Taliban leader Muhibullah was killed on Sunday in Afghanistan's Kunduz city.&nbsp;

Muhibullah was a citizen of Pakistan and was killed in an airstrike.&nbsp;

This comes just a couple of days after a US aistrike killed a Taliban splinter-group commander and several other fighters in the western Afghan province of Herat, news agency AFP reported quoting Afghan and military sources.

The commander, named as Mullah Nangyalay, was killed in Shindand district, close to the border with Iran, said Herat provincial governor's spokesman Jailani Farhad. 
Nangyalay split from the main branch of the Taliban after the 2013 death of founder Mullah Omar and joined a smaller breakaway faction led by a commander known as Mullah Rasool.

A senior provincial police source said the airstrike was carried out by a US drone.&nbsp;

A spokesman for US forces in Afghanistan confirmed they had launched "a defensive airstrike in support of Afghan forces".&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

 
&nbsp;

Taliban leader Muhibullah was killed on Sunday in Afghanistan's Kunduz city. Muhibullah was a citizen of Pakistan and was killed in an airstrike. This comes just a couple of days after a US aistrike killed a Taliban splinter-group commander and several other fighters in the western Afghan province of Herat, news agency AFP reported quoting Afghan and military sources.

Taliban leader Muhibullah was killed on Sunday in Afghanistan's Kunduz city. Muhibullah was a citizen of Pakistan and was killed in an airstrike. This comes just a couple of days after a US aistrike killed a Taliban splinter-group commander and several other fighters in the western Afghan province of Herat, news agency AFP reported quoting Afghan and military sources. The commander, named as Mullah Nangyalay, was killed in Shindand district, close to the border with Iran, said Herat provincial governor's spokesman Jailani Farhad. Nangyalay split from the main branch of the Taliban after the 2013 death of founder Mullah Omar and joined a smaller breakaway faction led by a commander known as Mullah Rasool. A senior provincial police source said the airstrike was carried out by a US drone. A spokesman for US forces in Afghanistan confirmed they had launched "a defensive airstrike in support of Afghan forces". (With inputs from AFP)

Taliban leader killed in airstrike in Afghanistan's Kunduz

Two American soldiers were killed and two others injured in a roadside bomb attack on a US Army vehicle in southern Afghanistan on Saturday, the NATO mission there said.

Two American soldiers were killed and two others injured in a roadside bomb attack on a US Army vehicle in southern Afghanistan on Saturday, the NATO mission there said. "In accordance with US Department of Defense policy, the names of the service members killed in action will be withheld until 24 hours after notification of next of kin is complete," the NATO Resolute Support mission said in a statement. The incident took place in Dand district of southern Kandahar province, where a bomb hit a US armoured vehicle, provincial police spokesman Jamal Nasir Barkzai told reporters. "Foreign forces were patrolling near the Kandahar airport when they were hit by a blast," officials said. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, with spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid saying on Twitter that the blast destroyed the vehicle, killing all on board. Violence in Afghanistan usually recedes as the cold winter sets in but this year the Taliban have pushed forward with their operations despite heavy snowfall in the mountains and despite their negotiations with the US for a deal that would see American troops leave the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Two US soldiers killed in Afghanistan bomb attack, says NATO mission

A Taliban roadside bomb ripped through a US army vehicle in southern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-15-dead-in-pakistan-mosque-suicide-bombing-273482">Afghanistan</a> on Saturday, officials said, with no immediate details of casualties.

The incident took place in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/roadside-mine-blast-in-northern-afghanistan-kills-eight-259889">Dand</a> district of southern Kandahar province, where a bomb hit a US armoured vehicle, provincial police spokesman Jamal Nasir Barkzai told reporters.

"Foreign forces were patrolling near the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/ic-814-bees-saal-baad-hijack-vs-hijacked-270028">Kandahar airport</a> when they were hit by a blast. We don't have the details of the casualties because they have cordoned off the area," he said.

A NATO Resolute Support spokesman in southern Afghanistan confirmed the incident and said the situation was being assessed.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AlFath?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AlFath</a> 
Powerful IED shred American APC to pieces in Kro Shela area close to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kandahar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kandahar</a> airbase this morning resulting in all invaders aboard killed - Ahmadi
— Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) <a href="https://twitter.com/Zabehulah_M33/status/1215936721646424069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, with spokesman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/10-afghan-soldiers-killed-in-taliban-attack-270736">Zabihullah Mujahid</a> saying on Twitter that the blast destroyed the vehicle, killing all on board.

Violence in Afghanistan usually recedes as the cold winter sets in but this year the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-8-policemen-killed-in-taliban-attack-271470">Taliban</a> have pushed forward with their operations despite heavy snowfall in the mountains and despite their negotiations with the US for a deal that would see American troops leave the country.

According to parts of the deal made public so far, the Pentagon would pull about 5,000 of its 13,000 or so troops from five bases across Afghanistan, provided the Taliban sticks to its security pledges.

The insurgents have said they will renounce <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-releases-spying-convict-as-part-of-prisoners-swap-deal-with-syria-273434">Al-Qaeda</a>, fight the Islamic State group and stop jihadists using Afghanistan as a safe haven.

Last year was the deadliest for US forces in Afghanistan since combat operations officially finished at the end of 2014, highlighting the challenging security situation that persists.

More than 2,400 US troops have been killed in combat in Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in October 2001.

A Taliban roadside bomb ripped through a US army vehicle in southern Afghanistan on Saturday, officials said, with no immediate details of casualties. The incident took place in Dand district of southern Kandahar province, where a bomb hit a US armoured vehicle, provincial police spokesman Jamal Nasir Barkzai told reporters.

A Taliban roadside bomb ripped through a US army vehicle in southern Afghanistan on Saturday, officials said, with no immediate details of casualties. The incident took place in Dand district of southern Kandahar province, where a bomb hit a US armoured vehicle, provincial police spokesman Jamal Nasir Barkzai told reporters. "Foreign forces were patrolling near the Kandahar airport when they were hit by a blast. We don't have the details of the casualties because they have cordoned off the area," he said. A NATO Resolute Support spokesman in southern Afghanistan confirmed the incident and said the situation was being assessed. #AlFath Powerful IED shred American APC to pieces in Kro Shela area close to #Kandahar airbase this morning resulting in all invaders aboard killed - Ahmadi — Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) January 11, 2020 × The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, with spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid saying on Twitter that the blast destroyed the vehicle, killing all on board. Violence in Afghanistan usually recedes as the cold winter sets in but this year the Taliban have pushed forward with their operations despite heavy snowfall in the mountains and despite their negotiations with the US for a deal that would see American troops leave the country. According to parts of the deal made public so far, the Pentagon would pull about 5,000 of its 13,000 or so troops from five bases across Afghanistan, provided the Taliban sticks to its security pledges. The insurgents have said they will renounce Al-Qaeda, fight the Islamic State group and stop jihadists using Afghanistan as a safe haven. Last year was the deadliest for US forces in Afghanistan since combat operations officially finished at the end of 2014, highlighting the challenging security situation that persists. More than 2,400 US troops have been killed in combat in Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in October 2001.

Afghanistan: Blast hits US army vehicle in Dand, Taliban claims responsibility

Highlighting Afghan&nbsp;govt's role in the advancement of women's right, Naheed Esar, 30-year-old deputy foreign minister of Afghanistan said women in Afghanistan are now in leading roles. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, the deputy foreign minister FM of Afghanistan lauded New Delhi's role in the country. She was forced to flee her country under Taliban rule, but after coming back she played an important role in reaching out to women especially women who suffered during Taliban rule and decades of strife. Esar is fluent in Pashto, Dari, English, and Hindi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-welcomes-preliminary-results-of-afghanistan-presidential-election-269718">India welcomes preliminary results of Afghanistan presidential election</a>

WION: How do you see India and Afghanistan relation? 
Naheed Esar: The relationship between India and Afghanistan goes back to thousands of years. We share culture, we share values, we share the same morals and its a heart to heart connection between Indians and Afghans

WION: On India Afghan ties, the role you would like to see of New Delhi in future? 
Naheed Esar: India has supported Afghanistan in various areas. India has committed to about $3 billion to Afghanistan and more importantly they focused on fundamental projects, fundamental areas--education, medical area, hospitals. Because we are shifting from aid-dependent country to self-reliant country, and that was one of the reasons we started out consulate general in Hyderabad to invest more in trade, economy. In 2017, we started the air corridor, 22 items were exported.

WION: You are a young minister in the Afghan govt, how are you&nbsp;changing Afghanistan? 
Naheed Esar: Afghanistan is probably the youngest country in the world with 65% of people constituting the young generation. Especially in the past 5 years, we have a young generation in the leading position. Before that, you could not see Afghan women and young Afghan women representing their generation at the foreign ministry. I am very much grateful to the govt for believing in young generation and believing in women.&nbsp;

WION: How has the role of women increased in the last 2 decades? 
Naheed Esar: The biggest difference I see in women's role in the govt is there is a shift in rather a symbolic role to technocrat or proper leading position. we have women as deputy ministers in the ministry of defence, ministry of interior. we have women leading the most revenue-generating ministries. We have 25 per cent&nbsp;of women parliamentarians. We have 30 per cent of women staff in the government. Having given those example, I see a very bright role for Afghan women from leading position to grassroots young afghans going to universities, schools, more so than ever.

WION: How will you compare the increase in women participation from Taliban years? 
Naheed Esar: In the past 18-19 years after the fall of the Taliban, we shifted from zero per cent women in the education system--in schools and universities to about 30 per cent&nbsp;women now. This&nbsp;is the biggest achievement. We have laws, Article 22 of the Afghan constitution talks about the equality of men and women. We have laws against harassments and parallel to that we have institutions implementing those laws. We have women in leading positions, and that is the biggest achievement in the past 2 decades.

Highlighting Afghan govt's role in the advancement of women's right, Naheed Esar, 30-year-old deputy foreign minister of Afghanistan said women in Afghanistan are now in leading roles.

Highlighting Afghan govt's role in the advancement of women's right, Naheed Esar, 30-year-old deputy foreign minister of Afghanistan said women in Afghanistan are now in leading roles. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, the deputy foreign minister FM of Afghanistan lauded New Delhi's role in the country. She was forced to flee her country under Taliban rule, but after coming back she played an important role in reaching out to women especially women who suffered during Taliban rule and decades of strife. Esar is fluent in Pashto, Dari, English, and Hindi. Also read: India welcomes preliminary results of Afghanistan presidential election WION: How do you see India and Afghanistan relation? Naheed Esar: The relationship between India and Afghanistan goes back to thousands of years. We share culture, we share values, we share the same morals and its a heart to heart connection between Indians and Afghans WION: On India Afghan ties, the role you would like to see of New Delhi in future? Naheed Esar: India has supported Afghanistan in various areas. India has committed to about $3 billion to Afghanistan and more importantly they focused on fundamental projects, fundamental areas--education, medical area, hospitals. Because we are shifting from aid-dependent country to self-reliant country, and that was one of the reasons we started out consulate general in Hyderabad to invest more in trade, economy. In 2017, we started the air corridor, 22 items were exported. WION: You are a young minister in the Afghan govt, how are you changing Afghanistan? Naheed Esar: Afghanistan is probably the youngest country in the world with 65% of people constituting the young generation. Especially in the past 5 years, we have a young generation in the leading position. Before that, you could not see Afghan women and young Afghan women representing their generation at the foreign ministry. I am very much grateful to the govt for believing in young generation and believing in women. WION: How has the role of women increased in the last 2 decades? Naheed Esar: The biggest difference I see in women's role in the govt is there is a shift in rather a symbolic role to technocrat or proper leading position. we have women as deputy ministers in the ministry of defence, ministry of interior. we have women leading the most revenue-generating ministries. We have 25 per cent of women parliamentarians. We have 30 per cent of women staff in the government. Having given those example, I see a very bright role for Afghan women from leading position to grassroots young afghans going to universities, schools, more so than ever. WION: How will you compare the increase in women participation from Taliban years? Naheed Esar: In the past 18-19 years after the fall of the Taliban, we shifted from zero per cent women in the education system--in schools and universities to about 30 per cent women now. This is the biggest achievement. We have laws, Article 22 of the Afghan constitution talks about the equality of men and women. We have laws against harassments and parallel to that we have institutions implementing those laws. We have women in leading positions, and that is the biggest achievement in the past 2 decades.

EXCLUSIVE: No going back on women's rights, says young Afghan minister; praises India's role for development in her country

Two military personnel were killed in a helicopter crash on Wednesday in Porchaman District of Farah province, Afghan Defence Ministry said.

"An AAF helicopter (MI-35) crashed just before noon today in Porchaman District, Farah province, due to technical issues. Sadly two of our brave pilots were martyred", Sputnik quoted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-hopes-the-us-iran-tensions-wons-impact-chabahar-project-272800">Afghanistan</a>'s Ministry of Defence as saying.

Farah Governor Mohammad Shoaib Sabet specified that the chopper was transporting ammunition to the province's district of Parchman.&nbsp;

Two military personnel were killed in a helicopter crash on Wednesday in Porchaman District of Farah province, Afghan Defence Ministry said. "An AAF helicopter (MI-35) crashed just before noon today in Porchaman District, Farah province, due to technical issues.

Two military personnel were killed in a helicopter crash on Wednesday in Porchaman District of Farah province, Afghan Defence Ministry said. "An AAF helicopter (MI-35) crashed just before noon today in Porchaman District, Farah province, due to technical issues. Sadly two of our brave pilots were martyred", Sputnik quoted Afghanistan's Ministry of Defence as saying. Farah Governor Mohammad Shoaib Sabet specified that the chopper was transporting ammunition to the province's district of Parchman.

Afghanistan: 2 military personnel killed in chopper crash in Farah province

Afghanistan has said while the ongoing US, Iran tensions are not impacting Chabahar project, it hopes smooth working of the project will continue in the future.

Speaking to WION from Kabul, Afghanistan's Transport ministry spokesperson Alisina Saeed said, "No impact as of now to Chabahar port. Hopefully, no impact will happen, as you know US extended waiver for the port".

Last week, the US killed top Iranian Qasem Soleimani in Iraq, which has sparked fears of a major turmoil in West Asia which can impact India's key connectivity project in Iran, the Chabahar project.

Located at southeastern Iran, on the Gulf of Oman, Chabahar is the home for Iran's only oceanic port. The operation of the Shaheed Beheshti Port at Chabahar was taken over by India Ports Global Co in December 2018. Over 5 lakh tons of cargo has been handled from the port since then.&nbsp;

In December 2019, it was agreed by India, Afghanistan and Iran to include Mormugoa and New Mangalore Port from India in the designated route under the Chabahar Agreement.

Afghanistan has said while the ongoing US, Iran tensions are not impacting Chabahar project, it hopes smooth working of the project will continue in the future. Speaking to WION from Kabul, Afghanistan's Transport ministry spokesperson Alisina Saeed said, "No impact as of now to Chabahar port.

Afghanistan has said while the ongoing US, Iran tensions are not impacting Chabahar project, it hopes smooth working of the project will continue in the future. Speaking to WION from Kabul, Afghanistan's Transport ministry spokesperson Alisina Saeed said, "No impact as of now to Chabahar port. Hopefully, no impact will happen, as you know US extended waiver for the port". Last week, the US killed top Iranian Qasem Soleimani in Iraq, which has sparked fears of a major turmoil in West Asia which can impact India's key connectivity project in Iran, the Chabahar project. Located at southeastern Iran, on the Gulf of Oman, Chabahar is the home for Iran's only oceanic port. The operation of the Shaheed Beheshti Port at Chabahar was taken over by India Ports Global Co in December 2018. Over 5 lakh tons of cargo has been handled from the port since then. In December 2019, it was agreed by India, Afghanistan and Iran to include Mormugoa and New Mangalore Port from India in the designated route under the Chabahar Agreement.

Afghanistan hopes the US-Iran tensions won't impact Chabahar project

'He is James Bond, Rommel and Lady Gaga rolled into one': Soleimani was featured in Time magazine's 100 most influential people

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-11-taliban-terrorists-killed-in-airstrikes-271244">Taliban terrorists</a> have attacked a police checkpoint in the northern Afghan province of Balkh, leaving eight policemen dead and three others injured, the Balkh police chief, Ajmal Fayez, told Sputnik on Wednesday. 
 
Fayez said that a group of Taliban terrorists attacked and seized control of a police checkpoint on the Mazari Sharif -&nbsp;Sheberghan highway for a short period of time overnight Tuesday and were soon repelled from the area. 
 
According to Afghan media citing local officials, the Taliban had a mole among the checkpoint's 14 officers who helped carry out the attack. 
 
The Taliban have not yet responded to the incident.

The Taliban terrorists have attacked a police checkpoint in the northern Afghan province of Balkh, leaving eight policemen dead and three others injured, the Balkh police chief, Ajmal Fayez, told Sputnik on Wednesday.

The Taliban terrorists have attacked a police checkpoint in the northern Afghan province of Balkh, leaving eight policemen dead and three others injured, the Balkh police chief, Ajmal Fayez, told Sputnik on Wednesday. Fayez said that a group of Taliban terrorists attacked and seized control of a police checkpoint on the Mazari Sharif - Sheberghan highway for a short period of time overnight Tuesday and were soon repelled from the area. According to Afghan media citing local officials, the Taliban had a mole among the checkpoint's 14 officers who helped carry out the attack. The Taliban have not yet responded to the incident.

Afghanistan: 8 policemen killed in Taliban attack

According to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-11-taliban-terrorists-killed-in-airstrikes-271244">Afghanistan's</a> Public Health Ministry, at least 17 people have been killed due to air pollution over the last week.

An anti-pollution campaign was launched on Monday by the ministry. Over 8,800 patients were found to be suffering from respiratory diseases like common cold and lung issues.

Air Visual, an international monitoring organisation, provides regular updates on air pollution. According to them, Kabul has seen hazardous air over the past month.

This spike can be attributed to low-quality fuel being used to keep the infrastructure warm. These include government buildings, wedding halls, houses, etc.

The ministry added that face masks will be distributed among Kabul's local population over the next two weeks.

Yesterday, the ministry ordered shutting down business centres and agencies that rely on poor quality material to ensure heating.

(With inputs from agencies)

According to Afghanistan's Public Health Ministry, at least 17 people have been killed due to air pollution over the last week. An anti-pollution campaign was launched on Monday by the ministry.

According to Afghanistan's Public Health Ministry, at least 17 people have been killed due to air pollution over the last week. An anti-pollution campaign was launched on Monday by the ministry. Over 8,800 patients were found to be suffering from respiratory diseases like common cold and lung issues. Air Visual, an international monitoring organisation, provides regular updates on air pollution. According to them, Kabul has seen hazardous air over the past month. This spike can be attributed to low-quality fuel being used to keep the infrastructure warm. These include government buildings, wedding halls, houses, etc. The ministry added that face masks will be distributed among Kabul's local population over the next two weeks. Yesterday, the ministry ordered shutting down business centres and agencies that rely on poor quality material to ensure heating. (With inputs from agencies)

17 people killed in Kabul due to air pollution

Yearender 2019: Reliving the year via pictures

Around eleven <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-emirate-of-afghanistan-has-no-ceasefire-plans-taliban-271073">Taliban terrorists</a> were killed in airstrikes in the Kandahar province of Afghanistan. According to the Afghan National Army's 205th Corps, ''the foreign air force attacked the centres of militants in Shorawak district in which 11 militants were killed''.

Earlier, on Monday, the Afghan Defence Ministry had announced the death of around 43 Taliban terrorists after military operations were undertaken in the central provinces of Ghazni and Ghor. Additionally, seven terrorists were also arrested.

Rumours of a ceasefire were dispelled after the Taliban announced that they would continue its fight.

The Taliban movement has gained tremendous power in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=%09Islamic+Emirate+of+Afghanistan+has+no+ceasefire+plans%3A+Taliban">Afghanistan</a> over the last two decades. This has led to Afghanistan becoming a host for militant groups like the al-Qaeda and Islamic State.

Sputnik reported that the Taliban has not commented on the strike yet.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around eleven Taliban terrorists were killed in airstrikes in the Kandahar province of Afghanistan. According to the Afghan National Army's 205th Corps, ''the foreign air force attacked the centres of militants in Shorawak district in which 11 militants were killed''.

Around eleven Taliban terrorists were killed in airstrikes in the Kandahar province of Afghanistan. According to the Afghan National Army's 205th Corps, ''the foreign air force attacked the centres of militants in Shorawak district in which 11 militants were killed''. Earlier, on Monday, the Afghan Defence Ministry had announced the death of around 43 Taliban terrorists after military operations were undertaken in the central provinces of Ghazni and Ghor. Additionally, seven terrorists were also arrested. Rumours of a ceasefire were dispelled after the Taliban announced that they would continue its fight. The Taliban movement has gained tremendous power in Afghanistan over the last two decades. This has led to Afghanistan becoming a host for militant groups like the al-Qaeda and Islamic State. Sputnik reported that the Taliban has not commented on the strike yet. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: 11 Taliban terrorists killed in airstrikes

At least 14 servicemen were killed in Afghanistan's northern province of Jowzjan after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/seven-taliban-terrorists-killed-eight-arrested-in-eastern-afghanistan-256286">Taliban terrorists</a> carried out an attack on a security checkpoint, media reported, citing a local official.

According to the 1TV broadcaster, at least five other people received injuries as a result of the attack.

The Afghan army retaliated and killed seven militants and injured three, the broadcaster said.

The Afghan government has been engaged in a struggle with the Taliban movement for almost two decades.

The conflict-stricken country continues to serve as a breeding ground for various insurgent and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-airstrikes-against-militant-groups-in-iraq-syria-270892">militant groups</a> affiliated with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/al-qaeda-is-stronger-today-than-it-was-on-911-232726">al-Qaeda</a> and the Islamic State terrorist organization.

At least 14 servicemen were killed in Afghanistan's northern province of Jowzjan after Taliban terrorists carried out an attack on a security checkpoint, media reported, citing a local official.

At least 14 servicemen were killed in Afghanistan's northern province of Jowzjan after Taliban terrorists carried out an attack on a security checkpoint, media reported, citing a local official. According to the 1TV broadcaster, at least five other people received injuries as a result of the attack. The Afghan army retaliated and killed seven militants and injured three, the broadcaster said. The Afghan government has been engaged in a struggle with the Taliban movement for almost two decades. The conflict-stricken country continues to serve as a breeding ground for various insurgent and militant groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State terrorist organization.

14 servicemen killed in Afghanistan in Taliban assault

Afghanistan on Friday reopened its consulate in Peshawar after a gap of almost three months with Afghan delegation visiting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/18-houses-suffer-damage-as-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-kashmir-270652">Pakistan</a> for talks over the market ownership dispute in the city.

In early October, the consulate was closed in protest after the police in Peshawar had removed the Afghan national flag from a market, which Kabul said is its property.

The Afghan consulate has resumed visa operations from Friday, according to First Secretary at the Afghan Consulate in Peshawar Faridoon Haiderkhel.

He also wrote on his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-twitter-block-state-sponsored-manipulation-accounts-in-latest-crackdown-269455">Facebook</a> page that people in the city can now visit the embassy for applying and obtaining visas.

The dispute began after Pakistan's Supreme Court had ruled that a Pakistani national, Shaukat Kashmiri, was the owner of the Afghan Market, instructing the authorities to vacate the building and hand it over to him, according to the Pakistani news outlet.

Local authorities in Peshawar took strict action against shopkeepers and removed Afghanistan's national flag from the market. Later, the Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan Atif Mashal unfurled the flag in the city leading to heightened tensions between the two countries.

While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/27-local-peace-activists-abducted-in-western-afghanistan-270195">Afghanistan</a> has reopened its consulate, Pakistan is yet to reopen the consular section of its embassy in Kabul, which was shut on November 3 in view of the "harassment" of diplomats in the Afghan capital.

Pakistani sources in Kabul told Daily Times that the consular section is slated to be opened on January 5.

Afghanistan on Friday reopened its consulate in Peshawar after a gap of almost three months with Afghan delegation visiting Pakistan for talks over the market ownership dispute in the city.

Afghanistan on Friday reopened its consulate in Peshawar after a gap of almost three months with Afghan delegation visiting Pakistan for talks over the market ownership dispute in the city. In early October, the consulate was closed in protest after the police in Peshawar had removed the Afghan national flag from a market, which Kabul said is its property. The Afghan consulate has resumed visa operations from Friday, according to First Secretary at the Afghan Consulate in Peshawar Faridoon Haiderkhel. He also wrote on his Facebook page that people in the city can now visit the embassy for applying and obtaining visas. The dispute began after Pakistan's Supreme Court had ruled that a Pakistani national, Shaukat Kashmiri, was the owner of the Afghan Market, instructing the authorities to vacate the building and hand it over to him, according to the Pakistani news outlet. Local authorities in Peshawar took strict action against shopkeepers and removed Afghanistan's national flag from the market. Later, the Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan Atif Mashal unfurled the flag in the city leading to heightened tensions between the two countries. While Afghanistan has reopened its consulate, Pakistan is yet to reopen the consular section of its embassy in Kabul, which was shut on November 3 in view of the "harassment" of diplomats in the Afghan capital. Pakistani sources in Kabul told Daily Times that the consular section is slated to be opened on January 5.

Afghanistan reopens consulate in Pakistan's Peshawar after nearly three months

At least 10 Afghan soldiers were killed in a Taliban attack on a military base in the southern province of Helmand on Saturday, officials said.&nbsp;

"There were 18 soldiers in the base at the time of the attack providing security for the people of Sangin. Four soldiers were wounded and four repelled the Taliban attack bravely," &nbsp;Nawab Zadran a spokesman for 215 Maiwand Army Corps in southern Afghanistan said.&nbsp;

The Taliban dug a tunnel into the military base in Sangin district and then blew it up before their fighters could attack the compound, Zadran said.&nbsp;

Provincial spokesman Omar Zawak confirmed the attack.&nbsp;

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the blast.&nbsp;

This was another attack by the Taliban amid its peace talks with the US to end violence in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, seven Afghan soldiers were killed in a Taliban attack on a base in Balkh.

Earlier in winters, a slowdown in attacks is observed as Taliban fighters return to their villages and snow and ice make it difficult to carry out the attacks. But in recent years, the fighting continues in all seasons.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At least 10 Afghan soldiers were killed in a Taliban attack on a military base in the southern province of Helmand on Saturday, officials said. "There were 18 soldiers in the base at the time of the attack providing security for the people of Sangin.

At least 10 Afghan soldiers were killed in a Taliban attack on a military base in the southern province of Helmand on Saturday, officials said. "There were 18 soldiers in the base at the time of the attack providing security for the people of Sangin. Four soldiers were wounded and four repelled the Taliban attack bravely," Nawab Zadran a spokesman for 215 Maiwand Army Corps in southern Afghanistan said. The Taliban dug a tunnel into the military base in Sangin district and then blew it up before their fighters could attack the compound, Zadran said. Provincial spokesman Omar Zawak confirmed the attack. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the blast. This was another attack by the Taliban amid its peace talks with the US to end violence in Afghanistan. On Tuesday, seven Afghan soldiers were killed in a Taliban attack on a base in Balkh. Earlier in winters, a slowdown in attacks is observed as Taliban fighters return to their villages and snow and ice make it difficult to carry out the attacks. But in recent years, the fighting continues in all seasons.

10 Afghan soldiers killed in Taliban attack

More than 100,000 civilians have been killed over the past decade in the ongoing conflict in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/blood-and-hope-women-in-afghanistans-elections-253513">Afghanistan</a>, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-rights-recommendations-to-be-taken-seriously-maduro-229391">United Nations</a> said on Thursday, as it reiterated its call to all stakeholders to take genuine and concrete steps towards ending the 18-year-long war in the country.

In a statement, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-airstrike-in-afghanistan-killed-32-civilians-un-8492">Tadamichi Yamamoto</a>, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/unama-chief-calls-on-taliban-to-hold-talks-with-kabul-147677">UNAMA</a>), lamented that the ongoing fighting continues to take an "appalling toll" on ordinary Afghans.

"The United Nations urges all stakeholders to seek ways to reduce levels of violence, especially the violence which harms civilians, on the way to a lasting political settlement and a permanent ceasefire," said Yamamato, adding that "implementing a reduction of violence is also important in creating an environment which enables constructive intra-Afghan talks on peace to take place".

Yamamoto stressed that the women and youth must be included in the peace efforts as they are essential for an Afghan-owned peace process, in addition to being fundamental to all ongoing peace efforts.

"The hopes and aspirations of millions of ordinary Afghans young and old, women and men, girls and boys&nbsp;rest on the shoulders of those who are striving to bring the war to an end with a lasting political settlement," he said.

More than 100,000 civilians have been killed over the past decade in the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan, the United Nations said on Thursday, as it reiterated its call to all stakeholders to take genuine and concrete steps towards ending the 18-year-long war in the country.

More than 100,000 civilians have been killed over the past decade in the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan, the United Nations said on Thursday, as it reiterated its call to all stakeholders to take genuine and concrete steps towards ending the 18-year-long war in the country. In a statement, Tadamichi Yamamoto, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), lamented that the ongoing fighting continues to take an "appalling toll" on ordinary Afghans. "The United Nations urges all stakeholders to seek ways to reduce levels of violence, especially the violence which harms civilians, on the way to a lasting political settlement and a permanent ceasefire," said Yamamato, adding that "implementing a reduction of violence is also important in creating an environment which enables constructive intra-Afghan talks on peace to take place". Yamamoto stressed that the women and youth must be included in the peace efforts as they are essential for an Afghan-owned peace process, in addition to being fundamental to all ongoing peace efforts. "The hopes and aspirations of millions of ordinary Afghans young and old, women and men, girls and boys rest on the shoulders of those who are striving to bring the war to an end with a lasting political settlement," he said.

Over 100,000 civilians killed in Afghan war since 2009: United Nations

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-receives-second-tranche-of-452-million-from-international-monetary-fund-270533">Pakistan</a> has arrested five suspected al Qaeda militants planning an attack on security personnel, authorities in the eastern state of Punjab said on Friday.

The raid in Gujranwala city hit an important media cell and financing network for the jihadists, Punjab's counter-terrorism department said. Laptops with encrypted data, cell phones, a printing press, explosives, five Kalashnikov rifles, ammunition and cash were found.

For years militants have held sway in remote northwestern regions on the Afghan border but some have also established networks in Punjab, Pakistan's richest and most populous province.

"They were planning an attack on law enforcement officials in Gujranwala," the police statement added, without giving more details on the plot.

The Gujranwala group recently relocated from Karachi and was running al Qaeda's media operations for the Indian subcontinent and sending funds to central leadership in Afghanistan, it added.

The Pakistan government says the number of militants in the country has decreased due to an army crackdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/al-qaeda-is-stronger-today-than-it-was-on-911-232726">Al Qaeda</a> founder Osama Bin Laden was killed in a US&nbsp;operation in 2011 in Pakistan.

Pakistan has arrested five suspected al Qaeda militants planning an attack on security personnel, authorities in the eastern state of Punjab said on Friday. The raid in Gujranwala city hit an important media cell and financing network for the jihadists, Punjab's counter-terrorism department said.

Pakistan has arrested five suspected al Qaeda militants planning an attack on security personnel, authorities in the eastern state of Punjab said on Friday. The raid in Gujranwala city hit an important media cell and financing network for the jihadists, Punjab's counter-terrorism department said. Laptops with encrypted data, cell phones, a printing press, explosives, five Kalashnikov rifles, ammunition and cash were found. For years militants have held sway in remote northwestern regions on the Afghan border but some have also established networks in Punjab, Pakistan's richest and most populous province. "They were planning an attack on law enforcement officials in Gujranwala," the police statement added, without giving more details on the plot. The Gujranwala group recently relocated from Karachi and was running al Qaeda's media operations for the Indian subcontinent and sending funds to central leadership in Afghanistan, it added. The Pakistan government says the number of militants in the country has decreased due to an army crackdown. Al Qaeda founder Osama Bin Laden was killed in a US operation in 2011 in Pakistan.

Pakistan seizes five suspected Al Qaeda militants

Taliban militants have kidnapped 27 peace activists from a highway in Afghanistan's western Farah province, local officials and peace activists said on Wednesday.

Massoud Bakhtawar, the deputy governor of Farah, said the activists were traveling with six cars from Herat to neighbouring Farah on Tuesday evening when their convoy was stopped by the Taliban on a main highway and taken to an unknown location.

Bismillah Watandost, a member of the group, said the activists had planned to travel to various parts of Farah to call for peace and a ceasefire between the warring parties in Afghanistan.

The group, People's Peace Movement, was formed to protest violent attacks after a car bomb exploded at a sport stadium in southern Helmand province last year killing 17 civilians and wounding 50 others.

The Taliban insurgents fighting a Western-backed Kabul government now control more territory than at any time since their austere regime was toppled by US-led forces in 2001. A representative for the insurgents was not immediately available to comment.

Since last year, the activists have traveled to various parts of the country, often marching through Taliban-controlled areas to demand peace and a ceasefire between the Taliban and Afghan government.

The Taliban have previously accused the activists of being financed by the Kabul government among others, which the group have denied.

Tens of thousands of Afghan civilians, members of security forces and 2,400 US&nbsp;military personnel have been killed in fighting since 2001.

US&nbsp;officials have increased diplomatic efforts to reach a peace settlement with the Taliban and to withdraw thousands of troops in exchange for security guarantees.

Taliban militants have kidnapped 27 peace activists from a highway in Afghanistan's western Farah province, local officials and peace activists said on Wednesday.

Taliban militants have kidnapped 27 peace activists from a highway in Afghanistan's western Farah province, local officials and peace activists said on Wednesday. Massoud Bakhtawar, the deputy governor of Farah, said the activists were traveling with six cars from Herat to neighbouring Farah on Tuesday evening when their convoy was stopped by the Taliban on a main highway and taken to an unknown location. Bismillah Watandost, a member of the group, said the activists had planned to travel to various parts of Farah to call for peace and a ceasefire between the warring parties in Afghanistan. The group, People's Peace Movement, was formed to protest violent attacks after a car bomb exploded at a sport stadium in southern Helmand province last year killing 17 civilians and wounding 50 others. The Taliban insurgents fighting a Western-backed Kabul government now control more territory than at any time since their austere regime was toppled by US-led forces in 2001. A representative for the insurgents was not immediately available to comment. Since last year, the activists have traveled to various parts of the country, often marching through Taliban-controlled areas to demand peace and a ceasefire between the Taliban and Afghan government. The Taliban have previously accused the activists of being financed by the Kabul government among others, which the group have denied. Tens of thousands of Afghan civilians, members of security forces and 2,400 US military personnel have been killed in fighting since 2001. US officials have increased diplomatic efforts to reach a peace settlement with the Taliban and to withdraw thousands of troops in exchange for security guarantees.

27 local peace activists abducted in western Afghanistan

At least seven Afghan army soldiers and three other security personnel of the country's national intelligence agency were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-3-killed-7-injured-in-explosion-269826">killed</a> on Tuesday after the Taliban insurgents attacked a joint military camp in the northern Balkh province, the defence ministry said. 
 
"At least 7 ANA soldiers were killed &amp; 6 others including 3 NDS employees were wounded in a Taliban attack on a joint ANA/NDS checkpoint early this morning in Dawolat Abad district in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-10-civilians-killed-12-injured-in-two-blast-incidents-268782">Balkh province</a>," Tolo News reported after quoting the ministry. 
 
Further details in the matter are awaited.

At least seven Afghan army soldiers and three other security personnel of the country's national intelligence agency were killed on Tuesday after the Taliban insurgents attacked a joint military camp in the northern Balkh province, the defence ministry said.

At least seven Afghan army soldiers and three other security personnel of the country's national intelligence agency were killed on Tuesday after the Taliban insurgents attacked a joint military camp in the northern Balkh province, the defence ministry said. "At least 7 ANA soldiers were killed & 6 others including 3 NDS employees were wounded in a Taliban attack on a joint ANA/NDS checkpoint early this morning in Dawolat Abad district in Balkh province," Tolo News reported after quoting the ministry. Further details in the matter are awaited.

10 Afghan security force personnel killed in military camp attack

The new President-elect of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani recently accepted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit the country.

Ashraf Ghani recently <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-elections-preliminary-results-out-ghani-wins-presidential-poll-269554">won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll</a>. The preliminary results&nbsp;were announced on Sunday, nearly three months after Afghans voted in elections that were marred by low turnout and fraud claims.

Modi had invited Ghani after a telephonic conversation to congratulate him on his victory. Ghani has said that he would visit India at "an appropriate time".

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1209413101751279616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani had tweeted.

Ghani also said that the two leaders will discuss a range of regional and international issues during his visit to India.

"My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani tweeted.

According to Ghani, Modi asserted the need for both countries to fight terrorism and extended his support to the Afghan-led peace process in the region.

"He said, India as a friend, neighbour and the world's largest democracy is fully supporting Afghanistan's democratic rule. India supports the Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and controlled peace process. And we are also with Afghanistan in the fight against terrorism. We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan," he added.

"Modi said, India is your second home, and offered a formal invitation to visit. We will discuss a range of regional and international issues during this visit. I thank the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-strong-ties-with-islamic-countries-says-relations-have-strengthened-269577">Prime Minister</a> for the invitation and will travel to India at an appropriate time," Ghani tweeted.

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We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan. I appreciated the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, not only for being a good neighbor and friend, but also for India's strategic partnership.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1209413108772605953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to the Independent Election Commission, Ghani won 50.64 per cent of the vote in the September 28 poll, while his rival Abdullah Abdullah scored 39.52 per cent.

Over 1.8 million people cast their votes in the elections which were held on September 28.

Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-round-two-of-presidential-poll-possible-amid-complaints-269766">might go to a second-round</a> as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory.

(With inputs from ANI)

The new President-elect of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani recently accepted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit the country. Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll.

The new President-elect of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani recently accepted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit the country. Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll. The preliminary results were announced on Sunday, nearly three months after Afghans voted in elections that were marred by low turnout and fraud claims. Modi had invited Ghani after a telephonic conversation to congratulate him on his victory. Ghani has said that he would visit India at "an appropriate time". My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) December 24, 2019 × "My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani had tweeted. Ghani also said that the two leaders will discuss a range of regional and international issues during his visit to India. "My dear friend and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, called this afternoon to congratulate me on winning the preliminary results and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections," Ghani tweeted. According to Ghani, Modi asserted the need for both countries to fight terrorism and extended his support to the Afghan-led peace process in the region. "He said, India as a friend, neighbour and the world's largest democracy is fully supporting Afghanistan's democratic rule. India supports the Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and controlled peace process. And we are also with Afghanistan in the fight against terrorism. We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan," he added. "Modi said, India is your second home, and offered a formal invitation to visit. We will discuss a range of regional and international issues during this visit. I thank the Prime Minister for the invitation and will travel to India at an appropriate time," Ghani tweeted. We support and are committed to a democratic, stable and developed Afghanistan. I appreciated the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, not only for being a good neighbor and friend, but also for India's strategic partnership. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) December 24, 2019 × According to the Independent Election Commission, Ghani won 50.64 per cent of the vote in the September 28 poll, while his rival Abdullah Abdullah scored 39.52 per cent. Over 1.8 million people cast their votes in the elections which were held on September 28. Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election might go to a second-round as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory. (With inputs from ANI)

Afghan President-elect Ashraf Ghani accepts PM Modi's invitation to visit India

Taliban militants ambushed a government checkpoint in Balkh province in Afghanistan's north, killing at least 15 members of the security forces, local officials said on Tuesday, the latest in an escalating series of insurgent attacks.

More than 18 years after US-led forces toppled the hardline Taliban regime, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/100-terrorists-killed-45-injured-over-last-24-hours-in-afghanistan-269918">Afghan forces</a> are suffering record casualties with Afghan and US&nbsp;officials warning that the toll is not sustainable.

Despite a winter lull in fighting due to heavy snowfall in the mountains where the Islamist Taliban typically rest and regroup ahead of their annual spring offensive, assaults on vulnerable security checkpoints continue across the country.

Mohammad Yousuf, the district governor of Dawlatabad where the incident took place said, said dozens of Taliban insurgents targeted a checkpoint manned jointly by Afghan soldiers and intelligence agents, killing 15.

An Afghan Defence Ministry statement said seven soldiers had been killed. The ministry tends not to provide exact figures on its casualties sustained in fighting with the Taliban.

The Taliban, fighting to oust foreign forces and overthrow the Western-backed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-round-two-of-presidential-poll-possible-amid-complaints-269766">Kabul government</a>, claimed responsibility and said at least 20 members of the security forces were killed, six wounded and four captured. The Taliban often inflates casualty figure they inflict on Afghan government forces.

As Afghan security force casualties mounted this year, the government pulled back from hundreds of checkpoints in isolated areas that acted as a magnet for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-soldier-killed-in-afghanistan-269652">Taliban attacks</a>.

Tens of thousands of Afghan civilians, members of the security forces and 2,400 US&nbsp;military personnel have been killed in fighting since 2001.

Taliban militants ambushed a government checkpoint in Balkh province in Afghanistan's north, killing at least 15 members of the security forces, local officials said on Tuesday, the latest in an escalating series of insurgent attacks.

Taliban militants ambushed a government checkpoint in Balkh province in Afghanistan's north, killing at least 15 members of the security forces, local officials said on Tuesday, the latest in an escalating series of insurgent attacks. More than 18 years after US-led forces toppled the hardline Taliban regime, Afghan forces are suffering record casualties with Afghan and US officials warning that the toll is not sustainable. Despite a winter lull in fighting due to heavy snowfall in the mountains where the Islamist Taliban typically rest and regroup ahead of their annual spring offensive, assaults on vulnerable security checkpoints continue across the country. Mohammad Yousuf, the district governor of Dawlatabad where the incident took place said, said dozens of Taliban insurgents targeted a checkpoint manned jointly by Afghan soldiers and intelligence agents, killing 15. An Afghan Defence Ministry statement said seven soldiers had been killed. The ministry tends not to provide exact figures on its casualties sustained in fighting with the Taliban. The Taliban, fighting to oust foreign forces and overthrow the Western-backed Kabul government, claimed responsibility and said at least 20 members of the security forces were killed, six wounded and four captured. The Taliban often inflates casualty figure they inflict on Afghan government forces. As Afghan security force casualties mounted this year, the government pulled back from hundreds of checkpoints in isolated areas that acted as a magnet for Taliban attacks. Tens of thousands of Afghan civilians, members of the security forces and 2,400 US military personnel have been killed in fighting since 2001.

Taliban kill 15 in attack on Afghan security checkpoint: Officials

Over 100 terrorists were neutralised and 45 others suffered injuries in operations conducted by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-soldier-killed-in-afghanistan-269652">Afghan forces</a> in the last 24 hours.

The forces conducted 18 operations in 15 different provinces of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-welcomes-preliminary-results-of-afghanistan-presidential-election-269718">Afghanistan</a>. In these operations, around five terrorists were also arrested.

"In the last 24 hours, 18 operations were conducted in 15 provinces of Afghanistan, as a result of which 109 terrorists were killed, 45 terrorists injured and 5 others were arrested," Afghanistan's Ministry of Defence tweeted.

The ministry has not clarified whether the terrorists belonged to a single group.

Over 100 terrorists were neutralised and 45 others suffered injuries in operations conducted by the Afghan forces in the last 24 hours. The forces conducted 18 operations in 15 different provinces of Afghanistan.

Over 100 terrorists were neutralised and 45 others suffered injuries in operations conducted by the Afghan forces in the last 24 hours. The forces conducted 18 operations in 15 different provinces of Afghanistan. In these operations, around five terrorists were also arrested. "In the last 24 hours, 18 operations were conducted in 15 provinces of Afghanistan, as a result of which 109 terrorists were killed, 45 terrorists injured and 5 others were arrested," Afghanistan's Ministry of Defence tweeted. The ministry has not clarified whether the terrorists belonged to a single group.

100 terrorists killed, 45 injured over last 24 hours in Afghanistan

An explosion at a funeral ceremony in the Laghman province of Afghanistan on Monday killed three people and injured seven, reported ANI.

The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

No group has claimed the responsibility for the attack yet.

The explosion happened at 10.30 am when the victims were attending the funeral ceremony of a tribal elder, said Asadullah Dawlatzai, a spokesman for the provincial governor.&nbsp;

Earlier, on Thursday, one civilian was killed and two others were injured in a bomb blast in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry told Sputnik.

(With inputs from agencies)

An explosion at a funeral ceremony in the Laghman province of Afghanistan on Monday killed three people and injured seven, reported ANI. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

An explosion at a funeral ceremony in the Laghman province of Afghanistan on Monday killed three people and injured seven, reported ANI. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. No group has claimed the responsibility for the attack yet. The explosion happened at 10.30 am when the victims were attending the funeral ceremony of a tribal elder, said Asadullah Dawlatzai, a spokesman for the provincial governor. Earlier, on Thursday, one civilian was killed and two others were injured in a bomb blast in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry told Sputnik. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: 3 killed, 7 injured in explosion

Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-elections-preliminary-results-out-ghani-wins-presidential-poll-269554">election might go to a second-round</a> as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory.

The Independent Election Commission (IEC) announced on Sunday a much delayed preliminary result of the September&nbsp;28 presidential vote which was marred by allegations of massive fraud, technical problems with biometric devices used for voting, attacks and irregularities.

IEC said the total turnout was over 1.8 million with Ghani securing 50.64 per cent to win the first round of voting, beating his main rival Abdullah Abdullah who currently shares power with him in a unity government.

However, if a review by the complaints commission reduces Ghani's vote share to below 50 per cent and no other candidate has a majority, a second-round will be held between the two top contenders.

Deen Mohammad Azimi, deputy head of the Electoral Complaints Commission, said there is a "strong possibility" the election would go to the second round.

"Looking at the scope of complaints and objections that needs a thorough review, there could be a run-off," Azimi told Reuters.

The review might take around five weeks, Azimi said, adding that thousands of complaints from candidates had already been filed.

According to the tally released by IEC, the total turnout was 1,824,401 with Ghani winning 923,868 votes and Abdullah second with 720,099 (39.52 per cent).

"President Ghani avoided a run-off just by over 11,000 votes and the complaints commission might invalidate tens of thousands of votes from all candidates," another election official said on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to speak to the media.

Ghani welcomed the IEC decision and said the country was on the right path towards prosperity but Abdullah dismissed the result as fraudulent as he called for a full review.

"There is no&nbsp;doubt that based on clean votes, we are the winner," Abdullah told a crowd of supporters on Sunday in Kabul.

The situation echoes 2014, when both Ghani and Abdullah alleged massive fraud by the other, forcing the United States to broker an awkward power-sharing arrangement that made Ghani president and Abdullah his chief executive.

Aides close to Ghani, a Western-educated former World Bank official, said the incumbent was not ready for another power-sharing deal with Abdullah, a former medical doctor and three-time contender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-welcomes-preliminary-results-of-afghanistan-presidential-election-269718">for the presidency</a>.

Without a unifying leader accepted by all sides, Afghanistan could split further along tribal and ethnic lines which could deepen political instability.

Although Abdullah called for restraint, election result announcements in Afghanistan are typically followed by violent protests from supporters of losing candidates.

Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election might go to a second-round as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory.

Afghanistan's Electoral Complaints Commission said on Monday the election might go to a second-round as it begins reviewing thousands of complaints a day after the preliminary result handed incumbent president Ashraf Ghani a narrow victory. The Independent Election Commission (IEC) announced on Sunday a much delayed preliminary result of the September 28 presidential vote which was marred by allegations of massive fraud, technical problems with biometric devices used for voting, attacks and irregularities. IEC said the total turnout was over 1.8 million with Ghani securing 50.64 per cent to win the first round of voting, beating his main rival Abdullah Abdullah who currently shares power with him in a unity government. However, if a review by the complaints commission reduces Ghani's vote share to below 50 per cent and no other candidate has a majority, a second-round will be held between the two top contenders. Deen Mohammad Azimi, deputy head of the Electoral Complaints Commission, said there is a "strong possibility" the election would go to the second round. "Looking at the scope of complaints and objections that needs a thorough review, there could be a run-off," Azimi told Reuters. The review might take around five weeks, Azimi said, adding that thousands of complaints from candidates had already been filed. According to the tally released by IEC, the total turnout was 1,824,401 with Ghani winning 923,868 votes and Abdullah second with 720,099 (39.52 per cent). "President Ghani avoided a run-off just by over 11,000 votes and the complaints commission might invalidate tens of thousands of votes from all candidates," another election official said on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to speak to the media. Ghani welcomed the IEC decision and said the country was on the right path towards prosperity but Abdullah dismissed the result as fraudulent as he called for a full review. "There is no doubt that based on clean votes, we are the winner," Abdullah told a crowd of supporters on Sunday in Kabul. The situation echoes 2014, when both Ghani and Abdullah alleged massive fraud by the other, forcing the United States to broker an awkward power-sharing arrangement that made Ghani president and Abdullah his chief executive. Aides close to Ghani, a Western-educated former World Bank official, said the incumbent was not ready for another power-sharing deal with Abdullah, a former medical doctor and three-time contender for the presidency. Without a unifying leader accepted by all sides, Afghanistan could split further along tribal and ethnic lines which could deepen political instability. Although Abdullah called for restraint, election result announcements in Afghanistan are typically followed by violent protests from supporters of losing candidates.

Afghanistan: Round two of presidential poll possible amid complaints

Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-says-hell-never-accept-division-of-power-251944">Afghanistan's presidential poll</a>. The preliminary results of the presidential polls in Afghanistan were announced today, nearly three months after Afghans voted in presidential polls that were marred by low turnout and fraud claims.

According to the Independent Election Commission, Ghani won 50.64 per cent of the vote in the September 28 poll, while his rival Abdullah Abdullah scored 39.52 per cent.

Earlier today, Zabih Sadaat, a spokesman for Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission (IEC), said, "We are going to announce the election results today"

Preliminary results were originally due October 19 but were repeatedly delayed amid technical issues and allegations of fraud from various candidates.

The delays and setbacks in the declaration of results were accelerated owing to the talks between the United States and the Taliban.

The election was meant to be the cleanest yet in Afghanistan's young democracy, with a German firm supplying biometric machines to stop people from voting more than once.

But nearly one million of the initial 2.7 million votes were purged owing to irregularities, meaning the election saw by far the lowest turnout of any Afghan poll.

Most observers saw the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-sees-his-chance-in-upcoming-elections-after-collapse-of-us-taliban-talks-250287">election as a two-horse race</a> between incumbent President Ashraf Ghani and his Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah.

Had neither candidate scored a majority, the vote would have gone to a second-round runoff, probably in the spring.

Now that the preliminary results are announced, candidates have the opportunity to lodge any complaints before a final result is published.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll. The preliminary results of the presidential polls in Afghanistan were announced today, nearly three months after Afghans voted in presidential polls that were marred by low turnout and fraud claims.

Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll. The preliminary results of the presidential polls in Afghanistan were announced today, nearly three months after Afghans voted in presidential polls that were marred by low turnout and fraud claims. According to the Independent Election Commission, Ghani won 50.64 per cent of the vote in the September 28 poll, while his rival Abdullah Abdullah scored 39.52 per cent. Earlier today, Zabih Sadaat, a spokesman for Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission (IEC), said, "We are going to announce the election results today" Preliminary results were originally due October 19 but were repeatedly delayed amid technical issues and allegations of fraud from various candidates. The delays and setbacks in the declaration of results were accelerated owing to the talks between the United States and the Taliban. The election was meant to be the cleanest yet in Afghanistan's young democracy, with a German firm supplying biometric machines to stop people from voting more than once. But nearly one million of the initial 2.7 million votes were purged owing to irregularities, meaning the election saw by far the lowest turnout of any Afghan poll. Most observers saw the election as a two-horse race between incumbent President Ashraf Ghani and his Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah. Had neither candidate scored a majority, the vote would have gone to a second-round runoff, probably in the spring. Now that the preliminary results are announced, candidates have the opportunity to lodge any complaints before a final result is published. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan elections: Preliminary results out, Ashraf Ghani wins presidential poll

One civilian was killed and two others were injured in a bomb blast in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry told Sputnik.

"The blast happened [at] around 9.40 a.m. [05:10 GMT] in Paghman district, one civilian was killed and two others injured when a magnetic bomb exploded," the spokesman said.

Nobody has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. 
&nbsp;

One civilian was killed and two others were injured in a bomb blast in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry told Sputnik.

One civilian was killed and two others were injured in a bomb blast in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry told Sputnik. "The blast happened [at] around 9.40 a.m. [05:10 GMT] in Paghman district, one civilian was killed and two others injured when a magnetic bomb exploded," the spokesman said. Nobody has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.

Afghanistan: 1 killed, 2 injured in Kabul bomb blast

At least four civilians were killed and one other suffered injuries in a roadside bomb explosion in Afghanistan's northern Jowzjan province, Defence Ministry said.

The incident occurred in Qusteepe district's Jarqdouq area, the spokesman specified.

Further details are awaited.

At least four civilians were killed and one other suffered injuries in a roadside bomb explosion in Afghanistan's northern Jowzjan province, Defence Ministry said.

At least four civilians were killed and one other suffered injuries in a roadside bomb explosion in Afghanistan's northern Jowzjan province, Defence Ministry said. The incident occurred in Qusteepe district's Jarqdouq area, the spokesman specified. Further details are awaited.

Four killed in Afghanistan bomb explosion

At least 10 civilians were killed in a roadside blast in Khost province on Tuesday morning, Pajhowk Afghan News reported.

In another incident, five traffic police personnel and 12 civilians suffered injuries in a blast in Mazar-i-sharif city of Balkh province.

No group has so far taken the responsibility of the attack.

Years of conflict in Afghanistan have left strewn with landmines, unexploded mortars, rockets and homemade bombs, and many are picked up by curious children.

Insurgents often use roadside bombs and landmines to target Afghan security forces, however, the lethal weapons also inflict heavy casualties on civilians.

On December 13, Ten civilians, including four women and a child, were killed when their vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb in the volatile district of Jaghatu in Ghazni province.

On December 12, at least five people were killed in a landslide at a gold mine in the province of Badakhshan in northeastern Afghanistan, while 35 others went missing.

The blast occurred hours after the Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said insurgent leaders had held "positive talks" with a US delegation in Doha, adding the two sides planned to restart talks after a few days.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 10 civilians were killed in a roadside blast in Khost province on Tuesday morning, Pajhowk Afghan News reported. In another incident, five traffic police personnel and 12 civilians suffered injuries in a blast in Mazar-i-sharif city of Balkh province.

At least 10 civilians were killed in a roadside blast in Khost province on Tuesday morning, Pajhowk Afghan News reported. In another incident, five traffic police personnel and 12 civilians suffered injuries in a blast in Mazar-i-sharif city of Balkh province. No group has so far taken the responsibility of the attack. Years of conflict in Afghanistan have left strewn with landmines, unexploded mortars, rockets and homemade bombs, and many are picked up by curious children. Insurgents often use roadside bombs and landmines to target Afghan security forces, however, the lethal weapons also inflict heavy casualties on civilians. On December 13, Ten civilians, including four women and a child, were killed when their vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb in the volatile district of Jaghatu in Ghazni province. On December 12, at least five people were killed in a landslide at a gold mine in the province of Badakhshan in northeastern Afghanistan, while 35 others went missing. The blast occurred hours after the Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said insurgent leaders had held "positive talks" with a US delegation in Doha, adding the two sides planned to restart talks after a few days. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: 10 civilians killed, 12 injured in two blast incidents

At least 10 civilians were killed in a roadside blast in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eight-including-newborn-killed-in-airstrike-in-afghanistans-khost-province-265602">Khost</a> province on Tuesday morning, Pajhowk Afghan News reported.

In another incident, five traffic police personnel and 12 civilians suffered injuries in a blast in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/after-building-cricket-stadiums-in-kandahar-mazar-e-sharif-india-to-build-football-ground-in-afghanistans-ghor-province-221705">Mazar-i-sharif</a> city of Balkh province.

No group has so far taken the responsibility of the attack.

At least 10 civilians were killed in a roadside blast in Khost province on Tuesday morning, Pajhowk Afghan News reported. In another incident, five traffic police personnel and 12 civilians suffered injuries in a blast in Mazar-i-sharif city of Balkh province. No group has so far taken the responsibility of the attack.

Afghanistan: 10 killed, 17 injured in two separate blasts

United States has planned to withdraw around 4,000 of its servicemen from Afghanistan next week. This comes in the wake of resumption of the dialogue between Washington and the Taliban.

According to officials, the withdrawal will leave between 8,000 and 9,000 US troops in war-torn Afghanistan.

The US currently has between 12,000 and 13,000 troops in Afghanistan.

The officials did not mention the withdrawal date but did characterise it as a phased process that would occur over a few months starting from next week.

The US announcement came just days after special representative for Afghanistan reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad rejoined diplomatic talks with the Taliban which had broken down in September when Trump cancelled direct talks.&nbsp;

Only last week, the Taliban announced that the talks with the US had resumed in Doha after a three-month hiatus.

&nbsp;However, ambassador Khalilzad said that the US was "Taking a brief pause" in talks due to an attack near Bagram airfield that killed two Afghan civilians and wounded 70 more this week.

Meanwhile, the US and the Taliban had been attempting to negotiate a peace deal for nearly a year now that would ensure the withdrawal of foreign troops in exchange for the group`s guarantee that the country will not become a safe haven for terrorists.

United States has planned to withdraw around 4,000 of its servicemen from Afghanistan next week. This comes in the wake of resumption of the dialogue between Washington and the Taliban.

United States has planned to withdraw around 4,000 of its servicemen from Afghanistan next week. This comes in the wake of resumption of the dialogue between Washington and the Taliban. According to officials, the withdrawal will leave between 8,000 and 9,000 US troops in war-torn Afghanistan. The US currently has between 12,000 and 13,000 troops in Afghanistan. The officials did not mention the withdrawal date but did characterise it as a phased process that would occur over a few months starting from next week. The US announcement came just days after special representative for Afghanistan reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad rejoined diplomatic talks with the Taliban which had broken down in September when Trump cancelled direct talks. Only last week, the Taliban announced that the talks with the US had resumed in Doha after a three-month hiatus. However, ambassador Khalilzad said that the US was "Taking a brief pause" in talks due to an attack near Bagram airfield that killed two Afghan civilians and wounded 70 more this week. Meanwhile, the US and the Taliban had been attempting to negotiate a peace deal for nearly a year now that would ensure the withdrawal of foreign troops in exchange for the group`s guarantee that the country will not become a safe haven for terrorists.

US to start withdrawing 4,000 troops from Afghanistan in phased manner starting next week  

92% of the global opiates come from the Afghanistan. Pakistan seizes huge amount of drugs come from Afghanistan every year.

Illegal cross-border drug smuggling in Asia

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who is negotiating US-Taliban peace talks, reached Pakistan on Friday where he briefed it about the development with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-announces-a-pause-in-peace-talks-with-taliban-after-airbase-attack-267989">Taliban in Afghanistan</a>, US embassy officials said.

"In his meetings with Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, and other government officials, Ambassador Khalilzad discussed the current status of US-Taliban talks," the statement of the US Embassy in Pakistan said.&nbsp;

The US special representative highlighted Pakistan's support for intra-Afghan negotiations and discussed the economic and security benefits to the region if the truce with Taliban is reached, the statement said.&nbsp;

Khalilzad's visit to Pakistan came after he announced on Thursday that there is a "brief" pause in talks with the Taliban after an attack in the US military base at Bagram in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Reportedly, a suicide bomber detonated his explosive-packed vehicle near Bagram military base in Parwan province, north of the capital Kabul days after talks resumed between the US and Taliban. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the suicide blast.&nbsp;

The talks between the US and the insurgent group resumed after getting suspended in September following a fatal attack in Kabul, in which an American soldier was killed.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on November 28 made a surprise visit to Afghanistan to celebrate Thanksgiving with US troops and meet President Ashraf Ghani.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who is negotiating US-Taliban peace talks, reached Pakistan on Friday where he briefed it about the development with the Taliban in Afghanistan, US embassy officials said.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who is negotiating US-Taliban peace talks, reached Pakistan on Friday where he briefed it about the development with the Taliban in Afghanistan, US embassy officials said. "In his meetings with Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, and other government officials, Ambassador Khalilzad discussed the current status of US-Taliban talks," the statement of the US Embassy in Pakistan said. The US special representative highlighted Pakistan's support for intra-Afghan negotiations and discussed the economic and security benefits to the region if the truce with Taliban is reached, the statement said. Khalilzad's visit to Pakistan came after he announced on Thursday that there is a "brief" pause in talks with the Taliban after an attack in the US military base at Bagram in Afghanistan. Reportedly, a suicide bomber detonated his explosive-packed vehicle near Bagram military base in Parwan province, north of the capital Kabul days after talks resumed between the US and Taliban. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the suicide blast. The talks between the US and the insurgent group resumed after getting suspended in September following a fatal attack in Kabul, in which an American soldier was killed. US President Donald Trump on November 28 made a surprise visit to Afghanistan to celebrate Thanksgiving with US troops and meet President Ashraf Ghani. (with inputs from agencies)

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad briefs Pakistan on Taliban peace talks

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