The 2500-km-long Durand Line is the international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Currently, this border is burning due to cross-border firing.

Pakistani shelling has killed 15 Afghan nationals in the Spin Boldak area.&nbsp;

Women and children are among the people who were killed in the firing.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-artillery-kills-15-civilians-in-afghanistan-says-kabul-317270">Pakistan artillery kills 15 civilians in Afghanistan, says Kabul</a>

Afghanistan says 80 people have also been injured.&nbsp;

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Pakistan, on the other hand, says Afghan firing has killed four people and injured 28 others.&nbsp;

Let's understand what exactly happened.&nbsp;

The Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing is one of the most popular of the 14 entry, exit points that the two countries share.

On July 30, there were clashes between the security forces from the two sides.&nbsp;

It started after protestors tried to remove barricades to cross the border because they wanted to cross the border over for Eid.&nbsp;

The Durand Line is a porous border, especially in areas like Chaman.&nbsp;

There is free movement of daily wage labourers. At many points, the border crosses through villages.&nbsp;

But this border has been shut for weeks now because of the Wuhan virus pandemic.&nbsp;

It is a situation that villagers are not used to.

The border was briefly opened on Wednesday and Thursday to allow people to cross for Eid.

However, it was closed before everyone could cross over, which triggered a protest that soon snowballed into clashes.&nbsp;

History tells us that this line was drawn by the British and Afghan authorities question its legitimacy.&nbsp;

Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of supporting the Taliban, while Pakistan does not shy away from cross-border shelling.&nbsp;

On July 24, Afghanistan lodged a complaint with the UNSC. It was after Pakistani forces reportedly fired mortar shells into Afghanistan's Sarakano district.

Pakistan is now firing at civilians in Kandahar.

The question is: Can Pakistan not refrain from violence even during its most auspicious festival of Eid? 
&nbsp;

The 2500-km-long Durand Line is the international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Currently, this border is burning due to cross-border firing. Pakistani shelling has killed 15 Afghan nationals in the Spin Boldak area.

The 2500-km-long Durand Line is the international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Currently, this border is burning due to cross-border firing. Pakistani shelling has killed 15 Afghan nationals in the Spin Boldak area. Women and children are among the people who were killed in the firing. Also read | Pakistan artillery kills 15 civilians in Afghanistan, says Kabul Afghanistan says 80 people have also been injured. × Pakistan, on the other hand, says Afghan firing has killed four people and injured 28 others. Let's understand what exactly happened. The Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing is one of the most popular of the 14 entry, exit points that the two countries share. On July 30, there were clashes between the security forces from the two sides. It started after protestors tried to remove barricades to cross the border because they wanted to cross the border over for Eid. The Durand Line is a porous border, especially in areas like Chaman. There is free movement of daily wage labourers. At many points, the border crosses through villages. But this border has been shut for weeks now because of the Wuhan virus pandemic. It is a situation that villagers are not used to. The border was briefly opened on Wednesday and Thursday to allow people to cross for Eid. However, it was closed before everyone could cross over, which triggered a protest that soon snowballed into clashes. History tells us that this line was drawn by the British and Afghan authorities question its legitimacy. Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of supporting the Taliban, while Pakistan does not shy away from cross-border shelling. On July 24, Afghanistan lodged a complaint with the UNSC. It was after Pakistani forces reportedly fired mortar shells into Afghanistan's Sarakano district. Pakistan is now firing at civilians in Kandahar. The question is: Can Pakistan not refrain from violence even during its most auspicious festival of Eid?

Decoding the cross-border firing in Afghanistan-Pakistan border

Afghanistan on Friday ordered the release of 500 Taliban prisoners as part of a new ceasefire that could lead into long-delayed peace talks. The release would complete the government's pledge to free 5,000 Taliban fighters as outlined in a deal the insurgents signed with Washington.

Afghanistan government orders release of 500 Taliban inmates

Cross-border artillery fire by Pakistan killed at least 15 civilians in Afghanistan on Thursday, Afghan officials said, prompting Kabul to put its ground and air forces on alert.

The artillery fire came after clashes between Pakistani and Afghan security forces at the closed Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing, where crowds on both sides were waiting to cross for the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha.

"If the Pakistani military continues its rocket attacks on Afghan territory, they will face retaliation by the Afghan army," Afghanistan's defence ministry said in a statement.

Pakistan's foreign office and military did not immediately respond to Reuters` requests for comment, but Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told reporters that the matter had been taken up with Afghan authorities and hoped it would be resolved amicably.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are both U.S. allies but their relations have rarely been close.

Afghanistan has for years accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban militants. Pakistan denies doing so and in turn accuses Afghanistan of supporting militants fighting the Pakistani government.

The governor of the southeastern Afghan province of Kandahar, Hayatullah Hayat, said the shells fell in residential areas of Spin Boldak and that women and children were among the 15 dead and 80 wounded.

Hospital officials in Pakistan told Reuters three bodies and 20 people suffering bullet wounds had been brought after the clashes between protesters and security forces.

They exchanged fire when crowds waiting to cross into Afghanistan became unruly and attacked Pakistani installations, a Pakistani official said.

The crossing, mostly closed to pedestrians during the COVID-19 pandemic, was briefly opened on Wednesday and was to open again Thursday to allow nationals of both countries to cross for Eid, which falls on Friday in Afghanistan and Saturday in Pakistan.

When it did not open, a large crowd gathered to protest, and a quarantine centre and a Pakistani government facility for processing movement at the crossing were burned down, a Pakistani official at the border told Reuters.

An official of the Chaman administration, Zakaullah Durrani, told Reuters that the situation on the border remained tense.

Cross-border artillery fire by Pakistan killed at least 15 civilians in Afghanistan on Thursday, Afghan officials said, prompting Kabul to put its ground and air forces on alert.

Cross-border artillery fire by Pakistan killed at least 15 civilians in Afghanistan on Thursday, Afghan officials said, prompting Kabul to put its ground and air forces on alert. The artillery fire came after clashes between Pakistani and Afghan security forces at the closed Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing, where crowds on both sides were waiting to cross for the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha. "If the Pakistani military continues its rocket attacks on Afghan territory, they will face retaliation by the Afghan army," Afghanistan's defence ministry said in a statement. Pakistan's foreign office and military did not immediately respond to Reuters` requests for comment, but Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told reporters that the matter had been taken up with Afghan authorities and hoped it would be resolved amicably. Pakistan and Afghanistan are both U.S. allies but their relations have rarely been close. Afghanistan has for years accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban militants. Pakistan denies doing so and in turn accuses Afghanistan of supporting militants fighting the Pakistani government. The governor of the southeastern Afghan province of Kandahar, Hayatullah Hayat, said the shells fell in residential areas of Spin Boldak and that women and children were among the 15 dead and 80 wounded. Hospital officials in Pakistan told Reuters three bodies and 20 people suffering bullet wounds had been brought after the clashes between protesters and security forces. They exchanged fire when crowds waiting to cross into Afghanistan became unruly and attacked Pakistani installations, a Pakistani official said. The crossing, mostly closed to pedestrians during the COVID-19 pandemic, was briefly opened on Wednesday and was to open again Thursday to allow nationals of both countries to cross for Eid, which falls on Friday in Afghanistan and Saturday in Pakistan. When it did not open, a large crowd gathered to protest, and a quarantine centre and a Pakistani government facility for processing movement at the crossing were burned down, a Pakistani official at the border told Reuters. An official of the Chaman administration, Zakaullah Durrani, told Reuters that the situation on the border remained tense.

Pakistan artillery kills 15 civilians in Afghanistan, says Kabul

At least 18 people were killed and 22 others injured as a car bomb exploded in an Afghan city south of Kabul on Thursday, just hours ahead of the Eid ceasefire.

Afghanistan: At least 18 killed in car bomb blast hours ahead of Eid ceasefire

Afghanistan on Friday ordered the release of 500 Taliban prisoners as part of a new ceasefire that could lead into long-delayed peace talks. The release would complete the government's pledge to free 5,000 Taliban fighters as outlined in a deal the insurgents signed with Washington.

The US-Taliban accord signed in February stipulated Kabul would release 5,000 insurgents in return for 1,000 government forces held captive by the militant group. The contentious prisoner swap is a key precondition for peace talks.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said the militants would be freed during the Eid al-Adha holiday, which started Friday and has prompted a national ceasefire for three days.

However, the 500 inmates are not on the original list of 5,000 demanded by the Taliban.

"To show goodwill and accelerate the peace talks, we will release 500 Taliban prisoners in response to the group's three-day ceasefire announcement," Ghani said in an Eid speech.

Kabul authorities have already released 4,600 prisoners but are hesitating about the release of the final 400, deeming them too dangerous.

"I do not have the right to decide on the release of those 400 Taliban prisoners who are accused of serious crimes," Ghani said, adding that a gathering of Afghan elders would decide their fate.&nbsp;

Late Thursday, the Taliban claimed they had completed the release of all 1,000 government prisoners.

 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan on Friday ordered the release of 500 Taliban prisoners as part of a new ceasefire that could lead into long-delayed peace talks. The release would complete the government's pledge to free 5,000 Taliban fighters as outlined in a deal the insurgents signed with Washington. The US-Taliban accord signed in February stipulated Kabul would release 5,000 insurgents in return for 1,000 government forces held captive by the militant group. The contentious prisoner swap is a key precondition for peace talks. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said the militants would be freed during the Eid al-Adha holiday, which started Friday and has prompted a national ceasefire for three days. However, the 500 inmates are not on the original list of 5,000 demanded by the Taliban. "To show goodwill and accelerate the peace talks, we will release 500 Taliban prisoners in response to the group's three-day ceasefire announcement," Ghani said in an Eid speech. Kabul authorities have already released 4,600 prisoners but are hesitating about the release of the final 400, deeming them too dangerous. "I do not have the right to decide on the release of those 400 Taliban prisoners who are accused of serious crimes," Ghani said, adding that a gathering of Afghan elders would decide their fate. Late Thursday, the Taliban claimed they had completed the release of all 1,000 government prisoners.

Afghanistan orders release of 500 Taliban inmates

At least 17 people were killed and 21 others injured as a car bomb exploded in an Afghan city south of Kabul on Thursday, just hours ahead of the Eid ceasefire.&nbsp;

"Seventeen bodies and 21 wounded people were brought to our hospital," Sediqullah, a senior doctor in the city of Puli Alam in Logar province, told news agency AFP.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-declare-three-day-ceasefire-in-afghanistan-for-eid-al-adha-316570">Taliban declare three-day ceasefire in Afghanistan for Eid al-Adha</a>

The interior ministry confirmed the attack, which took place hours before a three-day ceasefire agreed between the Taliban and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-discusses-4-point-plan-with-pakistan-nepal-and-afghanistan-amid-pandemic-316391">China discusses 4-point plan with Pakistan, Nepal, and Afghanistan amid pandemic</a>

It has not been confirmed yet, who is behind the explosion.

Earlier this week, both sides agreed on a temporary stoppage of the fighting, only the third such move in almost 19 years. The ceasefire would come in force on Friday and will continue till the duration of the Eid-Al-Adha festival.&nbsp;

Taliban, late on Wednesday announced they would complete the release of their part of the agreement to release government prisoners by Eid as a "goodwill gesture".

Under the historic deal signed between the terror group and the US, the Taliban was asked to release 1,000 people of Afghan forces, while Kabul would free 5,000 Taliban terrorists.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani and Taliban have said peace talks between both the sides would start once the prisoner exchange is completed.&nbsp;

At least 17 people were killed and 21 others injured as a car bomb exploded in an Afghan city south of Kabul on Thursday, just hours ahead of the Eid ceasefire. "Seventeen bodies and 21 wounded people were brought to our hospital," Sediqullah, a senior doctor in the city of Puli Alam in Logar province, told news agency AFP.

At least 17 people were killed and 21 others injured as a car bomb exploded in an Afghan city south of Kabul on Thursday, just hours ahead of the Eid ceasefire. "Seventeen bodies and 21 wounded people were brought to our hospital," Sediqullah, a senior doctor in the city of Puli Alam in Logar province, told news agency AFP. Also read | Taliban declare three-day ceasefire in Afghanistan for Eid al-Adha The interior ministry confirmed the attack, which took place hours before a three-day ceasefire agreed between the Taliban and Afghanistan. Also read | China discusses 4-point plan with Pakistan, Nepal, and Afghanistan amid pandemic It has not been confirmed yet, who is behind the explosion. Earlier this week, both sides agreed on a temporary stoppage of the fighting, only the third such move in almost 19 years. The ceasefire would come in force on Friday and will continue till the duration of the Eid-Al-Adha festival. Taliban, late on Wednesday announced they would complete the release of their part of the agreement to release government prisoners by Eid as a "goodwill gesture". Under the historic deal signed between the terror group and the US, the Taliban was asked to release 1,000 people of Afghan forces, while Kabul would free 5,000 Taliban terrorists. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani and Taliban have said peace talks between both the sides would start once the prisoner exchange is completed.

Afghanistan: At least 17 killed in car bomb blast hours ahead of Eid ceasefire

Afghanistan's Islamist Taliban militants announced on Tuesday that they will observe a three-day ceasefire for the Muslim religious holiday of Eid al-Adha, starting Friday, offering some respite from weeks of increasing violence.

Disagreements over a prisoner exchange and the violence have delayed peace talks between an Afghan government-mandated committee and the Taliban, as envisaged in an agreement signed between the United States and the militant group in Doha in February.

"In order for our people to spend the three days of Eid in confidence and happiness, all fighters are instructed not to carry out any operations," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted.

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Statement of Islamic Emirate regarding ceasefire during Eid-ul-Adha<a href="https://t.co/ENVPKeiuUM">https://t.co/ENVPKeiuUM</a> <a href="https://t.co/FhAWiKXeQq">pic.twitter.com/FhAWiKXeQq</a>
— Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) <a href="https://twitter.com/Zabehulah_M33/status/1288121256881975298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, he added that if Taliban fighters come under attack from government forces, they will retaliate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-push-to-control-private-companies-aid-agencies-in-afghanistan-316358" hreflang="en">Taliban push to control private companies, aid agencies in Afghanistan</a>

The Afghan president's spokesman, Sediq Sediqqi, said the government welcomed the ceasefire announcement but added that Afghans wanted enduring peace and the start of direct peace negotiations.

Since the US-Taliban agreement, 3,560 Afghan security forces personnel have been killed in attacks by militants, President Ashraf Ghani said in a speech on Tuesday.

The U.N. Assistance Mission in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;(UNAMA) said in a report on Monday that more than 1,280 Afghan civilians had been killed in the first six months of the year, mainly as a result of fighting between Afghan government forces and the Taliban.

The US&nbsp;State Department said last week that US&nbsp;Special Representative for&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;Zalmay Khalilzad would travel to the region to push for an agreement on prisoner exchanges and a reduction in violence.

Afghanistan's Islamist Taliban militants announced on Tuesday that they will observe a three-day ceasefire for the Muslim religious holiday of Eid al-Adha, starting Friday, offering some respite from weeks of increasing violence.

Afghanistan's Islamist Taliban militants announced on Tuesday that they will observe a three-day ceasefire for the Muslim religious holiday of Eid al-Adha, starting Friday, offering some respite from weeks of increasing violence. Disagreements over a prisoner exchange and the violence have delayed peace talks between an Afghan government-mandated committee and the Taliban, as envisaged in an agreement signed between the United States and the militant group in Doha in February. "In order for our people to spend the three days of Eid in confidence and happiness, all fighters are instructed not to carry out any operations," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted. Statement of Islamic Emirate regarding ceasefire during Eid-ul-Adhahttps://t.co/ENVPKeiuUM pic.twitter.com/FhAWiKXeQq — Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) July 28, 2020 × However, he added that if Taliban fighters come under attack from government forces, they will retaliate. Also read: Taliban push to control private companies, aid agencies in Afghanistan The Afghan president's spokesman, Sediq Sediqqi, said the government welcomed the ceasefire announcement but added that Afghans wanted enduring peace and the start of direct peace negotiations. Since the US-Taliban agreement, 3,560 Afghan security forces personnel have been killed in attacks by militants, President Ashraf Ghani said in a speech on Tuesday. The U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a report on Monday that more than 1,280 Afghan civilians had been killed in the first six months of the year, mainly as a result of fighting between Afghan government forces and the Taliban. The US State Department said last week that US Special Representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad would travel to the region to push for an agreement on prisoner exchanges and a reduction in violence.

Taliban declare three-day ceasefire in Afghanistan for Eid al-Adha

On July 27, China held an unprecedented four-party conference with Pakistan, Nepal & Afghanistan. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how the meeting was an attempt to corner India.

Gravitas: China's unprecedented meeting with India's neighbours

Afghanistan's Taliban militants announced on Tuesday that they will observe a three-day ceasefire for the Muslim religious holiday of Eid Al-Adha

Taliban announce Eid Al-Adha ceasefire in Afghanistan

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday held the first joint virtual conference with his counterparts from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nepal during which he mooted a four-point plan to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, boost economic recovery and resumption of the BRI (Belt and Road Initiative) infrastructure projects.

Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar and Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali attended the virtual meeting, according to a Chinese Foreign Ministry press release.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi did not participate in the meeting. Pakistan was represented by Economic Affairs Minister Makhdoom Khusro Bakhtiar.

Addressing the meeting, which is the first involving the four countries, Mr Wang proposed the four-point action plan including consolidating the consensus on unity and fight against the pandemic, avoiding politicisation and stigmatisation of the coronavirus and firmly support the World Health Organization (WHO) in playing its due role to jointly building global health community.

Earlier this month, the Trump administration formally notified the United Nations of its decision to withdraw the US from the World Health Organization (WHO), breaking off ties with the global health body despite the raging coronavirus pandemic in the country.

The US has accused the WHO of siding with China on the outbreak of the coronavirus, which originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, alleging the health body misled the world resulting in deaths of over half a million people globally, including over 146,000 in America alone.

Mr Wang said all the four countries should carry out regional cooperation on joint prevention and control of the pandemic drawing the experience of China and Pakistan, according to the press release.

He said when the Chinese vaccine is developed, China will improve the accessibility of vaccines to the three countries and help them strengthen their public health systems.

Significantly, he also proposed post-pandemic, the four countries should resolutely support the joint development of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by promoting the resumption of work and production of key cooperation projects, maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains, and create new economic growth points in the digital field.

"We will actively promote the building of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Trans-Himalayan Connectivity network (THCN), support the extension of the corridor to Afghanistan, and further unleash the dividends of regional connectivity," Mr Wang said.

The BRI is a multi-billion-dollar initiative launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping when he came to power in 2013. It aims to link Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Gulf region, Africa and Europe with a network of land and sea routes.

While USD 60 billion CPEC is the flagship project of the BRI, over which India has protested to China as it is being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK), the THCN aims to connect Nepal and China through Tibet.

"We should give play to our geographical advantages, strengthen exchanges and connectivity between the four countries and central Asian countries, and safeguard regional peace and stability," Wang said.

His remarks assume significance as it came amid the border tensions between India and China. Pakistan and Nepal are also actively involved in building major infrastructure projects under the CPEC and the THCN, causing much concern in New Delhi.

The ministers of Pakistan, Nepal and Afghanistan"actively supported" the four-point cooperation initiative proposed by Wang and thanked China for providing medical material assistance and food support, and shared experience in epidemic prevention and control, the statement said.

All parties supported the maintenance of multilateralism, strengthen the role of the WHO, backed the realisation of a ceasefire in Afghanistan during the epidemic, and the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan, it added.

Mr Bakhtiar, who represented Pakistan in the conference, stressed that the participating counties should develop political consensus against COVID-19 and declare a united front to combat it.

He said that COVID-19 had inflicted a punitive human and economic cost globally and disrupted the social and political architecture of the world.

"Pakistan was ready to both enhance cooperation in combating COVID-19 and in post-pandemic economic recovery with the participating countries," the minister said.

Mr Bakhtiar said that the CPEC could play an important role in boosting regional growth and recovery in the post-COVID-19 period.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi did not participate but in a video message at the Conference he stressed the need for unity, solidarity and multilateral cooperation to fight COVID-19 pandemic.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi did not participate but in a video message at the Conference he stressed the need for unity, solidarity and multilateral cooperation to fight COVID-19 pandemic.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday held the first joint virtual conference with his counterparts from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nepal during which he mooted a four-point plan to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, boost economic recovery and resumption of the BRI (Belt and Road Initiative) infrastructure projects.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday held the first joint virtual conference with his counterparts from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nepal during which he mooted a four-point plan to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, boost economic recovery and resumption of the BRI (Belt and Road Initiative) infrastructure projects. Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar and Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali attended the virtual meeting, according to a Chinese Foreign Ministry press release. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi did not participate in the meeting. Pakistan was represented by Economic Affairs Minister Makhdoom Khusro Bakhtiar. Addressing the meeting, which is the first involving the four countries, Mr Wang proposed the four-point action plan including consolidating the consensus on unity and fight against the pandemic, avoiding politicisation and stigmatisation of the coronavirus and firmly support the World Health Organization (WHO) in playing its due role to jointly building global health community. Earlier this month, the Trump administration formally notified the United Nations of its decision to withdraw the US from the World Health Organization (WHO), breaking off ties with the global health body despite the raging coronavirus pandemic in the country. The US has accused the WHO of siding with China on the outbreak of the coronavirus, which originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, alleging the health body misled the world resulting in deaths of over half a million people globally, including over 146,000 in America alone. Mr Wang said all the four countries should carry out regional cooperation on joint prevention and control of the pandemic drawing the experience of China and Pakistan, according to the press release. He said when the Chinese vaccine is developed, China will improve the accessibility of vaccines to the three countries and help them strengthen their public health systems. Significantly, he also proposed post-pandemic, the four countries should resolutely support the joint development of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by promoting the resumption of work and production of key cooperation projects, maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains, and create new economic growth points in the digital field. "We will actively promote the building of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Trans-Himalayan Connectivity network (THCN), support the extension of the corridor to Afghanistan, and further unleash the dividends of regional connectivity," Mr Wang said. The BRI is a multi-billion-dollar initiative launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping when he came to power in 2013. It aims to link Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Gulf region, Africa and Europe with a network of land and sea routes. While USD 60 billion CPEC is the flagship project of the BRI, over which India has protested to China as it is being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK), the THCN aims to connect Nepal and China through Tibet. "We should give play to our geographical advantages, strengthen exchanges and connectivity between the four countries and central Asian countries, and safeguard regional peace and stability," Wang said. His remarks assume significance as it came amid the border tensions between India and China. Pakistan and Nepal are also actively involved in building major infrastructure projects under the CPEC and the THCN, causing much concern in New Delhi. The ministers of Pakistan, Nepal and Afghanistan"actively supported" the four-point cooperation initiative proposed by Wang and thanked China for providing medical material assistance and food support, and shared experience in epidemic prevention and control, the statement said. All parties supported the maintenance of multilateralism, strengthen the role of the WHO, backed the realisation of a ceasefire in Afghanistan during the epidemic, and the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan, it added. Mr Bakhtiar, who represented Pakistan in the conference, stressed that the participating counties should develop political consensus against COVID-19 and declare a united front to combat it. He said that COVID-19 had inflicted a punitive human and economic cost globally and disrupted the social and political architecture of the world. "Pakistan was ready to both enhance cooperation in combating COVID-19 and in post-pandemic economic recovery with the participating countries," the minister said. Mr Bakhtiar said that the CPEC could play an important role in boosting regional growth and recovery in the post-COVID-19 period. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi did not participate but in a video message at the Conference he stressed the need for unity, solidarity and multilateral cooperation to fight COVID-19 pandemic. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi did not participate but in a video message at the Conference he stressed the need for unity, solidarity and multilateral cooperation to fight COVID-19 pandemic.

China discusses 4-point plan with Pakistan, Nepal, and Afghanistan amid pandemic

More than 1,280 Afghan civilians have been killed in the first six months of the year as fighting rages in Afghanistan despite a pact between the United States and Taliban militants, the United Nations said on Monday.

The violence, mainly between Afghan government forces and the Taliban, killed 1,282 and injured 2,176 for a tally of 3,458 civilian casualties, the U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a report.

"The reality remains that Afghanistan continues to be one of the deadliest conflicts in the world for civilians," it said in the mid-year report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-push-to-control-private-companies-aid-agencies-in-afghanistan-316358">Also read: Taliban push to control private companies, aid agencies in Afghanistan</a>

Despite a drop of 13% in casualties from the corresponding period last year, UNAMA said the Taliban continued to cause the majority of civilian casualties, mainly through use of explosive devices, abductions and summary executions.

The Taliban were responsible for 43 per cent of all civilian casualties and government forces caused 23 per cent, chiefly from air strikes and indirect fire during operations, it added.

The UNAMA attributed the 13 per cent drop to fewer operations by international forces, as well as fewer attacks by Islamic State militants.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-accuses-afghan-govt-of-re-arresting-freed-insurgents-316115">Also read:&nbsp;Taliban accuses Afghan govt of re-arresting freed insurgents</a>

In February, the United States and the Taliban signed an agreement in Doha, laying out plans for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the militants.

However, fighting has spiked in recent weeks, prompted by differences over an exchange of prisoners between the Taliban and Afghan government, as Kabul proved reluctant to free hundreds of jailed militants.

The Doha deal provided for the government to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners in exchange for hundreds of Afghan troops, the main plank in starting peace negotiations between the two sides in the effort to end the 18-year-old war.

While the Afghan government has released more than 4,000 Taliban prisoners, it has refused to release another 600, saying they were involved in murder, illicit drug trafficking and major attacks.

More than 1,280 Afghan civilians have been killed in the first six months of the year as fighting rages in Afghanistan despite a pact between the United States and Taliban militants, the United Nations said on Monday.

More than 1,280 Afghan civilians have been killed in the first six months of the year as fighting rages in Afghanistan despite a pact between the United States and Taliban militants, the United Nations said on Monday. The violence, mainly between Afghan government forces and the Taliban, killed 1,282 and injured 2,176 for a tally of 3,458 civilian casualties, the U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a report. "The reality remains that Afghanistan continues to be one of the deadliest conflicts in the world for civilians," it said in the mid-year report. Also read: Taliban push to control private companies, aid agencies in Afghanistan Despite a drop of 13% in casualties from the corresponding period last year, UNAMA said the Taliban continued to cause the majority of civilian casualties, mainly through use of explosive devices, abductions and summary executions. The Taliban were responsible for 43 per cent of all civilian casualties and government forces caused 23 per cent, chiefly from air strikes and indirect fire during operations, it added. The UNAMA attributed the 13 per cent drop to fewer operations by international forces, as well as fewer attacks by Islamic State militants. Also read: Taliban accuses Afghan govt of re-arresting freed insurgents In February, the United States and the Taliban signed an agreement in Doha, laying out plans for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the militants. However, fighting has spiked in recent weeks, prompted by differences over an exchange of prisoners between the Taliban and Afghan government, as Kabul proved reluctant to free hundreds of jailed militants. The Doha deal provided for the government to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners in exchange for hundreds of Afghan troops, the main plank in starting peace negotiations between the two sides in the effort to end the 18-year-old war. While the Afghan government has released more than 4,000 Taliban prisoners, it has refused to release another 600, saying they were involved in murder, illicit drug trafficking and major attacks.

UN says nearly 3,500 Afghans killed or hurt in first half of 2020

The release of Anne Hathaway starrer live-action Barbie&nbsp;movie has been moved from this year to 2020.The film, which was earlier scheduled to hit the theatres on August 8, 2018, will now release on May 8, 2020, Sony announced, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

This is the second date change for Barbie.&nbsp;The studio had originally dated the movie for June 29, 2018, then moved it back six weeks.Australian filmmaker Alethea Jones is slated to direct the project, which has long been in development at Sony and previously had Amy Schumer in the lead role.

Amy Pascal, Walter F. Parkes and Laurie MacDonald are producing the project based on the classic Barbie mythology.Parkes and MacDonald initiated the original deal with Sony and Mattel in 2014.&nbsp;

The release of Anne Hathaway starrer live-action Barbie movie has been moved from this year to 2020.The film, which was earlier scheduled to hit the theatres on August 8, 2018, will now release on May 8, 2020, Sony announced, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

The release of Anne Hathaway starrer live-action Barbie movie has been moved from this year to 2020.The film, which was earlier scheduled to hit the theatres on August 8, 2018, will now release on May 8, 2020, Sony announced, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. This is the second date change for Barbie. The studio had originally dated the movie for June 29, 2018, then moved it back six weeks.Australian filmmaker Alethea Jones is slated to direct the project, which has long been in development at Sony and previously had Amy Schumer in the lead role. Amy Pascal, Walter F. Parkes and Laurie MacDonald are producing the project based on the classic Barbie mythology.Parkes and MacDonald initiated the original deal with Sony and Mattel in 2014.

Taliban push to control private companies, aid agencies in Afghanistan

11 Afghan Sikhs reached Delhi on Sunday via Kam Air flight from Afghanistan. They were received at Delhi Airport's ceremonial lounge, reserved for welcoming VVIPs. The group is the first of the Afghan minorities who are facilitated by the Indian government to reach India by expeditiously processed visas. Around 700 Afghan Sikhs and Hindus have registered at the Indian mission in Kabul for transfer to India.

11 Afghan Sikhs reach Delhi via Kam Air flight from Afghanistan

As many as 11 Sikhs from Afghanistan have been granted short-term visas by the Indian Embassy in Kabul, four months after an Islamic State-backed attack at a gurdwara in Kabul’s Shor Bazaar killed at least 25 members of the community.

They are expected to reach Delhi on Sunday.

The Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that there has been a recent spurt of attacks on Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan by terrorists at the behest of their "external supporters" and India has been providing necessary visas to members of these communities who want to come.

"We have been receiving requests from the members of these communities. They want to move to India, they want to settle down here, and despite the ongoing COVID situation, we are facilitating these requests," MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

He said once those who want to come and settle in India arrive in the country, their requests will be examined and acted upon based on existing rules and policies.

The move comes after the Afghan Sikh community, which numbers less than 700, made multiple appeals to the Embassy and wrote to Home Minister Amit Shah seeking immediate evacuation and rescue.

A heavily armed ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K) suicide bomber attacked a gurdwara in the heart of Afghanistan's capital on March 25, killing 25 Sikhs and injuring eight others.

As many as 11 Sikhs from Afghanistan have been granted short-term visas by the Indian Embassy in Kabul, four months after an Islamic State-backed attack at a gurdwara in Kabul’s Shor Bazaar killed at least 25 members of the community.

As many as 11 Sikhs from Afghanistan have been granted short-term visas by the Indian Embassy in Kabul, four months after an Islamic State-backed attack at a gurdwara in Kabul’s Shor Bazaar killed at least 25 members of the community. They are expected to reach Delhi on Sunday. The Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that there has been a recent spurt of attacks on Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan by terrorists at the behest of their "external supporters" and India has been providing necessary visas to members of these communities who want to come. "We have been receiving requests from the members of these communities. They want to move to India, they want to settle down here, and despite the ongoing COVID situation, we are facilitating these requests," MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. He said once those who want to come and settle in India arrive in the country, their requests will be examined and acted upon based on existing rules and policies. The move comes after the Afghan Sikh community, which numbers less than 700, made multiple appeals to the Embassy and wrote to Home Minister Amit Shah seeking immediate evacuation and rescue. A heavily armed ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K) suicide bomber attacked a gurdwara in the heart of Afghanistan's capital on March 25, killing 25 Sikhs and injuring eight others.

Eleven Afghan Sikhs granted visas by India

11 Afghan Sikhs including abducted Delhi based Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh, will reach Delhi on Sunday. The remaining 10 are family members of the Afghan Sikhs who were killed in Kabul Gurudwara terror attack earlier this year. More than 25 Afghan Sikhs and One Indian Sikh were killed on the March 25th Gurudwara terror attack in Kabul.

First batch of 'facilitated' Afghan Sikhs to reach India on Sunday

In yet another development that highlights how Pakistan uses terrorism as a tool for its foreign policy, a total of 31 terrorists including 13 Pakistani nationals, belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) were killed in an operation by National Directorate of Security (NDS) and Afghan National Army (ANA) in Mirza Khel in Khogyani district.

The NDS and ANA are jointly conducting clearance operations in Mirza Khel in Khogyani district.

The operation is still underway. It is reported that a total of 31 terrorists have been killed which includes 18 Afghan Taliban and 13 Pakistan terrorists belonging mostly to JeM.

These terrorists are affiliated to Maulsvi Sohail, a resident of Khogyani. One terrorist has been captured alive who is reportedly from JeM.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/between-6000-6500-pakistani-terrorists-in-afghanistan-un-report-315907">Also read|&nbsp;Between 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists in Afghanistan: UN report</a>

This comes days after Pakistani ID cards were recovered from the bodies of terrorists killed in Afghanistan`s Kandahar, Khaama news agency had reported.The developments highlight Pakistan`s complicity in aiding Taliban to create unrest in Afghanistan.

Security forces killed five terrorists in Maroof and nine others in Arghistan districts of the province, said Kandahar`s police chief Gen Tadin Khan Achakzai, according to Khaama news agency.Some ID cards read names in Urdu, identifying the dead terrorists as Abdul Ghani, Abdul Ghaffar, Sanaullah, Naqibullah, Obaidullah, Abdul Malik among others.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-complains-to-unsc-over-pakistans-cross-border-rocket-firings-315786">Also read|&nbsp;Afghanistan complains to UNSC over Pakistan's cross-border rocket firings</a>

Violence in Afghanistan has risen in recent months even after a peace deal was signed between the US and Taliban earlier this year.

The US-Taliban accord, signed in Qatar`s capital of Doha at the end of February, was meant to allow for American troops to gradually leave Afghanistan after 19 years of war and pave way for intra-Afghan negotiations that would shape the country`s political future.Under the accord, the Taliban pledged to combat other terror groups -- including al-Qaeda, which they once harboured -- and prevent terrorists from using Afghan territory to stage attacks on America.

Pakistan has been aiding and abetting terrorism in the region. Islamabad has been arming and sheltering Taliban to gain influence in Afghanistan.

In yet another development that highlights how Pakistan uses terrorism as a tool for its foreign policy, a total of 31 terrorists including 13 Pakistani nationals, belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) were killed in an operation by National Directorate of Security (NDS) and Afghan National Army (ANA) in Mirza Khel in Khogyani district.

In yet another development that highlights how Pakistan uses terrorism as a tool for its foreign policy, a total of 31 terrorists including 13 Pakistani nationals, belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) were killed in an operation by National Directorate of Security (NDS) and Afghan National Army (ANA) in Mirza Khel in Khogyani district. The NDS and ANA are jointly conducting clearance operations in Mirza Khel in Khogyani district. The operation is still underway. It is reported that a total of 31 terrorists have been killed which includes 18 Afghan Taliban and 13 Pakistan terrorists belonging mostly to JeM. These terrorists are affiliated to Maulsvi Sohail, a resident of Khogyani. One terrorist has been captured alive who is reportedly from JeM. Also read| Between 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists in Afghanistan: UN report This comes days after Pakistani ID cards were recovered from the bodies of terrorists killed in Afghanistan`s Kandahar, Khaama news agency had reported.The developments highlight Pakistan`s complicity in aiding Taliban to create unrest in Afghanistan. Security forces killed five terrorists in Maroof and nine others in Arghistan districts of the province, said Kandahar`s police chief Gen Tadin Khan Achakzai, according to Khaama news agency.Some ID cards read names in Urdu, identifying the dead terrorists as Abdul Ghani, Abdul Ghaffar, Sanaullah, Naqibullah, Obaidullah, Abdul Malik among others. Also read| Afghanistan complains to UNSC over Pakistan's cross-border rocket firings Violence in Afghanistan has risen in recent months even after a peace deal was signed between the US and Taliban earlier this year. The US-Taliban accord, signed in Qatar`s capital of Doha at the end of February, was meant to allow for American troops to gradually leave Afghanistan after 19 years of war and pave way for intra-Afghan negotiations that would shape the country`s political future.Under the accord, the Taliban pledged to combat other terror groups -- including al-Qaeda, which they once harboured -- and prevent terrorists from using Afghan territory to stage attacks on America. Pakistan has been aiding and abetting terrorism in the region. Islamabad has been arming and sheltering Taliban to gain influence in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan: 31 terrorists including 13 Pakistani belonging to JeM killed in operation by Afghan forces in Khogyani

An estimated 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists are in neighbouring Afghanistan, most of them with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, posing a threat to both the countries, a UN report has said.

The 26th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team concerning ISIS, al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities said that the terror group al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under the Taliban umbrella from Nimruz, Helmand and Kandahar provinces of Afghanistan.

The group reportedly has between 150 and 200 members from Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan. The current leader of AQIS is Osama Mahmood, who succeeded the late Asim Umar.

"AQIS is reportedly planning retaliation operations in the region to avenge the death of its former leader," it said.

The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a "large terrorist group present in Afghanistan", has claimed responsibility for various high-profile attacks in Pakistan and has facilitated others by Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and Lahskhar-e-Islam, the report said.

It said that many former TTP militants have joined Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant - Khorasan (ISIL-K) and member states expect that the group and its various splinter groups will align themselves with ISIL-K.

"The total number of Pakistani foreign terrorist fighters in Afghanistan, posing a threat to both countries, is estimated at between 6,000 and 6,500, most of them with TTP," it said, adding that a number of other terrorist groups are active in Afghanistan, most operating under the umbrella of the Taliban but some aligned with ISIL-K.

According to the member states, al-Qaida is covertly active in 12 Afghan provinces and its leader Aiman al-Zawahiri remains based in the country.

The monitoring team estimates the total number of al-Qaida fighters in Afghanistan at between 400 and 600.

"The leadership maintains a close contact with the Haqqani Network. In February 2020, al-Zawahiri met with Yahya Haqqani, the primary Haqqani Network contact with al-Qaida since mid-2009, to discuss the ongoing cooperation," it said.

The monitoring team also estimates the current ISIL-K membership in Afghanistan at 2,200. The leader is sheikh Matiullah Kamahwal, previously the head of ISIL-K in Kunar. The leadership also includes Syrian national Abu Said Mohammad al-Khorasani and sheikh Abdul Tahir.

The team was informed that two senior ISIL commanders, Abu Qutaibah and Abu Hajar al-Iraqi, have arrived in Afghanistan from the Middle East.

The report said that ISIL-K continues to suffer losses in Kunar province, to where it moved from Nangarhar at the end of 2019.

In April and May, the Afghan special forces conducted a series of countrywide operations that led to the arrest of the group's leaders, including Aslam Farooqi (also known as Abdullah Orokzai), the head of ISIL-K, his predecessor Zia ul-Haq (also known as Abu Omar Khorasani) and other senior members.

According to some member states, ISIL-K is seeking to pursue "a global agenda" by implementing the ISIL core's leadership approach, which considers Afghan territory a base for spreading terrorist influence across the wider region.

"Although in territorial retreat, ISIL-K remains capable of carrying out high-profile attacks in various parts of the country, including Kabul," the report said, adding that the group also aims to attract Taliban fighters who oppose the agreement with the US.

In case of further military pressure on ISIL-K in Kunar, the group is expected to retreat to Badakhshan and other northern provinces, it said.

The monitoring team was informed that ISIL-K also works with networks of supporters in the Maldives.

On April, 15 2020, five government speedboats were damaged in an arson attack at Mahibadhoo Harbour on Ariatholhu Dhekunuburi, which ISIL claimed as its first attack in the Maldives.

According to the member state information, the attack was a retaliation against the government investigations into extremism and drug trafficking.

"The attack was covered extensively in ISIL media networks in South Asia, with the al-Naba claim of responsibility also translated into Dhivehi. Member states remain concerned about the radicalisation and recruitment in the Maldives," the report added.

An estimated 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists are in neighbouring Afghanistan, most of them with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, posing a threat to both the countries, a UN report has said.

An estimated 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists are in neighbouring Afghanistan, most of them with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, posing a threat to both the countries, a UN report has said. The 26th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team concerning ISIS, al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities said that the terror group al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under the Taliban umbrella from Nimruz, Helmand and Kandahar provinces of Afghanistan. The group reportedly has between 150 and 200 members from Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan. The current leader of AQIS is Osama Mahmood, who succeeded the late Asim Umar. "AQIS is reportedly planning retaliation operations in the region to avenge the death of its former leader," it said. The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a "large terrorist group present in Afghanistan", has claimed responsibility for various high-profile attacks in Pakistan and has facilitated others by Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and Lahskhar-e-Islam, the report said. It said that many former TTP militants have joined Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant - Khorasan (ISIL-K) and member states expect that the group and its various splinter groups will align themselves with ISIL-K. "The total number of Pakistani foreign terrorist fighters in Afghanistan, posing a threat to both countries, is estimated at between 6,000 and 6,500, most of them with TTP," it said, adding that a number of other terrorist groups are active in Afghanistan, most operating under the umbrella of the Taliban but some aligned with ISIL-K. According to the member states, al-Qaida is covertly active in 12 Afghan provinces and its leader Aiman al-Zawahiri remains based in the country. The monitoring team estimates the total number of al-Qaida fighters in Afghanistan at between 400 and 600. "The leadership maintains a close contact with the Haqqani Network. In February 2020, al-Zawahiri met with Yahya Haqqani, the primary Haqqani Network contact with al-Qaida since mid-2009, to discuss the ongoing cooperation," it said. The monitoring team also estimates the current ISIL-K membership in Afghanistan at 2,200. The leader is sheikh Matiullah Kamahwal, previously the head of ISIL-K in Kunar. The leadership also includes Syrian national Abu Said Mohammad al-Khorasani and sheikh Abdul Tahir. The team was informed that two senior ISIL commanders, Abu Qutaibah and Abu Hajar al-Iraqi, have arrived in Afghanistan from the Middle East. The report said that ISIL-K continues to suffer losses in Kunar province, to where it moved from Nangarhar at the end of 2019. In April and May, the Afghan special forces conducted a series of countrywide operations that led to the arrest of the group's leaders, including Aslam Farooqi (also known as Abdullah Orokzai), the head of ISIL-K, his predecessor Zia ul-Haq (also known as Abu Omar Khorasani) and other senior members. According to some member states, ISIL-K is seeking to pursue "a global agenda" by implementing the ISIL core's leadership approach, which considers Afghan territory a base for spreading terrorist influence across the wider region. "Although in territorial retreat, ISIL-K remains capable of carrying out high-profile attacks in various parts of the country, including Kabul," the report said, adding that the group also aims to attract Taliban fighters who oppose the agreement with the US. In case of further military pressure on ISIL-K in Kunar, the group is expected to retreat to Badakhshan and other northern provinces, it said. The monitoring team was informed that ISIL-K also works with networks of supporters in the Maldives. On April, 15 2020, five government speedboats were damaged in an arson attack at Mahibadhoo Harbour on Ariatholhu Dhekunuburi, which ISIL claimed as its first attack in the Maldives. According to the member state information, the attack was a retaliation against the government investigations into extremism and drug trafficking. "The attack was covered extensively in ISIL media networks in South Asia, with the al-Naba claim of responsibility also translated into Dhivehi. Member states remain concerned about the radicalisation and recruitment in the Maldives," the report added.

Between 6,000-6,500 Pakistani terrorists in Afghanistan: UN report

The Taliban on Thursday said they would begin peace talks with the Afghan government after Eid if prisoner swap agreement gets completed.&nbsp;

We are "ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on Twitter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-to-fight-them-again-15-year-old-afghan-girl-who-killed-taliban-terrorists-315451">'Ready to fight them again': 15-year-old Afghan girl who killed Taliban terrorists</a>

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The Islamic Emirate is ready to release all remaining prisoners of the other side before the eve of Eid al-Adha provided they release our prisoners as per our list already delivered to them. Likely, IEA is ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid
— Suhail Shaheen (@suhailshaheen1) <a href="https://twitter.com/suhailshaheen1/status/1286307090278092800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed.
— Suhail Shaheen (@suhailshaheen1) <a href="https://twitter.com/suhailshaheen1/status/1286307092136103944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Suhail added that the terrorist group are ready to release the remaining members of Afghan forces if Kabul freed all the members from their group "as per the list already delivered".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US Special Envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Thursday condemned Afghan forces' aistrikes against Taliban, which killed eight civilians, including children in Herat on Wednesday.

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1/4 The last 24 hours have been very violent in Afghanistan with many losing their lives. 
 
In Herat, photos and eyewitness accounts suggest many civilians including children are among the victims of an Afghan airstrike. We condemn the attack and support an investigation.
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1286073851374436352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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3/4 The Afghan people want an immediate start of peace negotiations and a settlement that is in their best interest. More graves will not bring negotiations forward.
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1286073854864044034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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4/4 Rather than setting the process back, we urge all sides to contain the violence, protect civilians, and show necessary restraint as the start of intra-Afghan negotiations is so close.
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1286073856608935938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"We urge all sides to contain the violence, protect civilians, and show necessary restraint as the start of intra-Afghan negotiations is so close," he further said on Twitter.

The US is withdrawing its troops from the country to honour its commitments of the agreement it signed with the terror group in February.&nbsp;

As per the agreement signed between US and Taliban, the Afghan government will release 5,000 Taliban members and the terror group will free 1,000 Afghan security personnel.&nbsp;

Afghanistan government and Taliban have signalled peace talks on multiple occasions but escalating violence by both the sides have hampered any development.&nbsp;

The Taliban on Thursday said they would begin peace talks with the Afghan government after Eid if prisoner swap agreement gets completed. We are "ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on Twitter.

The Taliban on Thursday said they would begin peace talks with the Afghan government after Eid if prisoner swap agreement gets completed. We are "ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on Twitter. Also read | 'Ready to fight them again': 15-year-old Afghan girl who killed Taliban terrorists 1/2 The Islamic Emirate is ready to release all remaining prisoners of the other side before the eve of Eid al-Adha provided they release our prisoners as per our list already delivered to them. Likely, IEA is ready to begin intra-Afghan negotiations immediately after Eid — Suhail Shaheen (@suhailshaheen1) July 23, 2020 × 2/2 in case the process of the release of the prisoners is completed. — Suhail Shaheen (@suhailshaheen1) July 23, 2020 × Suhail added that the terrorist group are ready to release the remaining members of Afghan forces if Kabul freed all the members from their group "as per the list already delivered". Meanwhile, US Special Envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Thursday condemned Afghan forces' aistrikes against Taliban, which killed eight civilians, including children in Herat on Wednesday. 1/4 The last 24 hours have been very violent in Afghanistan with many losing their lives. In Herat, photos and eyewitness accounts suggest many civilians including children are among the victims of an Afghan airstrike. We condemn the attack and support an investigation. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) July 22, 2020 × 3/4 The Afghan people want an immediate start of peace negotiations and a settlement that is in their best interest. More graves will not bring negotiations forward. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) July 22, 2020 × 4/4 Rather than setting the process back, we urge all sides to contain the violence, protect civilians, and show necessary restraint as the start of intra-Afghan negotiations is so close. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) July 22, 2020 × "We urge all sides to contain the violence, protect civilians, and show necessary restraint as the start of intra-Afghan negotiations is so close," he further said on Twitter. The US is withdrawing its troops from the country to honour its commitments of the agreement it signed with the terror group in February. As per the agreement signed between US and Taliban, the Afghan government will release 5,000 Taliban members and the terror group will free 1,000 Afghan security personnel. Afghanistan government and Taliban have signalled peace talks on multiple occasions but escalating violence by both the sides have hampered any development.

Ready for talks with Afghan government if prisoner swap is completed: Taliban

Airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan killed 45 people, including civilians and Taliban, local officials said on Wednesday.

Ali Ahmad Faqir Yar, the governor of Adraskan District in the eastern Afghanistan province of Herat, said at least eight civilians were among the dead.

"Forty-five people had been killed so far in airstrikes by security forces in the Kham Ziarat area, Taliban were among those killed," he said.

It was unclear how many of the remaining 37 were civilians and how many were members of the Taliban. 
Afghanistan`s Ministry of Defense said it was investigating allegations of civilian casualities in attacks by Afghan forces in the area.

"The results of the investigation will be shared with the public and the media. The National Defense and Security Forces have the responsibility to protect the lives and property of the people, in this regard, they use all the opportunities and facilities and will not spare any effort," the statement said.

Habib Amini, a local official in neighbouring Guzara district, confirmed the incident and that 45 were killed and more injured.

A spokesman for U.S. forces in Afghanistan said they had not taken part in Wednesday`s airstrikes.

The United States is winding back troops under an agreement with the Taliban struck in February, which was meant to pave the way to formal peace talks between the insurgents and the Afghan government. However, disagreement over the release of prisoners demanded by the Taliban and rising violence around the country have hampered progress, and talks have yet to start.

Qari Muhammad Yousuf Ahmadi, a Taliban spokesman, said in a statement that two airstrikes in Heart had killed eight civilians and wounded 12.

Two local officials confirmed there had been two rounds of airstrikes.

Airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan killed 45 people, including civilians and Taliban, local officials said on Wednesday. Ali Ahmad Faqir Yar, the governor of Adraskan District in the eastern Afghanistan province of Herat, said at least eight civilians were among the dead.

Airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan killed 45 people, including civilians and Taliban, local officials said on Wednesday. Ali Ahmad Faqir Yar, the governor of Adraskan District in the eastern Afghanistan province of Herat, said at least eight civilians were among the dead. "Forty-five people had been killed so far in airstrikes by security forces in the Kham Ziarat area, Taliban were among those killed," he said. It was unclear how many of the remaining 37 were civilians and how many were members of the Taliban. Afghanistan`s Ministry of Defense said it was investigating allegations of civilian casualities in attacks by Afghan forces in the area. "The results of the investigation will be shared with the public and the media. The National Defense and Security Forces have the responsibility to protect the lives and property of the people, in this regard, they use all the opportunities and facilities and will not spare any effort," the statement said. Habib Amini, a local official in neighbouring Guzara district, confirmed the incident and that 45 were killed and more injured. A spokesman for U.S. forces in Afghanistan said they had not taken part in Wednesday`s airstrikes. The United States is winding back troops under an agreement with the Taliban struck in February, which was meant to pave the way to formal peace talks between the insurgents and the Afghan government. However, disagreement over the release of prisoners demanded by the Taliban and rising violence around the country have hampered progress, and talks have yet to start. Qari Muhammad Yousuf Ahmadi, a Taliban spokesman, said in a statement that two airstrikes in Heart had killed eight civilians and wounded 12. Two local officials confirmed there had been two rounds of airstrikes.

Airstrikes in Afghanistan kill 45 civilians and Taliban members

Highlighting she no longer fears militants and is "ready to fight again", the Afghan girl, who killed two Taliban terrorists, made her intentions clear in a recent interview.

Qamar Gul, 15, shot dead two Taliban terrorists after they stormed her home last week in a village in the central province of Ghor and gunned down her parents.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-girl-kills-two-taliban-terrorists-after-parents-murdered-314908">Afghan girl kills two Taliban terrorists after parents murdered</a>

"I no longer fear them and I'm ready to fight them again," Gul said in a telephonic interview to news agency AFP.

The 15-year-old is currently living at her relative's home which is being guarded by security officials.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/airstrikes-in-afghanistan-kill-45-civilians-and-taliban-members-315280">Airstrikes in Afghanistan kill 45 civilians and Taliban members</a>

A photo of Gul holding a gun is doing rounds on the internet, with many lauding the teenager for her actions and demanding her safe passage out of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Recalling the incident, she said it was midnight when the terrorists arrived while was asleep in her room with her young brother.

"My mother ran to stop them but by then they had already broken the door," she said.&nbsp;

Gul said the Taliban terrorists took their parents outside and shot them multiple times.

"I was terrified", she said, adding, but a few moments later, "anger took over".

"I picked up the gun we had at home, went to the door and shot them," Gul said.&nbsp;

She further said her 12-year-old brother took over the gun from her and shot the other terrorist when he tried to return fire.&nbsp;

"My brother took the gun from me and hit (shot) him. The fighter ran away injured, only to return later," the Afghan girl said.

Finally, Gul said, the militants fled after many villagers and pro-government militiamen came at the site of the incident.&nbsp;

"I am proud I killed my parents' murderers," she said.

Highlighting she no longer fears militants and is "ready to fight again", the Afghan girl, who killed two Taliban terrorists, made her intentions clear in a recent interview.

Highlighting she no longer fears militants and is "ready to fight again", the Afghan girl, who killed two Taliban terrorists, made her intentions clear in a recent interview. Qamar Gul, 15, shot dead two Taliban terrorists after they stormed her home last week in a village in the central province of Ghor and gunned down her parents. Also read | Afghan girl kills two Taliban terrorists after parents murdered "I no longer fear them and I'm ready to fight them again," Gul said in a telephonic interview to news agency AFP. The 15-year-old is currently living at her relative's home which is being guarded by security officials. Also read | Airstrikes in Afghanistan kill 45 civilians and Taliban members A photo of Gul holding a gun is doing rounds on the internet, with many lauding the teenager for her actions and demanding her safe passage out of Afghanistan. Recalling the incident, she said it was midnight when the terrorists arrived while was asleep in her room with her young brother. "My mother ran to stop them but by then they had already broken the door," she said. Gul said the Taliban terrorists took their parents outside and shot them multiple times. "I was terrified", she said, adding, but a few moments later, "anger took over". "I picked up the gun we had at home, went to the door and shot them," Gul said. She further said her 12-year-old brother took over the gun from her and shot the other terrorist when he tried to return fire. "My brother took the gun from me and hit (shot) him. The fighter ran away injured, only to return later," the Afghan girl said. Finally, Gul said, the militants fled after many villagers and pro-government militiamen came at the site of the incident. "I am proud I killed my parents' murderers," she said.

'Ready to fight them again': 15-year-old Afghan girl who killed Taliban terrorists

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

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

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

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

The intensive care unit at the Afghan capital's premier hospital for COVID-19 patients is a medical nightmare&nbsp;and a stark warning how the country's war-ravaged health care system risks collapsing. 
 
Family members, without protective equipment and only a few wearing face masks, help care for the patients lying in hospital beds. They say they have no choice because there are not enough nurses and other medical staff. 
 
The next-of-kin often guard their loved one's oxygen tank, fearing it could be stolen because there is a shortage of just about everything, including oxygen cylinders.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/afghanistan-faces-grim-economic-outlook-as-pandemic-wipes-out-growth-world-bank-313765" hreflang="en">Afghanistan faces 'grim' economic outlook as pandemic wipes out growth: World Bank</a> 
 
The 100-bed Afghan-Japan Communicable Disease Hospital in western Kabul is one of only two facilities for coronavirus testing and treatment in the Afghan capital.&nbsp; 
 
Newly graduated Afghan doctors have joined the 370-member staff after many of the hospital's experienced physicians walked out a few months ago, fearing the virus. 
 
The 92-square-meter (1,000-square-foot) ICU ward has only 13 beds, and COVID-19 patients admitted here are in critical condition; few are hooked up to ventilators, some of the others rely on oxygen tanks. 
 
Assadullah, who like many Afghans goes by only one name, says he struggled to stay awake night after night at the ICU ward, guarding the tank that kept his father alive.&nbsp; 
 
In his father's final days, the relative of another patient came over, threatening to take the tank.&nbsp; 
 
"Your father is dying but mine is alive, he told me ... In such a situation, how could I have left my father alone",&nbsp;said Assadullah, who lost his father to the virus on Tuesday. 
 
Abdul Rahman, 42, feels the same way and rushes to rub his 70-year-old mother's back every time she coughs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/world-bank-approves-200-million-aid-for-coronavirus-hit-afghanistan-312309" hreflang="en">World Bank approves $200 million aid for coronavirus-hit Afghanistan</a> 
 
A few beds away, 64-year-old Mohammad Amin's left foot has turned black from gangrene that set in after a blood clot due to the virus. His son and wife tend to him as best they can, but they say it's exhausting. 
For the hospital's director, Hakimullah Saleh, every staffer is a hero, risking their own life to provide critical care. They face so many work challenges, he said, on top of which they sometimes have to deal with ?threats" from distraught families who feel the hospital is not doing enough. 
 
One of Saleh's heroes, Dr. Jawad Norzai, is relentless in his devotion to the patients, he said. Along with his job as chief surgeon, Norzai visits over 60 patients a day and finds the time to train new doctors, Saleh said. 
The 32-year-old Norzai got his medical diploma in 2013 and worked first for private hospitals, joining the Afghan-Japan only after hearing how many of the staff had left. Norzai said he, like many medical professionals, contracted the virus but recovered. He said he infected several of his family members but luckily, they also recovered. 
 
Another one of the Afghan-Japan doctors who recovered from the virus is Mozhgan Nazehad, 35.&nbsp; 
"I spent three nights awake because of severe pain, back pain, and lower limb pain, that pain I will never forget,"&nbsp;said Nazehad, who lives apart from her family to keep them safe. 
 
The other hospital that treats COVID-19 patients is the Ali Jenah, funded by Pakistan, a 200-bed but less-equipped facility, also in western Kabul. There is also an isolation center in the dormitory of the Kabul University, but it does not provide treatment. 
 
According to the Health Ministry, more than 1,700 medical workers&nbsp;including 40 at the Afghan-Japan hospital&nbsp;were infected while providing care to COVID-19 patients; 26 have died. 
 
Afghanistan has so far recorded almost 35,000 cases of the virus, including 1,094 deaths, with the number of infections thought to far outnumber the official tally. 
 
The International Rescue Committee warned last month that Afghanistan is on the brink of a humanitarian disaster because the government is unable to test some 80% of possible coronavirus cases. 
 
The Health Ministry said it now has the capacity to test only 2,500 people per day.&nbsp; 
 
Last month, 10,000 to 20,000 people were coming daily, asking to be tested, but the government had to turn many down. Afghanistan has one doctor for every 3,500 people, less than a fifth of the global average, according to the World Health Organization. 
 
The International Committee of the Red Cross said on Tuesday that in addition to the COVID-19 health crisis faced in Afghanistan, the socioeconomic impact of the virus could become catastrophic with 12.4 million people one third of the country's population already considered to be living at emergency&nbsp;levels of food shortages.&nbsp; 
 
Seemingly indicative of the fractured health care system, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's special envoy for economic development, Yosuf Ghaznafar, went to Turkey when he became ill with COVID-19.&nbsp; 
 
He died of the disease there in early July, according to a statement from the presidency&nbsp;the most senior Afghan official so far to die of the virus

The intensive care unit at the Afghan capital's premier hospital for COVID-19 patients is a medical nightmare and a stark warning how the country's war-ravaged health care system risks collapsing.

The intensive care unit at the Afghan capital's premier hospital for COVID-19 patients is a medical nightmare and a stark warning how the country's war-ravaged health care system risks collapsing. Family members, without protective equipment and only a few wearing face masks, help care for the patients lying in hospital beds. They say they have no choice because there are not enough nurses and other medical staff. The next-of-kin often guard their loved one's oxygen tank, fearing it could be stolen because there is a shortage of just about everything, including oxygen cylinders. Also read: Afghanistan faces 'grim' economic outlook as pandemic wipes out growth: World Bank The 100-bed Afghan-Japan Communicable Disease Hospital in western Kabul is one of only two facilities for coronavirus testing and treatment in the Afghan capital. Newly graduated Afghan doctors have joined the 370-member staff after many of the hospital's experienced physicians walked out a few months ago, fearing the virus. The 92-square-meter (1,000-square-foot) ICU ward has only 13 beds, and COVID-19 patients admitted here are in critical condition; few are hooked up to ventilators, some of the others rely on oxygen tanks. Assadullah, who like many Afghans goes by only one name, says he struggled to stay awake night after night at the ICU ward, guarding the tank that kept his father alive. In his father's final days, the relative of another patient came over, threatening to take the tank. "Your father is dying but mine is alive, he told me ... In such a situation, how could I have left my father alone", said Assadullah, who lost his father to the virus on Tuesday. Abdul Rahman, 42, feels the same way and rushes to rub his 70-year-old mother's back every time she coughs. Also read: World Bank approves $200 million aid for coronavirus-hit Afghanistan A few beds away, 64-year-old Mohammad Amin's left foot has turned black from gangrene that set in after a blood clot due to the virus. His son and wife tend to him as best they can, but they say it's exhausting. For the hospital's director, Hakimullah Saleh, every staffer is a hero, risking their own life to provide critical care. They face so many work challenges, he said, on top of which they sometimes have to deal with ?threats" from distraught families who feel the hospital is not doing enough. One of Saleh's heroes, Dr. Jawad Norzai, is relentless in his devotion to the patients, he said. Along with his job as chief surgeon, Norzai visits over 60 patients a day and finds the time to train new doctors, Saleh said. The 32-year-old Norzai got his medical diploma in 2013 and worked first for private hospitals, joining the Afghan-Japan only after hearing how many of the staff had left. Norzai said he, like many medical professionals, contracted the virus but recovered. He said he infected several of his family members but luckily, they also recovered. Another one of the Afghan-Japan doctors who recovered from the virus is Mozhgan Nazehad, 35. "I spent three nights awake because of severe pain, back pain, and lower limb pain, that pain I will never forget," said Nazehad, who lives apart from her family to keep them safe. The other hospital that treats COVID-19 patients is the Ali Jenah, funded by Pakistan, a 200-bed but less-equipped facility, also in western Kabul. There is also an isolation center in the dormitory of the Kabul University, but it does not provide treatment. According to the Health Ministry, more than 1,700 medical workers including 40 at the Afghan-Japan hospital were infected while providing care to COVID-19 patients; 26 have died. Afghanistan has so far recorded almost 35,000 cases of the virus, including 1,094 deaths, with the number of infections thought to far outnumber the official tally. The International Rescue Committee warned last month that Afghanistan is on the brink of a humanitarian disaster because the government is unable to test some 80% of possible coronavirus cases. The Health Ministry said it now has the capacity to test only 2,500 people per day. Last month, 10,000 to 20,000 people were coming daily, asking to be tested, but the government had to turn many down. Afghanistan has one doctor for every 3,500 people, less than a fifth of the global average, according to the World Health Organization. The International Committee of the Red Cross said on Tuesday that in addition to the COVID-19 health crisis faced in Afghanistan, the socioeconomic impact of the virus could become catastrophic with 12.4 million people one third of the country's population already considered to be living at emergency levels of food shortages. Seemingly indicative of the fractured health care system, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's special envoy for economic development, Yosuf Ghaznafar, went to Turkey when he became ill with COVID-19. He died of the disease there in early July, according to a statement from the presidency the most senior Afghan official so far to die of the virus

Families step in at Kabul COVID-19 ward to care for patients

Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh Sachdeva, who was kidnapped by Taliban militants from Paktika province in eastern Afghanistan while performing community service at a gurudwara almost a month ago, has been rescued.

Video: Sikh man abducted by Taliban militants from Afghanistan gurudwara rescued

Qatar is likely to host the initial round of peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government after the two foes complete an ongoing prisoner swap, a minister said Thursday.

The talks were originally supposed to have started March 10, but there have been repeated delays amid continued fighting and as the prisoner exchange drags on.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/27-taliban-terrorists-killed-16-injured-in-afghanistan-313991">27 Taliban terrorists killed, 16 injured in Afghanistan</a>

"There is a consensus that the beginning of the talks be held in Qatar," acting Afghan foreign minister Mohamad Haneef Atmar told reporters.

The Taliban have a political office in Qatar's capital Doha.

Atmar said 12 countries have offered to host peace talks, including Iran, Turkey, Qatar, Indonesia, Japan, Norway and Turkey.

The peace negotiations hinge on the prisoner swap, in which Kabul is expected to free some 5,000 Taliban prisoners in return for around 1,000 Afghan security force captives held by the insurgents.

So far, Afghan authorities have released 4,400 Taliban inmates, Atmar said, calling it "significant progress".

"The Taliban must now show goodwill for the start of intra-Afghan talks," Atmar added.

"Otherwise, they will be held responsible for the killing of hundreds more Afghans due to violence or corona (virus) before a date is fixed for the talks."

Afghanistan is currently struggling to curb the spread of COVID-19 infections, with more than 35,000 confirmed cases and some 1,000 deaths.

The prisoner exchange was agreed in a landmark deal between the Taliban and Washington signed in February, which primarily stipulated that all US and foreign forces would quit Afghanistan by May 2021.

In return, the Taliban made several security promises and pledged to hold peace talks once the prisoner release was complete.

Experts expect the talks to be a lengthy and complicated process with several rounds of negotiations held in different countries. 
&nbsp;

Qatar is likely to host the initial round of peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government after the two foes complete an ongoing prisoner swap, a minister said Thursday.

Qatar is likely to host the initial round of peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government after the two foes complete an ongoing prisoner swap, a minister said Thursday. The talks were originally supposed to have started March 10, but there have been repeated delays amid continued fighting and as the prisoner exchange drags on. Also read | 27 Taliban terrorists killed, 16 injured in Afghanistan "There is a consensus that the beginning of the talks be held in Qatar," acting Afghan foreign minister Mohamad Haneef Atmar told reporters. The Taliban have a political office in Qatar's capital Doha. Atmar said 12 countries have offered to host peace talks, including Iran, Turkey, Qatar, Indonesia, Japan, Norway and Turkey. The peace negotiations hinge on the prisoner swap, in which Kabul is expected to free some 5,000 Taliban prisoners in return for around 1,000 Afghan security force captives held by the insurgents. So far, Afghan authorities have released 4,400 Taliban inmates, Atmar said, calling it "significant progress". "The Taliban must now show goodwill for the start of intra-Afghan talks," Atmar added. "Otherwise, they will be held responsible for the killing of hundreds more Afghans due to violence or corona (virus) before a date is fixed for the talks." Afghanistan is currently struggling to curb the spread of COVID-19 infections, with more than 35,000 confirmed cases and some 1,000 deaths. The prisoner exchange was agreed in a landmark deal between the Taliban and Washington signed in February, which primarily stipulated that all US and foreign forces would quit Afghanistan by May 2021. In return, the Taliban made several security promises and pledged to hold peace talks once the prisoner release was complete. Experts expect the talks to be a lengthy and complicated process with several rounds of negotiations held in different countries.

Qatar likely to hold peace talks between Afghanistan-Taliban: Minister

At least 15 Taliban terrorists were killed and 10 others injured in an airstrike by the Afghan air forces in Kandahar province, local police said on Wednesday.

"Last night, Taliban terrorists attacked security checkpoints in Sra Baghal area of Maiwand district. Afghan forces launched an airstrike killing 15 terrorists and injuring ten others," Kandahar police spokesperson Jamal Nasir Barakzai said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-faces-grim-economic-outlook-as-pandemic-wipes-out-growth-world-bank-313765">Also read:&nbsp;Afghanistan faces 'grim' economic outlook as pandemic wipes out growth: World Bank</a>

According to him, three police officers were killed and four others were injured in clashes with Taliban terrorists.

The group has not commented on the incident so far.

At least 15 Taliban terrorists were killed and 10 others injured in an airstrike by the Afghan air forces in Kandahar province, local police said on Wednesday. "Last night, Taliban terrorists attacked security checkpoints in Sra Baghal area of Maiwand district.

At least 15 Taliban terrorists were killed and 10 others injured in an airstrike by the Afghan air forces in Kandahar province, local police said on Wednesday. "Last night, Taliban terrorists attacked security checkpoints in Sra Baghal area of Maiwand district. Afghan forces launched an airstrike killing 15 terrorists and injuring ten others," Kandahar police spokesperson Jamal Nasir Barakzai said. Also read: Afghanistan faces 'grim' economic outlook as pandemic wipes out growth: World Bank According to him, three police officers were killed and four others were injured in clashes with Taliban terrorists. The group has not commented on the incident so far.

Afghanistan: 15 Taliban terrorists killed in airstrike

The coronavirus pandemic is expected to severely weaken Afghanistan`s economy, the World Bank said on Wednesday, as donor governments struggle themselves and uncertainty over peace talks curb private investment.

The World Bank said it was forecasting gross domestic product to contract between 5.5 per cent and 7.4 per cent in 2020, compared with growth of 2.9 per cent&nbsp;in 2019, with more than 70 per cent of the population expected to slip under the poverty line.

"COVID-19 has hit Afghanistan in the midst of a difficult political transition, an intensifying conflict, and significant uncertainty regarding future grant support," Henry Kerali, World Bank Afghanistan director, told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/european-union-in-contact-with-india-on-afghan-peace-process-officials-313291">Also read|&nbsp;European Union in contact with India on Afghan peace process: Officials</a>

Due to the lockdown, domestic government revenue is expected to fall up to 30 per cent at a time when the economists and diplomats say Afghanistan is facing a likely fall in foreign funding as countries deal with their own economic crises at home and the United States withdraws troops and attempts to usher peace talks between the insurgent Taliban and the Afghan government.

With few options to borrow and investment stalled by years conflict, the government is heavily reliant on foreign aid. Pledges made by foreign donors in 2016 run out this year, with a conference to renew pledges due in November.

"Without progress towards a sustainable peace and commitments to continued grant support from international partners, medium-term prospects appear increasingly grim," the World Bank said.

Ministry of Finance spokesman Shamroz Khan Masjedi said the government was concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on the economy.

"There will be more unemployment, more poverty and reduction in government revenue because many business and economic activities ... have stopped," he said.

The coronavirus pandemic is expected to severely weaken Afghanistan`s economy, the World Bank said on Wednesday, as donor governments struggle themselves and uncertainty over peace talks curb private investment.

The coronavirus pandemic is expected to severely weaken Afghanistan`s economy, the World Bank said on Wednesday, as donor governments struggle themselves and uncertainty over peace talks curb private investment. The World Bank said it was forecasting gross domestic product to contract between 5.5 per cent and 7.4 per cent in 2020, compared with growth of 2.9 per cent in 2019, with more than 70 per cent of the population expected to slip under the poverty line. "COVID-19 has hit Afghanistan in the midst of a difficult political transition, an intensifying conflict, and significant uncertainty regarding future grant support," Henry Kerali, World Bank Afghanistan director, told reporters. Also read| European Union in contact with India on Afghan peace process: Officials Due to the lockdown, domestic government revenue is expected to fall up to 30 per cent at a time when the economists and diplomats say Afghanistan is facing a likely fall in foreign funding as countries deal with their own economic crises at home and the United States withdraws troops and attempts to usher peace talks between the insurgent Taliban and the Afghan government. With few options to borrow and investment stalled by years conflict, the government is heavily reliant on foreign aid. Pledges made by foreign donors in 2016 run out this year, with a conference to renew pledges due in November. "Without progress towards a sustainable peace and commitments to continued grant support from international partners, medium-term prospects appear increasingly grim," the World Bank said. Ministry of Finance spokesman Shamroz Khan Masjedi said the government was concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on the economy. "There will be more unemployment, more poverty and reduction in government revenue because many business and economic activities ... have stopped," he said.

Afghanistan faces 'grim' economic outlook as pandemic wipes out growth: World Bank

The US has withdrawn troops from five bases in Afghanistan and reduced the size of its forces there as part of the agreement it entered into with the Taliban earlier this year.

As stipulated in the agreement, the United States agreed to reduce its forces in Afghanistan to 8,600 and withdraw from five bases, the Pentagon announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"US forces in Afghanistan remain in the mid-8,000s and five bases formerly occupied by US forces have been transferred to our Afghan partners," Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement."

"US military presence in Afghanistan remains focussed on capabilities -- not numbers. We maintain the capabilities and authorities necessary to protect ourselves, our Allies and partners, and US national interests."

The statement makes no mention of the Taliban's continued links to al Qaeda, something referenced in a Defense Department report earlier this month.

"We will continue to execute our counterterrorism mission while simultaneously supporting the 38-nation NATO Resolute Support Train, Advise, Assist mission and Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) as they work to secure peace in the country," it read.

"The United States honours its obligations. All sides should reduce violence and embark on intra-Afghan negotiations capable of achieving a negotiated and lasting peace for Afghanistan," it said further.

In late February, the US and the Taliban signed a historic agreement, setting into motion the possibility of ending America's long involvement in the war, which has stretched nearly two decades.

The "Agreement for Bringing Peace to Afghanistan" outlined a series of commitments from the US and the Taliban related to troop levels, counterterrorism and the intra-Afghan dialogue aimed at bringing about "a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire."

As per CNN reports, the agreement laid out a 14-month timetable for the withdrawal of US military forces, its allies and coalition partners.

The US has withdrawn troops from five bases in Afghanistan and reduced the size of its forces there as part of the agreement it entered into with the Taliban earlier this year.

The US has withdrawn troops from five bases in Afghanistan and reduced the size of its forces there as part of the agreement it entered into with the Taliban earlier this year. As stipulated in the agreement, the United States agreed to reduce its forces in Afghanistan to 8,600 and withdraw from five bases, the Pentagon announced on Tuesday. "US forces in Afghanistan remain in the mid-8,000s and five bases formerly occupied by US forces have been transferred to our Afghan partners," Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement." "US military presence in Afghanistan remains focussed on capabilities -- not numbers. We maintain the capabilities and authorities necessary to protect ourselves, our Allies and partners, and US national interests." The statement makes no mention of the Taliban's continued links to al Qaeda, something referenced in a Defense Department report earlier this month. "We will continue to execute our counterterrorism mission while simultaneously supporting the 38-nation NATO Resolute Support Train, Advise, Assist mission and Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) as they work to secure peace in the country," it read. "The United States honours its obligations. All sides should reduce violence and embark on intra-Afghan negotiations capable of achieving a negotiated and lasting peace for Afghanistan," it said further. In late February, the US and the Taliban signed a historic agreement, setting into motion the possibility of ending America's long involvement in the war, which has stretched nearly two decades. The "Agreement for Bringing Peace to Afghanistan" outlined a series of commitments from the US and the Taliban related to troop levels, counterterrorism and the intra-Afghan dialogue aimed at bringing about "a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire." As per CNN reports, the agreement laid out a 14-month timetable for the withdrawal of US military forces, its allies and coalition partners.

US pulls out troops from five bases in Afghanistan as part of agreement with Taliban

At least 11 security personnel were killed Monday in an attack on a rural office of Afghanistan's intelligence agency, AFP report stated quoting officials. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.

At least 11 security personnel were killed Monday in an attack on a rural office of Afghanistan's intelligence agency, AFP report stated quoting officials. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. Taliban said a suicide bomber detonated a device inside a car near the National Directorate of Security (NDS) while gunmen stormed the building in Aybak city in the north of the country. Abdul Latif Ibrahimi, governor of Samangan province, told 11 people were killed and 63 others, mostly civilians, were wounded in the explosion and gunfire. The attack, which lasted for nearly four hours, ended after security forces shot dead three armed men, the governor's spokesman Sediq Azizi said. "It was a huge explosion that broke all our windows," said witness Haseeb, who only gave one name, a government employee who works near the NDS compound. "Many people have been wounded by flying pieces of glass." In recent months, the Taliban have carried out near-daily attacks against Afghan forces -- even as the government prepares to engage in peace talks with the militants aimed at ending the country's decades-old war. In two separate attacks on Sunday blamed on the Taliban, at least 19 security personnel were killed, officials said. (With inputs from AFP)

11 killed in Taliban car bomb attack on Afghan intel office

Pakistan has opened two more key trade routes with Afghanistan after months-long closure of the border due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Pakistan and Afghanistan share 18 crossing points. Pakistan closed its border with Iran and Afghanistan after COVID-19 cases increased in the country early this year.

Pakistani Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq on Saturday said the Angor Adda point in South Waziristan and the Kharlachi crossing in Kurram districts were reopened to boost trade between the two countries.

"Trade should be the mainstay of Pak-Afghan relations and prosperity of regions on both sides of the border," he tweeted. 
While the Angor Adda was operationalised on Friday, two days ahead of its scheduled opening, the Kharlachi was reopened on Saturday.

Pakistan is gradually reopening all its major trading points with Afghanistan. Last month, it reopened Torkham crossing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Chaman point in Balochistan and Ghulam Khan in North Waziristan tribal district to promote bilateral business and trade activities.

Pakistan is the largest importer of Afghani products, while Afghanistan is the 4th largest destination for Pakistani exports.&nbsp;

Pakistan has opened two more key trade routes with Afghanistan after months-long closure of the border due to the coronavirus pandemic. Pakistan and Afghanistan share 18 crossing points.

Pakistan has opened two more key trade routes with Afghanistan after months-long closure of the border due to the coronavirus pandemic. Pakistan and Afghanistan share 18 crossing points. Pakistan closed its border with Iran and Afghanistan after COVID-19 cases increased in the country early this year. Pakistani Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq on Saturday said the Angor Adda point in South Waziristan and the Kharlachi crossing in Kurram districts were reopened to boost trade between the two countries. "Trade should be the mainstay of Pak-Afghan relations and prosperity of regions on both sides of the border," he tweeted. While the Angor Adda was operationalised on Friday, two days ahead of its scheduled opening, the Kharlachi was reopened on Saturday. Pakistan is gradually reopening all its major trading points with Afghanistan. Last month, it reopened Torkham crossing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Chaman point in Balochistan and Ghulam Khan in North Waziristan tribal district to promote bilateral business and trade activities. Pakistan is the largest importer of Afghani products, while Afghanistan is the 4th largest destination for Pakistani exports.

Pak reopens 2 more trade routes with Afghan after months-long closure of border due to COVID-19

The United States believes Russia has given support to Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan in the past but does not have intelligence to confirm it directed attacks against Americans or to corroborate that it paid bounties to kill American troops, the top US general said on Thursday.

US doesn't know if Russia directed Taliban attacks in Afghanistan: Pentagon

The World Bank has approved aid worth $200 million for Afghanistan as it battles to contain the novel coronavirus and seeing a rise in militant attacks in recent times.&nbsp;

"The program will provide vital fiscal resources to manage the impacts of the pandemic in the context of rapidly slowing economic growth and declining government revenues," Henry Kerali, the World Bank chief for Afghanistan, in a statement, said on Thursday, reported AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-doesnt-know-if-russia-directed-taliban-attacks-in-afghanistan-pentagon-312265">US doesn't know if Russia directed Taliban attacks in Afghanistan: Pentagon</a>

The war-torn country has been severely affected by the coronavirus pandemic, due to which many people lost their jobs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-to-release-prisoners-from-taliban-list-in-push-for-talks-311920">Afghanistan to release prisoners from Taliban list in push for talks</a>

The militant violence has also been on a rise in recent months in Afghanistan, which has diverted resources that could be used to prevent the virus that has killed nearly 1,000 and infected 34,000 others.&nbsp;

"In the cities, the cases are steady but we are worried the cases may spread in rural areas," Abdul Qadir, a senior official at the health ministry on Friday said.&nbsp;

He said the World Bank funds would help&nbsp;the country mitigate the damage to social, business, and healthcare sectors.&nbsp;

Afghanistan saw its first COVID-19 infections after migrants returned from neighbouring Iran, the worst-hit Middle East country.&nbsp;

The World Bank has approved aid worth $200 million for Afghanistan as it battles to contain the novel coronavirus and seeing a rise in militant attacks in recent times.

The World Bank has approved aid worth $200 million for Afghanistan as it battles to contain the novel coronavirus and seeing a rise in militant attacks in recent times. "The program will provide vital fiscal resources to manage the impacts of the pandemic in the context of rapidly slowing economic growth and declining government revenues," Henry Kerali, the World Bank chief for Afghanistan, in a statement, said on Thursday, reported AFP. Also read | US doesn't know if Russia directed Taliban attacks in Afghanistan: Pentagon The war-torn country has been severely affected by the coronavirus pandemic, due to which many people lost their jobs. Also read | Afghanistan to release prisoners from Taliban list in push for talks The militant violence has also been on a rise in recent months in Afghanistan, which has diverted resources that could be used to prevent the virus that has killed nearly 1,000 and infected 34,000 others. "In the cities, the cases are steady but we are worried the cases may spread in rural areas," Abdul Qadir, a senior official at the health ministry on Friday said. He said the World Bank funds would help the country mitigate the damage to social, business, and healthcare sectors. Afghanistan saw its first COVID-19 infections after migrants returned from neighbouring Iran, the worst-hit Middle East country.

World Bank approves $200 million aid for coronavirus-hit Afghanistan

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