As the American troops began to withdraw from Afghanistan, the Taliban has captured the second-biggest dam of the South Asian country on Thursday.

Dahla Dam, which provides irrigation to farmers via a network of canals as well as drinking water for the provincial capital of Kandahar, has been taken over by the group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-afghan-tv-host-nemat-rawan-shot-dead-in-kandahar-383308" hreflang="en">Former Afghan TV host Nemat Rawan shot dead in Kandahar</a>

"We have seized the Dahla Dam in Arghandab," Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi told AFP.

A few days ago, Taliban had warned the employees of the Dahla Dam against going to work, Kandahar water department chief Tooryalay Mahboobi told AFP.

This has come almost a month after members of the Taliban had blown up a bridge connecting the dam to adjacent districts.

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The taking over the dam is being read as a sign by experts, as the dam was built by the US to help the locals with water for irrigating land in almost seven districts of Kandahar.

Before retreating, the Taliban planted explosives across the area — including in residential complexes — officials said.

As the violence escalated in Afghanistan, the US is now deploying extra military resources to protect the withdrawing American troops and other coalition forces.

The US is still circling the area with heavy bombers and fighter jets in the sky and more will be deployed soon to safeguard all troops and civilian contractors.

As of now, six B-52 long-range bombers and 12 F-18 fighters to protect the departing contingents of 2,500 US service members and 16,000 civilian contractors, said Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the American troops began to withdraw from Afghanistan, the Taliban has captured the second-biggest dam of the South Asian country on Thursday. Dahla Dam, which provides irrigation to farmers via a network of canals as well as drinking water for the provincial capital of Kandahar, has been taken over by the group.

As the American troops began to withdraw from Afghanistan, the Taliban has captured the second-biggest dam of the South Asian country on Thursday. Dahla Dam, which provides irrigation to farmers via a network of canals as well as drinking water for the provincial capital of Kandahar, has been taken over by the group. Also read | Former Afghan TV host Nemat Rawan shot dead in Kandahar "We have seized the Dahla Dam in Arghandab," Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi told AFP. A few days ago, Taliban had warned the employees of the Dahla Dam against going to work, Kandahar water department chief Tooryalay Mahboobi told AFP. This has come almost a month after members of the Taliban had blown up a bridge connecting the dam to adjacent districts. Also read | 'Jamaat-Hefazat leaders determined to create Taliban state in Bangladesh' The taking over the dam is being read as a sign by experts, as the dam was built by the US to help the locals with water for irrigating land in almost seven districts of Kandahar. Before retreating, the Taliban planted explosives across the area — including in residential complexes — officials said. As the violence escalated in Afghanistan, the US is now deploying extra military resources to protect the withdrawing American troops and other coalition forces. The US is still circling the area with heavy bombers and fighter jets in the sky and more will be deployed soon to safeguard all troops and civilian contractors. As of now, six B-52 long-range bombers and 12 F-18 fighters to protect the departing contingents of 2,500 US service members and 16,000 civilian contractors, said Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: US sends reinforcements to exiting troops as Taliban captures second-biggest dam

Nemat Rawan, a former Afghan television journalist, was killed in southern Kandahar city on Thursday, officials said. 
She is the Afghan fifth journalist to have been killed this year. 
 
Journalists, civil society activists, government officials, and judges are among those targeted in such attacks in recent months, while Washington announced plans last month to pull out all U.S. troops by September 11. 
 
No group immediately claimed responsibility, but government officials and Western powers usually blame Taliban insurgents for what they say is a tactic to spread fear while avoiding large civilian casualties. 
 
Violence is at its worst in Afghanistan, with daily fighting between Afghan security forces and the Taliban, who are waging an insurgency to overthrow the foreign-backed government since the Islamist movement was ousted in 2001. 
 
In just two days, the Taliban captured a second district in the northern province of Baghlan on Thursday, said provincial police spokesman Jawed Basharat. 
 
Six Afghan security forces were killed in a Taliban night-time attack on their outpost in the central province of Ghazni, a local official said. 
 
The Afghan government says the Taliban have killed and wounded more than 50 troops in attacks in at least 26 provinces during the last 24 hours, while its forces killed dozens of Taliban over the same period.

Although the United States missed a May 1 withdrawal deadline agreed in talks with the Taliban last year, its pull-out has begun. 
 
Critics of President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw say the Islamist militants will try to sweep back into power.

Meanwhiles, the Taliban have captured Afghanistan's second-biggest dam after months of fierce fighting in their former bastion of Kandahar.

Dahla Dam, which provides irrigation to farmers via a network of canals as well as drinking water for the provincial capital, was now under Taliban control, local officials said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nemat Rawan, a former Afghan television journalist, was killed in southern Kandahar city on Thursday, officials said. She is the Afghan fifth journalist to have been killed this year.

Nemat Rawan, a former Afghan television journalist, was killed in southern Kandahar city on Thursday, officials said. She is the Afghan fifth journalist to have been killed this year. Journalists, civil society activists, government officials, and judges are among those targeted in such attacks in recent months, while Washington announced plans last month to pull out all U.S. troops by September 11. No group immediately claimed responsibility, but government officials and Western powers usually blame Taliban insurgents for what they say is a tactic to spread fear while avoiding large civilian casualties. Violence is at its worst in Afghanistan, with daily fighting between Afghan security forces and the Taliban, who are waging an insurgency to overthrow the foreign-backed government since the Islamist movement was ousted in 2001. In just two days, the Taliban captured a second district in the northern province of Baghlan on Thursday, said provincial police spokesman Jawed Basharat. Six Afghan security forces were killed in a Taliban night-time attack on their outpost in the central province of Ghazni, a local official said. The Afghan government says the Taliban have killed and wounded more than 50 troops in attacks in at least 26 provinces during the last 24 hours, while its forces killed dozens of Taliban over the same period. Although the United States missed a May 1 withdrawal deadline agreed in talks with the Taliban last year, its pull-out has begun. Critics of President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw say the Islamist militants will try to sweep back into power. Meanwhiles, the Taliban have captured Afghanistan's second-biggest dam after months of fierce fighting in their former bastion of Kandahar. Dahla Dam, which provides irrigation to farmers via a network of canals as well as drinking water for the provincial capital, was now under Taliban control, local officials said. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Afghan TV host Nemat Rawan shot dead in Kandahar

India and the European Union on Tuesday called for an 'immediate, permanent and comprehensive' ceasefire in Afghanistan, and said an effective and unconditional cessation of hostilities is essential for creating the appropriate conditions for the peace process in the country.&nbsp;

Issues relating to the Afghan peace process figured prominently in talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell Fontelles on the sidelines of a meeting of the G7 in London.&nbsp;

A joint press statement said both Jaishankar and Borrell underlined the importance of ensuring that the soil of Afghanistan is not used by terrorist groups to threaten the security of India and the EU.&nbsp;

It said they agreed that a successful peace process requires the Taliban to engage in good faith, with a serious commitment towards finding a political solution.&nbsp;

"External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and Borrell jointly and firmly condemned the unacceptable level of violence perpetrated against the national forces of Afghanistan and civilians and the targeted assassinations of civil rights activists, mediapersons and Ulema," it said.&nbsp;

The statement said Jaiishankar and Borrell reiterated their call for an immediate, permanent and comprehensive nationwide ceasefire.&nbsp;

"An effective and unconditional cessation of hostilities is essential for creating the appropriate conditions for the negotiations to proceed meaningfully, for building trust between the parties, in instilling confidence in the Afghan people and for demonstrating a genuine commitment of the Taliban to lasting reconciliation," it said.&nbsp;

It said both sides condemned in the strongest terms all terrorist activities and reaffirmed their strong commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including its financing, the dismantling of terrorist infrastructures and countering radicalisation to ensure that Afghanistan is never again a safe haven for international terrorism.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;

India and the European Union on Tuesday called for an 'immediate, permanent and comprehensive' ceasefire in Afghanistan, and said an effective and unconditional cessation of hostilities is essential for creating the appropriate conditions for the peace process in the country.

India and the European Union on Tuesday called for an 'immediate, permanent and comprehensive' ceasefire in Afghanistan, and said an effective and unconditional cessation of hostilities is essential for creating the appropriate conditions for the peace process in the country. Issues relating to the Afghan peace process figured prominently in talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell Fontelles on the sidelines of a meeting of the G7 in London. A joint press statement said both Jaishankar and Borrell underlined the importance of ensuring that the soil of Afghanistan is not used by terrorist groups to threaten the security of India and the EU. It said they agreed that a successful peace process requires the Taliban to engage in good faith, with a serious commitment towards finding a political solution. "External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and Borrell jointly and firmly condemned the unacceptable level of violence perpetrated against the national forces of Afghanistan and civilians and the targeted assassinations of civil rights activists, mediapersons and Ulema," it said. The statement said Jaiishankar and Borrell reiterated their call for an immediate, permanent and comprehensive nationwide ceasefire. "An effective and unconditional cessation of hostilities is essential for creating the appropriate conditions for the negotiations to proceed meaningfully, for building trust between the parties, in instilling confidence in the Afghan people and for demonstrating a genuine commitment of the Taliban to lasting reconciliation," it said. It said both sides condemned in the strongest terms all terrorist activities and reaffirmed their strong commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including its financing, the dismantling of terrorist infrastructures and countering radicalisation to ensure that Afghanistan is never again a safe haven for international terrorism. (With input from agencies)

India and EU call for 'immediate and comprehensive' ceasefire in Afghanistan 

According to a newly declassified US intelligence report, progress on women's rights in Afghanistan could be at risk with the withdrawal of US and international troops, even if the Taliban doesn't fully take power.

US intelligence report warns Afghanistan women's rights at risk after troop withdrawal

As the US troops withdraw from Afghanistan, experts fear the Taliban’s return to the South Asian country will undo all the progress made in women’s rights and equality over the years.

These fears were noted in a two-page National Intelligence Council document that claims the views of the Taliban leaders and members have not changed since 2001 — when the US intervened to restore peace in Afghanistan.

"The Taliban remains broadly consistent in its restrictive approach to women's rights and would roll back much of the past two decades' progress if the group regained national power," the report claims.

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Taliban was infamous for imposing old-age unequal decisions on women and keeping them away from studies and not allowing them to step out even for work.

The declassified report by the US intelligence warns that there has been very little, if any, change in Taliban’s leadership and the group still remains "inflexible" for any such negotiations and "enforces strict social constraints in areas that it already controls".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/small-afghanistan-attacks-have-no-significant-impact-on-troop-pullout-us-382753" hreflang="en">'Small' Afghanistan attacks have no significant impact on troop pullout: US</a>

"If the Taliban were again Afghanistan's dominant power, we assess that any prospect for moderating the group's policies toward women would lie with ethnic minorities' ability to maintain local variation and technological development," the report said.

While some groups have publically announced plans to respect women's&nbsp;rights, they have also added the condition of doing so only as a condition of Taliban’s fundamentalist interpretation of Sharia law, or Islamic law, the report claimed.

The US intelligence feels international pressure is crucial to maintain the progress of women’s rights in the country, with or without the return of Taliban in the area.

"The Taliban's desires for foreign aid and legitimacy might marginally moderate its conduct over time,"&nbsp;the report read. However, if the group returns back to power in Afghanistan, it will prioritise "extending control on its own terms".

As the US troops withdraw from Afghanistan, experts fear the Taliban’s return to the South Asian country will undo all the progress made in women’s rights and equality over the years.

As the US troops withdraw from Afghanistan, experts fear the Taliban’s return to the South Asian country will undo all the progress made in women’s rights and equality over the years. These fears were noted in a two-page National Intelligence Council document that claims the views of the Taliban leaders and members have not changed since 2001 — when the US intervened to restore peace in Afghanistan. "The Taliban remains broadly consistent in its restrictive approach to women's rights and would roll back much of the past two decades' progress if the group regained national power," the report claims. Also read | India and EU call for 'immediate and comprehensive' ceasefire in Afghanistan Taliban was infamous for imposing old-age unequal decisions on women and keeping them away from studies and not allowing them to step out even for work. The declassified report by the US intelligence warns that there has been very little, if any, change in Taliban’s leadership and the group still remains "inflexible" for any such negotiations and "enforces strict social constraints in areas that it already controls". Also read | 'Small' Afghanistan attacks have no significant impact on troop pullout: US "If the Taliban were again Afghanistan's dominant power, we assess that any prospect for moderating the group's policies toward women would lie with ethnic minorities' ability to maintain local variation and technological development," the report said. While some groups have publically announced plans to respect women's rights, they have also added the condition of doing so only as a condition of Taliban’s fundamentalist interpretation of Sharia law, or Islamic law, the report claimed. The US intelligence feels international pressure is crucial to maintain the progress of women’s rights in the country, with or without the return of Taliban in the area. "The Taliban's desires for foreign aid and legitimacy might marginally moderate its conduct over time," the report read. However, if the group returns back to power in Afghanistan, it will prioritise "extending control on its own terms".

Return of Taliban in Afghanistan harmful for women's rights: US report

Taliban have carried out 141 attacks over the last 24 hours in provinces all across the country, Tolo News reported on Sunday citing sources.

In these attacks, at least 20 people were killed including Peramqul Ziaee, a commander of public uprising forces in Takhar, according to Tolo News.

The country's Defence Ministry said that the Taliban's casualties were more than 100 in the last 24 hours. The Taliban rejected this figure.

Data collected by TOLOnews shows that 438 members of Afghan forces and civilians were killed and more than 500 others were wounded in the last 30 days. The data shows that 190 bombings, targeted attacks and offensives happened in the last month.

The attacks have intensified as the May 1 deadline for the United States to withdraw troops from Afghanistan has passed.

"Attacks have been intensified in Uruzgan over the last few days. There are clashes every day," said Amanullah Hotaki, head of the Uruzgan provincial council. "We witness blasts in Kunar every day. The government should prevent such attacks," said Nasir Kamawal, a member of the Kunar provincial council.

"Over the last 24 hours, attacks were carried out in Panjwai, Arghistan, Maiwand, Shah Wali Kot, Nesh, Mianshin and Takhta Pul districts and other outposts," said Jamal Barikzai, spokesman for the Kandahar police.

The government forces said that all Taliban attacks were pushed back and they suffered heavy casualties.

US President Joe Biden announced last 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.

On Thursday, White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that the US has begun pulling out its forces from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Taliban have carried out 141 attacks over the last 24 hours in provinces all across the country, Tolo News reported on Sunday citing sources. In these attacks, at least 20 people were killed including Peramqul Ziaee, a commander of public uprising forces in Takhar, according to Tolo News.

Taliban have carried out 141 attacks over the last 24 hours in provinces all across the country, Tolo News reported on Sunday citing sources. In these attacks, at least 20 people were killed including Peramqul Ziaee, a commander of public uprising forces in Takhar, according to Tolo News. The country's Defence Ministry said that the Taliban's casualties were more than 100 in the last 24 hours. The Taliban rejected this figure. Data collected by TOLOnews shows that 438 members of Afghan forces and civilians were killed and more than 500 others were wounded in the last 30 days. The data shows that 190 bombings, targeted attacks and offensives happened in the last month. The attacks have intensified as the May 1 deadline for the United States to withdraw troops from Afghanistan has passed. "Attacks have been intensified in Uruzgan over the last few days. There are clashes every day," said Amanullah Hotaki, head of the Uruzgan provincial council. "We witness blasts in Kunar every day. The government should prevent such attacks," said Nasir Kamawal, a member of the Kunar provincial council. "Over the last 24 hours, attacks were carried out in Panjwai, Arghistan, Maiwand, Shah Wali Kot, Nesh, Mianshin and Takhta Pul districts and other outposts," said Jamal Barikzai, spokesman for the Kandahar police. The government forces said that all Taliban attacks were pushed back and they suffered heavy casualties. US President Joe Biden announced last 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. On Thursday, White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that the US has begun pulling out its forces from Afghanistan.

Taliban carried out 141 attacks in 24 hours across Afghanistan, says report

The Pentagon on Monday said 'small harassing attacks' in Afghanistan over the weekend had not had a significant impact on the United States' military withdrawal from the country. &nbsp;

"What we've seen are some small harassing attacks over the course of the weekend that have not had any significant impact, certainly not on our people or our resources there and bases," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters.&nbsp;

The commander of foreign forces in Afghanistan said on Saturday it would be a mistake for insurgents to attack foreign troops still present after the passing of a May 1 deadline for withdrawal agreed last year with Taliban militants.&nbsp;

US Army General Scott Miller's comments followed what a US forces spokesman described as 'ineffective indirect fire' at an airfield in Kandahar that had caused no injuries or damage. The Taliban did not immediately respond to request for comment on whether it was involved.&nbsp;

Taliban insurgents attacked an army outpost in Afghanistan's southwestern Farah province killing at least seven soldiers, local officials said on Monday.&nbsp;

Violence against Afghans has risen in recent weeks, with more than a hundred Afghan security forces personnel killed.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies) &nbsp;

The Pentagon on Monday said 'small harassing attacks' in Afghanistan over the weekend had not had a significant impact on the United States' military withdrawal from the country.

The Pentagon on Monday said 'small harassing attacks' in Afghanistan over the weekend had not had a significant impact on the United States' military withdrawal from the country. "What we've seen are some small harassing attacks over the course of the weekend that have not had any significant impact, certainly not on our people or our resources there and bases," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters. The commander of foreign forces in Afghanistan said on Saturday it would be a mistake for insurgents to attack foreign troops still present after the passing of a May 1 deadline for withdrawal agreed last year with Taliban militants. US Army General Scott Miller's comments followed what a US forces spokesman described as 'ineffective indirect fire' at an airfield in Kandahar that had caused no injuries or damage. The Taliban did not immediately respond to request for comment on whether it was involved. Taliban insurgents attacked an army outpost in Afghanistan's southwestern Farah province killing at least seven soldiers, local officials said on Monday. Violence against Afghans has risen in recent weeks, with more than a hundred Afghan security forces personnel killed. (With input from agencies)

'Small' Afghanistan attacks have no significant impact on troop pullout: US 

Three Afghan security forces lost their lives and nine Taliban terrorists were killed in a clash that erupted between them in southern Zabul province on Sunday.&nbsp;

Head of Provincial Council, Ata Jan Haqbayan said the clash erupted when the Taliban attacked a security checkpoint in Qalat, the capital city for Zabul. &nbsp;

According to him, two security forces were injured, reported Afghanistan Times.&nbsp;

After US President Joe Biden's announcement of withdrawing all American service members from Afghanistan, a significant number of security forces as well as civilians suffer casualties on a daily basis.&nbsp;

According to some findings, 226 people including 157 security forces and 69 civilians were killed in 24 of 34 provinces since Biden announced the exit of troops, reported Afghanistan Times. &nbsp;

The Taliban have intensified violence across the country by carrying out targeted killings against journalists, civil activists and massive car bomb blasts, inflicting heavy casualties on civilians and the security forces. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Three Afghan security forces lost their lives and nine Taliban terrorists were killed in a clash that erupted between them in southern Zabul province on Sunday. Head of Provincial Council, Ata Jan Haqbayan said the clash erupted when the Taliban attacked a security checkpoint in Qalat, the capital city for Zabul.

Three Afghan security forces lost their lives and nine Taliban terrorists were killed in a clash that erupted between them in southern Zabul province on Sunday. Head of Provincial Council, Ata Jan Haqbayan said the clash erupted when the Taliban attacked a security checkpoint in Qalat, the capital city for Zabul. According to him, two security forces were injured, reported Afghanistan Times. After US President Joe Biden's announcement of withdrawing all American service members from Afghanistan, a significant number of security forces as well as civilians suffer casualties on a daily basis. According to some findings, 226 people including 157 security forces and 69 civilians were killed in 24 of 34 provinces since Biden announced the exit of troops, reported Afghanistan Times. The Taliban have intensified violence across the country by carrying out targeted killings against journalists, civil activists and massive car bomb blasts, inflicting heavy casualties on civilians and the security forces. (With inputs from agencies)

3 cops, 9 Taliban terrorists killed in clash in Afghanistan's Zabul 

Calling the moment US soldiers killed Osama bin Laden "a moment I will never forget", US President Joe Biden on Sunday reaffirmed USA's decision to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan. Sunday was the 10th anniversary of Osama bin Laden's killing. Biden has already said that the US will end its war in Afghanistan by September 11. In his statement on Sunday, Biden praised former US President Barack Obama for his 2011 decision to approve secret operation targetting Laden and praised special forces that eliminated him.

"We followed bin Laden to the gates of hell -- and we got him," Biden said in a statement released by the White House.&nbsp;

"We kept the promise to all those who lost loved ones on 9/11: that we would never forget those we had lost, and that the United States will never waver in our commitment to prevent another attack on our homeland."

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Watching the operation remotely from a crowded White House Situation Room, Biden said, was "a moment I will never forget -- the intelligence professionals who had painstakingly tracked him down; the clarity and conviction of President Obama in making the call; the courage and skill of our team on the ground."

Now, as the US begins pulling the last of its troops from Afghanistan, Biden said: "Al Qaeda is greatly degraded there. But the United States will remain vigilant about the threat from terrorist groups that have metastasized around the world.&nbsp;

"We will continue to monitor and disrupt any threat to us that emerges from Afghanistan. And we will work to counter terrorist threats to our homeland and our interests in cooperation with allies and partners around the world."

(With inputs from agencies)

Calling the moment US soldiers killed Osama bin Laden "a moment I will never forget", US President Joe Biden on Sunday reaffirmed USA's decision to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan.

Calling the moment US soldiers killed Osama bin Laden "a moment I will never forget", US President Joe Biden on Sunday reaffirmed USA's decision to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan. Sunday was the 10th anniversary of Osama bin Laden's killing. Biden has already said that the US will end its war in Afghanistan by September 11. In his statement on Sunday, Biden praised former US President Barack Obama for his 2011 decision to approve secret operation targetting Laden and praised special forces that eliminated him. "We followed bin Laden to the gates of hell -- and we got him," Biden said in a statement released by the White House. "We kept the promise to all those who lost loved ones on 9/11: that we would never forget those we had lost, and that the United States will never waver in our commitment to prevent another attack on our homeland." Also Read | Roaring tanker fire kills 7, injures 14 in Afghanistan capital Watching the operation remotely from a crowded White House Situation Room, Biden said, was "a moment I will never forget -- the intelligence professionals who had painstakingly tracked him down; the clarity and conviction of President Obama in making the call; the courage and skill of our team on the ground." Now, as the US begins pulling the last of its troops from Afghanistan, Biden said: "Al Qaeda is greatly degraded there. But the United States will remain vigilant about the threat from terrorist groups that have metastasized around the world. "We will continue to monitor and disrupt any threat to us that emerges from Afghanistan. And we will work to counter terrorist threats to our homeland and our interests in cooperation with allies and partners around the world." (With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden marks 10 years since Osama bin Laden's killing

Gasoline tanker trucks burst into flames in Kabul overnight, killing at least seven people and starting large fires that caused power cuts to some parts of the Afghan capital, officials said on Sunday.

The tankers were parked in northern Kabul and burst into flames late on Saturday, according to the Ministry of Interior. Fourteen people were injured.

The cause of ignition was not immediately known but the fires come as the city remains on "high alert" with officials bracing for attacks from the insurgent Taliban over the foreign troops' continued presence in the country.

Two security sources had earlier told Reuters they believed it was caused by a Taliban rocket fired in the area, however, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has said they were not involved.

Tariq Arian, the ministry of interior spokesman, said they were still investigating the cause of the fire.

The Taliban have said U.S. President Joe Biden's announcement last month that American troops would leave by September 11 violates a 2020 agreement under the Trump administration that offered a May 1 withdrawal deadline.

Separately on Saturday, a shooting near a major airfield in Kandahar prompted the commander of foreign forces in Afghanistan to warn that attacks on foreign troops would be a mistake and that they were prepared to defend themselves and Afghan forces if needed.

Gasoline tanker trucks burst into flames in Kabul overnight, killing at least seven people and starting large fires that caused power cuts to some parts of the Afghan capital, officials said on Sunday.

Gasoline tanker trucks burst into flames in Kabul overnight, killing at least seven people and starting large fires that caused power cuts to some parts of the Afghan capital, officials said on Sunday. The tankers were parked in northern Kabul and burst into flames late on Saturday, according to the Ministry of Interior. Fourteen people were injured. The cause of ignition was not immediately known but the fires come as the city remains on "high alert" with officials bracing for attacks from the insurgent Taliban over the foreign troops' continued presence in the country. Two security sources had earlier told Reuters they believed it was caused by a Taliban rocket fired in the area, however, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has said they were not involved. Tariq Arian, the ministry of interior spokesman, said they were still investigating the cause of the fire. The Taliban have said U.S. President Joe Biden's announcement last month that American troops would leave by September 11 violates a 2020 agreement under the Trump administration that offered a May 1 withdrawal deadline. Separately on Saturday, a shooting near a major airfield in Kandahar prompted the commander of foreign forces in Afghanistan to warn that attacks on foreign troops would be a mistake and that they were prepared to defend themselves and Afghan forces if needed.

Roaring tanker fire kills 7, injures 14 in Afghanistan capital

At least 27 people including high school students have been killed and dozens more injured in the car bomb explosion that rocked Afghanistan yesterday.

Afghanistan Car Bombing: At least 27 killed, dozens injured

The US has begun its pullout from Afghanistan, the 'forever war' that started after the 9/11 attacks on twin towers in New York 20 years ago. The development has elicited mixed reactions as there are widespread fears among the Afghans about possible Taliban takeover of the country.

US officials on the ground say the withdrawal is already a work in progress -- and May 1 is just a continuation -- but Washington has made an issue of the date because it is a deadline agreed with the Taliban in 2020 to complete the pullout.

The skies above Kabul and nearby Bagram airbase have been buzzing with more US helicopter activity than usual as the pullout gears up, following the start Thursday of a concurrent NATO withdrawal.

On Saturday, Afghan security forces were on high alert&nbsp;for any possible attack on retreating US soldiers.

An emboldened Taliban has stepped up violence in Afghanistan in months leading to US troop pullout. Even if the Taliban has avoided direct clash with the US troops, they have carried out attacks, assassinations and blasts in various parts of the country.

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A stark reminder of what remains came late Friday with a car bomb in Pul-e-Alam, south of the capital, killing at least 24 people and wounding 110 more.

The exit of US forces has only exacerbated the fear felt by ordinary Afghans.

"Everyone is scared that we might go back to the dark days of the Taliban era," said Mena Nowrozi, who works at a private radio station in Kabul.

"The Taliban are still the same; they have not changed. The US should have extended their presence by at least a year or two," she told AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US has begun its pullout from Afghanistan, the 'forever war' that started after the 9/11 attacks on twin towers in New York 20 years ago. The development has elicited mixed reactions as there are widespread fears among the Afghans about possible Taliban takeover of the country.

The US has begun its pullout from Afghanistan, the 'forever war' that started after the 9/11 attacks on twin towers in New York 20 years ago. The development has elicited mixed reactions as there are widespread fears among the Afghans about possible Taliban takeover of the country. US officials on the ground say the withdrawal is already a work in progress -- and May 1 is just a continuation -- but Washington has made an issue of the date because it is a deadline agreed with the Taliban in 2020 to complete the pullout. The skies above Kabul and nearby Bagram airbase have been buzzing with more US helicopter activity than usual as the pullout gears up, following the start Thursday of a concurrent NATO withdrawal. On Saturday, Afghan security forces were on high alert for any possible attack on retreating US soldiers. An emboldened Taliban has stepped up violence in Afghanistan in months leading to US troop pullout. Even if the Taliban has avoided direct clash with the US troops, they have carried out attacks, assassinations and blasts in various parts of the country. Also Read | Goons or protectors? Pakistan army's truth revealed in land grabbing case A stark reminder of what remains came late Friday with a car bomb in Pul-e-Alam, south of the capital, killing at least 24 people and wounding 110 more. The exit of US forces has only exacerbated the fear felt by ordinary Afghans. "Everyone is scared that we might go back to the dark days of the Taliban era," said Mena Nowrozi, who works at a private radio station in Kabul. "The Taliban are still the same; they have not changed. The US should have extended their presence by at least a year or two," she told AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: US begins withdrawing troops from the 'forever war'

Thirty-three artifacts smuggled from Afghanistan to the United States during two decades of war were delivered to the Afghan National Museum on Thursday (April 29).

Afghanistan's smuggled artifacts returned to national museum from U.S.

As the world celebrated the 10th anniversary of terrorist Osama Bin Laden’s death, his terrorist network and group Al Qaeda has vowed war against the US till the forces are "expelled from the rest of the Islamic world".

While US President Joe Biden prepares to withdraw all American troops from Afghanistan, Al Qaeda has detached itself from the promise made by the Taliban and has instead vowed war with the US.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/10-years-after-death-al-qaeda-chief-osama-bin-laden-still-mobilises-jihadists-380730">10 years after death, al Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden still mobilises jihadists</a>

Two al Qaeda operatives have told CNN in an exclusive interview that "war against the US will be continuing on all other fronts unless they are expelled from the rest of the Islamic world".

The comment from the al Qaeda operatives has come as a warning that the group might be looking to re-enter Afghanistan as the US troops prepare to move out, as per the deal made with the Taliban.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-pullout-surge-in-insider-attacks-in-afghan-army-says-us-government-report-381730">Afghanistan pullout: Surge in insider attacks in Afghan army, says US government report</a>

"The United States is not a problem for our Afghan brothers, but due to the sacrifices in the Afghan war, the Americans are now defeated. Whether Republicans or Democrats — both have made final decision to pull out from the Afghan war," they said.

In fact, the members of the terrorist group have also thanked the Taliban for keeping the fight against the US going. "Thanks to Afghans for the protection of comrades-in-arms, many such jihadi fronts have been successfully operating in different parts of the Islamic world for a long time," the operative said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-to-deploy-additional-military-assets-to-afghanistan-as-withdrawal-underway-381534">US to deploy additional military assets to Afghanistan as withdrawal underway</a>

The spokesperson has also hinted that the deal between the Taliban and America might be based on a sham as, al Qaeda claims, the Taliban is not being completely honest with the Biden administration.

They also claimed to have "masterminded" the 2009 attack, which led to the killing of seven CIA operatives. The operatives claimed that the Pakistani Taliban (TP) was their junior partner in the attack and "was in its learning stages” due to which “many mistakes were made by them".

However, now, the group is proud of its influence over the infamous TTP. "Now the organization of Pakistani Taliban and their leadership not only moving forward in the light of Sharia but also making better decisions based on past experiences and recent successes have been made possible by the same unity and adherence to Sharia and Wisdom," they said.

As the world celebrated the 10th anniversary of terrorist Osama Bin Laden’s death, his terrorist network and group Al Qaeda has vowed war against the US till the forces are "expelled from the rest of the Islamic world".

As the world celebrated the 10th anniversary of terrorist Osama Bin Laden’s death, his terrorist network and group Al Qaeda has vowed war against the US till the forces are "expelled from the rest of the Islamic world". While US President Joe Biden prepares to withdraw all American troops from Afghanistan, Al Qaeda has detached itself from the promise made by the Taliban and has instead vowed war with the US. Also read | 10 years after death, al Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden still mobilises jihadists Two al Qaeda operatives have told CNN in an exclusive interview that "war against the US will be continuing on all other fronts unless they are expelled from the rest of the Islamic world". The comment from the al Qaeda operatives has come as a warning that the group might be looking to re-enter Afghanistan as the US troops prepare to move out, as per the deal made with the Taliban. Also read | Afghanistan pullout: Surge in insider attacks in Afghan army, says US government report "The United States is not a problem for our Afghan brothers, but due to the sacrifices in the Afghan war, the Americans are now defeated. Whether Republicans or Democrats — both have made final decision to pull out from the Afghan war," they said. In fact, the members of the terrorist group have also thanked the Taliban for keeping the fight against the US going. "Thanks to Afghans for the protection of comrades-in-arms, many such jihadi fronts have been successfully operating in different parts of the Islamic world for a long time," the operative said. Also read | US to deploy additional military assets to Afghanistan as withdrawal underway The spokesperson has also hinted that the deal between the Taliban and America might be based on a sham as, al Qaeda claims, the Taliban is not being completely honest with the Biden administration. They also claimed to have "masterminded" the 2009 attack, which led to the killing of seven CIA operatives. The operatives claimed that the Pakistani Taliban (TP) was their junior partner in the attack and "was in its learning stages” due to which “many mistakes were made by them". However, now, the group is proud of its influence over the infamous TTP. "Now the organization of Pakistani Taliban and their leadership not only moving forward in the light of Sharia but also making better decisions based on past experiences and recent successes have been made possible by the same unity and adherence to Sharia and Wisdom," they said.

'War is not over': Al Qaeda warns US as American troops prepare to withdraw from Afghanistan

In another indication of the resurgent Taliban in Afghanistan, a US government report on Friday said that deadly insider attacks by Taliban agent inside Afghanistan army have been on the rise. The report said that a jump was seen in such attacks in the first quarter of this years.&nbsp;

The quarterly report of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said attacks on the Afghan security forces, mainly by the Taliban rebel group, surged 37 percent over the January-March period from a year earlier.

Insider attacks carried out by Taliban agents who had infiltrated the army ranks jumped 82 per cent, said the report.

The report did not specify the overall number of casualties, saying the data is classified.

But as per figures obtained by the coalition 115 Afghan military personnel were killed and 39 were wounded in 31 insider attacks in first three months of this year.

The report made it clear that such attacks threatened stability of the Afghan government after withdrawal of US troops by September.

It noted that the Afghan government and particularly Afghan security forces remain highly dependent on US support, both financial aid and manpower.

"The complete withdrawal of US troops and US defense contractors from Afghanistan will test whether the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces can sustain themselves and defend the Afghan government without direct US and Coalition military support," the report said.

"The basic risk facing the current and any potential post-peace Afghan government is whether future foreign assistance levels during this uncertain period will be sufficient to prevent its collapse," said John Sopko, the SIGAR head.

The pullout will involve around 2,500 US service members, 7,092 other forces in the US-led coalition, and 16,832 civilian contractors for the Pentagon who were in the country at the beginning of April.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In another indication of the resurgent Taliban in Afghanistan, a US government report on Friday said that deadly insider attacks by Taliban agent inside Afghanistan army have been on the rise.

In another indication of the resurgent Taliban in Afghanistan, a US government report on Friday said that deadly insider attacks by Taliban agent inside Afghanistan army have been on the rise. The report said that a jump was seen in such attacks in the first quarter of this years. The quarterly report of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said attacks on the Afghan security forces, mainly by the Taliban rebel group, surged 37 percent over the January-March period from a year earlier. Insider attacks carried out by Taliban agents who had infiltrated the army ranks jumped 82 per cent, said the report. The report did not specify the overall number of casualties, saying the data is classified. But as per figures obtained by the coalition 115 Afghan military personnel were killed and 39 were wounded in 31 insider attacks in first three months of this year. The report made it clear that such attacks threatened stability of the Afghan government after withdrawal of US troops by September. It noted that the Afghan government and particularly Afghan security forces remain highly dependent on US support, both financial aid and manpower. "The complete withdrawal of US troops and US defense contractors from Afghanistan will test whether the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces can sustain themselves and defend the Afghan government without direct US and Coalition military support," the report said. "The basic risk facing the current and any potential post-peace Afghan government is whether future foreign assistance levels during this uncertain period will be sufficient to prevent its collapse," said John Sopko, the SIGAR head. The pullout will involve around 2,500 US service members, 7,092 other forces in the US-led coalition, and 16,832 civilian contractors for the Pentagon who were in the country at the beginning of April. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan pullout: Surge in insider attacks in Afghan army, says US government report

The White House has said the US military will send additional forces to Afghanistan to protect US and coalition forces during the withdrawal. 
 
White House Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard Air Force One that "a drawdown is underway," saying that the US military would deploy additional military assets to Afghanistan and the region to cover the withdrawal, Xinhua reported. 
 
"Elements of an Army Ranger Task Force will temporarily deploy to Afghanistan to assist with the force protection of forces on the ground as we initiate withdrawal operations," she noted. 
 
Jean-Pierre also said Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had directed that a carrier strike group would provide sustained additional force protection capabilities in the region throughout the withdrawal. 
 
"While these actions will initially result in increased forces levels, we remain committed to having all US military personnel out of Afghanistan by September 11, 2021," she added. 
 
The Pentagon last week said that B-52 bombers and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier will deploy to the region to protect U.S. and coalition forces as they withdraw from Afghanistan. 
 
Citing defense officials, CNN reported that fewer than 100 troops and military equipment had been pulled out of the country largely by aircraft to implement the withdrawal order announced by President Joe Biden earlier this month. 
 
The US State Department on Tuesday ordered non-essential staff to leave the US Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan. US Charge d`Affaires to Afghanistan Ross Wilson tweeted that the departure was approved "in light of increasing violence &amp; threat reports in Kabul." 
 
Biden previously announced the withdrawal would begin on May 1, the deadline date for a full U.S. withdrawal under an agreement reached between the former Donald Trump administration and the Afghan Taliban. 
 
The Taliban had warned of consequences if the Biden administration fails to follow through that deadline. 
 
There are roughly 3,500 US troops in Afghanistan, and about 7,000 NATO troops in the country rely on US logistics and security support.

The White House has said the US military will send additional forces to Afghanistan to protect US and coalition forces during the withdrawal. White House Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard Air Force One that "a drawdown is underway," saying that the US military would deploy additional military assets to Afghanistan and the region to cover the withdrawal, Xinhua reported.

The White House has said the US military will send additional forces to Afghanistan to protect US and coalition forces during the withdrawal. White House Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard Air Force One that "a drawdown is underway," saying that the US military would deploy additional military assets to Afghanistan and the region to cover the withdrawal, Xinhua reported. "Elements of an Army Ranger Task Force will temporarily deploy to Afghanistan to assist with the force protection of forces on the ground as we initiate withdrawal operations," she noted. Jean-Pierre also said Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had directed that a carrier strike group would provide sustained additional force protection capabilities in the region throughout the withdrawal. "While these actions will initially result in increased forces levels, we remain committed to having all US military personnel out of Afghanistan by September 11, 2021," she added. The Pentagon last week said that B-52 bombers and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier will deploy to the region to protect U.S. and coalition forces as they withdraw from Afghanistan. Citing defense officials, CNN reported that fewer than 100 troops and military equipment had been pulled out of the country largely by aircraft to implement the withdrawal order announced by President Joe Biden earlier this month. The US State Department on Tuesday ordered non-essential staff to leave the US Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan. US Charge d`Affaires to Afghanistan Ross Wilson tweeted that the departure was approved "in light of increasing violence & threat reports in Kabul." Biden previously announced the withdrawal would begin on May 1, the deadline date for a full U.S. withdrawal under an agreement reached between the former Donald Trump administration and the Afghan Taliban. The Taliban had warned of consequences if the Biden administration fails to follow through that deadline. There are roughly 3,500 US troops in Afghanistan, and about 7,000 NATO troops in the country rely on US logistics and security support.

US to deploy additional military assets to Afghanistan as withdrawal underway

For decades, Zebulon Simentov refused to leave Afghanistan -- surviving a Soviet invasion, deadly civil war, brutal rule by the Taliban and the US-led occupation of his homeland.

But enough is enough for Afghanistan's last Jew, and the prospect of the Taliban's return has him preparing to say goodbye.

"Why should I stay? They call me an infidel," Simentov told AFP at Kabul's only synagogue, housed in an old building in the centre of the Afghan capital.

"I'm the last, the only Jew in Afghanistan... It could get worse for me here. I have decided to leave for Israel if the Taliban returns."

That appears likely given the deal struck by Washington to withdraw all US forces by later this year, and ongoing peace talks between the insurgents and the Afghan government.

Born in the 1950s in the western city of Herat, Simentov moved to Kabul during the Soviet invasion in the early 1980s for the capital's then relative stability.

Jews lived in Afghanistan for more than 2,500 years, with tens of thousands once residing in Herat, where four synagogues still stand -- testimony to the community's ancient presence.

But they have steadily left the country since the 19th century, with many now living in Israel.

Over the decades, all Simentov's relatives left -- including his wife and two daughters.

He is now certain he is the last Afghan Jew in the country.&nbsp;

Dressed in a traditional Afghan tunic and trousers, a black Jewish kippah and tefillin on his forehead, Simentov fondly remembers the years before the Soviet war as the best time for Afghanistan.

"Followers of every religion and sect had full freedom at that time," said Simentov, who calls himself a proud Afghan.

- Synagogue raided -

But events since have made him bitter -- particularly the Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001, when the Islamists tried to convert him.

"This disgraceful Taliban regime put me in prison four times," he said.

In one incident they ransacked the temple -- a large room painted in white with an altar at one end -- tore books in Hebrew text, broke Menorahs and took away the antique Torah, he said, still simmering with anger.

"The Taliban said this is the Islamic Emirate and Jews had no rights here," he said.

Still, he refused to leave.

"I have resisted. I have made the religion of Moses proud here," Simentov said, kissing the floor of the synagogue.

He continues to mark the Jewish new year Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur holidays at the synagogue -- sometimes even accompanied by Muslim friends.

- Lost faith -

"If it weren't for me, the synagogue would have been sold 10, 20 times by now," he said, as he limped across to his living quarters next to the temple.

Simentov, who lives off handouts from friends and relatives, prepares his meals on a small gas stove placed on a red carpet in the room.&nbsp;

On a table in a corner are some books and old photographs of his daughters.

He says when the Taliban were ousted in 2001, he believed Afghanistan would prosper.

"I thought the Europeans and Americans would fix this country... but that didn't happen," he said.

Simentov's neighbours will be sorry to see him go.

"He is a good man," said Shakir Azizi, who owns a grocery store in front of the synagogue.

"He has been my customer for 20 years. If he leaves, we will miss him and his presence."

But Simentov fears what lies ahead if he stays.

"The Taliban are still the same as 21 years ago," he said.&nbsp;

"I have lost faith in Afghanistan... there is no more life here."

For decades, Zebulon Simentov refused to leave Afghanistan -- surviving a Soviet invasion, deadly civil war, brutal rule by the Taliban and the US-led occupation of his homeland.

For decades, Zebulon Simentov refused to leave Afghanistan -- surviving a Soviet invasion, deadly civil war, brutal rule by the Taliban and the US-led occupation of his homeland. But enough is enough for Afghanistan's last Jew, and the prospect of the Taliban's return has him preparing to say goodbye. "Why should I stay? They call me an infidel," Simentov told AFP at Kabul's only synagogue, housed in an old building in the centre of the Afghan capital. "I'm the last, the only Jew in Afghanistan... It could get worse for me here. I have decided to leave for Israel if the Taliban returns." That appears likely given the deal struck by Washington to withdraw all US forces by later this year, and ongoing peace talks between the insurgents and the Afghan government. Born in the 1950s in the western city of Herat, Simentov moved to Kabul during the Soviet invasion in the early 1980s for the capital's then relative stability. Jews lived in Afghanistan for more than 2,500 years, with tens of thousands once residing in Herat, where four synagogues still stand -- testimony to the community's ancient presence. But they have steadily left the country since the 19th century, with many now living in Israel. Over the decades, all Simentov's relatives left -- including his wife and two daughters. He is now certain he is the last Afghan Jew in the country. Dressed in a traditional Afghan tunic and trousers, a black Jewish kippah and tefillin on his forehead, Simentov fondly remembers the years before the Soviet war as the best time for Afghanistan. "Followers of every religion and sect had full freedom at that time," said Simentov, who calls himself a proud Afghan. - Synagogue raided - But events since have made him bitter -- particularly the Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001, when the Islamists tried to convert him. "This disgraceful Taliban regime put me in prison four times," he said. In one incident they ransacked the temple -- a large room painted in white with an altar at one end -- tore books in Hebrew text, broke Menorahs and took away the antique Torah, he said, still simmering with anger. "The Taliban said this is the Islamic Emirate and Jews had no rights here," he said. Still, he refused to leave. "I have resisted. I have made the religion of Moses proud here," Simentov said, kissing the floor of the synagogue. He continues to mark the Jewish new year Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur holidays at the synagogue -- sometimes even accompanied by Muslim friends. - Lost faith - "If it weren't for me, the synagogue would have been sold 10, 20 times by now," he said, as he limped across to his living quarters next to the temple. Simentov, who lives off handouts from friends and relatives, prepares his meals on a small gas stove placed on a red carpet in the room. On a table in a corner are some books and old photographs of his daughters. He says when the Taliban were ousted in 2001, he believed Afghanistan would prosper. "I thought the Europeans and Americans would fix this country... but that didn't happen," he said. Simentov's neighbours will be sorry to see him go. "He is a good man," said Shakir Azizi, who owns a grocery store in front of the synagogue. "He has been my customer for 20 years. If he leaves, we will miss him and his presence." But Simentov fears what lies ahead if he stays. "The Taliban are still the same as 21 years ago," he said. "I have lost faith in Afghanistan... there is no more life here."

Last and only remaining Jew living in Afghanistan eyes exit ahead of Taliban return

More than 100 Afghan security force personnel have been killed over the last two weeks amid a surge of Taliban attacks following Washington's announcement it would pull all US&nbsp;troops out by September&nbsp;11, officials said on Thursday.

Senior Afghan officials say the Taliban is putting on a show of force and seeking to gain territory as foreign forces pull out. The Taliban has waged a two-decade-long insurgency since being ousted from power by US-led foreign troops in 2001.

According to two senior security officials, around 120 Afghan security forces personnel, 65 civilians and over 300 Taliban fighters have been killed in the last 15 days of fighting, and scores more wounded across the country.

A spokesman for the Interior Ministry, Tariq Arian, said the Taliban have carried out at least six suicide bombings and several targeted killings and had planted 65 roadside bombs to target government troops.

He added that more than 60 civilians have been killed and 180 injured. He did not provide figures for casualties suffered by security forces, in keeping with usual government practice.

Dozens of Taliban fighters, including several commanders, have been killed during operations, Arian said.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid rejected the government's claim the group had inflicted civilian casualties, saying these were caused by air and ground operations by Afghan forces. He did not comment on the deaths of Taliban or security forces.

President Joe Biden earlier this month announced the United States would begin its final military withdrawal on May 1, completing it by Sept. 11. Foreign troops under NATO command will also withdraw, NATO allies agreed.

Since that announcement, violence has increased by nearly a quarter around the country, with Taliban attacks reported in 21 of the 34 provinces, an Afghan Defence Ministry spokesman said.

"We are already in the middle of Taliban's annual spring offensive but we are prepared and conducting our operations," said a senior government official, who asked not to be named.

Afghan chief of intelligence Ahmad Zia Siraj said the Taliban have increased violence "to the highest level" in recent days.

Top security leaders flew to the central province of Ghazni on Thursday to assess the situation amid reports of the Taliban amassing fighters in the area to overrun the strategic province.

Peace efforts stalled after the Taliban and the Afghan government began talks in the Qatari capital of Doha last year. Washington pushed for a summit in Turkey this month but that was postponed because the Taliban refused to participate, and no new date has been set.

The troop pullout deadline of Sept. 11 is later than a May 1 deadline agreed between the Taliban and United States in Doha last year. The Taliban, which has not attacked foreign troops since the Doha agreement, has called the delay unacceptable.

More than 100 Afghan security force personnel have been killed over the last two weeks amid a surge of Taliban attacks following Washington's announcement it would pull all US troops out by September 11, officials said on Thursday.

More than 100 Afghan security force personnel have been killed over the last two weeks amid a surge of Taliban attacks following Washington's announcement it would pull all US troops out by September 11, officials said on Thursday. Senior Afghan officials say the Taliban is putting on a show of force and seeking to gain territory as foreign forces pull out. The Taliban has waged a two-decade-long insurgency since being ousted from power by US-led foreign troops in 2001. According to two senior security officials, around 120 Afghan security forces personnel, 65 civilians and over 300 Taliban fighters have been killed in the last 15 days of fighting, and scores more wounded across the country. A spokesman for the Interior Ministry, Tariq Arian, said the Taliban have carried out at least six suicide bombings and several targeted killings and had planted 65 roadside bombs to target government troops. He added that more than 60 civilians have been killed and 180 injured. He did not provide figures for casualties suffered by security forces, in keeping with usual government practice. Dozens of Taliban fighters, including several commanders, have been killed during operations, Arian said. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid rejected the government's claim the group had inflicted civilian casualties, saying these were caused by air and ground operations by Afghan forces. He did not comment on the deaths of Taliban or security forces. President Joe Biden earlier this month announced the United States would begin its final military withdrawal on May 1, completing it by Sept. 11. Foreign troops under NATO command will also withdraw, NATO allies agreed. Since that announcement, violence has increased by nearly a quarter around the country, with Taliban attacks reported in 21 of the 34 provinces, an Afghan Defence Ministry spokesman said. "We are already in the middle of Taliban's annual spring offensive but we are prepared and conducting our operations," said a senior government official, who asked not to be named. Afghan chief of intelligence Ahmad Zia Siraj said the Taliban have increased violence "to the highest level" in recent days. Top security leaders flew to the central province of Ghazni on Thursday to assess the situation amid reports of the Taliban amassing fighters in the area to overrun the strategic province. Peace efforts stalled after the Taliban and the Afghan government began talks in the Qatari capital of Doha last year. Washington pushed for a summit in Turkey this month but that was postponed because the Taliban refused to participate, and no new date has been set. The troop pullout deadline of Sept. 11 is later than a May 1 deadline agreed between the Taliban and United States in Doha last year. The Taliban, which has not attacked foreign troops since the Doha agreement, has called the delay unacceptable.

Hundreds die in surge of violence in Afghanistan

NATO has begun withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan, reported AFP quoting a senior official of the alliance.

"NATO Allies decided in mid-April to start the withdrawal of Resolute Support Mission forces by May 1 and this withdrawal has begun. This will be an orderly, coordinated, and deliberate process," a NATO official told AFP.&nbsp;

The United States and the allied forces are in the process of withdrawing their forces from Afghanistan. Though the US had said initially that troop withdrawal will take place on May 1, US President Joe Biden has previously said that keeping the date would be difficult.

The US had been engaged with Taliban, widely perceived to gain control of the country in peace talks. However, Taliban attacks and the assassination of prominent Afghan figures have raised alarm everywhere.

Members of the US-backed alliance NATO agreed this month to wrap up their 9,600-strong mission in Afghanistan after Biden made the call to end Washington's longest war.

The decision -- which delayed by several months a deadline agreed by former US leader Donald Trump -- came despite fears it could allow the Taliban to regain power in the country.

The NATO official said the safety of the alliance's troops "will be a top priority every step of the way, and we are taking all necessary measures to keep our personnel from harm". &nbsp;

"Any Taliban attacks during the withdrawal will be met with a forceful response. We plan to have our withdrawal completed within a few months," the official said, refusing to give any f

Biden said the US withdrawal would be completed by September 11, the twentieth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on America that sparked its military involvement in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Germany's defence ministry has said it plans to get its 1,300 troops out of the country by early July.&nbsp; 
NATO's training and support mission, which includes some 2,500 US troops and relies heavily on Washington's military assets, has personnel from 36 alliance member nations and partner countries.

The US has said it is temporarily deploying extra troops to protect international forces as they withdraw and has prolonged the presence of an aircraft carrier in the region to support the pull-out.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

NATO has begun withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan, reported AFP quoting a senior official of the alliance. "NATO Allies decided in mid-April to start the withdrawal of Resolute Support Mission forces by May 1 and this withdrawal has begun.

NATO has begun withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan, reported AFP quoting a senior official of the alliance. "NATO Allies decided in mid-April to start the withdrawal of Resolute Support Mission forces by May 1 and this withdrawal has begun. This will be an orderly, coordinated, and deliberate process," a NATO official told AFP. The United States and the allied forces are in the process of withdrawing their forces from Afghanistan. Though the US had said initially that troop withdrawal will take place on May 1, US President Joe Biden has previously said that keeping the date would be difficult. The US had been engaged with Taliban, widely perceived to gain control of the country in peace talks. However, Taliban attacks and the assassination of prominent Afghan figures have raised alarm everywhere. Members of the US-backed alliance NATO agreed this month to wrap up their 9,600-strong mission in Afghanistan after Biden made the call to end Washington's longest war. The decision -- which delayed by several months a deadline agreed by former US leader Donald Trump -- came despite fears it could allow the Taliban to regain power in the country. The NATO official said the safety of the alliance's troops "will be a top priority every step of the way, and we are taking all necessary measures to keep our personnel from harm". "Any Taliban attacks during the withdrawal will be met with a forceful response. We plan to have our withdrawal completed within a few months," the official said, refusing to give any f Biden said the US withdrawal would be completed by September 11, the twentieth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on America that sparked its military involvement in Afghanistan. Germany's defence ministry has said it plans to get its 1,300 troops out of the country by early July. NATO's training and support mission, which includes some 2,500 US troops and relies heavily on Washington's military assets, has personnel from 36 alliance member nations and partner countries. The US has said it is temporarily deploying extra troops to protect international forces as they withdraw and has prolonged the presence of an aircraft carrier in the region to support the pull-out. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan troop withdrawal has begun, says senior NATO official

The United States has ordered non-essential staff to leave its Kabul embassy citing increased threats as Washington prepares to end its 20-year war in Afghanistan. The order came two weeks after President Joe Biden announced that US troops would leave the country by September.

US orders officials to leave Kabul embassy as it begins troop pullout

Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan called on the Taliban to reaffirm their commitment to achieving a negotiated settlement for Afghan peace. The foreign ministers of these three countries have issued a joint statement after talks in Istanbul.

Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan urge Taliban to agree on ceasefire

Precious artefacts from Afghanistan’s ancient past were seized from a New York-based art dealer recently, and have now been returned to the government of Afghanistan.

A collection of 33 artefacts, the relics were seized from an art dealer who has been described as one of the most prolific smugglers of antiquities in the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-pakistan-turkish-ministers-to-discuss-afghan-peace-prospects-379246" hreflang="en">Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkish ministers to discuss Afghan peace prospects</a>

"The significance of the material is huge," said Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the US. "Each one of these pieces are priceless depictions of our history."

These relics were handed over to Rahmani in a formal ceremony on Monday in New York in presence of the Manhattan District Attorney's office and Homeland Security Investigations.

<img alt="Afghan relics" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0828ff1e-9b4b-4f00-9d77-4ad0591c8068" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Afghan%20relics.jpg" />

The artefacts were discovered as a part of a larger investigation of antiquities trafficking from a number of countries.

After being displayed at the embassy in Washington, the artefacts are being carefully transported to Kabul. The relics, which include sculptures, masks and other precious items, will be put on display at the National Museum in Kabul.

While the Taliban has already attacked the museum once, destroying precious antiquities, this ti,e the authorities are hoping to have tight security for the precious relics.

"However, what I know is that our security forces are determined to defend our people," she told Associated Press. "The government is committed to do its part for peace and stability in a way that would bring durable peace."

Precious artefacts from Afghanistan’s ancient past were seized from a New York-based art dealer recently, and have now been returned to the government of Afghanistan.

Precious artefacts from Afghanistan’s ancient past were seized from a New York-based art dealer recently, and have now been returned to the government of Afghanistan. A collection of 33 artefacts, the relics were seized from an art dealer who has been described as one of the most prolific smugglers of antiquities in the world. Also read | Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkish ministers to discuss Afghan peace prospects "The significance of the material is huge," said Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the US. "Each one of these pieces are priceless depictions of our history." These relics were handed over to Rahmani in a formal ceremony on Monday in New York in presence of the Manhattan District Attorney's office and Homeland Security Investigations. The artefacts were discovered as a part of a larger investigation of antiquities trafficking from a number of countries. After being displayed at the embassy in Washington, the artefacts are being carefully transported to Kabul. The relics, which include sculptures, masks and other precious items, will be put on display at the National Museum in Kabul. While the Taliban has already attacked the museum once, destroying precious antiquities, this ti,e the authorities are hoping to have tight security for the precious relics. "However, what I know is that our security forces are determined to defend our people," she told Associated Press. "The government is committed to do its part for peace and stability in a way that would bring durable peace."

US returns precious relics to Afghanistan after seizing from New York-based smuggler

Asserting that China and India are to be a factor in the regional prosperity, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has said it is 'a moment of choice' for neighbouring Pakistan as all its calculations have been 'wrong' so far.&nbsp;

Ghani, in an interview to CNN's Fareed Zakaria&nbsp;which aired on Sunday, said that verbally, the leaders of Pakistan all fortunately acknowledge that they do not want the Taliban government in Afghanistan, that they would like to see a peaceful, stable, democratic government in the war-torn country.&nbsp;

"We are key to their prosperity. The rate of growth in Afghanistan could enhance by two per cent in a stable and connected Afghanistan, we have to work together.”&nbsp;

"So, there are two options.&nbsp;Connect to Central Asia through us, share in the joint prosperity through the partnership for peace, gain international credibility and support that they're all in need of, or opt for chaos," he said.&nbsp;

The country that would be most damaged by insecurity or a renewed civil war in Afghanistan is Pakistan, and in that case, it would be a lose proposition, Ghani said.&nbsp;

"It's a moment of choice for Pakistan. All its calculations have been wrong," the Afghanistan president said.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has in the past accused Pakistan of providing safe havens for terror groups that target its territory, especially the Afghan Taliban, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and the Haqqani group.&nbsp;

Responding to a question, Ghani said that China is not an interventionist power.&nbsp;

"It does not want to get engaged with military or proxy wars, and Pakistan in terms of its foreign policy obviously is hedging between China and other countries, because it is still, its reliance on the rest of the region is quite significant. Pakistan can become an anchor of regional stability if it opts for peace in regional cooperation," he said.&nbsp;

The discourse of Pakistan has changed, he said, adding that there was a security conference in Islamabad where the talk was really significantly about harmony and cooperation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Asserting that China and India are to be a factor in the regional prosperity, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has said it is 'a moment of choice' for neighbouring Pakistan as all its calculations have been 'wrong' so far.

Asserting that China and India are to be a factor in the regional prosperity, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has said it is 'a moment of choice' for neighbouring Pakistan as all its calculations have been 'wrong' so far. Ghani, in an interview to CNN's Fareed Zakaria which aired on Sunday, said that verbally, the leaders of Pakistan all fortunately acknowledge that they do not want the Taliban government in Afghanistan, that they would like to see a peaceful, stable, democratic government in the war-torn country. "We are key to their prosperity. The rate of growth in Afghanistan could enhance by two per cent in a stable and connected Afghanistan, we have to work together.” "So, there are two options. Connect to Central Asia through us, share in the joint prosperity through the partnership for peace, gain international credibility and support that they're all in need of, or opt for chaos," he said. The country that would be most damaged by insecurity or a renewed civil war in Afghanistan is Pakistan, and in that case, it would be a lose proposition, Ghani said. "It's a moment of choice for Pakistan. All its calculations have been wrong," the Afghanistan president said. Afghanistan has in the past accused Pakistan of providing safe havens for terror groups that target its territory, especially the Afghan Taliban, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and the Haqqani group. Responding to a question, Ghani said that China is not an interventionist power. "It does not want to get engaged with military or proxy wars, and Pakistan in terms of its foreign policy obviously is hedging between China and other countries, because it is still, its reliance on the rest of the region is quite significant. Pakistan can become an anchor of regional stability if it opts for peace in regional cooperation," he said. The discourse of Pakistan has changed, he said, adding that there was a security conference in Islamabad where the talk was really significantly about harmony and cooperation. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan Prez: India, China factor in regional prosperity; moment of choice for Pak  

Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani said that the country has long been ready for the US and NATO-led coalition forces` withdrawal. 
 
Ghani made the remarks during a security personnel medal-awarding ceremony held here on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported. 
 
"After two years, we are fully prepared for the day and we have a comprehensive plan for their withdrawal," he said. 
 
The President added that the 350,000-member strong security forces were fully prepared to protect the country. 
 
Ghani also reiterated that the Afghan government is committed to the peace talks with the Taliban and that it is now up to the latter to act on it. 
 
US President Joe Biden on April 14 announced the unconditional withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan by September which will end the 20-year old war. 
 
Biden said that it has been 10 years since former Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden`s death, and it is time to end America`s war in the country and to bring US troops home. 
 
Meanwhile, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said that achieving a peace deal after the withdrawal of the US forces from Afghanistan is one of the priorities of the group but added that it will select the military option if the efforts could not get the expected outcome, TOLO News reported.

Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani said that the country has long been ready for the US and NATO-led coalition forces` withdrawal. Ghani made the remarks during a security personnel medal-awarding ceremony held here on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani said that the country has long been ready for the US and NATO-led coalition forces` withdrawal. Ghani made the remarks during a security personnel medal-awarding ceremony held here on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported. "After two years, we are fully prepared for the day and we have a comprehensive plan for their withdrawal," he said. The President added that the 350,000-member strong security forces were fully prepared to protect the country. Ghani also reiterated that the Afghan government is committed to the peace talks with the Taliban and that it is now up to the latter to act on it. US President Joe Biden on April 14 announced the unconditional withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan by September which will end the 20-year old war. Biden said that it has been 10 years since former Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden`s death, and it is time to end America`s war in the country and to bring US troops home. Meanwhile, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said that achieving a peace deal after the withdrawal of the US forces from Afghanistan is one of the priorities of the group but added that it will select the military option if the efforts could not get the expected outcome, TOLO News reported.

Afghanistan ready for coalition forces' pull out: President Ghani

No one can offer guarantees about Afghanistan`s future after U.S. troops leave, a top White House official said on Sunday, even as he stressed the United States would stay focused on terrorist threats emanating from the country.

President Joe Biden announced on Wednesday that the United States will withdraw its remaining 2,500 troops from Afghanistan by Sept. 11, the 20th anniversary of the al Qaeda attacks that triggered America`s longest war.

White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was asked on the Fox News Sunday program about the risk of a repeat of what happened in Iraq, where Islamic State militants seized territory after U.S. troops withdrew in 2011.

That led then-President Barack Obama to send troops back into Iraq.

Sullivan said Biden had no intention of sending American forces back to Afghanistan, but he added: "I can`t make any guarantees about what will happen inside the country. No one can."

"All the United States could do is provide the Afghan security forces, the Afghan government and the Afghan people resources and capabilities, training and equipping their forces, providing assistance to their government. We have done that and now it is time for American troops to come home and the Afghan people to step up to defend their own country."

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani rejected what he said were "false analogies" with the war in Vietnam as well as any suggestion his government was at risk of folding under Taliban pressure after U.S. troops leave. Afghan security forces were capable of defending the country, he said.

"The Afghan defense and security forces have been carrying over 90% of the operations in the last two years," Ghani said in an interview with CNN.

Former President Donald Trump said in a statement that leaving Afghanistan was "a wonderful and positive thing to do," but called for a more rapid departure. Trump had set a May 1 deadline to withdraw.

CIA Director William Burns told the Senate Intelligence Committee on Wednesday that America`s ability to collect intelligence and act against extremist threats in Afghanistan will diminish after the departure of U.S. troops.

A United Nations report in January said there were as many as 500 al Qaeda fighters in Afghanistan and that the Taliban maintained a close relationship with the Islamist extremist group. The Taliban denies al Qaeda has a presence in Afghanistan.

Announcing his decision to withdraw troops, Biden said the United States would monitor the threat, reorganize counterterrorism capabilities and keep substantial assets in the region to respond to threats to the United States emerging from Afghanistan.

"He has no intention of taking our eye off the ball," Sullivan said of the president.

"We have the capacity, from repositioning our capabilities over the horizon, to continue to suppress the terrorist threat in Afghanistan."

No one can offer guarantees about Afghanistan`s future after U.S. troops leave, a top White House official said on Sunday, even as he stressed the United States would stay focused on terrorist threats emanating from the country.

No one can offer guarantees about Afghanistan`s future after U.S. troops leave, a top White House official said on Sunday, even as he stressed the United States would stay focused on terrorist threats emanating from the country. President Joe Biden announced on Wednesday that the United States will withdraw its remaining 2,500 troops from Afghanistan by Sept. 11, the 20th anniversary of the al Qaeda attacks that triggered America`s longest war. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was asked on the Fox News Sunday program about the risk of a repeat of what happened in Iraq, where Islamic State militants seized territory after U.S. troops withdrew in 2011. That led then-President Barack Obama to send troops back into Iraq. Sullivan said Biden had no intention of sending American forces back to Afghanistan, but he added: "I can`t make any guarantees about what will happen inside the country. No one can." "All the United States could do is provide the Afghan security forces, the Afghan government and the Afghan people resources and capabilities, training and equipping their forces, providing assistance to their government. We have done that and now it is time for American troops to come home and the Afghan people to step up to defend their own country." Afghan President Ashraf Ghani rejected what he said were "false analogies" with the war in Vietnam as well as any suggestion his government was at risk of folding under Taliban pressure after U.S. troops leave. Afghan security forces were capable of defending the country, he said. "The Afghan defense and security forces have been carrying over 90% of the operations in the last two years," Ghani said in an interview with CNN. Former President Donald Trump said in a statement that leaving Afghanistan was "a wonderful and positive thing to do," but called for a more rapid departure. Trump had set a May 1 deadline to withdraw. CIA Director William Burns told the Senate Intelligence Committee on Wednesday that America`s ability to collect intelligence and act against extremist threats in Afghanistan will diminish after the departure of U.S. troops. A United Nations report in January said there were as many as 500 al Qaeda fighters in Afghanistan and that the Taliban maintained a close relationship with the Islamist extremist group. The Taliban denies al Qaeda has a presence in Afghanistan. Announcing his decision to withdraw troops, Biden said the United States would monitor the threat, reorganize counterterrorism capabilities and keep substantial assets in the region to respond to threats to the United States emerging from Afghanistan. "He has no intention of taking our eye off the ball," Sullivan said of the president. "We have the capacity, from repositioning our capabilities over the horizon, to continue to suppress the terrorist threat in Afghanistan."

White House: No guarantees about Afghanistan's future post-pullout

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Islamabad supports an "orderly and responsible"&nbsp;pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan and hoped that their withdrawal will coincide with the peace process in the war-torn country.

Qureshi, who is in the UAE, received a call from Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Hanif Atmar, according to a statement issued by the Pakistan Foreign Office.

During the call, the two foreign ministers discussed ways and means to strengthen bilateral relations and the latest developments in the Afghan peace process.

Qureshi "hoped that withdrawal of foreign troops would coincide with the progress in the peace process,"&nbsp;it said.

He underscored Pakistan's consistent policy to enhance bilateral relations and facilitate the Afghan peace process. He said Pakistan supports an "orderly and responsible"&nbsp;pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan, it said.

Qureshi's remarks came in the wake of US President Joe Biden's announcement this month that all American troops would be withdrawn from the strife-torn country by September 11 to end America's longest war that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of over 2,400 American soldiers.

During a televised address to the nation, Biden said that keeping thousands of troops grounded and concentrated in just one country at a cost of billions each year made "little sense" to him and to other leaders and urged countries in the region, especially Pakistan, as well as Russia, China, India and Turkey to "do more" to help ensure peace in Afghanistan.

He said the US will begin final withdrawal from Afghanistan on May 1 of this year. There were 2,500 to 3,000 US troops in Afghanistan when Biden took office in January.

Qureshi said Pakistan's facilitative support led to US-Taliban Peace Agreement and the subsequent Intra-Afghan negotiations.

The foreign minister expressed hope that the Afghan parties would work constructively to achieve the shared objective of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

Qureshi reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to deepen bilateral ties in all areas of mutual interest. The foreign minister invited his Afghan counterpart to visit Pakistan after the meeting in Istanbul. The Afghan foreign minister accepted the invitation, the statement said.

Qureshi left on a three-day trip to the UAE on Saturday where he was scheduled to hold talks with UAE leaders on various bilateral and international issues, it said.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Islamabad supports an "orderly and responsible" pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan and hoped that their withdrawal will coincide with the peace process in the war-torn country.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Islamabad supports an "orderly and responsible" pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan and hoped that their withdrawal will coincide with the peace process in the war-torn country. Qureshi, who is in the UAE, received a call from Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Hanif Atmar, according to a statement issued by the Pakistan Foreign Office. During the call, the two foreign ministers discussed ways and means to strengthen bilateral relations and the latest developments in the Afghan peace process. Qureshi "hoped that withdrawal of foreign troops would coincide with the progress in the peace process," it said. He underscored Pakistan's consistent policy to enhance bilateral relations and facilitate the Afghan peace process. He said Pakistan supports an "orderly and responsible" pullout of foreign troops from Afghanistan, it said. Qureshi's remarks came in the wake of US President Joe Biden's announcement this month that all American troops would be withdrawn from the strife-torn country by September 11 to end America's longest war that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of over 2,400 American soldiers. During a televised address to the nation, Biden said that keeping thousands of troops grounded and concentrated in just one country at a cost of billions each year made "little sense" to him and to other leaders and urged countries in the region, especially Pakistan, as well as Russia, China, India and Turkey to "do more" to help ensure peace in Afghanistan. He said the US will begin final withdrawal from Afghanistan on May 1 of this year. There were 2,500 to 3,000 US troops in Afghanistan when Biden took office in January. Qureshi said Pakistan's facilitative support led to US-Taliban Peace Agreement and the subsequent Intra-Afghan negotiations. The foreign minister expressed hope that the Afghan parties would work constructively to achieve the shared objective of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan. Qureshi reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to deepen bilateral ties in all areas of mutual interest. The foreign minister invited his Afghan counterpart to visit Pakistan after the meeting in Istanbul. The Afghan foreign minister accepted the invitation, the statement said. Qureshi left on a three-day trip to the UAE on Saturday where he was scheduled to hold talks with UAE leaders on various bilateral and international issues, it said.

Pakistan supports 'orderly', 'responsible' troop pullout from Afghanistan: Qureshi

Two hundred schools, 1000 scholarships, 65000 student exchanges, two dams and one sprawling parliament house. This is what India has given Afghanistan in broad terms. Indian assistance to Afghanistan is spread across sectors like Education, economy, power and most importantly, democracy.

Both countries have had ties since pre-historic times. The ties are as old as the Indus valley civilisation. For the western world, Afghanistan is a strategic goal, but for India, it is about helping an old friend.

For two decades, foreign troops have lumbered in Afghanistan. There was status quo. The civilian government had a godfather.

But once the western troops leave, who takes charge? Who is India betting on? New Delhi has excellent ties with the civilian government. It will be hoping that good situation prevails beyond September 11.

But the Taliban has other plans. They don't see themselves as stakeholders in Afghanistan. They believe that they are government-in-waiting.

This definitely isn't good news for India or for the world. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar talked about this on Friday. He said Afghanistan's future should not be a return to the past.

He was talking about the time when the Taliban ruled the country.

Here's what that Afghanistan looked like,

<ul>
	<li>No school for girls</li>
	<li>Ruthless punishment for blasphemy.</li>
	<li>Zero room for dissent.</li>
	<li>Zero tolerance for cultural diversity.</li>
</ul>

And a rejection of modern Science and Engineering.

It was basically a throwback to the dark ages. Dealing with such a regime would be impossible.

We say this because ofo three specific reasons

1. Taliban's not-so-covert links with terrorism.

India does not need another terror launchpad in the region. This was the case before 9/11. The Taliban have promised to not fund terror groups but looking at recent uptick in violence, that's hard to believe.

2. A growing Pakistani shadow

It is no secret that Islamabad funds and trains Taliban fighters. They were more than happy to walk terrorists over to Pakistan in 1999.

This was after the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814. We all know the story.

The bottom line is this. India cannot afford to have a Pak proxy in Kabul.

3. Risk to India's economic interests

New Delhi has way too much to lose. It has invested more than 3 billion dollars in Afghanistan.

That's 400 projects, in all 34 provinces. These projects include dams, schools, hospitals, clinics and more. Some of these installations have been attacked by Taliban proxies. The US presence was like insurance for Indian interests. With that gone, these mega-projects are vulnerable to attacks.

So what are India's options here?

History has some clues. Before 9/11, Afghanistan was the Wild West. The US never bothered to check the Taliban's rise. It was India, Iran and Russia that kept the resistance alive.

Now is the time to revive that axis. Russia is keen on a larger role. So is Iran. Both countries have warned Taliban against cosying up to terrorists.

India should try and revive the great game. The game, not of competition, but co-operation India has enough diplomatic leverage with both Russia and Iran. It must exercise this leverage. If India cannot be the sole player in Afghanistan, it must aim to be&nbsp;the most influential one.

But this might put New Delhi at odds with Washington. Both Iran and Russia are sworn enemies of the US. Moreover, Washington has a history of dumping regional allies. Just look at the Kurds in Syria.

Joe Biden says he will hold the Taliban to their word. But without his troops in Afghanistan, how powerful is Biden? India cannot bank on a power thousands of miles away.

It can be sure of one thing though. If the Taliban takes over after America withdraws, Joe Biden will not have the high ground to criticise a Russia-Iran-India axis.

In addition to all this, there is a new player on the block in the form of China. India can keep China at bay by disarming Beijing's biggest weapon. Its chequebook. India must keep investing in Afghanistan. If the Afghan economy tanks, China will swoop in. Only self-reliance can lead to stability. It's the same for security.

India should deploy military contractors to train Afghan security forces. Make them capable of defending the civilian government. So aid must continue. So must intelligence sharing and training exercises.

This means India can check the three boxes of a perfect partnership. Shared history, economic ties and military support.

India is Afghanistan's best bet. New Delhi has always called for an Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled peace. It has never put a caveat on investments. But this isn't a one-way show. Afghanistan is India's key to Central Asia.

Unlike other stakeholders. New Delhi does not want to play the great game. It wants to play it on Afghanistan's behalf.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

Two hundred schools, 1000 scholarships, 65000 student exchanges, two dams and one sprawling parliament house. This is what India has given Afghanistan in broad terms.

Two hundred schools, 1000 scholarships, 65000 student exchanges, two dams and one sprawling parliament house. This is what India has given Afghanistan in broad terms. Indian assistance to Afghanistan is spread across sectors like Education, economy, power and most importantly, democracy. Both countries have had ties since pre-historic times. The ties are as old as the Indus valley civilisation. For the western world, Afghanistan is a strategic goal, but for India, it is about helping an old friend. For two decades, foreign troops have lumbered in Afghanistan. There was status quo. The civilian government had a godfather. But once the western troops leave, who takes charge? Who is India betting on? New Delhi has excellent ties with the civilian government. It will be hoping that good situation prevails beyond September 11. But the Taliban has other plans. They don't see themselves as stakeholders in Afghanistan. They believe that they are government-in-waiting. This definitely isn't good news for India or for the world. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar talked about this on Friday. He said Afghanistan's future should not be a return to the past. He was talking about the time when the Taliban ruled the country. Here's what that Afghanistan looked like, No school for girls Ruthless punishment for blasphemy. Zero room for dissent. Zero tolerance for cultural diversity. And a rejection of modern Science and Engineering. It was basically a throwback to the dark ages. Dealing with such a regime would be impossible. We say this because ofo three specific reasons 1. Taliban's not-so-covert links with terrorism. India does not need another terror launchpad in the region. This was the case before 9/11. The Taliban have promised to not fund terror groups but looking at recent uptick in violence, that's hard to believe. 2. A growing Pakistani shadow It is no secret that Islamabad funds and trains Taliban fighters. They were more than happy to walk terrorists over to Pakistan in 1999. This was after the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814. We all know the story. The bottom line is this. India cannot afford to have a Pak proxy in Kabul. 3. Risk to India's economic interests New Delhi has way too much to lose. It has invested more than 3 billion dollars in Afghanistan. That's 400 projects, in all 34 provinces. These projects include dams, schools, hospitals, clinics and more. Some of these installations have been attacked by Taliban proxies. The US presence was like insurance for Indian interests. With that gone, these mega-projects are vulnerable to attacks. So what are India's options here? History has some clues. Before 9/11, Afghanistan was the Wild West. The US never bothered to check the Taliban's rise. It was India, Iran and Russia that kept the resistance alive. Now is the time to revive that axis. Russia is keen on a larger role. So is Iran. Both countries have warned Taliban against cosying up to terrorists. India should try and revive the great game. The game, not of competition, but co-operation India has enough diplomatic leverage with both Russia and Iran. It must exercise this leverage. If India cannot be the sole player in Afghanistan, it must aim to be the most influential one. But this might put New Delhi at odds with Washington. Both Iran and Russia are sworn enemies of the US. Moreover, Washington has a history of dumping regional allies. Just look at the Kurds in Syria. Joe Biden says he will hold the Taliban to their word. But without his troops in Afghanistan, how powerful is Biden? India cannot bank on a power thousands of miles away. It can be sure of one thing though. If the Taliban takes over after America withdraws, Joe Biden will not have the high ground to criticise a Russia-Iran-India axis. In addition to all this, there is a new player on the block in the form of China. India can keep China at bay by disarming Beijing's biggest weapon. Its chequebook. India must keep investing in Afghanistan. If the Afghan economy tanks, China will swoop in. Only self-reliance can lead to stability. It's the same for security. India should deploy military contractors to train Afghan security forces. Make them capable of defending the civilian government. So aid must continue. So must intelligence sharing and training exercises. This means India can check the three boxes of a perfect partnership. Shared history, economic ties and military support. India is Afghanistan's best bet. New Delhi has always called for an Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled peace. It has never put a caveat on investments. But this isn't a one-way show. Afghanistan is India's key to Central Asia. Unlike other stakeholders. New Delhi does not want to play the great game. It wants to play it on Afghanistan's behalf. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: India is Afghanistan's best bet

Before the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, there might be an increase in number of soldiers to ensure safe and orderly drawdown, the Pentagon has said.&nbsp;

"It is not out of the realm the possibility that for a short period of time, there will have to be some additional enabling capabilities added to Afghanistan, to help effect a safe, orderly, and deliberately planned drawdown of everybody by the president's deadline, early September," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters at a news conference on Friday.&nbsp;

However, Kirby did not elaborate on the nature of the increase in US troops. "I can't speak today with exactly what that would look like, how many, when they would be going in. But as we transitioned out of Iraq, of course, it's logical to assume that you may need some logistics help, maybe some engineering help," he said.&nbsp;

"You may have to add some force protection capabilities, temporarily, just to make sure that the drawdown goes in a safe, orderly, and effective way. Again, we'll know more as we get closer, but that would not be out of the realm of possibility," Kirby said.&nbsp;

Responding to a question, Kirby said that the Department of Defence is still working out what the future bilateral security relationship is going to be with Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"We're going to transition to a bilateral relationship, a military relationship that's more akin to the kinds of relationships we have with other countries," he said.&nbsp;

"It will not include a US military footprint on the ground in Afghanistan with the exception of what's going to be required to support the diplomatic mission there. All that's still being worked out. So, I can't speak with specificity today about what contract support the Afghan security forces are going to need going forward," he said.&nbsp;

The United States, he said, will maintain counterterrorism capabilities to continue to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a launching pad for terrorist attacks on the US.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Before the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, there might be an increase in number of soldiers to ensure safe and orderly drawdown, the Pentagon has said.

Before the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan by September 11, there might be an increase in number of soldiers to ensure safe and orderly drawdown, the Pentagon has said. "It is not out of the realm the possibility that for a short period of time, there will have to be some additional enabling capabilities added to Afghanistan, to help effect a safe, orderly, and deliberately planned drawdown of everybody by the president's deadline, early September," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters at a news conference on Friday. However, Kirby did not elaborate on the nature of the increase in US troops. "I can't speak today with exactly what that would look like, how many, when they would be going in. But as we transitioned out of Iraq, of course, it's logical to assume that you may need some logistics help, maybe some engineering help," he said. "You may have to add some force protection capabilities, temporarily, just to make sure that the drawdown goes in a safe, orderly, and effective way. Again, we'll know more as we get closer, but that would not be out of the realm of possibility," Kirby said. Responding to a question, Kirby said that the Department of Defence is still working out what the future bilateral security relationship is going to be with Afghanistan. "We're going to transition to a bilateral relationship, a military relationship that's more akin to the kinds of relationships we have with other countries," he said. "It will not include a US military footprint on the ground in Afghanistan with the exception of what's going to be required to support the diplomatic mission there. All that's still being worked out. So, I can't speak with specificity today about what contract support the Afghan security forces are going to need going forward," he said. The United States, he said, will maintain counterterrorism capabilities to continue to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a launching pad for terrorist attacks on the US. (With inputs from agencies)

Before withdrawal, US soldiers’ number may rise in Afghanistan: Pentagon  

We cannot discuss future of Afghanistan without talking about Pakistan. It is a country that drives the conflict in Afghanistan. It has always supported Taliban and its proxies.

Pakistan's support to the Taliban is no secret.

According to one claim, the ISI's proxy war has killed more than 124,000 people in Afghanistan. Islamabad, or more accurately, Rawalpindi's influence with the Taliban is the reason why Pakistan has a seat at the table when future of Afghanistan is discussed.

It's the reason why Afghanistan and India are wary of Pakistan's intentions. Without naming Pakistan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said foreign fighters need to leave Afghanistan. The National Security Advisor of Afghanistan agreed.&nbsp;

He said that blame would fall squarely on one party for any escalation in violence.

Kabul has sent a warning to Islamabad saying that if it attempts escalation through the proxies, there will be a fierce pushback.

India shares similar worries. EAM was quite vocal about New Delhi's concerns over Pakistan. He said any solution must be backed up by all neighbours and not just a single party that likes to talk with force.

Supporting terrorism in Afghanistan and other countries has also had an effect on Pakistan. The terror-mongers and those who want to provide them safe havens gained importance in Pakistan's decision-making machinery. Ending support to terrorism is in the interest of Pakistan itself. 
&nbsp;

We cannot discuss future of Afghanistan without talking about Pakistan. It is a country that drives the conflict in Afghanistan. It has always supported Taliban and its proxies.

We cannot discuss future of Afghanistan without talking about Pakistan. It is a country that drives the conflict in Afghanistan. It has always supported Taliban and its proxies. Pakistan's support to the Taliban is no secret. According to one claim, the ISI's proxy war has killed more than 124,000 people in Afghanistan. Islamabad, or more accurately, Rawalpindi's influence with the Taliban is the reason why Pakistan has a seat at the table when future of Afghanistan is discussed. It's the reason why Afghanistan and India are wary of Pakistan's intentions. Without naming Pakistan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said foreign fighters need to leave Afghanistan. The National Security Advisor of Afghanistan agreed. He said that blame would fall squarely on one party for any escalation in violence. Kabul has sent a warning to Islamabad saying that if it attempts escalation through the proxies, there will be a fierce pushback. India shares similar worries. EAM was quite vocal about New Delhi's concerns over Pakistan. He said any solution must be backed up by all neighbours and not just a single party that likes to talk with force. Supporting terrorism in Afghanistan and other countries has also had an effect on Pakistan. The terror-mongers and those who want to provide them safe havens gained importance in Pakistan's decision-making machinery. Ending support to terrorism is in the interest of Pakistan itself.

Pakistan: The country that influences conflict in Afghanistan

There are no doubts over India's credentials when it comes to reconstruction of Afghanistan. It is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan as per a report that further says that India has given more than three billion dollars to Afghanistan.

However, the Afghan arena is witnessing entry of a new player: China.

China weaponises the development projects. Uses them to bind countries with debt.

India is involved in developing Chabahar port in Iran. The port opens up a key trading route for India to Afghanistan. The port also gives India access to Central Asia.

Since February 2019, the Chabahar port has handled 123 vessels and 1.8 million tonnes of bulk and general cargoes.

During the pandemic, India used the Chabahar port to send 75,000 tonnes of wheat as humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. That's how Chabahar is important to Kabul. It can unlock development in Afghanistan.

But for that, the port project has to survive regional politics. American sanctions against Iran slowed its development. Now a recent deal between Iran and China threatens it.

China and Iran have recently signed a deal that makes promise of co-operation for 25 years.

Iran has been quick to assure "Indian, Chinese friends" that Chabahar was not aimed against anybody.&nbsp;

"We have made very clear to our Indian, Chinese friends that Chabahar is open for cooperation for everybody. Chabahar is not against China, is not against Gwadar. Chabahar is a place where we can all come together in order to help Afghanistan, help development and prosperity in the region," said Javad Zarif, Iran's Foreign Minister.

When it comes to getting involved in a particular country's internal matters, China has used the familiar strategy of 'debt trap'. Afghanistan and India may do well to be watchful for any such signs.

There are no doubts over India's credentials when it comes to reconstruction of Afghanistan. It is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan as per a report that further says that India has given more than three billion dollars to Afghanistan.

There are no doubts over India's credentials when it comes to reconstruction of Afghanistan. It is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan as per a report that further says that India has given more than three billion dollars to Afghanistan. However, the Afghan arena is witnessing entry of a new player: China. China weaponises the development projects. Uses them to bind countries with debt. India is involved in developing Chabahar port in Iran. The port opens up a key trading route for India to Afghanistan. The port also gives India access to Central Asia. Since February 2019, the Chabahar port has handled 123 vessels and 1.8 million tonnes of bulk and general cargoes. During the pandemic, India used the Chabahar port to send 75,000 tonnes of wheat as humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. That's how Chabahar is important to Kabul. It can unlock development in Afghanistan. But for that, the port project has to survive regional politics. American sanctions against Iran slowed its development. Now a recent deal between Iran and China threatens it. China and Iran have recently signed a deal that makes promise of co-operation for 25 years. Iran has been quick to assure "Indian, Chinese friends" that Chabahar was not aimed against anybody. "We have made very clear to our Indian, Chinese friends that Chabahar is open for cooperation for everybody. Chabahar is not against China, is not against Gwadar. Chabahar is a place where we can all come together in order to help Afghanistan, help development and prosperity in the region," said Javad Zarif, Iran's Foreign Minister. When it comes to getting involved in a particular country's internal matters, China has used the familiar strategy of 'debt trap'. Afghanistan and India may do well to be watchful for any such signs.

China is the new player in Afghan arena

What will a Taliban takeover mean for India-Afghanistan ties? What can India do to protect its investments from being targeted? WION's Palki Sharma decodes New Delhi's options in Afghanistan.

Gravitas: How should India engage with the Taliban

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