Why is Pakistan building a new base near Afghanistan? Is it for American troops? The US wants to retain some assets in Afghanistan's neighbourhood. Will Pakistan host American soldiers? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Will American soldiers watch Afghanistan from Pakistan?

Taliban has publically threatened Afghan security guards who have worked for Australian embassy. The embassy has been shut by Australia. Taliban has circulated pictures of Afghan security guards who have worked for the embassy.

Australia shut its embassy on Friday highlighting security fears as US-led international forces withdraw from Afghanistan.

With President Joe Biden's September 11 deadline looming, nations are weighing how they might operate without the security blanket provided by US and NATO forces, while scrambling to decide what to do with thousands of Afghan staff.

Taliban have openly said that anyone working alongside foreign governments will be treated as collaborators and will be targetted.

Kabul-based political analyst Sayed Nasir Musawi told AFP he expected more foreign missions to close shop in coming months.

"Western countries are not fully sure about the continuation and survival of the incumbent government," he said.

The Afghan government insists it can keep the Taliban at bay, but the insurgents have made huge gains in the countryside in recent months and engage daily with local security forces.

The Taliban are now present in almost every Afghan province, have full or partial control of thousands of districts, and have effectively encircled several cities -- a similar situation to 1996, when they took over most of the country.

(With agency inputs)

Taliban has publically threatened Afghan security guards who have worked for Australian embassy. The embassy has been shut by Australia. Taliban has circulated pictures of Afghan security guards who have worked for the embassy.

Taliban has publically threatened Afghan security guards who have worked for Australian embassy. The embassy has been shut by Australia. Taliban has circulated pictures of Afghan security guards who have worked for the embassy. Australia shut its embassy on Friday highlighting security fears as US-led international forces withdraw from Afghanistan. With President Joe Biden's September 11 deadline looming, nations are weighing how they might operate without the security blanket provided by US and NATO forces, while scrambling to decide what to do with thousands of Afghan staff. Taliban have openly said that anyone working alongside foreign governments will be treated as collaborators and will be targetted. Kabul-based political analyst Sayed Nasir Musawi told AFP he expected more foreign missions to close shop in coming months. "Western countries are not fully sure about the continuation and survival of the incumbent government," he said. The Afghan government insists it can keep the Taliban at bay, but the insurgents have made huge gains in the countryside in recent months and engage daily with local security forces. The Taliban are now present in almost every Afghan province, have full or partial control of thousands of districts, and have effectively encircled several cities -- a similar situation to 1996, when they took over most of the country. (With agency inputs)

Taliban threatens Afghan security guards at Australian embassy

Australia&nbsp;was due Friday to shut its embassy in Afghanistan, highlighting the security fears for foreign missions and their local workers as US-led troops pull out of the war-torn country.

With President Joe Biden's September 11 deadline looming, nations are weighing how they might operate without the security blanket provided by US and NATO forces while scrambling to work out what to do with thousands of Afghan staff who fear being marked as collaborators by the Taliban.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-troop-pullout-proceeding-slightly-ahead-of-schedule-in-afghanistan-us-defence-secretary-austin-informs-congress-388017">US troop pullout proceeding 'slightly' ahead of schedule in Afghanistan, US defence secretary Austin informs Congress</a>

Kabul-based political analyst Sayed Nasir Musawi told AFP he expected more foreign missions to close shop in coming months.

"Western countries are not fully sure about the continuation and survival of the incumbent government," he said.

The Afghan government insists it can keep the Taliban at bay, but the insurgents have made huge gains in the countryside over the past months and engage daily with local security forces.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-warn-afghan-neighbours-against-allowing-us-bases-387551">Taliban warn Afghan neighbours against allowing US bases</a>&nbsp;

The Taliban are now present in almost every Afghan province, have full or partial control of thousands of districts, and have effectively encircled several cities, a similar situation to 1996 when they took over most of the country.

Their tactics have spurred speculation they are waiting for the last US troops to leave before launching all-out attacks to retake power by force.

Announcing the embassy closure earlier this week, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said there was an "increasingly uncertain security environment".

'Abandoned once again'

The Taliban tried to calm foreign missions, telling AFP earlier this week they can "continue their operations as usual", but their track record is still fresh in the memory.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-vows-to-ensure-security-of-foreign-missions-387267">Afghanistan vows to ensure security of foreign missions</a>

When the Islamist hardliners seized control of Kabul in 1996 they entered the United Nations compound and abducted the country's former leader, Najibullah Ahmadzai, who they brutally tortured and murdered.

Two years later the Taliban oversaw the killing of 10 Iranian diplomats at their consulate in the northern Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif.

Still, Musawi had some hope.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hasty-us-withdrawal-a-blow-to-afghan-peace-process-says-china-385452">Hasty US withdrawal a blow to Afghan peace process, says China</a>

"I think&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;will not close their embassy forever in Afghanistan," he said.

"After the peace talks become clear between the government and the Taliban, or the current government might agree to power sharing with the Taliban,&nbsp;in that case&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;will re-open its embassy."

The Telegraph newspaper, meanwhile, reported Friday that Britain was preparing to relocate hundreds of embassy workers and their families to avoid a "Saigon moment", the panicked 1975 helicopter evacuation of the US embassy in South Vietnam as the Viet Cong and communist forces seized the city.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-us-begins-withdrawing-troops-from-the-forever-war-381935">Afghanistan: US begins withdrawing troops from the 'forever war'</a>

The UK has expanded its scheme giving military interpreters asylum, the newspaper said and was offering residency to embassy staff who might be at risk.

Washington said late Thursday it was "rapidly" formulating plans to evacuate potentially thousands who worked for coalition forces in Afghanistan over the past two decades.

"We recognize that there are a significant amount of Afghans that supported the United States and supported the coalition, and that they could be at risk," said Joint Chiefs Chairman General Mark Milley.

"We recognize that a very important task is to ensure that we remain faithful to them, and that we do what is necessary to ensure their protection and, if necessary, get them out of the country if that is what they want to do."

Still, thousands of Afghans are scrambling for visas or asylum, and one group was due to hold a demonstration near the fortified green zone in the capital later Friday to press their claims.

"The closure of Australian embassy in Kabul is not good news for Afghans," said Ahmad Rashed, 25, a bank employee.

"I believe, more embassies and NGOs might stop their operations in Afghanistan and I feel we will be abandoned once again," he told AFP.

Australia was due Friday to shut its embassy in Afghanistan, highlighting the security fears for foreign missions and their local workers as US-led troops pull out of the war-torn country.

Australia was due Friday to shut its embassy in Afghanistan, highlighting the security fears for foreign missions and their local workers as US-led troops pull out of the war-torn country. With President Joe Biden's September 11 deadline looming, nations are weighing how they might operate without the security blanket provided by US and NATO forces while scrambling to work out what to do with thousands of Afghan staff who fear being marked as collaborators by the Taliban. Also Read | US troop pullout proceeding 'slightly' ahead of schedule in Afghanistan, US defence secretary Austin informs Congress Kabul-based political analyst Sayed Nasir Musawi told AFP he expected more foreign missions to close shop in coming months. "Western countries are not fully sure about the continuation and survival of the incumbent government," he said. The Afghan government insists it can keep the Taliban at bay, but the insurgents have made huge gains in the countryside over the past months and engage daily with local security forces. Also Read | Taliban warn Afghan neighbours against allowing US bases The Taliban are now present in almost every Afghan province, have full or partial control of thousands of districts, and have effectively encircled several cities, a similar situation to 1996 when they took over most of the country. Their tactics have spurred speculation they are waiting for the last US troops to leave before launching all-out attacks to retake power by force. Announcing the embassy closure earlier this week, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said there was an "increasingly uncertain security environment". 'Abandoned once again' The Taliban tried to calm foreign missions, telling AFP earlier this week they can "continue their operations as usual", but their track record is still fresh in the memory. Also Read | Afghanistan vows to ensure security of foreign missions When the Islamist hardliners seized control of Kabul in 1996 they entered the United Nations compound and abducted the country's former leader, Najibullah Ahmadzai, who they brutally tortured and murdered. Two years later the Taliban oversaw the killing of 10 Iranian diplomats at their consulate in the northern Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif. Still, Musawi had some hope. Also Read | Hasty US withdrawal a blow to Afghan peace process, says China "I think Australia will not close their embassy forever in Afghanistan," he said. "After the peace talks become clear between the government and the Taliban, or the current government might agree to power sharing with the Taliban, in that case Australia will re-open its embassy." The Telegraph newspaper, meanwhile, reported Friday that Britain was preparing to relocate hundreds of embassy workers and their families to avoid a "Saigon moment", the panicked 1975 helicopter evacuation of the US embassy in South Vietnam as the Viet Cong and communist forces seized the city. Also Read | Afghanistan: US begins withdrawing troops from the 'forever war' The UK has expanded its scheme giving military interpreters asylum, the newspaper said and was offering residency to embassy staff who might be at risk. Washington said late Thursday it was "rapidly" formulating plans to evacuate potentially thousands who worked for coalition forces in Afghanistan over the past two decades. "We recognize that there are a significant amount of Afghans that supported the United States and supported the coalition, and that they could be at risk," said Joint Chiefs Chairman General Mark Milley. "We recognize that a very important task is to ensure that we remain faithful to them, and that we do what is necessary to ensure their protection and, if necessary, get them out of the country if that is what they want to do." Still, thousands of Afghans are scrambling for visas or asylum, and one group was due to hold a demonstration near the fortified green zone in the capital later Friday to press their claims. "The closure of Australian embassy in Kabul is not good news for Afghans," said Ahmad Rashed, 25, a bank employee. "I believe, more embassies and NGOs might stop their operations in Afghanistan and I feel we will be abandoned once again," he told AFP.

Australia shutters embassy in Afghanistan, sparking exodus fears

In a hearing on Thursday, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin told the US Congress that the troop pullout has been proceeding "slightly" ahead of schedule in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-warn-afghan-neighbours-against-allowing-us-bases-387551">Afghanistan</a>.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-asia-diary-us-trashes-unwanted-military-gear-in-afghanistan-387173/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We accomplished the mission for which our troops were sent to Afghanistan," the US defence secretary told lawmakers.

President Biden had set September 11 as the date for the complete pullout of US troops from Afghanistan, which would be the 20th anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Tower and Pentagon.

Biden had, however, asserted that the withdrawal would be conducted "responsibly, deliberately, and safely" while informing that the US will not take its "eye off the terrorist threat".

In a statement, the US president had said that Pakistan, as well as Russia, China, India, and Turkey, should do more as they have "significant stake in the stable future for Afghanistan."

Amid speculation that Pakistan would offer military bases to the US, Pakistan's foreign office had said, "There is no US military or airbase in Pakistan; nor is any such proposal envisaged."

"Pakistan and the US have a framework of cooperation in terms of Air Lines of Communication (ALOC) and Ground Lines of Communication (GLOC) in place since 2001. No new agreement has been made in this regard," the Pakistan foreign office stated.

Pakistan's statement came after the commander of the US Central Command General Kenneth McKenzie Jr had told the US Senate that some US troops will remain “stationed nearby Afghanistan” even as President Biden informed that his government was in talks with with “Central Asian neighbours of Afghanistan” to have US troops stationed on the ground nearby. 
&nbsp; 
Reports say Austin had earlier spoken to Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa expressing the Biden administration intention&nbsp;“to continue to work together to further regional security and stability.”

"We urge neighbouring countries not to allow anyone to do so, if such a step is taken again, it will be a great and historic mistake and disgrace," the Taliban had said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Taliban had urged neighbouring countries not to allow US bases on their soil.

In his statement, Biden had made it clear that the US would keep providing "assistance to the Afghan national defences&nbsp;and security&nbsp;forces" although the US president maintained the US will&nbsp;not stay involved in Afghanistan militarily.&nbsp;

(With Agency inputs)

In a hearing on Thursday, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin told the US Congress that the troop pullout has been proceeding "slightly" ahead of schedule in Afghanistan.

In a hearing on Thursday, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin told the US Congress that the troop pullout has been proceeding "slightly" ahead of schedule in Afghanistan. Watch: "We accomplished the mission for which our troops were sent to Afghanistan," the US defence secretary told lawmakers. President Biden had set September 11 as the date for the complete pullout of US troops from Afghanistan, which would be the 20th anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Tower and Pentagon. Biden had, however, asserted that the withdrawal would be conducted "responsibly, deliberately, and safely" while informing that the US will not take its "eye off the terrorist threat". In a statement, the US president had said that Pakistan, as well as Russia, China, India, and Turkey, should do more as they have "significant stake in the stable future for Afghanistan." Amid speculation that Pakistan would offer military bases to the US, Pakistan's foreign office had said, "There is no US military or airbase in Pakistan; nor is any such proposal envisaged." "Pakistan and the US have a framework of cooperation in terms of Air Lines of Communication (ALOC) and Ground Lines of Communication (GLOC) in place since 2001. No new agreement has been made in this regard," the Pakistan foreign office stated. Pakistan's statement came after the commander of the US Central Command General Kenneth McKenzie Jr had told the US Senate that some US troops will remain “stationed nearby Afghanistan” even as President Biden informed that his government was in talks with with “Central Asian neighbours of Afghanistan” to have US troops stationed on the ground nearby. Reports say Austin had earlier spoken to Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa expressing the Biden administration intention “to continue to work together to further regional security and stability.” "We urge neighbouring countries not to allow anyone to do so, if such a step is taken again, it will be a great and historic mistake and disgrace," the Taliban had said in a statement. Meanwhile, the Taliban had urged neighbouring countries not to allow US bases on their soil. In his statement, Biden had made it clear that the US would keep providing "assistance to the Afghan national defences and security forces" although the US president maintained the US will not stay involved in Afghanistan militarily. (With Agency inputs)

US troop pullout proceeding 'slightly' ahead of schedule in Afghanistan, US defence secretary Austin informs Congress

Are Pakistan & US friends or enemies? What is their relationship status? 3 developments tell why Washington can neither ignore Islamabad nor fully embrace it. Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Are Pak & US friends or enemies?

American troops are trashing valuable military equipment ahead of their Afghan pullout. They fear strategic assets may fall into the wrong hands. But for local scrap dealers, it means a lot of unsellable junk. Mariam Wardak gets you the story.

South Asia Diary: US trashes unwanted military gear in Afghanistan

According to a Pentagon official, Pakistan has allowed the US military to use its airspace and given ground access so that it can support its presence in Afghanistan. He also said that Pakistan has played an important role in Afghanistan and they have supported the Afghan peace process.

Pakistan to continue giving air, ground access to US says Pentagon

The Afghan government is committed to ensuring safety and security of foreign organisations and diplomatic missions, the Foreign Ministry here said on Tuesday following Australia`s announcement to close its embassy in Kabul. 
 
"Based on the international laws and conventions, and within the framework of agreements with friendly countries, the Afghan government remains obligated to ensure the security of diplomatic missions and the safety of diplomatic and consular representatives," the Ministry said in a statement. 
 
The statement came after Australia decided to close its embassy in Kabul amid increasingly uncertain security situation. 
 
"We hope, as mentioned in the Australian government statement, that this measure will be temporary, and Australia will soon resume its permanent presence in Afghanistan," the Ministry added. 
 
Australia`s embassy building will close on Friday, with officials in future visiting Afghanistan from a post elsewhere in the region, Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in a joint statement. 
 
The government said Australia would revert to diplomats using visiting accreditation for relations with Afghanistan, as was the case before the Kabul embassy opened in 2006, dpa news agency reported. 
 
"It is Australia`s expectation that this measure will be temporary and that we will resume a permanent presence in Kabul once circumstances permit," the statement read. 
 
Canberra cited the "increasingly uncertain security environment" that has come with the imminent departure of international forces and said the government had been advised security arrangements could not be provided to support an ongoing diplomatic presence. 
 
The move "does not alter our commitment to Afghanistan or its people", Payne and Morrison said. 
 
Afghanistan is in a state of uncertainty after US President Joe Biden announced that American troops will pull out from the country by September 11, 2021 after almost 20 years. 
 
NATO agreed to follow suit. 
 
Almost 10,000 NATO soldiers from the Resolute Support training mission, including 2,500 soldiers from the US and around 1,100 from Germany, the two biggest contingents, are due to leave the country. 
 
Australia has 80 troops remaining in Afghanistan as part of the NATO mission. 
 
Since the withdrawal officially began on May 1, the Taliban have intensified attacks on provincial capitals, districts, bases and checkpoints.

The Afghan government is committed to ensuring safety and security of foreign organisations and diplomatic missions, the Foreign Ministry here said on Tuesday following Australia`s announcement to close its embassy in Kabul.

The Afghan government is committed to ensuring safety and security of foreign organisations and diplomatic missions, the Foreign Ministry here said on Tuesday following Australia`s announcement to close its embassy in Kabul. "Based on the international laws and conventions, and within the framework of agreements with friendly countries, the Afghan government remains obligated to ensure the security of diplomatic missions and the safety of diplomatic and consular representatives," the Ministry said in a statement. The statement came after Australia decided to close its embassy in Kabul amid increasingly uncertain security situation. "We hope, as mentioned in the Australian government statement, that this measure will be temporary, and Australia will soon resume its permanent presence in Afghanistan," the Ministry added. Australia`s embassy building will close on Friday, with officials in future visiting Afghanistan from a post elsewhere in the region, Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in a joint statement. The government said Australia would revert to diplomats using visiting accreditation for relations with Afghanistan, as was the case before the Kabul embassy opened in 2006, dpa news agency reported. "It is Australia`s expectation that this measure will be temporary and that we will resume a permanent presence in Kabul once circumstances permit," the statement read. Canberra cited the "increasingly uncertain security environment" that has come with the imminent departure of international forces and said the government had been advised security arrangements could not be provided to support an ongoing diplomatic presence. The move "does not alter our commitment to Afghanistan or its people", Payne and Morrison said. Afghanistan is in a state of uncertainty after US President Joe Biden announced that American troops will pull out from the country by September 11, 2021 after almost 20 years. NATO agreed to follow suit. Almost 10,000 NATO soldiers from the Resolute Support training mission, including 2,500 soldiers from the US and around 1,100 from Germany, the two biggest contingents, are due to leave the country. Australia has 80 troops remaining in Afghanistan as part of the NATO mission. Since the withdrawal officially began on May 1, the Taliban have intensified attacks on provincial capitals, districts, bases and checkpoints.

Afghanistan vows to ensure security of foreign missions

Fighting has erupted across Afghanistan as the Taliban has launched an offensive in various provinces on the outskirt of the Laghman province. At least 50 Taliban terrorists have been killed and 60 others have been wounded in the last 24 hours. At least 10 civilians and armed forces have also been killed due to the fighting between government forces and Taliban.

Afghanistan forces fend off offensive from the Taliban

Tribal&nbsp;elders&nbsp;in eastern&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan">Afghanistan</a> have achieved something that has long eluded world leaders - a&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;between the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;government.

The month-long stoppage in hostilities in the Alingar district of Laghman province, one of the hardest hit by violence, was called to allow&nbsp;local&nbsp;farmers to harvest their wheat crop and students to sit annual examinations.

"A&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;has been something the world's most powerful countries were trying to establish in&nbsp;Afghanistan, but unfortunately, couldn't," Jaber Alkozai, resident of Alingar, told Reuters on Wednesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-resumes-shooting-as-ceasefire-ends-385400" hreflang="en">Afghanistan: Taliban resumes shooting as ceasefire ends</a>

Tribal&nbsp;elders&nbsp;drafted a demand letter, known&nbsp;locally as an "Ariza", which was then signed by two&nbsp;local&nbsp;officials of each the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;and the&nbsp;government.

Reuters has reviewed a copy of the letter. There have been no reports of fighting in Alinger since the&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;began on Tuesday, despite heavy clashes elsewhere in Laghman.

The&nbsp;ceasefire, which will last until June 21, is not the first such agreement during the war, but it comes at a critical time. Fighting has intensified across the country in the wake of Washington's announcement that it would unconditionally pull out all US&nbsp;troops by September.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-air-raids-kill-12-taliban-terrorists-in-eastern-logar-province-385800">Afghan air raids kill 12 Taliban terrorists in eastern Logar province</a>

Washington-led Western capitals and other influential regional countries have so far been unable to convince the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;to halt fighting against&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;forces for an extended period, despite protracted attempts and talks.

Qari Nabi Sarwar, a&nbsp;tribal&nbsp;elder of Alingar, said farmers had been facing another year of the loss of ready-to-harvest wheat due to fighting. Dozens of stacks of wheat were burned to ashes in previous years after being hit in the crossfire by ammunition, including rocket launchers.

"Farmers were preparing to get the result of their toil, and the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;and&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;forces were fingers-on-triggers, looking for a small excuse to fire at each other," Sarwar told Reuters by phone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/warring-afghan-sides-discuss-peace-talks-as-deadly-blast-hits-mosque-385282" hreflang="en">Warring Afghan sides discuss peace talks as deadly blast hits mosque</a>

Farmers in the region plan to begin their wheat harvest on May 22, which marks the first day of the third&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;solar month of Jawza, traditionally the start of harvest across the country.

Haji Abdul Waris, a member of the delegation that approached both sides, told Reuters the&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;would also prevent thousands of students from missing their exams "as their schools are turned into trenches".

Locals are happy with the development because they believe it serves as an important example that a&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;across&nbsp;Afghanistan can be achieved by "true and honest"&nbsp;tribal&nbsp;elders, Alkozai said.

Asadullah Dawlatzai, a spokesman for the Laghman provincial governor, said the&nbsp;government&nbsp;was working with&nbsp;local&nbsp;tribal&nbsp;elders&nbsp;and religious scholars to expand the&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;into other areas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-offers-to-host-afghan-peace-talks-backs-leading-role-for-ghani-led-govt-386029">China offers to host Afghan peace talks, backs leading role for Ghani-led govt</a>

"Through this, the&nbsp;local&nbsp;government&nbsp;is trying to reach a permanent&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;even if it is on a village, district or provincial level," he said, adding that it was also in force in Laghman's provincial capital, Mehtarlam.

A spokesman for the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;did not respond to requests for comment. A source in the insurgent group confirmed the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;had agreed to the arrangement, which they described as an agreement with&nbsp;locals, not the&nbsp;government.

The one-page demand letter, signed by&nbsp;local&nbsp;government&nbsp;officials, the military and the&nbsp;Taliban, stipulates both sides will remain limited to areas already held and will undertake no movement or operations during the&nbsp;ceasefire.

"Both sides must take tribes' problems into consideration and help them in solving them; whichever side violates the abovementioned items will be guilty before the tribe," the letter said.

Tribal elders in eastern Afghanistan have achieved something that has long eluded world leaders - a ceasefire between the Taliban and the Afghan government. The month-long stoppage in hostilities in the Alingar district of Laghman province, one of the hardest hit by violence, was called to allow local farmers to harvest their wheat crop and students to sit annual examinations.

Tribal elders in eastern Afghanistan have achieved something that has long eluded world leaders - a ceasefire between the Taliban and the Afghan government. The month-long stoppage in hostilities in the Alingar district of Laghman province, one of the hardest hit by violence, was called to allow local farmers to harvest their wheat crop and students to sit annual examinations. "A ceasefire has been something the world's most powerful countries were trying to establish in Afghanistan, but unfortunately, couldn't," Jaber Alkozai, resident of Alingar, told Reuters on Wednesday. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban resumes shooting as ceasefire ends Tribal elders drafted a demand letter, known locally as an "Ariza", which was then signed by two local officials of each the Taliban and the government. Reuters has reviewed a copy of the letter. There have been no reports of fighting in Alinger since the ceasefire began on Tuesday, despite heavy clashes elsewhere in Laghman. The ceasefire, which will last until June 21, is not the first such agreement during the war, but it comes at a critical time. Fighting has intensified across the country in the wake of Washington's announcement that it would unconditionally pull out all US troops by September. Also read | Afghan air raids kill 12 Taliban terrorists in eastern Logar province Washington-led Western capitals and other influential regional countries have so far been unable to convince the Taliban to halt fighting against Afghan forces for an extended period, despite protracted attempts and talks. Qari Nabi Sarwar, a tribal elder of Alingar, said farmers had been facing another year of the loss of ready-to-harvest wheat due to fighting. Dozens of stacks of wheat were burned to ashes in previous years after being hit in the crossfire by ammunition, including rocket launchers. "Farmers were preparing to get the result of their toil, and the Taliban and Afghan forces were fingers-on-triggers, looking for a small excuse to fire at each other," Sarwar told Reuters by phone. Also read | Warring Afghan sides discuss peace talks as deadly blast hits mosque Farmers in the region plan to begin their wheat harvest on May 22, which marks the first day of the third Afghan solar month of Jawza, traditionally the start of harvest across the country. Haji Abdul Waris, a member of the delegation that approached both sides, told Reuters the ceasefire would also prevent thousands of students from missing their exams "as their schools are turned into trenches". Locals are happy with the development because they believe it serves as an important example that a ceasefire across Afghanistan can be achieved by "true and honest" tribal elders, Alkozai said. Asadullah Dawlatzai, a spokesman for the Laghman provincial governor, said the government was working with local tribal elders and religious scholars to expand the ceasefire into other areas. Also read | China offers to host Afghan peace talks, backs leading role for Ghani-led govt "Through this, the local government is trying to reach a permanent ceasefire even if it is on a village, district or provincial level," he said, adding that it was also in force in Laghman's provincial capital, Mehtarlam. A spokesman for the Taliban did not respond to requests for comment. A source in the insurgent group confirmed the Taliban had agreed to the arrangement, which they described as an agreement with locals, not the government. The one-page demand letter, signed by local government officials, the military and the Taliban, stipulates both sides will remain limited to areas already held and will undertake no movement or operations during the ceasefire. "Both sides must take tribes' problems into consideration and help them in solving them; whichever side violates the abovementioned items will be guilty before the tribe," the letter said.

Tribal elders broker local Taliban, Afghan government ceasefire

A total of 12 Taliban terrorists have been confirmed dead as fighting planes struck a Taliban hideout in the Azra district of the eastern Logar province on Monday, said an army statement released Tuesday. 
 
Acting on a tip-off, the planes targeted the hideout in the Kozachatrakai area of the restive Azra district late Monday night, killing 12 armed militants on the spot and injuring three others, Xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying. 
 
Seven motorbikes and a number of arms and ammunition were also destroyed during the airstrikes, the statement added. 
 
Taliban militants have intensified activities since the formal start of the U.-led forces pull out from Afghanistan on May 1 and are active in parts of Logar province.

A total of 12 Taliban terrorists have been confirmed dead as fighting planes struck a Taliban hideout in the Azra district of the eastern Logar province on Monday, said an army statement released Tuesday.

A total of 12 Taliban terrorists have been confirmed dead as fighting planes struck a Taliban hideout in the Azra district of the eastern Logar province on Monday, said an army statement released Tuesday. Acting on a tip-off, the planes targeted the hideout in the Kozachatrakai area of the restive Azra district late Monday night, killing 12 armed militants on the spot and injuring three others, Xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying. Seven motorbikes and a number of arms and ammunition were also destroyed during the airstrikes, the statement added. Taliban militants have intensified activities since the formal start of the U.-led forces pull out from Afghanistan on May 1 and are active in parts of Logar province.

Afghan air raids kill 12 Taliban terrorists in eastern Logar province

As American and NATO forces prepare to leave the Afghanistan, interpreters who helped the United States soldiers for years are now fearing for their lives and are facing the prospect of Taliban reprisals.

Afghans who helped US fear being left behind and reprisals by Taiwan

Amid the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani has emphasised the need for a decision on peace by the regional players, and for Europe's much-needed role to 'get Pakistan on board' on the ongoing peace talks with Taliban.&nbsp;

"Peace will primarily be decided upon regionally, and I believe we are at a crucial moment of rethinking. It is first and foremost a matter of getting Pakistan on board. The US now plays only a minor role. The question of peace or hostility is now in Pakistani hands," Ghani told the German news website, Der Spiegel, in an interview.&nbsp;

Over Pakistan's influence on the Taliban, Ghani said, "Pakistan operates an organised system of support. The Taliban receive logistics there, their finances are there and recruitment is there."&nbsp;

"The names of the various decision-making bodies of the Taliban are Quetta Shura, Miramshah Shura, and Peshawar Shura - named after the Pakistani cities where they are located. There is a deep relationship with the state," he added.&nbsp;

These remarks come as Ghani met Pakistan army chief Gen Qamar Bajwa earlier this week and discussed Pakistan's role in the peace process and the escalation of violence in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"President Ashraf Ghani attached great importance to the role of the regional countries particularly Pakistan in establishing peace in Afghanistan and the country's influence on the Taliban," the Afghan Presidential Palace said in a statement on Monday.&nbsp;

Afghanistan and Pakistan have no choice but to opt for mutual respect, good neighbourliness, and economic cooperation, Ghani had said. &nbsp;

Ghani further said that there is no military solution for the ongoing war in Afghanistan and that the Taliban's insistence to stick to a military solution is unacceptable for the people of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has seen a spike in the incidents of violence in recent weeks, leading to casualties of Afghan security forces and civilians. US withdrawal from Afghanistan is underway and set to complete by September 11. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Amid the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani has emphasised the need for a decision on peace by the regional players, and for Europe's much-needed role to 'get Pakistan on board' on the ongoing peace talks with Taliban.

Amid the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani has emphasised the need for a decision on peace by the regional players, and for Europe's much-needed role to 'get Pakistan on board' on the ongoing peace talks with Taliban. "Peace will primarily be decided upon regionally, and I believe we are at a crucial moment of rethinking. It is first and foremost a matter of getting Pakistan on board. The US now plays only a minor role. The question of peace or hostility is now in Pakistani hands," Ghani told the German news website, Der Spiegel, in an interview. Over Pakistan's influence on the Taliban, Ghani said, "Pakistan operates an organised system of support. The Taliban receive logistics there, their finances are there and recruitment is there." "The names of the various decision-making bodies of the Taliban are Quetta Shura, Miramshah Shura, and Peshawar Shura - named after the Pakistani cities where they are located. There is a deep relationship with the state," he added. These remarks come as Ghani met Pakistan army chief Gen Qamar Bajwa earlier this week and discussed Pakistan's role in the peace process and the escalation of violence in Afghanistan. "President Ashraf Ghani attached great importance to the role of the regional countries particularly Pakistan in establishing peace in Afghanistan and the country's influence on the Taliban," the Afghan Presidential Palace said in a statement on Monday. Afghanistan and Pakistan have no choice but to opt for mutual respect, good neighbourliness, and economic cooperation, Ghani had said. Ghani further said that there is no military solution for the ongoing war in Afghanistan and that the Taliban's insistence to stick to a military solution is unacceptable for the people of Afghanistan. Afghanistan has seen a spike in the incidents of violence in recent weeks, leading to casualties of Afghan security forces and civilians. US withdrawal from Afghanistan is underway and set to complete by September 11. (With inputs from agencies)

Question of peace or hostility in Afghanistan in Pakistani hands, says President Ghani 

The jihadist&nbsp;Islamic&nbsp;State&nbsp;claimed it carried out this week's attack on a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital that left 12 worshippers dead, SITE Intelligence Group reported.

The explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul province during Friday prayers and shattered the relative calm of a three-day ceasefire agreed between the Taliban and the Afghan government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blast-in-kabul-mosque-kills-12-worshippers-shattering-eid-ceasefire-calm-385004">Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm</a>

IS said its fighters had placed an explosive device inside the mosque and detonated it after worshippers arrived to offer prayers on the second day of the Eid al-Fitr holidays, the US monitor of jihadist groups said late Saturday.

The bombing killed the imam of the mosque, who was leading the prayers.

Friday was also the second day of a three-day ceasefire agreed by the Taliban and the government to mark Eid al-Fitr.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-celebrates-eid-amid-ceasefire-between-taliban-and-government-384764">Afghanistan celebrates Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government</a>

The temporary truce was announced after soaring violence since May 01, when the US military began formally withdrawing its last remaining troops from the country.

A series of blasts outside a girls' school in Kabul last week killed more than 50 people and wounded scores, most of them female students.

No group has so far claimed the attack, one of the deadliest in recent years.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bombings-kill-11-afghans-on-first-day-of-ceasefire-384816">Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire</a>

In recent weeks, fighting between the Taliban and government forces had surged across several provinces before the ceasefire was agreed, including in the southern provinces of Kandahar and Helmand.

The jihadist Islamic State claimed it carried out this week's attack on a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital that left 12 worshippers dead, SITE Intelligence Group reported.

The jihadist Islamic State claimed it carried out this week's attack on a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital that left 12 worshippers dead, SITE Intelligence Group reported. The explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul province during Friday prayers and shattered the relative calm of a three-day ceasefire agreed between the Taliban and the Afghan government. Also read | Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm IS said its fighters had placed an explosive device inside the mosque and detonated it after worshippers arrived to offer prayers on the second day of the Eid al-Fitr holidays, the US monitor of jihadist groups said late Saturday. The bombing killed the imam of the mosque, who was leading the prayers. Friday was also the second day of a three-day ceasefire agreed by the Taliban and the government to mark Eid al-Fitr. Also read | Afghanistan celebrates Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government The temporary truce was announced after soaring violence since May 01, when the US military began formally withdrawing its last remaining troops from the country. A series of blasts outside a girls' school in Kabul last week killed more than 50 people and wounded scores, most of them female students. No group has so far claimed the attack, one of the deadliest in recent years. Also Read | Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire In recent weeks, fighting between the Taliban and government forces had surged across several provinces before the ceasefire was agreed, including in the southern provinces of Kandahar and Helmand.

IS claims Afghan mosque blast that killed 12 worshippers: SITE

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that hasty US withdrawal from Afghanistan deals a serious blow to the peace process and regional stability. He was speaking with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

"Wang Yi noted that the US`s hasty withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan already dealt a serious blow to the peace process in Afghanistan, as well as negatively affected the regional stability," Wang Yi was quoted as saying in the statement by the country`s foreign ministry.

"Under the circumstances, China expects the UN to play its due role, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) needs to closely monitor the situation. Afghanistan`s neighbour countries must strengthen relations, join efforts and take coordinated action," he said during the phone conversation on Saturday ahead of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-resumes-shooting-as-ceasefire-ends-385400">Afghanistan: Taliban resumes shooting as ceasefire ends</a>

Taliban has tried to take over some strategic areas in Afghanistan ever since the announcement of the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan

Earlier this week, Wang Yi elaborated on China`s position on the Afghan situation, when holding talks with foreign ministers of Central Asia countries in Xi`an City, Shaanxi Province.

The minister had said that the current evolution of the Afghan situation has drawn great attention from the international community.The Chinese side holds the view that foreign troops should withdraw from Afghanistan in an orderly and responsible manner to prevent any hasty action from adversely affecting and seriously interfering with the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan, he added.

US President Joe Biden announced last month the decision to withdraw troops by September 11. The Taliban rejected President Joe Biden`s announcement that troops would stay on past the deadline but withdraw over the next four and a half months.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that hasty US withdrawal from Afghanistan deals a serious blow to the peace process and regional stability. He was speaking with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that hasty US withdrawal from Afghanistan deals a serious blow to the peace process and regional stability. He was speaking with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi. "Wang Yi noted that the US`s hasty withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan already dealt a serious blow to the peace process in Afghanistan, as well as negatively affected the regional stability," Wang Yi was quoted as saying in the statement by the country`s foreign ministry. "Under the circumstances, China expects the UN to play its due role, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) needs to closely monitor the situation. Afghanistan`s neighbour countries must strengthen relations, join efforts and take coordinated action," he said during the phone conversation on Saturday ahead of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan. Also Read | Afghanistan: Taliban resumes shooting as ceasefire ends Taliban has tried to take over some strategic areas in Afghanistan ever since the announcement of the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan Earlier this week, Wang Yi elaborated on China`s position on the Afghan situation, when holding talks with foreign ministers of Central Asia countries in Xi`an City, Shaanxi Province. The minister had said that the current evolution of the Afghan situation has drawn great attention from the international community.The Chinese side holds the view that foreign troops should withdraw from Afghanistan in an orderly and responsible manner to prevent any hasty action from adversely affecting and seriously interfering with the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan, he added. US President Joe Biden announced last month the decision to withdraw troops by September 11. The Taliban rejected President Joe Biden`s announcement that troops would stay on past the deadline but withdraw over the next four and a half months. (With inputs from agencies)

Hasty US withdrawal a blow to Afghan peace process, says China

Negotiators from the Afghan government and Taliban teams met Friday to discuss speeding up stalled peace talks, officials from both sides said, as a deadly mosque blast shattered the calm of a holiday ceasefire in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Despite unprecedented talks opening in September in Doha, the two warring sides have struggled to make headway, with violence escalating in Afghanistan as the United States pulls out the last of its troops.

"Today a meeting was held in Doha between the delegations of both negotiating sides," the Afghan government's peace team tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blast-in-kabul-mosque-kills-12-worshippers-shattering-eid-ceasefire-calm-385004" hreflang="en">Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm</a>

The parties "emphasized speeding up the peace talks in Doha", it added.

In a similar statement posted to Twitter, the Taliban said "both sides agreed to continue the talks after (Eid al-Fitr)", which ends on Saturday.

A three-day ceasefire agreed by the warring sides came into force on Thursday to mark the Muslim holiday, after weeks of deadly violence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-army-leaves-kandahar-airfield-as-the-drawdown-continues-in-afghanistan-384977" hreflang="en">US army leaves Kandahar Airfield as the drawdown continues in Afghanistan</a>

But the calm was broken by a blast at a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital, which killed 12 people including the imam leading Friday prayers.&nbsp;

No group has so far claimed the attack and the Taliban denied responsibility.

A spokesman for the interior ministry said the explosives were placed in the mosque ahead of the prayers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bombings-kill-11-afghans-on-first-day-of-ceasefire-384816" hreflang="en">Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire</a>

Afghans have been cautiously enjoying the rare respite from violence, only the fourth such truce in the two decades-long conflict. &nbsp;

Ceasefires in the past have largely held, in what is widely thought to be an exercise by the Taliban leadership to prove it has control over the myriad factions across the country that make up the hardline movement.

US exit from key airfield base

As violence has soared, including a wave of targeted killings on Afghanistan’s educated class, international efforts have been made to jump start the talks -- &nbsp;including a one day conference in Moscow in March attended by representatives on both sides, as well as Russia, the United States, China and Pakistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghanistan-envoy-to-india-thanks-sikh-ngo-for-providing-relief-to-afghan-refugees-384810" hreflang="en">Afghanistan envoy to India thanks Sikh NGO for providing relief to Afghan refugees</a>

Turkey was also scheduled to hold an Afghanistan conference in late April but it was postponed indefinitely because the Taliban declined to attend.

The United States, Russia and other mediators want to see some form of transitional government take power in Afghanistan involving the Taliban, but President Ashraf Ghani has insisted leaders can only be chosen at the ballot box.

Having made enormous gains on the battleground, the Taliban appear to have little to gain from either strategy.

Washington has vowed to end America's longest war but missed a deadline earlier this month to withdraw all of its troops, as agreed with the Taliban in return for security guarantees and a promise to launch talks with the Afghan government, who were cut out of the deal.

President Joe Biden pushed back the date to September 11,&nbsp;20 years after the US invaded Afghanistan and ousted the hardline Taliban.

US and Afghan officials on Friday said Washington had pulled out completely from a major southern air base in the former Taliban stronghold of Kandahar, just a week after US airstrikes were launched from the airfield to push back a Taliban offensive.&nbsp;

An Afghan army officer at Kandahar Airfield, who asked not to be named, told AFP that government forces would be left exposed by the pullout.

"It is now going to be very difficult for us to conduct operations," he said. "Our aircraft can't fly at night so the night operations are going to be difficult."

Kandahar was the birthplace of the Taliban and has in recent months seen intense clashes between the resurgent militants and Afghan forces.&nbsp;

Despite the withdrawal, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a telephone call to President Ashraf Ghani promised "steadfast support" for Afghan forces, the State Department said, adding that he condemned the recent attacks, including a series of blasts outside a girls' school in Kabul which killed more than 50 people, mostly teenage girls.

Negotiators from the Afghan government and Taliban teams met Friday to discuss speeding up stalled peace talks, officials from both sides said, as a deadly mosque blast shattered the calm of a holiday ceasefire in Afghanistan.

Negotiators from the Afghan government and Taliban teams met Friday to discuss speeding up stalled peace talks, officials from both sides said, as a deadly mosque blast shattered the calm of a holiday ceasefire in Afghanistan. Despite unprecedented talks opening in September in Doha, the two warring sides have struggled to make headway, with violence escalating in Afghanistan as the United States pulls out the last of its troops. "Today a meeting was held in Doha between the delegations of both negotiating sides," the Afghan government's peace team tweeted. Also read | Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm The parties "emphasized speeding up the peace talks in Doha", it added. In a similar statement posted to Twitter, the Taliban said "both sides agreed to continue the talks after (Eid al-Fitr)", which ends on Saturday. A three-day ceasefire agreed by the warring sides came into force on Thursday to mark the Muslim holiday, after weeks of deadly violence. Also read | US army leaves Kandahar Airfield as the drawdown continues in Afghanistan But the calm was broken by a blast at a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital, which killed 12 people including the imam leading Friday prayers. No group has so far claimed the attack and the Taliban denied responsibility. A spokesman for the interior ministry said the explosives were placed in the mosque ahead of the prayers. Also read | Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire Afghans have been cautiously enjoying the rare respite from violence, only the fourth such truce in the two decades-long conflict. Ceasefires in the past have largely held, in what is widely thought to be an exercise by the Taliban leadership to prove it has control over the myriad factions across the country that make up the hardline movement. US exit from key airfield base As violence has soared, including a wave of targeted killings on Afghanistan’s educated class, international efforts have been made to jump start the talks -- including a one day conference in Moscow in March attended by representatives on both sides, as well as Russia, the United States, China and Pakistan. Also read | Afghanistan envoy to India thanks Sikh NGO for providing relief to Afghan refugees Turkey was also scheduled to hold an Afghanistan conference in late April but it was postponed indefinitely because the Taliban declined to attend. The United States, Russia and other mediators want to see some form of transitional government take power in Afghanistan involving the Taliban, but President Ashraf Ghani has insisted leaders can only be chosen at the ballot box. Having made enormous gains on the battleground, the Taliban appear to have little to gain from either strategy. Washington has vowed to end America's longest war but missed a deadline earlier this month to withdraw all of its troops, as agreed with the Taliban in return for security guarantees and a promise to launch talks with the Afghan government, who were cut out of the deal. President Joe Biden pushed back the date to September 11, 20 years after the US invaded Afghanistan and ousted the hardline Taliban. US and Afghan officials on Friday said Washington had pulled out completely from a major southern air base in the former Taliban stronghold of Kandahar, just a week after US airstrikes were launched from the airfield to push back a Taliban offensive. An Afghan army officer at Kandahar Airfield, who asked not to be named, told AFP that government forces would be left exposed by the pullout. "It is now going to be very difficult for us to conduct operations," he said. "Our aircraft can't fly at night so the night operations are going to be difficult." Kandahar was the birthplace of the Taliban and has in recent months seen intense clashes between the resurgent militants and Afghan forces. Despite the withdrawal, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a telephone call to President Ashraf Ghani promised "steadfast support" for Afghan forces, the State Department said, adding that he condemned the recent attacks, including a series of blasts outside a girls' school in Kabul which killed more than 50 people, mostly teenage girls.

Warring Afghan sides discuss peace talks as deadly blast hits mosque

US armed forces have left one of the largest military bases in Afghanistan, the Kandahar Airfield in the southern province once dominated by Taliban, US media reported citing security officials.

The airfield was turned over to the Afghan National Defence Security Forces earlier this week, the&nbsp;officials said, in a move that signals the urgency of the US effort to fully withdraw from the country by September 11.

"They have not officially handed over the base to us but I can confirm they left the base on Wednesday," said Khoja Yaya Alawi, a spokesman for the Afghan army in Kandahar.&nbsp;

This is the final phase of ending America's “forever war” in Afghanistan after 20 years.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden had set May 1 as the official start of the withdrawal of the remaining forces — about 2,500-3,500 US troops and about 7,000 NATO soldiers.

Taliban attacks in Afghanistan have increased as US and NATO forces begin their exit.

The Pentagon has continued to claim that small, harassing attacks by the Taliban in Afghanistan have not had a significant impact on the withdrawal of US forces.

Biden administration officials have also said there have been no attacks against US forces during the pullout process.

(With inputs from agencies)

US armed forces have left one of the largest military bases in Afghanistan, the Kandahar Airfield in the southern province once dominated by Taliban, US media reported citing security officials.

US armed forces have left one of the largest military bases in Afghanistan, the Kandahar Airfield in the southern province once dominated by Taliban, US media reported citing security officials. The airfield was turned over to the Afghan National Defence Security Forces earlier this week, the officials said, in a move that signals the urgency of the US effort to fully withdraw from the country by September 11. "They have not officially handed over the base to us but I can confirm they left the base on Wednesday," said Khoja Yaya Alawi, a spokesman for the Afghan army in Kandahar. This is the final phase of ending America's “forever war” in Afghanistan after 20 years. US President Joe Biden had set May 1 as the official start of the withdrawal of the remaining forces — about 2,500-3,500 US troops and about 7,000 NATO soldiers. Taliban attacks in Afghanistan have increased as US and NATO forces begin their exit. The Pentagon has continued to claim that small, harassing attacks by the Taliban in Afghanistan have not had a significant impact on the withdrawal of US forces. Biden administration officials have also said there have been no attacks against US forces during the pullout process. (With inputs from agencies)

US army leaves Kandahar Airfield as the drawdown continues in Afghanistan

A blast at a mosque during Friday prayer rocked the city of Kabul, killing at least&nbsp;12 people. The explosion took place in the mosque located on the outskirts of the Afghan capital amid an Eid ceasefire declared by the Taliban and the Afghan government.

"During Friday congregation, an explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul (province)," said Ferdaws Framurz, the spokesman for Kabul police.&nbsp;

The blast is the first major incident since a temporary truce between the Taliban and government troops came into force on Thursday.

The warring sides agreed on the truce to mark the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, only the fourth such halt in fighting in the nearly two-decades-old conflict.

The timing of the blast also assumes importance as it took place days after&nbsp;US troops left a major base in Kandahar, once a Taliban stronghold.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bombings-kill-11-afghans-on-first-day-of-ceasefire-384816">Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire</a>

The Kandahar Airfield was turned over to the Afghan National Defence Security Forces earlier this week, the officials said, in a move that signals the urgency of the US effort to fully withdraw from the country by September 11.

"They have not officially handed over the base to us but I can confirm they left the base on Wednesday," said Khoja Yaya Alawi, a spokesman for the Afghan army in Kandahar.&nbsp;

This is the final phase of ending America's “forever war” in Afghanistan after 20 years formally began on May 1.

(With inputs from agencies)

A blast at a mosque during Friday prayer rocked the city of Kabul, killing at least 12 people. The explosion took place in the mosque located on the outskirts of the Afghan capital amid an Eid ceasefire declared by the Taliban and the Afghan government.

A blast at a mosque during Friday prayer rocked the city of Kabul, killing at least 12 people. The explosion took place in the mosque located on the outskirts of the Afghan capital amid an Eid ceasefire declared by the Taliban and the Afghan government. "During Friday congregation, an explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul (province)," said Ferdaws Framurz, the spokesman for Kabul police. The blast is the first major incident since a temporary truce between the Taliban and government troops came into force on Thursday. The warring sides agreed on the truce to mark the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, only the fourth such halt in fighting in the nearly two-decades-old conflict. The timing of the blast also assumes importance as it took place days after US troops left a major base in Kandahar, once a Taliban stronghold. Also Read | Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire The Kandahar Airfield was turned over to the Afghan National Defence Security Forces earlier this week, the officials said, in a move that signals the urgency of the US effort to fully withdraw from the country by September 11. "They have not officially handed over the base to us but I can confirm they left the base on Wednesday," said Khoja Yaya Alawi, a spokesman for the Afghan army in Kandahar. This is the final phase of ending America's “forever war” in Afghanistan after 20 years formally began on May 1. (With inputs from agencies)

Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm

Afghans celebrate Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government

A three-day ceasefire between Taliban and Afghanistan government came in force as the country celebrated Eid al Fitr on Thuesday. The ceasefire is a respite for Afghans as they celebrate the Muslim festival with friends and family. The truce was proposed by the Taliban and matched by the Afghan government.

If the ceasefire holds, it will be only the fourth pause in fighting in nearly 20 years of conflict.

Early on Thursday, Afghan men, women and children around the country flocked to mosques or gathered in open grounds to offer morning prayers at the start of Eid festivities that would last until Saturday.

Security personnel were deployed to prominent mosques. Worshippers were frisked as they arrived for morning prayers.

Crowds of Kabul residents later packed the capital's main zoo and parks as they celebrated the festival with families, with only a few wearing masks to protect from the coronavirus.

"I feel so relaxed and peaceful today because it is Eid and there is no fighting," said Mirajuddin, who like many Afghans goes by one name, who was visiting Kabul zoo with his five children, all dressed in new clothes. 
Kabul resident Mohammad Sadeq said there was no more justification in fighting.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bombings-kill-11-afghans-on-first-day-of-ceasefire-384816">Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire</a>

"This is no more jihad as the Americans are leaving. Now it is brothers killing brothers because both the Taliban and security forces are Afghans," he said.

'War is not a solution'

Amir Jan Sulaimankhil, a resident of the restive Nangarhar province that has seen several deadly attacks, said the Taliban and government should agree on a permanent ceasefire.

"That will make us happier, as many more lives will be saved," he said.

President Ghani used his annual Eid address to urge the Taliban to agree to a lasting truce now that international troops were leaving.

"We don't want you to surrender, but we want you to accept a political solution. War is not a solution," he said.

Tens of thousands of Afghans have been killed and millions have been displaced by the nearly two-decade-old conflict, which has seen a resurgent Taliban take hold of large swathes of the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

A three-day ceasefire between Taliban and Afghanistan government came in force as the country celebrated Eid al Fitr on Thuesday. The ceasefire is a respite for Afghans as they celebrate the Muslim festival with friends and family.

A three-day ceasefire between Taliban and Afghanistan government came in force as the country celebrated Eid al Fitr on Thuesday. The ceasefire is a respite for Afghans as they celebrate the Muslim festival with friends and family. The truce was proposed by the Taliban and matched by the Afghan government. If the ceasefire holds, it will be only the fourth pause in fighting in nearly 20 years of conflict. Early on Thursday, Afghan men, women and children around the country flocked to mosques or gathered in open grounds to offer morning prayers at the start of Eid festivities that would last until Saturday. Security personnel were deployed to prominent mosques. Worshippers were frisked as they arrived for morning prayers. Crowds of Kabul residents later packed the capital's main zoo and parks as they celebrated the festival with families, with only a few wearing masks to protect from the coronavirus. "I feel so relaxed and peaceful today because it is Eid and there is no fighting," said Mirajuddin, who like many Afghans goes by one name, who was visiting Kabul zoo with his five children, all dressed in new clothes. Kabul resident Mohammad Sadeq said there was no more justification in fighting. Also Read | Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire "This is no more jihad as the Americans are leaving. Now it is brothers killing brothers because both the Taliban and security forces are Afghans," he said. 'War is not a solution' Amir Jan Sulaimankhil, a resident of the restive Nangarhar province that has seen several deadly attacks, said the Taliban and government should agree on a permanent ceasefire. "That will make us happier, as many more lives will be saved," he said. President Ghani used his annual Eid address to urge the Taliban to agree to a lasting truce now that international troops were leaving. "We don't want you to surrender, but we want you to accept a political solution. War is not a solution," he said. Tens of thousands of Afghans have been killed and millions have been displaced by the nearly two-decade-old conflict, which has seen a resurgent Taliban take hold of large swathes of the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan celebrates Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government

Four separate bombings on the first day of Taliban-Afghan government ceasefire killed at least 11 civilians and wounded 13 others. The Taliban and the Afghanistan government have entered into a 3-day ceasefire to mark Eid al-Fitr.

Although there were no reports of direct fighting between Taliban insurgents and government forces as they observe the temporary ceasefire, roadside bombs continued to inflict casualties on civilians.

In Panjwai district, a roadside bomb struck a car killing five civilians including a woman and children said Jamal Naser Barekzai a spokesman for the provincial police.

Two children were killed and three adults were wounded in another incident in Maiwand district where a roadside bomb exploded beneath a taxi

In northern Kunduz province, a sticky bomb attached to a civilian car exploded, killing two civilians and wounding 10 more, said Enhamuddin Rahmani, a spokesman for the province`s police chief.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-celebrates-eid-amid-ceasefire-between-taliban-and-government-384764">Afghanistan celebrates Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government</a>

Two civilians were also killed by a roadside bomb in central Ghazni province, officials said.

The three-day ceasefire announced by the Taliban and heeded by the government comes at a time when violence has sharply escalated across Afghanistan following Washington`s announcement last month of plans to pull out all U.S. troops by Sept. 11.

Afghan security forces had mounted an operation to retake a Taliban-held district outside the capital Kabul in neighbouring Wardak province on Wednesday but it was halted to observe the ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies)

Four separate bombings on the first day of Taliban-Afghan government ceasefire killed at least 11 civilians and wounded 13 others. The Taliban and the Afghanistan government have entered into a 3-day ceasefire to mark Eid al-Fitr.

Four separate bombings on the first day of Taliban-Afghan government ceasefire killed at least 11 civilians and wounded 13 others. The Taliban and the Afghanistan government have entered into a 3-day ceasefire to mark Eid al-Fitr. Although there were no reports of direct fighting between Taliban insurgents and government forces as they observe the temporary ceasefire, roadside bombs continued to inflict casualties on civilians. In Panjwai district, a roadside bomb struck a car killing five civilians including a woman and children said Jamal Naser Barekzai a spokesman for the provincial police. Two children were killed and three adults were wounded in another incident in Maiwand district where a roadside bomb exploded beneath a taxi In northern Kunduz province, a sticky bomb attached to a civilian car exploded, killing two civilians and wounding 10 more, said Enhamuddin Rahmani, a spokesman for the province`s police chief. Also Read | Afghanistan celebrates Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government Two civilians were also killed by a roadside bomb in central Ghazni province, officials said. The three-day ceasefire announced by the Taliban and heeded by the government comes at a time when violence has sharply escalated across Afghanistan following Washington`s announcement last month of plans to pull out all U.S. troops by Sept. 11. Afghan security forces had mounted an operation to retake a Taliban-held district outside the capital Kabul in neighbouring Wardak province on Wednesday but it was halted to observe the ceasefire. (With inputs from agencies)

Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire

Afghanistan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay expressed his gratitude for Sikh Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) which provided food material to Afghan refugees in New Delhi after a call from the ambassador. The NGO, Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust sent first tranche of relief material that included Wheat, Sugar, oil and other food materials. This will be helpful to 4000 Afghan refuge families in the city amid the Covid pandemic.

Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Mamundzay said that he was "grateful for the support provided by the host community, the Indian community, both in New Delhi and elsewhere.".&nbsp;

The envoy even posted a tweet in this regard

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Afghan refugees living in New Delhi are among one of the worst affected groups in India due to recent covid surge. Life was already a struggle for many of the 20,000 Afghans &amp; pandemic has made their survival even more precarious. We have taken a number of initiatives aiming 1/2 <a href="https://t.co/j0wGL9Wdmp">pic.twitter.com/j0wGL9Wdmp</a>
— Farid Mamundzay फरीद मामुन्दजई فرید ماموندزی (@FMamundzay) <a href="https://twitter.com/FMamundzay/status/1389119774303522823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The envoy also paid homage to India's Consul General in Afghan city Mazar-e-Sharif Vinesh Kalra.

Kalra passed away due to Covid.&nbsp;

Afghan ambassador said CG Kalra was a "patriot, a very noble diplomat" who represented "India with great passion."

Here is the interaction between Ambassador Farid Mamundzay and WION's Sidhant Sibbal

WION: Your reaction to the outreach by Indian Sikh NGO for the Afghan refugees by providing them relief amid the Covid crisis?

Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: Afghan Refugees have received support from Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust in Amritsar. It came at a time when this community was suffering from the crisis as a result of the pandemic. They required food, medical and relief assistance. Dr Oberoi (Managing Trustee of Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust), came forward fulfilling our request. He said he would help us with the required food supply, required medical and humanitarian assistance. The relief provided to the refugees on a day before Eid brought joy to them. They will receive the support will be there for 3 months. We are grateful for the support provided by the host community, the Indian community, both in New Delhi and elsewhere.&nbsp;

WION: What is the situation in Afghanistan when it comes to Covid?

Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: We are seeing a surge in covid cases across the country in major cities like Jalalabad, Kabul, Kandahar, Mazar-e-Sharif but it is by no comparison what we have in India, thankfully. We hope that we would learn from the first surge in Afghanistan and we would be able to manage the crisis to the limit possible. So far there have been many cases that have recovered in recent days. [There have been] a number of deaths across the country and we are looking at all possible options to see if we can minimize the infection rate and deal with this deadly variant.&nbsp;

WION: India's Consul General in Afghan city Mazar-e-Sharif Vinesh Kalra passed away due to Covid. The Afghan foreign ministry issued a statement paying tributes to him.

Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: CG Kalra was a patriot, a very noble diplomat who served with great dignity in the city of Mazar-e-Sharif in the province of Balkh. He represented India with great passion. He helped deepen the ties between our countries. He would be dearly missed, we lost a great friend but since Covid knows no border, no caste, no religion. This has a negative impact on everybody and sadly we lost a beautiful soul.

Afghanistan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay expressed his gratitude for Sikh Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) which provided food material to Afghan refugees in New Delhi after a call from the ambassador.

Afghanistan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay expressed his gratitude for Sikh Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) which provided food material to Afghan refugees in New Delhi after a call from the ambassador. The NGO, Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust sent first tranche of relief material that included Wheat, Sugar, oil and other food materials. This will be helpful to 4000 Afghan refuge families in the city amid the Covid pandemic. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Mamundzay said that he was "grateful for the support provided by the host community, the Indian community, both in New Delhi and elsewhere.". The envoy even posted a tweet in this regard Afghan refugees living in New Delhi are among one of the worst affected groups in India due to recent covid surge. Life was already a struggle for many of the 20,000 Afghans & pandemic has made their survival even more precarious. We have taken a number of initiatives aiming 1/2 pic.twitter.com/j0wGL9Wdmp — Farid Mamundzay फरीद मामुन्दजई فرید ماموندزی (@FMamundzay) May 3, 2021 × The envoy also paid homage to India's Consul General in Afghan city Mazar-e-Sharif Vinesh Kalra. Kalra passed away due to Covid. Afghan ambassador said CG Kalra was a "patriot, a very noble diplomat" who represented "India with great passion." Here is the interaction between Ambassador Farid Mamundzay and WION's Sidhant Sibbal WION: Your reaction to the outreach by Indian Sikh NGO for the Afghan refugees by providing them relief amid the Covid crisis? Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: Afghan Refugees have received support from Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust in Amritsar. It came at a time when this community was suffering from the crisis as a result of the pandemic. They required food, medical and relief assistance. Dr Oberoi (Managing Trustee of Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust), came forward fulfilling our request. He said he would help us with the required food supply, required medical and humanitarian assistance. The relief provided to the refugees on a day before Eid brought joy to them. They will receive the support will be there for 3 months. We are grateful for the support provided by the host community, the Indian community, both in New Delhi and elsewhere. WION: What is the situation in Afghanistan when it comes to Covid? Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: We are seeing a surge in covid cases across the country in major cities like Jalalabad, Kabul, Kandahar, Mazar-e-Sharif but it is by no comparison what we have in India, thankfully. We hope that we would learn from the first surge in Afghanistan and we would be able to manage the crisis to the limit possible. So far there have been many cases that have recovered in recent days. [There have been] a number of deaths across the country and we are looking at all possible options to see if we can minimize the infection rate and deal with this deadly variant. WION: India's Consul General in Afghan city Mazar-e-Sharif Vinesh Kalra passed away due to Covid. The Afghan foreign ministry issued a statement paying tributes to him. Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: CG Kalra was a patriot, a very noble diplomat who served with great dignity in the city of Mazar-e-Sharif in the province of Balkh. He represented India with great passion. He helped deepen the ties between our countries. He would be dearly missed, we lost a great friend but since Covid knows no border, no caste, no religion. This has a negative impact on everybody and sadly we lost a beautiful soul.

Afghanistan envoy to India thanks Sikh NGO for providing relief to Afghan refugees

The 2020 International Religious Freedom Report released by the United States on Wednesday revealed that terrorist groups in Afghanistan continued to target specific religious and ethnoreligious groups.&nbsp;

During the year 2020, Sikhs, Hindus, Christians, and other non-Muslim minorities reported continued harassment.&nbsp;

Members of the Hindu community reported that they faced fewer cases of harassment than Sikhs, which they ascribed to their lack of a distinctive male headdress.&nbsp;

According to minority religious leaders, the decreasing numbers of Sikhs, Hindus, and other religious minorities had only a few remaining places of worship.&nbsp;

According to the Sikh and Hindu Council, there were a total of 70 gurdwaras and mandirs (Hindu temples) remaining in the country, although they did not specify how many of each.&nbsp;

In 2020, United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) documented a reduction from 2019 in civilian casualties from attacks targeting places of worship, religious leaders, and worshippers.UNAMA recorded 19 attacks targeting places of worship, religious leaders, and worshippers, compared with 20 attacks in 2019.&nbsp;

The attacks caused 115 civilian casualties (60 deaths and 55 injured), compared with 236 civilian casualties (80 deaths and 156 injured) in 2019.UNAMA continued to report high levels of ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K) directed, sectarian-motivated violence, primarily targeting the Shia Muslim, mostly ethnic Hazara, population.&nbsp;

It documented 10 incidents of sectarian-motivated violence against Shia Muslims, Sufi Muslims, and Sikhs, resulting in 308 civilian casualties (112 killed and 196 injured) than in 2019 when 10 incidents were resulting in 485 civilian casualties (117 killed and 368 injured). Several major attacks against the Shia Hazara community occurred during the year.&nbsp;

The Taliban continued to kill religious leaders and threaten them with death for preaching messages contrary to the Taliban`s interpretation of Islam or its political agenda.&nbsp;

In several cases, the responsibility for attacks on pro-government religious leaders was unclear. In these instances, although no individual or group claimed responsibility, local authorities said they suspected that ISIS-K or, the Taliban were responsible.

The 2020 International Religious Freedom Report released by the United States on Wednesday revealed that terrorist groups in Afghanistan continued to target specific religious and ethnoreligious groups.

The 2020 International Religious Freedom Report released by the United States on Wednesday revealed that terrorist groups in Afghanistan continued to target specific religious and ethnoreligious groups. During the year 2020, Sikhs, Hindus, Christians, and other non-Muslim minorities reported continued harassment. Members of the Hindu community reported that they faced fewer cases of harassment than Sikhs, which they ascribed to their lack of a distinctive male headdress. According to minority religious leaders, the decreasing numbers of Sikhs, Hindus, and other religious minorities had only a few remaining places of worship. According to the Sikh and Hindu Council, there were a total of 70 gurdwaras and mandirs (Hindu temples) remaining in the country, although they did not specify how many of each. In 2020, United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) documented a reduction from 2019 in civilian casualties from attacks targeting places of worship, religious leaders, and worshippers.UNAMA recorded 19 attacks targeting places of worship, religious leaders, and worshippers, compared with 20 attacks in 2019. The attacks caused 115 civilian casualties (60 deaths and 55 injured), compared with 236 civilian casualties (80 deaths and 156 injured) in 2019.UNAMA continued to report high levels of ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K) directed, sectarian-motivated violence, primarily targeting the Shia Muslim, mostly ethnic Hazara, population. It documented 10 incidents of sectarian-motivated violence against Shia Muslims, Sufi Muslims, and Sikhs, resulting in 308 civilian casualties (112 killed and 196 injured) than in 2019 when 10 incidents were resulting in 485 civilian casualties (117 killed and 368 injured). Several major attacks against the Shia Hazara community occurred during the year. The Taliban continued to kill religious leaders and threaten them with death for preaching messages contrary to the Taliban`s interpretation of Islam or its political agenda. In several cases, the responsibility for attacks on pro-government religious leaders was unclear. In these instances, although no individual or group claimed responsibility, local authorities said they suspected that ISIS-K or, the Taliban were responsible.

Terrorists continued to target religious minorities in Afghanistan in 2020: Report

China has blamed the abrupt withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan for a surge in attacks in the country, days after a series of explosions in Kabul killed over 60 people, mostly girl students.&nbsp;

According to South China Morning Post (SCMP), foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said China was 'shocked' by the attacks and 'deeply saddened' by the death toll, calling on the US to pull out troops 'in a responsible manner'.&nbsp;

"It needs to be pointed out that the recent abrupt US announcement of complete withdrawal of forces from Afghanistan has led to a succession of attacks throughout the country, worsening the security situation and threatening peace and stability as well as people's lives and safety," Hua said in a statement.&nbsp;

"China calls on foreign troops in Afghanistan to take into full account the security of people in the country and the region, pull out in a responsible manner and avoid inflicting more turmoil and suffering on the Afghan people," she added.&nbsp;

Biden announced earlier this month, the decision to withdraw troops from the country starting on that May 1 deadline, with the aim of completely withdrawing from Afghanistan by September 11, which would mark the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks that sparked the war in Afghanistan, the longest conflict in American history.&nbsp;

Beijing has long feared that instability in Afghanistan would give ground to Islamic fundamentalism that would spill over into China's predominantly Muslim Xinjiang region, SCMP reported. The withdrawal of troops by the US has already led to a surge in fighting between Taliban and Afghan security forces.&nbsp;

Observers said Beijing was unlikely to station troops in Afghanistan, but might work with other countries in the region to reduce the security risk to China.&nbsp;

Pang Zhongying, an international relations professor at Ocean University of China, said though China was tempted to fill the vacuum, it was unlikely to play a significant military role there because the risk was too high, the SCMP reported.&nbsp;

She also said that the UN framework is 'too fragile' and it would also be difficult for China to project its strategic influence through this platform. &nbsp;

At least three explosions took place near Sayed-ul-Shuhada High School in the west of Kabul on Saturday afternoon. As many as 63 people, all students, were killed in a Kabul school bombing and 150 more were wounded, TOLO News reported citing sources and relatives of victims.&nbsp;

The incident was heavily condemned by the international community. However, the Taliban has denied any involvement in the attack. "We condemn in strongest terms the killing of civilians in Dashti Barchi, Kabul, as a result of incessant explosions and call for a neutral and transparent investigation," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen had said in a tweet. The Taliban later announced that they would observe a three-day ceasefire for the festival of Eid. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

China has blamed the abrupt withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan for a surge in attacks in the country, days after a series of explosions in Kabul killed over 60 people, mostly girl students.

China has blamed the abrupt withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan for a surge in attacks in the country, days after a series of explosions in Kabul killed over 60 people, mostly girl students. According to South China Morning Post (SCMP), foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said China was 'shocked' by the attacks and 'deeply saddened' by the death toll, calling on the US to pull out troops 'in a responsible manner'. "It needs to be pointed out that the recent abrupt US announcement of complete withdrawal of forces from Afghanistan has led to a succession of attacks throughout the country, worsening the security situation and threatening peace and stability as well as people's lives and safety," Hua said in a statement. "China calls on foreign troops in Afghanistan to take into full account the security of people in the country and the region, pull out in a responsible manner and avoid inflicting more turmoil and suffering on the Afghan people," she added. Biden announced earlier this month, the decision to withdraw troops from the country starting on that May 1 deadline, with the aim of completely withdrawing from Afghanistan by September 11, which would mark the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks that sparked the war in Afghanistan, the longest conflict in American history. Beijing has long feared that instability in Afghanistan would give ground to Islamic fundamentalism that would spill over into China's predominantly Muslim Xinjiang region, SCMP reported. The withdrawal of troops by the US has already led to a surge in fighting between Taliban and Afghan security forces. Observers said Beijing was unlikely to station troops in Afghanistan, but might work with other countries in the region to reduce the security risk to China. Pang Zhongying, an international relations professor at Ocean University of China, said though China was tempted to fill the vacuum, it was unlikely to play a significant military role there because the risk was too high, the SCMP reported. She also said that the UN framework is 'too fragile' and it would also be difficult for China to project its strategic influence through this platform. At least three explosions took place near Sayed-ul-Shuhada High School in the west of Kabul on Saturday afternoon. As many as 63 people, all students, were killed in a Kabul school bombing and 150 more were wounded, TOLO News reported citing sources and relatives of victims. The incident was heavily condemned by the international community. However, the Taliban has denied any involvement in the attack. "We condemn in strongest terms the killing of civilians in Dashti Barchi, Kabul, as a result of incessant explosions and call for a neutral and transparent investigation," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen had said in a tweet. The Taliban later announced that they would observe a three-day ceasefire for the festival of Eid. (With inputs from agencies)

China blames US troop withdrawal for surge in attacks in Afghanistan 

Thirteen people were killed and over 40 were wounded in separate roadside bomb blasts in Zabul and Parwan provinces of Afghanistan, TOLO News reported on Monday, quoting the country’s ministry of interior.

The attack in restive Zabul province killed at least 11 people left another 28 people wounded just hours before the Taliban announced a three-day ceasefire to mark this week's Eid al-Fitr holiday.

In another incident, two civilians were killed and nine more were wounded in a roadside bomb blast that targeted a bus in the Pul-e-Matak area in Parwan province.

No one claimed immediate responsibility for the blast.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thirteen people were killed and over 40 were wounded in separate roadside bomb blasts in Zabul and Parwan provinces of Afghanistan, TOLO News reported on Monday, quoting the country’s ministry of interior.

Thirteen people were killed and over 40 were wounded in separate roadside bomb blasts in Zabul and Parwan provinces of Afghanistan, TOLO News reported on Monday, quoting the country’s ministry of interior. The attack in restive Zabul province killed at least 11 people left another 28 people wounded just hours before the Taliban announced a three-day ceasefire to mark this week's Eid al-Fitr holiday. In another incident, two civilians were killed and nine more were wounded in a roadside bomb blast that targeted a bus in the Pul-e-Matak area in Parwan province. No one claimed immediate responsibility for the blast. (With inputs from agencies)

Two separate roadside bomb blasts kill13 civilians in Afghanistan

Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa visited Afghanistan on Monday (May 10) to meet Afghan Ashraf Ghani, as per sources quoted by news agencies. His visit to Afghanistan has come amid surge in violence perpetrated by terrorists.

It wasn't immediately clear what would be discussed during the meeting. Pakistan is a key player in Afghan peace process due to its geographical advantage. It has been accused of harbouring terrorists in past. Resurgence of terrorism and particularly Taliban is a matter of concern especially in light of US pullout from Afghanistan.

Bajwa on Monday also met Britain's Chief of Defence Staff General Nicholas Patrick Carter for talks on Afghan peacemaking, according to a statement from Pakistan's military media wing. The venue of the meeting was not given.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-afghan-forces-declare-eid-holiday-ceasefire-384113">Taliban, Afghan forces declare Eid holiday ceasefire</a>

On Monday, Afghan president ordered Afghan forces to observe ceasefire with Taliban over&nbsp;

Violence has risen starkly in Afghanistan in recent weeks with the Taliban launching attacks throughout the country and a huge unclaimed attack taking place on a school in Kabul on Saturday (May 8) that killed dozens of students.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa visited Afghanistan on Monday (May 10) to meet Afghan Ashraf Ghani, as per sources quoted by news agencies. His visit to Afghanistan has come amid surge in violence perpetrated by terrorists.

Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa visited Afghanistan on Monday (May 10) to meet Afghan Ashraf Ghani, as per sources quoted by news agencies. His visit to Afghanistan has come amid surge in violence perpetrated by terrorists. It wasn't immediately clear what would be discussed during the meeting. Pakistan is a key player in Afghan peace process due to its geographical advantage. It has been accused of harbouring terrorists in past. Resurgence of terrorism and particularly Taliban is a matter of concern especially in light of US pullout from Afghanistan. Bajwa on Monday also met Britain's Chief of Defence Staff General Nicholas Patrick Carter for talks on Afghan peacemaking, according to a statement from Pakistan's military media wing. The venue of the meeting was not given. Also Read | Taliban, Afghan forces declare Eid holiday ceasefire On Monday, Afghan president ordered Afghan forces to observe ceasefire with Taliban over Violence has risen starkly in Afghanistan in recent weeks with the Taliban launching attacks throughout the country and a huge unclaimed attack taking place on a school in Kabul on Saturday (May 8) that killed dozens of students. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan army chief visits Afghanistan amid surge in violence

Taliban and Afghan government on Monday declared a three-day ceasefire over the festival of Eid. The ceasefire has followed a sharp spike in violence from May 1, the day US troops began their final pullout from Afghanistan.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani ordered government forces to match the Taliban's offer of ceasefire.

Early on Monday, the Taliban instructed their fighters "to halt all offensive operations against the enemy countrywide from the first till the third day of Eid".

On Saturday, a series of bombs detonated outside a girls' school in Dasht-e-Barchi, a suburb of Kabul largely populated by the Shiite Hazara community which is often targeted by extremist Sunni Islamist militants.

It was the deadliest attack in more than a year and came as residents were shopping ahead of the Eid holiday. 
On Sunday, on a desolate hilltop cemetery, bodies in small wooden coffins were lowered into graves, one by one, by mourners still in shock.

"I rushed to the scene and found myself in the middle of bodies, their hands and heads cut off and bones smashed," said Mohammad Taqi, whose two daughters were students at the school but escaped the attack.

"All of them were girls. Their bodies piled on top of each other."

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban and Afghan government on Monday declared a three-day ceasefire over the festival of Eid. The ceasefire has followed a sharp spike in violence from May 1, the day US troops began their final pullout from Afghanistan.

Taliban and Afghan government on Monday declared a three-day ceasefire over the festival of Eid. The ceasefire has followed a sharp spike in violence from May 1, the day US troops began their final pullout from Afghanistan. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani ordered government forces to match the Taliban's offer of ceasefire. Early on Monday, the Taliban instructed their fighters "to halt all offensive operations against the enemy countrywide from the first till the third day of Eid". On Saturday, a series of bombs detonated outside a girls' school in Dasht-e-Barchi, a suburb of Kabul largely populated by the Shiite Hazara community which is often targeted by extremist Sunni Islamist militants. It was the deadliest attack in more than a year and came as residents were shopping ahead of the Eid holiday. On Sunday, on a desolate hilltop cemetery, bodies in small wooden coffins were lowered into graves, one by one, by mourners still in shock. "I rushed to the scene and found myself in the middle of bodies, their hands and heads cut off and bones smashed," said Mohammad Taqi, whose two daughters were students at the school but escaped the attack. "All of them were girls. Their bodies piled on top of each other." (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban, Afghan forces declare Eid holiday ceasefire

Pakistan's army chief visited Afghanistan on Monday to meet President Ashraf Ghani, Afghan government sources said, at a time of heightened uncertainty for the region as violence rises while the United States withdraws troops. 
 
Pakistani Army Chief of Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa was meeting Ghani as well as other Afghan leaders in Kabul, the sources told Reuters on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to speak with media. 
 
The media wing of Pakistan`s military did not immediately respond to the request for comment or confirm the visit. 
 
It was not immediately clear what would be discussed during the meeting. Neighbouring Pakistan is regarded as a key player in the Afghan peace process. In the past Islamabad has been accused of harbouring the insurgent Taliban but in recent years Washington and other Western powers have acknowledged its efforts to push the militant group to take part in peace talks. 
 
Bajwa on Monday also met Britain`s Chief of Defence Staff General Nicholas Patrick Carter Monday for talks on Afghan peacemaking, according to a statement from Pakistan`s military media wing. The venue of the meeting was not given. 
 
In recent weeks, Taliban and diplomatic sources told Reuters, Pakistan has been negotiating with insurgents to try and get them to commit to a ceasefire, agree to an extension of the U.S.-Taliban agreement which stipulated forces should withdraw by May, and to continue to take part in peace talks at a planned conference in Turkey. 
 
Violence has risen starkly in Afghanistan in recent weeks with the Taliban launching attacks throughout the country and a huge unclaimed attack taking place on a school in Kabul on Saturday that killed dozens of students. 
 
The Taliban announced on Sunday night that they would commit to a three-day ceasefire for the Islamic religious holiday of Eid later this week.

Pakistan's army chief visited Afghanistan on Monday to meet President Ashraf Ghani, Afghan government sources said, at a time of heightened uncertainty for the region as violence rises while the United States withdraws troops.

Pakistan's army chief visited Afghanistan on Monday to meet President Ashraf Ghani, Afghan government sources said, at a time of heightened uncertainty for the region as violence rises while the United States withdraws troops. Pakistani Army Chief of Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa was meeting Ghani as well as other Afghan leaders in Kabul, the sources told Reuters on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to speak with media. The media wing of Pakistan`s military did not immediately respond to the request for comment or confirm the visit. It was not immediately clear what would be discussed during the meeting. Neighbouring Pakistan is regarded as a key player in the Afghan peace process. In the past Islamabad has been accused of harbouring the insurgent Taliban but in recent years Washington and other Western powers have acknowledged its efforts to push the militant group to take part in peace talks. Bajwa on Monday also met Britain`s Chief of Defence Staff General Nicholas Patrick Carter Monday for talks on Afghan peacemaking, according to a statement from Pakistan`s military media wing. The venue of the meeting was not given. In recent weeks, Taliban and diplomatic sources told Reuters, Pakistan has been negotiating with insurgents to try and get them to commit to a ceasefire, agree to an extension of the U.S.-Taliban agreement which stipulated forces should withdraw by May, and to continue to take part in peace talks at a planned conference in Turkey. Violence has risen starkly in Afghanistan in recent weeks with the Taliban launching attacks throughout the country and a huge unclaimed attack taking place on a school in Kabul on Saturday that killed dozens of students. The Taliban announced on Sunday night that they would commit to a three-day ceasefire for the Islamic religious holiday of Eid later this week.

Pakistan's army chief to meet Afghan president as violence surges

The death toll from multiple explosions outside a girls' school in Afghanistan's capital Kabul has risen to 168. A series of blasts shook the neighbourhood of Dasht-e-Barchi, home to a large community of Shi'ites from the Hazara ethnic minority on Saturday.

Death toll mounts to 68 from blasts near Afghanistan girls' school

India on Sunday condemned the "barbarous" terrorist attack on a school in Kabul and said the incident demonstrates the urgent need for dismantling terrorist sanctuaries and for a comprehensive nationwide ceasefire.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India has always supported the education of Afghan youth and remains committed to the progress and development of Afghanistan.

At least three explosions took place near Sayed-ul-Shuhada High School in the west of Kabul on Saturday afternoon. Over 50 schoolgirls were killed in the attack. The attack started with a car bomb explosion and was followed by two rocket attacks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-school-blast-toll-rises-to-58-families-bury-victims-383821">Afghan school blast toll rises to 58, families bury victims</a>

"We strongly condemn the terrorist attack on Sayed al-Shuhada Girls school in Kabul yesterday, which killed more than 50 innocent girl students during the holy month of Ramadan. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the young girls who lost their lives in this barbarous attack," read the MEA statement.

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India strongly condemns the terrorist attack on Sayed al-Shuhada Girls school in Kabul yesterday, which killed more than 50 innocent girl students during the holy month of Ramadan. 
 
Press Release: <a href="https://t.co/KBzX4D4K3E">https://t.co/KBzX4D4K3E</a>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1391379082353516559?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Calling the bombings an attack on the future of Afghanistan, the ministry said: "The perpetrators clearly seek to destroy the painstaking and hard-won achievements that the Afghans have put in place over the last two decades.

"This incident demonstrates, once again, the urgent need for dismantling terrorist sanctuaries and the immediate need for a comprehensive nation-wide ceasefire to make the peace process meaningful and sustainable," it added.

India on Sunday condemned the "barbarous" terrorist attack on a school in Kabul and said the incident demonstrates the urgent need for dismantling terrorist sanctuaries and for a comprehensive nationwide ceasefire.

India on Sunday condemned the "barbarous" terrorist attack on a school in Kabul and said the incident demonstrates the urgent need for dismantling terrorist sanctuaries and for a comprehensive nationwide ceasefire. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India has always supported the education of Afghan youth and remains committed to the progress and development of Afghanistan. At least three explosions took place near Sayed-ul-Shuhada High School in the west of Kabul on Saturday afternoon. Over 50 schoolgirls were killed in the attack. The attack started with a car bomb explosion and was followed by two rocket attacks. Also read | Afghan school blast toll rises to 58, families bury victims "We strongly condemn the terrorist attack on Sayed al-Shuhada Girls school in Kabul yesterday, which killed more than 50 innocent girl students during the holy month of Ramadan. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the young girls who lost their lives in this barbarous attack," read the MEA statement. India strongly condemns the terrorist attack on Sayed al-Shuhada Girls school in Kabul yesterday, which killed more than 50 innocent girl students during the holy month of Ramadan. Press Release: https://t.co/KBzX4D4K3E — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) May 9, 2021 × Calling the bombings an attack on the future of Afghanistan, the ministry said: "The perpetrators clearly seek to destroy the painstaking and hard-won achievements that the Afghans have put in place over the last two decades. "This incident demonstrates, once again, the urgent need for dismantling terrorist sanctuaries and the immediate need for a comprehensive nation-wide ceasefire to make the peace process meaningful and sustainable," it added.

India condemns Kabul school blasts, calls for dismantling of terrorist sanctuaries

The&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;foreign minister and prosecutors from the International Criminal Court have met in The Hague to discuss the ICC's war crimes investigation in&nbsp;Afghanistan, both sides said in a joint statement on Sunday.

The ICC is investigating alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in&nbsp;Afghanistan since 2003 by all sides in the conflict, including by government forces, the Taliban, other armed groups, and US-led forces.

Shortly after the ICC announced its investigation in March 2020, the&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;government said it is conducting its own probe into some of the same alleged crimes and asked the international court to defer its investigation.

"We have made encouraging progress in charting the way forward to ensure that no crime goes unpunished," said&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar in a joint statement with the ICC's Office of the Prosecutor.

Atmar met prosecutors in The Hague, Netherlands, where the ICC is based.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-us-sends-reinforcements-to-exiting-troops-as-taliban-captures-second-biggest-dam-383430">Afghanistan: US sends reinforcements to exiting troops as Taliban captures second-biggest dam</a>

Under ICC rules, the court only has the power to prosecute crimes committed on the territory of member states when they are unwilling or unable to do so themselves.

In the joint statement on Sunday, Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said she would continue to work with the government of&nbsp;Afghanistan on "how justice may best be served through joint collaborative efforts" while still fulfilling her own duties under the tribunal's rules.

Afghanistan's Attorney General Zabihullah Karimullah, who also attended, said that prosecutors had discussed information-sharing and cooperation.

Bensouda is still assessing&nbsp;Afghanistan's deferral request. In September 2020, the United States imposed sanctions on Bensouda for investigating whether American forces committed war crimes in&nbsp;Afghanistan.

Conflict is still raging in&nbsp;Afghanistan, with security forces locked in daily combat with the Taliban who have waged war to overthrow the foreign-backed government since they were ousted from power in Kabul in 2001.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-carried-out-141-attacks-in-24-hours-across-afghanistan-says-report-382712">Taliban carried out 141 attacks in 24 hours across Afghanistan, says report</a>

Although the United States did not meet the May 1 withdrawal deadline agreed in talks with the Taliban last year, its pull-out has begun, with President Joe Biden announcing all troops will be out by Sept. 11. Critics of the decision say the Islamist militants will try to return to power.

The Afghan foreign minister and prosecutors from the International Criminal Court have met in The Hague to discuss the ICC's war crimes investigation in Afghanistan, both sides said in a joint statement on Sunday.

The Afghan foreign minister and prosecutors from the International Criminal Court have met in The Hague to discuss the ICC's war crimes investigation in Afghanistan, both sides said in a joint statement on Sunday. The ICC is investigating alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Afghanistan since 2003 by all sides in the conflict, including by government forces, the Taliban, other armed groups, and US-led forces. Shortly after the ICC announced its investigation in March 2020, the Afghan government said it is conducting its own probe into some of the same alleged crimes and asked the international court to defer its investigation. "We have made encouraging progress in charting the way forward to ensure that no crime goes unpunished," said Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar in a joint statement with the ICC's Office of the Prosecutor. Atmar met prosecutors in The Hague, Netherlands, where the ICC is based. Also read | Afghanistan: US sends reinforcements to exiting troops as Taliban captures second-biggest dam Under ICC rules, the court only has the power to prosecute crimes committed on the territory of member states when they are unwilling or unable to do so themselves. In the joint statement on Sunday, Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said she would continue to work with the government of Afghanistan on "how justice may best be served through joint collaborative efforts" while still fulfilling her own duties under the tribunal's rules. Afghanistan's Attorney General Zabihullah Karimullah, who also attended, said that prosecutors had discussed information-sharing and cooperation. Bensouda is still assessing Afghanistan's deferral request. In September 2020, the United States imposed sanctions on Bensouda for investigating whether American forces committed war crimes in Afghanistan. Conflict is still raging in Afghanistan, with security forces locked in daily combat with the Taliban who have waged war to overthrow the foreign-backed government since they were ousted from power in Kabul in 2001. Also read | Taliban carried out 141 attacks in 24 hours across Afghanistan, says report Although the United States did not meet the May 1 withdrawal deadline agreed in talks with the Taliban last year, its pull-out has begun, with President Joe Biden announcing all troops will be out by Sept. 11. Critics of the decision say the Islamist militants will try to return to power.

Afghan foreign minister meets ICC prosecutors to discuss war crimes investigation

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