The United States has presented an eight-page draft peace agreement to Afghanistan's warring sides for their review.

US puts forth plan to jumpsuit Afghanistan peace

According to reports, US State Secretary Antony Blinken has written to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani proposing a United Nations-facilitated peace conference with representatives of six countries including India.

Report: Antony Blinken proposes UN-led meeting on Afghan peace

Washington is keen on a six-country meet including India for a meet on Afghanistan as it reviews its strategy for the country. In a letter to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken&nbsp;has outlined several ways "to move matter more fundamentally and quickly towards a settlement".&nbsp;

The letter, which surfaced in Afghan media on Sunday said, "We intend to as the United Nations to convene foreign ministers and envoys from Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, India, and US to discuss a unified approach to supporting peace in Afghanistan".&nbsp;

In the letter, Blinken explained, "it is my belief that these countries share an abiding common interest in a stable Afghanistan and must work together if we are to succeed".

Sunday also saw, US Special Representative to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad speaking to India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. A tweet from Jaishankar's account said, "discussed latest developments pertaining to peace talks".

India has been seen as a close partner of the Afghan government and has built a number of mega infrastructure projects in the country, from the Afghan Parliament to the India Afghan friendship dam in western Herat province. Last month saw Indian PM Modi and Afghan President Ghani holding a virtual summit and also announcing the start of Shahtoot dam project, which will be built by India and provide clean drinking water to residents of Kabul.

The letter by Blinken also includes a written proposal that will be shared by Khalilzad with President Ghani and Taliban leaders and is "aimed at accelerating discussions on a negotiated settlement and ceasefire", Turkish government hosting a meet between the two&nbsp;sides, reduction in violence proposal to "prevent a spring offensive by the Taliban" and eventual full withdrawal of American forces by May 1.

It has been 20 years since the fall of the Taliban and US presence in Afghanistan with Washington keen to leave the country. Last year saw&nbsp;US-Taliban pact, followed by the start of talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government. While these two&nbsp;developments have been seen as positive, the violence level continues to increase in the country.

Washington is keen on a six-country meet including India for a meet on Afghanistan as it reviews its strategy for the country. In a letter to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has outlined several ways "to move matter more fundamentally and quickly towards a settlement".

Washington is keen on a six-country meet including India for a meet on Afghanistan as it reviews its strategy for the country. In a letter to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has outlined several ways "to move matter more fundamentally and quickly towards a settlement". The letter, which surfaced in Afghan media on Sunday said, "We intend to as the United Nations to convene foreign ministers and envoys from Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, India, and US to discuss a unified approach to supporting peace in Afghanistan". In the letter, Blinken explained, "it is my belief that these countries share an abiding common interest in a stable Afghanistan and must work together if we are to succeed". Sunday also saw, US Special Representative to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad speaking to India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. A tweet from Jaishankar's account said, "discussed latest developments pertaining to peace talks". India has been seen as a close partner of the Afghan government and has built a number of mega infrastructure projects in the country, from the Afghan Parliament to the India Afghan friendship dam in western Herat province. Last month saw Indian PM Modi and Afghan President Ghani holding a virtual summit and also announcing the start of Shahtoot dam project, which will be built by India and provide clean drinking water to residents of Kabul. The letter by Blinken also includes a written proposal that will be shared by Khalilzad with President Ghani and Taliban leaders and is "aimed at accelerating discussions on a negotiated settlement and ceasefire", Turkish government hosting a meet between the two sides, reduction in violence proposal to "prevent a spring offensive by the Taliban" and eventual full withdrawal of American forces by May 1. It has been 20 years since the fall of the Taliban and US presence in Afghanistan with Washington keen to leave the country. Last year saw US-Taliban pact, followed by the start of talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government. While these two developments have been seen as positive, the violence level continues to increase in the country.

Washington keen on 6-country meet including India on Afghanistan

These Officers have already undergone basic military training in their country in respective Arms/Services.

Women officers of Afghan army undergoing training at OTA Chennai

Afghanistan on Monday sent investigators to its western border with Iran to investigate the fire that tore through customs post. At least 60 people were injured in the fire on Saturday (January 13) &nbsp;as hundreds of fuel vehicles exploded in the blaze this disrupted power supply and caused millions of dollars of damage. The cause of the fire was unknown.

Herat police spokesman Abdul Ahad Walizada said a 10-person investigating team included four officials from Kabul, including a director of the criminal division of the interior ministry.

Herat's governor Waheed Qatali told media that there were no reports of deaths and they were still investigating.

A tanker caught fire, triggering the blaze, but the cause of that fire was still unclear, he said.

Amin Babak, a spokesman for Afghanistan's Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said around 600 vehicles waiting to complete customs inspections had been damaged in the fire. More than half contained fuel and gas and some had been looted, he said.

Babak said the losses for Afghan traders were estimated at around USD 100 million. This is another blow for Afghanistan economy which is already struggling due COVID pandemic.

Omar Joya, chief economist at the Kabul-based Biruni Institute, said that the blaze could lead to a temporary increase in domestic oil prices, but that importers had sufficient capital to import new oil so prices would likely stabilise relatively quickly.

(With Reuters inputs)

Afghanistan on Monday sent investigators to its western border with Iran to investigate the fire that tore through customs post. At least 60 people were injured in the fire on Saturday (January 13) as hundreds of fuel vehicles exploded in the blaze this disrupted power supply and caused millions of dollars of damage.

Afghanistan on Monday sent investigators to its western border with Iran to investigate the fire that tore through customs post. At least 60 people were injured in the fire on Saturday (January 13) as hundreds of fuel vehicles exploded in the blaze this disrupted power supply and caused millions of dollars of damage. The cause of the fire was unknown. Herat police spokesman Abdul Ahad Walizada said a 10-person investigating team included four officials from Kabul, including a director of the criminal division of the interior ministry. Herat's governor Waheed Qatali told media that there were no reports of deaths and they were still investigating. A tanker caught fire, triggering the blaze, but the cause of that fire was still unclear, he said. Amin Babak, a spokesman for Afghanistan's Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said around 600 vehicles waiting to complete customs inspections had been damaged in the fire. More than half contained fuel and gas and some had been looted, he said. Babak said the losses for Afghan traders were estimated at around USD 100 million. This is another blow for Afghanistan economy which is already struggling due COVID pandemic. Omar Joya, chief economist at the Kabul-based Biruni Institute, said that the blaze could lead to a temporary increase in domestic oil prices, but that importers had sufficient capital to import new oil so prices would likely stabilise relatively quickly. (With Reuters inputs)

Afghanistan sends investigators to look into the massive fire at Afghan-Iran border

Peace talks between the Taliban and the government in Kabul have hit multiple roadblocks. With US troops withdrawing and likely to withdraw more by May 2021, the minority Hazara community in Afghanistan is extremely apprehensive about its future.

Hazaras fear for the future as foreign troops exit Afghanistan

A car bombing in Kabul targeting an Afghan lawmaker killed at least nine people, officials said.

Lawmaker Khan Mohammad Wardak survived the blast but is among 20 injured including women and children, Afghan Interior Minister Massoud Andarabi said.

It is unclear whether the explosive was planted in a car parked on the lawmaker's route or if a vehicle with the bomb was being driven by a bomber, Andarabi added.

No one has claimed responsibility for the blast.

Afghanistan has seen a sharp rise in violence, particularly bombings, in recent weeks as the Afghan government and Taliban hold talks to find an end to the country's almost 20-year-long war.

Separate bombings were also reported on Sunday in the provinces of Logar, Nangarhar, Helmand and Badakhshan, in which a number of civilians and security forces members were killed and injured.

On Friday, a suspected rickshaw bomb blast killed at least 15 civilians, including 11 children, in central Ghazni province.

The Afghan interior ministry in a statement said that the Taliban had killed 487 civilians and injured 1,049 others by carrying out 35 suicide attacks and 507 blasts in across the country over the past three months.

A car bombing in Kabul targeting an Afghan lawmaker killed at least nine people, officials said. Lawmaker Khan Mohammad Wardak survived the blast but is among 20 injured including women and children, Afghan Interior Minister Massoud Andarabi said.

A car bombing in Kabul targeting an Afghan lawmaker killed at least nine people, officials said. Lawmaker Khan Mohammad Wardak survived the blast but is among 20 injured including women and children, Afghan Interior Minister Massoud Andarabi said. It is unclear whether the explosive was planted in a car parked on the lawmaker's route or if a vehicle with the bomb was being driven by a bomber, Andarabi added. No one has claimed responsibility for the blast. Afghanistan has seen a sharp rise in violence, particularly bombings, in recent weeks as the Afghan government and Taliban hold talks to find an end to the country's almost 20-year-long war. Separate bombings were also reported on Sunday in the provinces of Logar, Nangarhar, Helmand and Badakhshan, in which a number of civilians and security forces members were killed and injured. On Friday, a suspected rickshaw bomb blast killed at least 15 civilians, including 11 children, in central Ghazni province. The Afghan interior ministry in a statement said that the Taliban had killed 487 civilians and injured 1,049 others by carrying out 35 suicide attacks and 507 blasts in across the country over the past three months.

Nine dead as Kabul car bombing targets Afghan lawmaker

A suicide car bomber struck an army base in Afghanistan on Sunday, killing at least 26 security personnel, officials said, in one of the bloodiest attacks targeting Afghan forces in recent months. The attack occurred in the eastern province of Ghazni, which has seen regular fighting between the Taliban and government forces.

News Alert: Suicide car bomb kills 26 Afghan security personnel: AFP officials

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani spoke at the 2020 Afghanistan conference hosted by the United Nations. He thanked the NATO nations for support against terrorism.

Your Story: Afghan Prez thanks NATO nations for support against terrorism

21-year-old Marzia Panahi, sets up the Namad Gallery at the height of the coronavirus pandemic in Kabul, Afghanistan. WION brings you a report.

Afghanistan: 21-year-old student Marzia Panahi begins a start up company in Kabul

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met negotiators from the Afghan government & the Taliban in Doha. The meet shows progress in talks between the groups as Washington DC is speeding up its withdraw from the region.

Mike Pompeo in Qatar, meets Taliban negotiators

The Afghan government and the Taliban are "very close" to breaking a deadlock in peace talks, a senior Afghan official said Saturday, adding that the US troops military presence was still necessary.

Talks began in Doha on September 12, but there were soon issues over agenda disagreements, the basic framework of discussions and religious interpretations.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-terror-attack-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-344558" hreflang="en">Kabul terror attack: Islamic State claims responsibility</a>

Meanwhile, violence has raged in Afghanistan with a series of rocket attacks Saturday in Kabul, which killed at least eight people.

The Taliban, who are Sunni hardliners, denied responsibility and the attacks were claimed by the Islamic State group.

"We haven't moved towards discussion of the main substance of negotiations, the main agenda," Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation, said in an interview with AFP during a visit to Turkey.

But, giving cause for optimism, he added: "We are close, we are very close. Hopefully we pass this phase and get to the substantial issues" including security.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-terror-attack-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-344558" hreflang="en">Kabul terror attack: Islamic State claims responsibility</a>

Abdullah's comments come a day after a senior Taliban leader based in Pakistan told AFP that "sufficient progress" had been made on key sticking points.

Abdullah held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Friday in Istanbul as Afghanistan seeks support for the negotiations from Turkey.

Turkish forces have taken part in NATO's International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, while Turkey has also been a transit country for Afghans fleeing violence and seeking refuge in Europe.

Abdullah also said US troops should withdraw from Afghanistan "when the conditions are met".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pompeo-meets-taliban-afghan-government-officials-in-qatar-344574" hreflang="en">Pompeo meets Taliban, Afghan government officials in Qatar</a>

President Donald Trump's administration said this month it would pull 2,000 of its 4,500 troops from Afghanistan by January.

"Of course we would have preferred it differently," Abdullah said, warning the move would have "some impact".

US President-elect Joe Biden also advocates winding down the war.

'Flexible'

"My message to the next administration will be to see the conditions because those troops are there for a reason. They're there to help in the fight against terrorism, and are also supporting Afghan institutions," Abdullah said.

The peace talks in the Qatari capital started after the Taliban and Washington signed a deal in February, in which the US agreed to withdraw its forces by mid-2021.

The Taliban in exchange said it would not attack US forces and agreed to talks.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday was due to hold talks with Afghan government negotiators and the Taliban.

Abdullah said Afghans still wanted a ceasefire but suggested the government was flexible on what that would mean on the ground.

"If a complete comprehensive ceasefire is not possible, moving towards a humanitarian ceasefire, or a significant reduction in violence so the people can see and feel like there is a change" could be options, he said.

"Our delegation has been advised to be flexible."

But Abdullah warned the increasing violence was "damaging the trust of the people over the process and the government will not be immune from that impact".

The Afghan government this week said the Taliban killed over 1,200 civilians in 53 suicide attacks and 1,250 explosions over the past six months.

The Afghan government and the Taliban are "very close" to breaking a deadlock in peace talks, a senior Afghan official said Saturday, adding that the US troops military presence was still necessary.

The Afghan government and the Taliban are "very close" to breaking a deadlock in peace talks, a senior Afghan official said Saturday, adding that the US troops military presence was still necessary. Talks began in Doha on September 12, but there were soon issues over agenda disagreements, the basic framework of discussions and religious interpretations. Also read| Kabul terror attack: Islamic State claims responsibility Meanwhile, violence has raged in Afghanistan with a series of rocket attacks Saturday in Kabul, which killed at least eight people. The Taliban, who are Sunni hardliners, denied responsibility and the attacks were claimed by the Islamic State group. "We haven't moved towards discussion of the main substance of negotiations, the main agenda," Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation, said in an interview with AFP during a visit to Turkey. But, giving cause for optimism, he added: "We are close, we are very close. Hopefully we pass this phase and get to the substantial issues" including security. Also read| Kabul terror attack: Islamic State claims responsibility Abdullah's comments come a day after a senior Taliban leader based in Pakistan told AFP that "sufficient progress" had been made on key sticking points. Abdullah held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Friday in Istanbul as Afghanistan seeks support for the negotiations from Turkey. Turkish forces have taken part in NATO's International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, while Turkey has also been a transit country for Afghans fleeing violence and seeking refuge in Europe. Abdullah also said US troops should withdraw from Afghanistan "when the conditions are met". Also read| Pompeo meets Taliban, Afghan government officials in Qatar President Donald Trump's administration said this month it would pull 2,000 of its 4,500 troops from Afghanistan by January. "Of course we would have preferred it differently," Abdullah said, warning the move would have "some impact". US President-elect Joe Biden also advocates winding down the war. 'Flexible' "My message to the next administration will be to see the conditions because those troops are there for a reason. They're there to help in the fight against terrorism, and are also supporting Afghan institutions," Abdullah said. The peace talks in the Qatari capital started after the Taliban and Washington signed a deal in February, in which the US agreed to withdraw its forces by mid-2021. The Taliban in exchange said it would not attack US forces and agreed to talks. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday was due to hold talks with Afghan government negotiators and the Taliban. Abdullah said Afghans still wanted a ceasefire but suggested the government was flexible on what that would mean on the ground. "If a complete comprehensive ceasefire is not possible, moving towards a humanitarian ceasefire, or a significant reduction in violence so the people can see and feel like there is a change" could be options, he said. "Our delegation has been advised to be flexible." But Abdullah warned the increasing violence was "damaging the trust of the people over the process and the government will not be immune from that impact". The Afghan government this week said the Taliban killed over 1,200 civilians in 53 suicide attacks and 1,250 explosions over the past six months.

Afghan peace talks 'close' to breaking deadlock: Official

21-year-old Marzia Panahi, set up the Namad Gallery at the height of the coronavirus pandemic in Kabul, Afghanistan. WION brings you a report.

Your Story: 21-year-old student begins a start up company in Kabul

A famous journalist, the father of an oft-threatened mayor and at least 22 others, many of them university students — all were killed within the span of a week in Kabul, Afghanistan’s capital, the victims of targeted assassinations and a terrorist attack.

The series of assaults, while highlighting a city under violent siege, has also exposed growing, and very public, discontent with an Afghan government unable to protect its people despite its many public promises.

The public cry for security has juxtaposed starkly with the stalled peace negotiations between Afghan and Taliban officials in Doha, Qatar, where both parties have haggled for weeks over ground rules for the talks with little progress.

Hundreds of miles away from the gilded ballrooms and fancy hotels in Doha, rising violence across Afghanistan has left many deeply skeptical of the notion that the talks could reach a peaceful resolution anytime soon.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-former-tv-presenter-killed-in-bomb-attack-341429" hreflang="en">Afghanistan: Former TV presenter killed in bomb attack</a>

That has been especially acute in Kabul, where constant targeted killings, carried out by unnamed attackers, have bred an environment of fear and anxiety. In rural areas across the country, daily life is dominated by pitched battles between the Taliban and the government.

October was the deadliest month in Afghanistan for civilians since September 2019, according to data compiled by The New York Times. At least 212 civilians were killed.

The most recent was Yama Siawash, a former anchor for Tolo News, Afghanistan’s first 24-hour news network, who was killed Saturday morning, along with two others. The cause of death: a magnetic bomb — a signature weapon of the unclaimed attacks that have become commonplace around the capital. His death was a discouraging coda to a violent week.

Siawash’s close friend and former colleague, Parwiz Shamal, pointed to the Afghan government’s failures before singling out the attackers.

“I have no faith in the government. They can’t control anything. We see that day by day the situation gets worse,” Shamal said. “The government is literally like a grasshoppers’ group. They jump from one thing to another without any plan. People die on a daily basis and the government doesn’t bother to provide them with security.”

Two days earlier, Abdul Wasi Ghafari, an Afghan army colonel and the father of Zarifa Ghafari, one of Afghanistan’s first female mayors, herself often threatened, was shot at close-range in front of his house in Kabul, even as the military was warning that he could be attacked.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-forces-receive-military-vehicles-from-us-341089" hreflang="en">Afghanistan forces receive military vehicles from US</a>

The Taliban claimed credit for the killing, though the insurgent group often uses unclaimed attacks as well to spread fear and undercut the Afghan government — all while trying to avoid committing high-profile urban assaults under a February agreement with the United States that encouraged, but did not say outright, that all sides would reduce violence.

In turn, under that deal, all U.S. troops would eventually withdraw from the country, and direct Afghan-Taliban negotiations would get underway following the release of 5,000 Taliban prisoners. Those talks began in September.

After a surge of crime and violence in Kabul this fall, President Ashraf Ghani appointed the senior vice president, Amrullah Saleh, to take charge of security in the capital, so far with mixed results.

“There have been a lot of statements and meetings by the government,” Shaharzad Akbar, the chairwoman of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission, said of the rise in violence. “But when you look at the daily life of civilians they don’t see an increased confidence in their security.”

Saleh’s plan, called the “Kabul Security Compact,” has drawn critical public scrutiny, particularly his decision to post pictures across Kabul, some drawn from social media, of people accused of crimes, detailing their offensives on the posters. But in at least two instances, an Afghan official said, officials mistakenly used photos of people not accused of a crime.

“I think everyone in Kabul feels unsafe, they feel like the government isn’t delivering,” said Said Sabir Ibrahimi, an Afghan researcher at New York University’s Center on International Cooperation. “The Ghani administration is focusing on individuals by giving Saleh the security profile as if it’s a silver bullet.”

“At the end of the day, the issue is much deeper,” he said.

A famous journalist, the father of an oft-threatened mayor and at least 22 others, many of them university students — all were killed within the span of a week in Kabul, Afghanistan’s capital, the victims of targeted assassinations and a terrorist attack.

A famous journalist, the father of an oft-threatened mayor and at least 22 others, many of them university students — all were killed within the span of a week in Kabul, Afghanistan’s capital, the victims of targeted assassinations and a terrorist attack. The series of assaults, while highlighting a city under violent siege, has also exposed growing, and very public, discontent with an Afghan government unable to protect its people despite its many public promises. The public cry for security has juxtaposed starkly with the stalled peace negotiations between Afghan and Taliban officials in Doha, Qatar, where both parties have haggled for weeks over ground rules for the talks with little progress. Hundreds of miles away from the gilded ballrooms and fancy hotels in Doha, rising violence across Afghanistan has left many deeply skeptical of the notion that the talks could reach a peaceful resolution anytime soon. Also read| Afghanistan: Former TV presenter killed in bomb attack That has been especially acute in Kabul, where constant targeted killings, carried out by unnamed attackers, have bred an environment of fear and anxiety. In rural areas across the country, daily life is dominated by pitched battles between the Taliban and the government. October was the deadliest month in Afghanistan for civilians since September 2019, according to data compiled by The New York Times. At least 212 civilians were killed. The most recent was Yama Siawash, a former anchor for Tolo News, Afghanistan’s first 24-hour news network, who was killed Saturday morning, along with two others. The cause of death: a magnetic bomb — a signature weapon of the unclaimed attacks that have become commonplace around the capital. His death was a discouraging coda to a violent week. Siawash’s close friend and former colleague, Parwiz Shamal, pointed to the Afghan government’s failures before singling out the attackers. “I have no faith in the government. They can’t control anything. We see that day by day the situation gets worse,” Shamal said. “The government is literally like a grasshoppers’ group. They jump from one thing to another without any plan. People die on a daily basis and the government doesn’t bother to provide them with security.” Two days earlier, Abdul Wasi Ghafari, an Afghan army colonel and the father of Zarifa Ghafari, one of Afghanistan’s first female mayors, herself often threatened, was shot at close-range in front of his house in Kabul, even as the military was warning that he could be attacked. Also read| Afghanistan forces receive military vehicles from US The Taliban claimed credit for the killing, though the insurgent group often uses unclaimed attacks as well to spread fear and undercut the Afghan government — all while trying to avoid committing high-profile urban assaults under a February agreement with the United States that encouraged, but did not say outright, that all sides would reduce violence. In turn, under that deal, all U.S. troops would eventually withdraw from the country, and direct Afghan-Taliban negotiations would get underway following the release of 5,000 Taliban prisoners. Those talks began in September. After a surge of crime and violence in Kabul this fall, President Ashraf Ghani appointed the senior vice president, Amrullah Saleh, to take charge of security in the capital, so far with mixed results. “There have been a lot of statements and meetings by the government,” Shaharzad Akbar, the chairwoman of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission, said of the rise in violence. “But when you look at the daily life of civilians they don’t see an increased confidence in their security.” Saleh’s plan, called the “Kabul Security Compact,” has drawn critical public scrutiny, particularly his decision to post pictures across Kabul, some drawn from social media, of people accused of crimes, detailing their offensives on the posters. But in at least two instances, an Afghan official said, officials mistakenly used photos of people not accused of a crime. “I think everyone in Kabul feels unsafe, they feel like the government isn’t delivering,” said Said Sabir Ibrahimi, an Afghan researcher at New York University’s Center on International Cooperation. “The Ghani administration is focusing on individuals by giving Saleh the security profile as if it’s a silver bullet.” “At the end of the day, the issue is much deeper,” he said.

String of attacks have people in Kabul pointing a finger, at the government

Violent attacks in Afghanistan surged by 50 per cent over recent months even as the Kabul government and the Taliban launched unprecedented peace talks in September, a US watchdog warned Thursday.

Despite brief lulls during two temporary ceasefires over the summer, fighting has raged across the country as the Taliban launched devastating attacks on provincial capitals and security installations, with fears the violence may jeopardise negotiations.

Attacks against Afghan forces and civilians were 50 per cent higher in the three months to the end of September when compared to the previous quarter, the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said.

"Overall enemy-initiated attacks this quarter were also characterized as 'above seasonal norms," SIGAR's quarterly report to the US Congress added.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/terrorists-shot-students-one-by-one-in-afghan-university-attack-survivor-340532" hreflang="en">Terrorists shot students 'one by one' in Afghan university attack: Survivor</a>

The watchdog reported 2,561 civilian casualties this quarter including 876 deaths, up 43 per cent from the April to June period.

The report's publication comes as scattered calls to boycott the ongoing peace talks have been raised following back-to-back attacks on education centres in Kabul claimed by the Islamic State group, but which some government officials insist were carried out by the Taliban.

Little progress has been made in meetings between Afghan government negotiators and the Taliban since the talks started on September 12, with negotiations stalled over the basic framework of talks and an agenda still undecided.&nbsp;

Both sides have routinely accused each other of upping hostilities and killing civilians.

Zalmay Khalilzad, the US envoy who negotiated a separate deal with the Taliban in February, has repeatedly warned that "continued high levels of violence can threaten the peace process and the agreement and the core understanding that there is no military solution" to the Afghan conflict.&nbsp;

US influence over Afghanistan's battlegrounds is on the wane, however, with the Pentagon looking to withdraw all its remaining troops by next May.

Confusion over the ongoing US election vote count has raised further questions over whether Washington's insistence that its withdrawal from Afghanistan after 19 years of war will continue on schedule or accelerate if Trump clinches another term in the White House.

Violent attacks in Afghanistan surged by 50 per cent over recent months even as the Kabul government and the Taliban launched unprecedented peace talks in September, a US watchdog warned Thursday.

Violent attacks in Afghanistan surged by 50 per cent over recent months even as the Kabul government and the Taliban launched unprecedented peace talks in September, a US watchdog warned Thursday. Despite brief lulls during two temporary ceasefires over the summer, fighting has raged across the country as the Taliban launched devastating attacks on provincial capitals and security installations, with fears the violence may jeopardise negotiations. Attacks against Afghan forces and civilians were 50 per cent higher in the three months to the end of September when compared to the previous quarter, the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said. "Overall enemy-initiated attacks this quarter were also characterized as 'above seasonal norms," SIGAR's quarterly report to the US Congress added. Also read| Terrorists shot students 'one by one' in Afghan university attack: Survivor The watchdog reported 2,561 civilian casualties this quarter including 876 deaths, up 43 per cent from the April to June period. The report's publication comes as scattered calls to boycott the ongoing peace talks have been raised following back-to-back attacks on education centres in Kabul claimed by the Islamic State group, but which some government officials insist were carried out by the Taliban. Little progress has been made in meetings between Afghan government negotiators and the Taliban since the talks started on September 12, with negotiations stalled over the basic framework of talks and an agenda still undecided. Both sides have routinely accused each other of upping hostilities and killing civilians. Zalmay Khalilzad, the US envoy who negotiated a separate deal with the Taliban in February, has repeatedly warned that "continued high levels of violence can threaten the peace process and the agreement and the core understanding that there is no military solution" to the Afghan conflict. US influence over Afghanistan's battlegrounds is on the wane, however, with the Pentagon looking to withdraw all its remaining troops by next May. Confusion over the ongoing US election vote count has raised further questions over whether Washington's insistence that its withdrawal from Afghanistan after 19 years of war will continue on schedule or accelerate if Trump clinches another term in the White House.

Afghan violence soars despite peace talks: Watchdog

Thousands of families have fled their homes as heavy fighting between government divisions and one Taliban rages in Afghanistan's Helmand province.

Afghan-Taliban conflict: Violence increases despite peace talks

Women of Afghanistan have secured a major victory. Citizens will now have mother's name printed on their national identification cards. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani gave green light to the proposal.

Afghanistan: Mothers' name to be printed on children's ID card

Even as intra-Afghan talks -- or talks between Afghan government and Taliban begin in Doha, India and US have agreed that the Afghan peace process should lead to a "political roadmap and ceasefire".

This was stated in a statement of US embassy on US Special Envoy on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad's one day Delhi visit.

During his Delhi visit, which comes four days after Intra Afghan talks ceremony in Doha, Khalilzad held meetings with India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Present in the meeting were Foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla, Joint Secretary, Pakistan Afghanistan and Iran division in MEA JP Singh.

The US read out of the meet said, "The Afghan sides should ensure their territory must not be used by any terrorist group against any other country." This is a point also raised by external affairs minister during his speech at the intra Afghan talks ceremony on Saturday which he addressed virtually. According to a UN report, 6000- 6500 Pakistani terrorists are based in Pakistan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/taliban-will-cooperate-to-bring-back-peace-in-afghanistan-khalilzad-310750" hreflang="en">Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad</a>

Ambassador Khalilzad "stressed regional and international support is critical for the success of these negotiations and the implementation of any agreement" and &nbsp;"India and the United States will work together in support of this objective."

The US readout further added both sides have "similar views on the importance of long term assistance, trade, and investment for consolidating a peace agreement for the benefit of the people of Afghanistan, the region, and beyond."

India has played an important role in connectivity when it comes to Afghanistan via the Chabahar port in Iran and the India Afghanistan air corridor. It has also emerged as an important developmental partner of the country.

Meanwhile, Indian government sources told WION that, "Khalilzad appreciated India’s participation in the Intra-Afghan Negotiations.." and "briefed about the US assessment the talks and shared the US perspective on the Afghan peace process."

Both sides while discussing "future steps and possible cooperation between India and the US in furthering the Afghan peace process" also "deliberated upon how to promote regional and international cooperation with regard to Afghanistan."

Khalilzad had visited India earlier this year on May 7. This is his 5th visit to India since January 2019.

Even as intra-Afghan talks -- or talks between Afghan government and Taliban begin in Doha, India and US have agreed that the Afghan peace process should lead to a "political roadmap and ceasefire".

Even as intra-Afghan talks -- or talks between Afghan government and Taliban begin in Doha, India and US have agreed that the Afghan peace process should lead to a "political roadmap and ceasefire". This was stated in a statement of US embassy on US Special Envoy on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad's one day Delhi visit. During his Delhi visit, which comes four days after Intra Afghan talks ceremony in Doha, Khalilzad held meetings with India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Present in the meeting were Foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla, Joint Secretary, Pakistan Afghanistan and Iran division in MEA JP Singh. The US read out of the meet said, "The Afghan sides should ensure their territory must not be used by any terrorist group against any other country." This is a point also raised by external affairs minister during his speech at the intra Afghan talks ceremony on Saturday which he addressed virtually. According to a UN report, 6000- 6500 Pakistani terrorists are based in Pakistan. Also read: Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad Ambassador Khalilzad "stressed regional and international support is critical for the success of these negotiations and the implementation of any agreement" and "India and the United States will work together in support of this objective." The US readout further added both sides have "similar views on the importance of long term assistance, trade, and investment for consolidating a peace agreement for the benefit of the people of Afghanistan, the region, and beyond." India has played an important role in connectivity when it comes to Afghanistan via the Chabahar port in Iran and the India Afghanistan air corridor. It has also emerged as an important developmental partner of the country. Meanwhile, Indian government sources told WION that, "Khalilzad appreciated India’s participation in the Intra-Afghan Negotiations.." and "briefed about the US assessment the talks and shared the US perspective on the Afghan peace process." Both sides while discussing "future steps and possible cooperation between India and the US in furthering the Afghan peace process" also "deliberated upon how to promote regional and international cooperation with regard to Afghanistan." Khalilzad had visited India earlier this year on May 7. This is his 5th visit to India since January 2019.

Khalilzad in Delhi: India, US agree that Afghan peace process should lead to political roadmap, ceasefire

Families of the victims of a 2018 suicide attack in Kabul gathered on Monday (September 14) at the graveyard of their loved ones and called for a lasting peace as Afghan government officials and the Taliban hold talks in Doha to end 19 years of war in the country.

Families of Afghan 2018 suicide attack rally at graveyard of their loved ones, calling for peace

Afghan negotiators and senior officials were set to fly to Doha on Thursday ahead of planned peace talks with the Taliban, after coming to a compromise over the release of prisoners that was holding up the talks, diplomatic and government sources said.

All but seven of the 5,000 prisoners whose release the Taliban demanded have been freed, a source in the government-appointed peace council and a diplomatic source in Kabul said. Both the government and the Taliban declined comment.

It was not immediately clear when the talks would start, but a government source said they could begin as soon as Saturday.

Mohammad Masoom Stanekzai, the chief of the government-mandated negotiation team, said in a tweet that his group would "soon" start peace talks.

The United States-brokered negotiations have been stalled for months as the Taliban demanded the release of 5,000 of its prisoners as a pre-condition.

The release of the final batch of 400 prisoners has been debated for weeks since the government blamed them for some of the worst violence in the country. They included a small number of prisoners whose release was objected to by Western powers, including France and Australia, due to their involvement in attacks on foreign forces.

The plan was for the seven remaining prisoners to be transferred to Doha where they would be kept under supervision, five sources told Reuters.

"These seven prisoners were members of the Afghan National Security Forces who were arrested on charges of `green on blue` attacks. They will be shifted to Doha," said an Afghan official.

The United States has been trying to broker peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban to end 19 years of war since Washington signed a troop withdrawal deal with the insurgent group in February. 
&nbsp;

Afghan negotiators and senior officials were set to fly to Doha on Thursday ahead of planned peace talks with the Taliban, after coming to a compromise over the release of prisoners that was holding up the talks, diplomatic and government sources said.

Afghan negotiators and senior officials were set to fly to Doha on Thursday ahead of planned peace talks with the Taliban, after coming to a compromise over the release of prisoners that was holding up the talks, diplomatic and government sources said. All but seven of the 5,000 prisoners whose release the Taliban demanded have been freed, a source in the government-appointed peace council and a diplomatic source in Kabul said. Both the government and the Taliban declined comment. It was not immediately clear when the talks would start, but a government source said they could begin as soon as Saturday. Mohammad Masoom Stanekzai, the chief of the government-mandated negotiation team, said in a tweet that his group would "soon" start peace talks. The United States-brokered negotiations have been stalled for months as the Taliban demanded the release of 5,000 of its prisoners as a pre-condition. The release of the final batch of 400 prisoners has been debated for weeks since the government blamed them for some of the worst violence in the country. They included a small number of prisoners whose release was objected to by Western powers, including France and Australia, due to their involvement in attacks on foreign forces. The plan was for the seven remaining prisoners to be transferred to Doha where they would be kept under supervision, five sources told Reuters. "These seven prisoners were members of the Afghan National Security Forces who were arrested on charges of `green on blue` attacks. They will be shifted to Doha," said an Afghan official. The United States has been trying to broker peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban to end 19 years of war since Washington signed a troop withdrawal deal with the insurgent group in February.

Afghan officials to travel for talks with Taliban after agreement on prisoners - sources

A delegation from the Afghan Taliban is arriving in Pakistan to discuss the ongoing peace process with the Pakistani leadership

Afghan Taliban visit Pakistan to discuss peace process

The Afghan peace talks aimed at bringing an end to nearly decades of fighting that have killed thousands of people. So what do these talks mean for the common man in Afghanistan? Watch report.

Peace process evokes hope for a prosperous future for Afghans | What do peace talks mean for them?

The Afghan government has begun releasing the last Taliban prisoners from a final batch of 400 before they agree to start peace negotiations, a security agency spokesman said on Friday.

Fineprint: Afghanistan government begins releasing last 400 Taliban prisoners

Thousands of Afghan elders, community leaders and politicians gathered on Friday to debate government efforts to make peace with the Taliban, in particular the fate of 400 hard-core Taliban prisoners whose release could clear the way for talks.

Some 3,200 people have been invited to the grand assembly, known as a Loya Jirga, in Kabul amid tight security to debate for at least three days and then advise the government on whether the prisoners should be freed.

As part of a February pact between the United States and the Taliban allowing for the withdrawal of US&nbsp;troops, it was agreed that some 5,000 Taliban prisoners should be released from Afghan jails as a condition for talks between the militants and the US-backed government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pompeo-speaks-with-pak-foreign-minister-on-afghanistan-and-regional-stability-319040">Also read:&nbsp;Pompeo speaks with Pak foreign minister on Afghanistan and regional stability</a>

The government has released all but some 400 militants it says have been convicted of the worst crimes including killings, drug trafficking and kidnapping.

While many Afghans see the peace effort as the best hope for ending the 19-year war with the Taliban, some are concerned about the militants' commitment to reconciliation, especially after the United States completes its troop withdrawal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chaos-erupts-as-afghanistan-holds-meeting-to-decide-fate-of-talibani-prisoners-318905">Also read:&nbsp;Chaos erupts as Afghanistan holds meeting to decide fate of Talibani prisoners</a>

US&nbsp;special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, the architect of the deal allowing the United States to withdraw its forces and end its longest-ever war, warned against the Loya Jirga throwing up any complications.

"We wish the jirga participants success ... and urge them not to allow those who prefer the status quo and seek to complicate the path to peace to manipulate the process," Khalilzad said on Twitter. He did not elaborate.

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1/3 An Afghan Loya Jirga will be convened Aug 7. It is an historic opportunity to remove the last hurdle to direct peace talks. A positive outcome will mean a reduction in violence and Afghans immediately coming together at the negotiating table.<a href="https://t.co/kgavOZrBBy">https://t.co/kgavOZrBBy</a>
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1291577390762799104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Afghanistan’s constitution recognises the Loya Jirga as "the highest manifestation of the will of the people of Afghanistan".

The head of its secretariat, Abdul Salam Rahimi, said its decision was necessary as President Ashraf Ghani was not empowered to release prisoners convicted of such serious crimes.

He said precautions would be taken to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Thousands of Afghan elders, community leaders and politicians gathered on Friday to debate government efforts to make peace with the Taliban, in particular the fate of 400 hard-core Taliban prisoners whose release could clear the way for talks.

Thousands of Afghan elders, community leaders and politicians gathered on Friday to debate government efforts to make peace with the Taliban, in particular the fate of 400 hard-core Taliban prisoners whose release could clear the way for talks. Some 3,200 people have been invited to the grand assembly, known as a Loya Jirga, in Kabul amid tight security to debate for at least three days and then advise the government on whether the prisoners should be freed. As part of a February pact between the United States and the Taliban allowing for the withdrawal of US troops, it was agreed that some 5,000 Taliban prisoners should be released from Afghan jails as a condition for talks between the militants and the US-backed government. Also read: Pompeo speaks with Pak foreign minister on Afghanistan and regional stability The government has released all but some 400 militants it says have been convicted of the worst crimes including killings, drug trafficking and kidnapping. While many Afghans see the peace effort as the best hope for ending the 19-year war with the Taliban, some are concerned about the militants' commitment to reconciliation, especially after the United States completes its troop withdrawal. Also read: Chaos erupts as Afghanistan holds meeting to decide fate of Talibani prisoners US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, the architect of the deal allowing the United States to withdraw its forces and end its longest-ever war, warned against the Loya Jirga throwing up any complications. "We wish the jirga participants success ... and urge them not to allow those who prefer the status quo and seek to complicate the path to peace to manipulate the process," Khalilzad said on Twitter. He did not elaborate. 1/3 An Afghan Loya Jirga will be convened Aug 7. It is an historic opportunity to remove the last hurdle to direct peace talks. A positive outcome will mean a reduction in violence and Afghans immediately coming together at the negotiating table.https://t.co/kgavOZrBBy — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) August 7, 2020 × Afghanistan’s constitution recognises the Loya Jirga as "the highest manifestation of the will of the people of Afghanistan". The head of its secretariat, Abdul Salam Rahimi, said its decision was necessary as President Ashraf Ghani was not empowered to release prisoners convicted of such serious crimes. He said precautions would be taken to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

US Special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad warns against possible complications in Loya Jirga

Afghans shared accounts of violence linked to the Taliban on social media with the hashtag phrase `don`t redeem the Taliban` as anxiety grows as the United States withdraws troops and attempts to usher peace talks with the militant group.

The accounts of alleged violence and human rights abuses with the hashtag phrase in Dari meaning `don`t redeem the Taliban' have been shared more than 100,000 times on Twitter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/qatar-likely-to-hold-peace-talks-between-afghanistan-taliban-minister-314130">Also read|&nbsp;Qatar likely to hold peace talks between Afghanistan-Taliban: Minister</a>

Kabul-based Twitter user Ejaz Malikzada, 26, said the message had gained traction as Afghan social media users sought to remind foreign powers not to sacrifice achievements on human rights made in the last few decades.

"By participating in this hashtag I want to tell those foreigners who insist on starting peace talks in Afghanistan, they have ignored or forgotten the crimes and violence committed by the Taliban against Afghan people," he said.

Though millions of Afghans have no access to Twitter, for many, social media movements allow people to voice their concerns and share their grief from remote parts of the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-all-girls-robotics-team-designs-low-cost-ventilator-to-treat-coronavirus-patients-314677">Also read|&nbsp;Afghan all-girls robotics team designs low-cost ventilator to treat coronavirus patients</a>

The Taliban has carried out attacks that have killed thousands of civilians around the country as they waged an insurgency since their ouster from power.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for a number of attacks this month, the most recent last week when a car bomb exploded at a government compound.

During their 1996-2001 rule they enforced their strict interpretation of Islamic law under which women were barred from education or leaving the house without a male relative.

The group say they have changed their approach to women`s rights and operations by government and foreign forces have also killed many civilians.

But many Afghans and human rights activists remain sceptical, saying they are concerned that impending U.S.-brokered peace talks, aimed at ending more than 18 years of war, will not include adequate protection of human rights if the insurgent group returns to a role in formal power.

Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said he suspected the social media campaign was due to 'anti-peace elements' and that "no legitimate rights will be lost" during peace talks.

Afghans shared accounts of violence linked to the Taliban on social media with the hashtag phrase `don`t redeem the Taliban` as anxiety grows as the United States withdraws troops and attempts to usher peace talks with the militant group.

Afghans shared accounts of violence linked to the Taliban on social media with the hashtag phrase `don`t redeem the Taliban` as anxiety grows as the United States withdraws troops and attempts to usher peace talks with the militant group. The accounts of alleged violence and human rights abuses with the hashtag phrase in Dari meaning `don`t redeem the Taliban' have been shared more than 100,000 times on Twitter. Also read| Qatar likely to hold peace talks between Afghanistan-Taliban: Minister Kabul-based Twitter user Ejaz Malikzada, 26, said the message had gained traction as Afghan social media users sought to remind foreign powers not to sacrifice achievements on human rights made in the last few decades. "By participating in this hashtag I want to tell those foreigners who insist on starting peace talks in Afghanistan, they have ignored or forgotten the crimes and violence committed by the Taliban against Afghan people," he said. Though millions of Afghans have no access to Twitter, for many, social media movements allow people to voice their concerns and share their grief from remote parts of the country. Also read| Afghan all-girls robotics team designs low-cost ventilator to treat coronavirus patients The Taliban has carried out attacks that have killed thousands of civilians around the country as they waged an insurgency since their ouster from power. The Taliban claimed responsibility for a number of attacks this month, the most recent last week when a car bomb exploded at a government compound. During their 1996-2001 rule they enforced their strict interpretation of Islamic law under which women were barred from education or leaving the house without a male relative. The group say they have changed their approach to women`s rights and operations by government and foreign forces have also killed many civilians. But many Afghans and human rights activists remain sceptical, saying they are concerned that impending U.S.-brokered peace talks, aimed at ending more than 18 years of war, will not include adequate protection of human rights if the insurgent group returns to a role in formal power. Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said he suspected the social media campaign was due to 'anti-peace elements' and that "no legitimate rights will be lost" during peace talks.

'Don't redeem the Taliban', Afghan social media users ask world before peace talks

The Afghan National Army on Sunday has killed seven Taliban terrorists and injured four other in the central province of Uruzgan.

The news was announced by a spokesman of the 205th Atal Corps. The incident took place after the terrorists launched attack on the military posts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/critics-of-us-taliban-deal-say-militants-cant-be-trusted-310748">Also read:&nbsp;Critics of US-Taliban deal say militants can't be trusted</a>

"Taliban insurgents attacked Afghan National Army posts in the districts of Trinkot, Khas Uruzgan, and Chora in central Uruzgan province last night. Seven insurgents were killed and four others suffered injuries," Sadiq Issa said.

Security forces in Kandahar province killed five Taliban terrorists after the militant organisation launched attacks on checkpoints on the same evening.

Five Taliban terrorists were also killed in the Kandahar province on the same evening, after a similar attack took place.&nbsp;

Taliban has not yet issued a statement about this incident.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Afghan National Army on Sunday has killed seven Taliban terrorists and injured four other in the central province of Uruzgan. The news was announced by a spokesman of the 205th Atal Corps.

The Afghan National Army on Sunday has killed seven Taliban terrorists and injured four other in the central province of Uruzgan. The news was announced by a spokesman of the 205th Atal Corps. The incident took place after the terrorists launched attack on the military posts. Also read: Critics of US-Taliban deal say militants can't be trusted "Taliban insurgents attacked Afghan National Army posts in the districts of Trinkot, Khas Uruzgan, and Chora in central Uruzgan province last night. Seven insurgents were killed and four others suffered injuries," Sadiq Issa said. Security forces in Kandahar province killed five Taliban terrorists after the militant organisation launched attacks on checkpoints on the same evening. Five Taliban terrorists were also killed in the Kandahar province on the same evening, after a similar attack took place. Taliban has not yet issued a statement about this incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan forces kill Taliban terrorists after clash at military checkpoints

An Afghan oxygen factory that had been closed for seven years has opened to help the nation's battle against the new coronavirus. Relatives of Afghans ailing with COVID-19 line up at the factory, getting free refills of the air that can keep their loved ones alive.

Old factory helps Afghan virus patients breathe

The Afghan Security Forces (ASF) has destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) camp at the Afghanistan Pakistan border and killed two LeT cadres. The operation, that took on June 29, lasted for two hours from 11 pm-1 am and in which Abu Bakar, LeT commander from Khyber Agency in Pakistan, was killed and his body was left on the Afghan side.

Afghan forces destroy LeT camp at Afghanistan-Pakistan border

The Afghan Security Forces (ASF) on Monday night destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) camp at the Afghanistan Pakistan border. The operation lasted for two hours from 11 PM to 1 AM and resulted in two Lashkar cadres being killed. This includes LeT commander Abu Bakar from Khyber Agency in Pakistan, whose body was left on the Afghan side.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-pak-border-sanctuary-for-terror-groups-pentagon-310240" hreflang="en">Afghan-Pak border sanctuary for terror groups: Pentagon</a>

During the action, two members of Afghan Security Forces also died and five were injured. The incidence happened close to Durand Line at Spinzara near Durbaba area of Naizan district of Nangarhar. Durand Line is the name of Afghanistan Pakistan border and the area of operation is in the eastern province of Nangarhar that borders Pakistan.

The action came after Lashkar-e-Taiba reportedly established camps in Wargah and Tordarah on the border and were launching attacks on Afghan forces from there. Members of the Taliban were also present during the operation. Sources believe that the causalities on LeT and Taliban side is much higher as the dead and injured were taken by those who were fleeing back to Pakistan in vehicles.

The development comes even as Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "Afghanistan-Pakistan border region remains a sanctuary for various groups" and this includes Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT).

Last month a United Nations report said that about 6,500 Pakistanis foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan including 1,000 belonging to Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The report said, most of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba fighters are co-located with Taliban fighters and are hand in glove with them.

Meanwhile, concerns have been expressed European Union heads of mission on the escalation of violence. The statement possed by EU mission in Afghanistan said, "The attacks by the Taliban against Afghan National Defence and security forces are undermining the prospect for Intra Afghan negotiation, this must end and a full-fledged ceasefire enter into force"&nbsp;

EU mission strongly condemned the "targeted killings" which have "risen sharply in recent weeks" directed against the clergy, journalist, media workers, human rights defenders. The EU said: "The violence must stop now and an immediate humanitarian ceasefire put in place" and "a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire is a subsequent step that needs to accompany the infra afghan negotiations". 
&nbsp;

The Afghan Security Forces (ASF) on Monday night destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) camp at the Afghanistan Pakistan border. The operation lasted for two hours from 11 PM to 1 AM and resulted in two Lashkar cadres being killed.

The Afghan Security Forces (ASF) on Monday night destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) camp at the Afghanistan Pakistan border. The operation lasted for two hours from 11 PM to 1 AM and resulted in two Lashkar cadres being killed. This includes LeT commander Abu Bakar from Khyber Agency in Pakistan, whose body was left on the Afghan side. Also read: Afghan-Pak border sanctuary for terror groups: Pentagon During the action, two members of Afghan Security Forces also died and five were injured. The incidence happened close to Durand Line at Spinzara near Durbaba area of Naizan district of Nangarhar. Durand Line is the name of Afghanistan Pakistan border and the area of operation is in the eastern province of Nangarhar that borders Pakistan. The action came after Lashkar-e-Taiba reportedly established camps in Wargah and Tordarah on the border and were launching attacks on Afghan forces from there. Members of the Taliban were also present during the operation. Sources believe that the causalities on LeT and Taliban side is much higher as the dead and injured were taken by those who were fleeing back to Pakistan in vehicles. The development comes even as Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "Afghanistan-Pakistan border region remains a sanctuary for various groups" and this includes Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT). Last month a United Nations report said that about 6,500 Pakistanis foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan including 1,000 belonging to Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The report said, most of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba fighters are co-located with Taliban fighters and are hand in glove with them. Meanwhile, concerns have been expressed European Union heads of mission on the escalation of violence. The statement possed by EU mission in Afghanistan said, "The attacks by the Taliban against Afghan National Defence and security forces are undermining the prospect for Intra Afghan negotiation, this must end and a full-fledged ceasefire enter into force" EU mission strongly condemned the "targeted killings" which have "risen sharply in recent weeks" directed against the clergy, journalist, media workers, human rights defenders. The EU said: "The violence must stop now and an immediate humanitarian ceasefire put in place" and "a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire is a subsequent step that needs to accompany the infra afghan negotiations".

Exclusive: Afghan forces destroy LeT camp at Af-Pak border; kill commander

Amid the Afghanistan-Taliban peace talks, Taliban had handed over a list of prisoners they wanted the Afghan government to release, and the Afghan government, too, had asked for release of the captivated soldiers.

As the&nbsp;Afghan government is slowly releasing selected prisoners, Taliban has also started releasing the captivated soldiers. On Monday, Taliban released 14 Afghan soldiers and policemen in several provinces across the country, Taliban spokesman confirmed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/western-powers-support-afghanistans-decision-to-not-release-taliban-prisoners-307334">Also read|&nbsp;Western powers support Afghanistan's decision to not release Taliban prisoners</a>

"Another group of 14 soldiers and policemen of the Kabul Administration were released from prisons of the Islamic Emirate in Logar, Nangarhar and Nooristan provinces and sent to their families," Suheil Shaheen wrote on Twitter.

In another tweet, Shaheen said that the head of the Taliban's political office, Baradar Akhund, met with United Nations Assistance Missions in Afghanistan chief Deborah Lyons in Qatar's capital Doha to discuss about the release of the remaining prisoners and the commencement of intra-Afghan talks.

The Afghan government has already released 3,000 out of the 5,000 said prisoners. However, the government is contemplating about releasing few hundreds of the high-profile prisoners, as they are believed to be responsible for some of the most violent attacks.

Amid the Afghanistan-Taliban peace talks, Taliban had handed over a list of prisoners they wanted the Afghan government to release, and the Afghan government, too, had asked for release of the captivated soldiers.

Amid the Afghanistan-Taliban peace talks, Taliban had handed over a list of prisoners they wanted the Afghan government to release, and the Afghan government, too, had asked for release of the captivated soldiers. As the Afghan government is slowly releasing selected prisoners, Taliban has also started releasing the captivated soldiers. On Monday, Taliban released 14 Afghan soldiers and policemen in several provinces across the country, Taliban spokesman confirmed. Also read| Western powers support Afghanistan's decision to not release Taliban prisoners "Another group of 14 soldiers and policemen of the Kabul Administration were released from prisons of the Islamic Emirate in Logar, Nangarhar and Nooristan provinces and sent to their families," Suheil Shaheen wrote on Twitter. In another tweet, Shaheen said that the head of the Taliban's political office, Baradar Akhund, met with United Nations Assistance Missions in Afghanistan chief Deborah Lyons in Qatar's capital Doha to discuss about the release of the remaining prisoners and the commencement of intra-Afghan talks. The Afghan government has already released 3,000 out of the 5,000 said prisoners. However, the government is contemplating about releasing few hundreds of the high-profile prisoners, as they are believed to be responsible for some of the most violent attacks.

Taliban releases 14 hostages amid prisoner-release agreement

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