was not a patriotic impulse I don't think that people would sacrifice their lives for a pay of $200." The rate at which Afghan forces are dying has long underscored the fragility of the country's security situation, the Taliban's continued strength and raised questions about US claims that the Afghan troops are becoming an increasingly effective fighting force. In 2015, an estimated 5,000 Afghan security forces were killed and another 15,000 wounded. The toll increased in 2016 and appears to have accelerated again in 2017 and 2018, contradicting a claim by general John Nicholson, who recently retired as head of NATO and US forces in Afghanistan. In November 2017, he said casualty rates among Afghan security forces had started to drop as the US increased the tempo of air strikes against the Taliban and as reforms kicked in. In a recent report, the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) cited the NATO mission in Kabul as saying this summer's toll has been worse than ever for Afghan forces. "From the period of May 1 to the most current data as of October 1, 2018, the average number of casualties the (Afghan forces) suffered is the greatest it has ever been during like periods," SIGAR said. Mattis this month said more than 1,000 "Afghan lads" were killed or wounded just in August and September. More than 17 years since the US-led invasion of Afghanistan, the conflict grinds on and America is trying to find a way out of the war. US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad hopes to start a peace process with the Taliban, and on Saturday he met with Ghani. A Taliban delegation met with Khalilzad in Doha in October to discuss ending the Afghan conflict.

Almost 30,000 Afghan troops killed since 2015: Ashraf Ghani

Afghan troops forced out the Taliban from a strategic district in the northern province of Kunduz, hours after the militant group had taken control of the district yesterday. 
 
Fighting has sharply escalated in Afghanistan since the insurgency started spreading from its traditional strongholds in the south and east of the country to the once peaceful north. 
 
The militants, waging a bloody insurgency to topple the Western-backed Kabul government, have intensified their attacks nationwide and tightened their grip on the besieged capital of Helmand province southwest of Kunduz in recent weeks.&nbsp;Khan Abad district, which is around 30 kilometres east of Kunduz city, fell to Taliban after the militants launched a pre-dawn attack on the district centre, according to local officials. 
 
Afghan officials in Kabul say a lack of ammunition and few reinforcements are the main reasons for the district&#39;s fall to the Taliban, who are seeking to force the NATO-led coalition out of Afghanistan and bring in Islamic law. 
 
(Reuters)

Officials in Kabul say lack of ammunition and few reinforcements were the main reasons for the district's fall to the Taliban

Afghan troops forced out the Taliban from a strategic district in the northern province of Kunduz, hours after the militant group had taken control of the district yesterday. Fighting has sharply escalated in Afghanistan since the insurgency started spreading from its traditional strongholds in the south and east of the country to the once peaceful north. The militants, waging a bloody insurgency to topple the Western-backed Kabul government, have intensified their attacks nationwide and tightened their grip on the besieged capital of Helmand province southwest of Kunduz in recent weeks. Khan Abad district, which is around 30 kilometres east of Kunduz city, fell to Taliban after the militants launched a pre-dawn attack on the district centre, according to local officials. Afghan officials in Kabul say a lack of ammunition and few reinforcements are the main reasons for the district's fall to the Taliban, who are seeking to force the NATO-led coalition out of Afghanistan and bring in Islamic law. (Reuters)

Afghan troops retake parts of Kunduz hours after Taliban captured area

Local officials today said that Khanashin district in Afghanistan&#39;s Helmand province has fallen to Taliban after hours of clashes with the security forces since last night. 
 
Officials said that battle started after Taliban fighters attacked parts of the district on Friday night, reports Tolo news. 
 
Omar Zwak, Helmand governor&#39;s spokesman said clashes were underway between the Afghan troops and the Taliban rebels in parts of the district. 
 
He said the Air Force has started supporting the ground troops in the district and nearly 20 Taliban rebels have been killed in the air raids. 
 
Zwak added that one police personnel was killed and five others including Khanashin district police chief Abdul Rauf were injured in the conflict. 
 
(AFP)

Clashes between Afghan troops and Taliban rebels started as the latter attacked parts of the Khanashin district on Friday night

Local officials today said that Khanashin district in Afghanistan's Helmand province has fallen to Taliban after hours of clashes with the security forces since last night. Officials said that battle started after Taliban fighters attacked parts of the district on Friday night, reports Tolo news. Omar Zwak, Helmand governor's spokesman said clashes were underway between the Afghan troops and the Taliban rebels in parts of the district. He said the Air Force has started supporting the ground troops in the district and nearly 20 Taliban rebels have been killed in the air raids. Zwak added that one police personnel was killed and five others including Khanashin district police chief Abdul Rauf were injured in the conflict. (AFP)

Taliban captures Khanashin district in Afghanistan

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