Brig. General Zahirgul Muqbil, an army commander of Afghan border forces was killed in a roadside bomb explosion in Marjah district of Helmand province, the provincial governor`s spokesman Omar Zwak told Tolo News on Saturday morning.

Zwak said three security force members and a local journalist were wounded in the attack.

The forces were heading to a military operation in Marjah district when their humvee hit a roadside bomb, he added.

The Kabul-based local television network, Shamshad TV, confirmed in a tweet that their local reporter Mohammad Sarwari was wounded in the blast.&nbsp;

Brig. General Zahirgul Muqbil, an army commander of Afghan border forces was killed in a roadside bomb explosion in Marjah district of Helmand province, the provincial governor`s spokesman Omar Zwak told Tolo News on Saturday morning.

Brig. General Zahirgul Muqbil, an army commander of Afghan border forces was killed in a roadside bomb explosion in Marjah district of Helmand province, the provincial governor`s spokesman Omar Zwak told Tolo News on Saturday morning. Zwak said three security force members and a local journalist were wounded in the attack. The forces were heading to a military operation in Marjah district when their humvee hit a roadside bomb, he added. The Kabul-based local television network, Shamshad TV, confirmed in a tweet that their local reporter Mohammad Sarwari was wounded in the blast.

Afghanistan: Army commander killed in bomb blast in Helmand

Notorious for leaks and chastened by previous security lapses, the White House went to unusual lengths to keep President Donald Trump's Thanksgiving trip to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-they-are-ready-to-resume-peace-talks-with-us-report-265286">Afghanistan </a>under wraps, devising a cover story for his movements that included posting scripted tweets while he was in the air, administration officials said.

On Thursday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-wants-to-make-a-deal-trump-in-afghanistan-265151">Trump </a>dropped in unannounced on troops at Afghanistan's Bagram military airbase in his first trip to the country and only his second to a war zone during his presidency. He served soldiers a turkey dinner and posed for selfies, before telling reporters that the United States and Taliban hoped to resume peace talks.

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Just returned to the United States after spending a GREAT Thanksgiving with our Courageous American Warriors in Afghanistan! <a href="https://t.co/b2vgY5BH6z">pic.twitter.com/b2vgY5BH6z</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1200415623798501378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the 33-hour roundtrip, which White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said had been weeks in the making, was the administration's success in keeping it secret until shortly before the president left Afghanistan to return home.

Frequently wrong-footed by leaks and Trump's freewheeling use of Twitter, the White House informed only a tight circle of officials about the trip.

On Tuesday, Trump travelled to his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida as scheduled, accompanied by the regular caravan of reporters which follows the president on all trips.

When those journalists waited for him to emerge for a Thursday afternoon conference call with the troops, per his official schedule, they learnt that overnight he had flown the 13,400 km (8,331 miles) to Afghanistan to visit them in person.

"It is a dangerous area and he wants to support the troops," Grisham told a small group of correspondents aboard Air Force One on Wednesday evening, explaining why the White House had concealed Trump's true movements.

Only hours before, that second group of reporters had secretly gathered at a parking lot near the Joint Base Andrews outside Washington, a regular departure spot for Trump, from which they were driven in minivans into the complex.

They had been told ahead of time that Trump would be travelling incognito to an undisclosed location.

Once inside the base, all smartphones and any devices that could send a signal were confiscated and not returned until at least two hours after Trump's arrival at Bagram, the largest US&nbsp;base in Afghanistan.

Throughout the 13-hour flight, nobody on board Air Force One had access to their phones, including White House staff, Grisham said. The cabin lights were mostly switched off and window blinds stayed shut.

Last Christmas, en route to a troop visit in Iraq, Air Force One was identified above England by a plane spotter who tweeted a photo of its distinctive turquoise livery, sparking a social media storm. Many speculated then that Trump was on his way to a war zone, pointing to his unusually quiet Twitter account, which had sent dozens of tweets the day before.

This time, Grisham said the White House made arrangements to ensure continuity in the president's Twitter account, which posted happy Thanksgiving tweets as he was in the air, including one thanking the military.

"We just had a nice Thanksgiving dinner," Trump said amid chants of "U-S-A" during his speech at the Bagram base.

"I thought I was going to be doing it someplace else."

Notorious for leaks and chastened by previous security lapses, the White House went to unusual lengths to keep President Donald Trump's Thanksgiving trip to Afghanistan under wraps, devising a cover story for his movements that included posting scripted tweets while he was in the air, administration officials said.

Notorious for leaks and chastened by previous security lapses, the White House went to unusual lengths to keep President Donald Trump's Thanksgiving trip to Afghanistan under wraps, devising a cover story for his movements that included posting scripted tweets while he was in the air, administration officials said. On Thursday, Trump dropped in unannounced on troops at Afghanistan's Bagram military airbase in his first trip to the country and only his second to a war zone during his presidency. He served soldiers a turkey dinner and posed for selfies, before telling reporters that the United States and Taliban hoped to resume peace talks. Just returned to the United States after spending a GREAT Thanksgiving with our Courageous American Warriors in Afghanistan! pic.twitter.com/b2vgY5BH6z — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 29, 2019 × Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the 33-hour roundtrip, which White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said had been weeks in the making, was the administration's success in keeping it secret until shortly before the president left Afghanistan to return home. Frequently wrong-footed by leaks and Trump's freewheeling use of Twitter, the White House informed only a tight circle of officials about the trip. On Tuesday, Trump travelled to his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida as scheduled, accompanied by the regular caravan of reporters which follows the president on all trips. When those journalists waited for him to emerge for a Thursday afternoon conference call with the troops, per his official schedule, they learnt that overnight he had flown the 13,400 km (8,331 miles) to Afghanistan to visit them in person. "It is a dangerous area and he wants to support the troops," Grisham told a small group of correspondents aboard Air Force One on Wednesday evening, explaining why the White House had concealed Trump's true movements. Only hours before, that second group of reporters had secretly gathered at a parking lot near the Joint Base Andrews outside Washington, a regular departure spot for Trump, from which they were driven in minivans into the complex. They had been told ahead of time that Trump would be travelling incognito to an undisclosed location. Once inside the base, all smartphones and any devices that could send a signal were confiscated and not returned until at least two hours after Trump's arrival at Bagram, the largest US base in Afghanistan. Throughout the 13-hour flight, nobody on board Air Force One had access to their phones, including White House staff, Grisham said. The cabin lights were mostly switched off and window blinds stayed shut. Last Christmas, en route to a troop visit in Iraq, Air Force One was identified above England by a plane spotter who tweeted a photo of its distinctive turquoise livery, sparking a social media storm. Many speculated then that Trump was on his way to a war zone, pointing to his unusually quiet Twitter account, which had sent dozens of tweets the day before. This time, Grisham said the White House made arrangements to ensure continuity in the president's Twitter account, which posted happy Thanksgiving tweets as he was in the air, including one thanking the military. "We just had a nice Thanksgiving dinner," Trump said amid chants of "U-S-A" during his speech at the Bagram base. "I thought I was going to be doing it someplace else."

No phones, scripted tweets: How Trump's Afghanistan trip was kept under wraps

Donald Trump visits US troops in Afghanistan on Thanksgiving, Watch video to know more.

Donald Trump visits US troops in Afghanistan on Thanksgiving

Why Was Trump's Afghanistan Visit Kept A Secret?

Gravitas: Decoding Trump's Surprise Visit To Afghanistan

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - November 29th, 2019

US President Donald Trump made a surprise stopover to Bagram airfield&nbsp;in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/united-states-welcomes-indias-substantial-assistance-to-afghanistan-state-department-official-263766">Afghanistan </a>to celebrate Thanksgiving holiday with troops and asserted that he was still interested in a "deal" with the Taliban.

"The Taliban wants to make a deal and we're meeting with them and we're saying it has to be a ceasefire," Trump said during his visit.

The US president mingled with soldiers and served turkey saying that "there's nowhere I'd rather celebrate this Thanksgiving than right here with the toughest, strongest, best and bravest warriors on the face of the Earth."

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING! <a href="https://t.co/7SGZnHindW">pic.twitter.com/7SGZnHindW</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1200168067075981313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I've just come from serving Thanksgiving dinner to some of you... and we had a good time," he told US troops. "But I hope everyone enjoyed the fantastic meal, it certainly did look good and hopefully everyone can get some well-deserved rest this holiday," the president added.

The US-Taliban talks collapsed in September after Trump said the talks were "dead" even as the Taliban delegation met Chinese and Pakistani officials in the past few months since then.

In Afghanistan on Thursday, Trump said that Afghanistan "will not be decided on the battlefield" and "ultimately there will need to be a political solution" decided by people in the region.&nbsp;

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani who was present at the gettogether thanked Trump and said the "type of peace that will ensure the gains of the past year and ensure your security and our security."

US troops had entered Afghanistan after the 2001 September attack in New York and Washington to destroy the al-Qaida about 13,000 troops still remain in Afghanistan even as the US president said he will cut down the number of troops in the region.

US President Donald Trump made a surprise stopover to Bagram airfield in Afghanistan to celebrate Thanksgiving holiday with troops and asserted that he was still interested in a "deal" with the Taliban.

US President Donald Trump made a surprise stopover to Bagram airfield in Afghanistan to celebrate Thanksgiving holiday with troops and asserted that he was still interested in a "deal" with the Taliban. "The Taliban wants to make a deal and we're meeting with them and we're saying it has to be a ceasefire," Trump said during his visit. The US president mingled with soldiers and served turkey saying that "there's nowhere I'd rather celebrate this Thanksgiving than right here with the toughest, strongest, best and bravest warriors on the face of the Earth." HAPPY THANKSGIVING! pic.twitter.com/7SGZnHindW — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 28, 2019 × "I've just come from serving Thanksgiving dinner to some of you... and we had a good time," he told US troops. "But I hope everyone enjoyed the fantastic meal, it certainly did look good and hopefully everyone can get some well-deserved rest this holiday," the president added. The US-Taliban talks collapsed in September after Trump said the talks were "dead" even as the Taliban delegation met Chinese and Pakistani officials in the past few months since then. In Afghanistan on Thursday, Trump said that Afghanistan "will not be decided on the battlefield" and "ultimately there will need to be a political solution" decided by people in the region. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani who was present at the gettogether thanked Trump and said the "type of peace that will ensure the gains of the past year and ensure your security and our security." US troops had entered Afghanistan after the 2001 September attack in New York and Washington to destroy the al-Qaida about 13,000 troops still remain in Afghanistan even as the US president said he will cut down the number of troops in the region.

Taliban wants to make a deal, says Trump in Afghanistan

The Taliban said Friday it was "way too early" to speak of resuming direct talks with Washington, a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-wants-to-make-a-deal-trump-in-afghanistan-265151">President Donald Trump </a>suggested negotiations to end America's longest war were back on track during a surprise visit to Afghanistan.

"It is way too early to talk about the resumption of talks for now. We will give our official reaction later," the Islamist group's official spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, told AFP in a WhatsApp message.

Trump on Thursday had said the Taliban "wants to make a deal".

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING! <a href="https://t.co/7SGZnHindW">pic.twitter.com/7SGZnHindW</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1200168067075981313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We're meeting with them and we're saying it has to be a ceasefire," he told reporters during his unannounced trip to Bagram Airfield, outside the capital Kabul, to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with the troops.

His statement suggested progress after his shock decision in September to end negotiations with the insurgents just as Washington appeared on the verge of signing a deal with the Taliban that would have seen the US begin pulling troops out of Afghanistan in return for security guarantees.

The deal was expected to pave a way towards direct talks between the Taliban and the government in Kabul.

But Trump described the year-long effort as "dead" and withdrew an invitation to the insurgents to meet in the United States due to the killing of an American soldier.

Both Washington and the Taliban had left the door open for talks to resume, however, with most observers agreeing that a political settlement is the only way to reach a lasting peace in Afghanistan after 18 years of war.

The Taliban said Friday it was "way too early" to speak of resuming direct talks with Washington, a day after President Donald Trump suggested negotiations to end America's longest war were back on track during a surprise visit to Afghanistan.

The Taliban said Friday it was "way too early" to speak of resuming direct talks with Washington, a day after President Donald Trump suggested negotiations to end America's longest war were back on track during a surprise visit to Afghanistan. "It is way too early to talk about the resumption of talks for now. We will give our official reaction later," the Islamist group's official spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, told AFP in a WhatsApp message. Trump on Thursday had said the Taliban "wants to make a deal". HAPPY THANKSGIVING! pic.twitter.com/7SGZnHindW — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 28, 2019 × "We're meeting with them and we're saying it has to be a ceasefire," he told reporters during his unannounced trip to Bagram Airfield, outside the capital Kabul, to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with the troops. His statement suggested progress after his shock decision in September to end negotiations with the insurgents just as Washington appeared on the verge of signing a deal with the Taliban that would have seen the US begin pulling troops out of Afghanistan in return for security guarantees. The deal was expected to pave a way towards direct talks between the Taliban and the government in Kabul. But Trump described the year-long effort as "dead" and withdrew an invitation to the insurgents to meet in the United States due to the killing of an American soldier. Both Washington and the Taliban had left the door open for talks to resume, however, with most observers agreeing that a political settlement is the only way to reach a lasting peace in Afghanistan after 18 years of war.

After Trump’s statement, Taliban say 'way too early' to speak of resuming talks with US

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../indian-squad-for-the-upcoming-series-against- west-indies-to-be-announced-tomorrow-bcci-source-263369">West Indies</a> defeated Afghanistan by nine wickets on the third day of the one-off Test on Friday here at the Ekana Cricket Stadium.

Chasing 31, West Indies lost their opening wicket with just nine runs away from the target as Amir Hamza sent Brathwaite (8) back to the pavilion, reducing Windies to 22/1.

John Campbell and Shai Hope ensured West Indies' victory by nine wickets. Campbell and Hope remained unbeaten on 19 and 6 respectively.

The team from the Caribbean knocked off the target in just 6.2 overs and they just needed 92 minutes to brush off Afghanistan's challenge on the third day.

Resuming day three at 109/7, Afghanistan immediately lost their eighth wicket as skipper Jason Holder removed Rashid Khan (1) in the 38th over.

Soon after, Holder castled the stumps of Yamin Ahmadzai (1) reducing Afghanistan to 119/9, with just a slender lead of 29 runs over the team from the Caribbean.

The last wicket was also taken by Holder and as a result, Afghanistan was bowled out for 120, setting West Indies a target of 31 for the win.

Holder, Rahkeem Cornwall and Roston Chase picked three wickets each for West Indies while Javed Ahmadi was the top-scorer for Afghanistan with a knock of 62 runs.

West Indies defeated Afghanistan by nine wickets on the third day of the one-off Test on Friday here at the Ekana Cricket Stadium. Chasing 31, West Indies lost their opening wicket with just nine runs away from the target as Amir Hamza sent Brathwaite (8) back to the pavilion, reducing Windies to 22/1.

West Indies defeated Afghanistan by nine wickets on the third day of the one-off Test on Friday here at the Ekana Cricket Stadium. Chasing 31, West Indies lost their opening wicket with just nine runs away from the target as Amir Hamza sent Brathwaite (8) back to the pavilion, reducing Windies to 22/1. John Campbell and Shai Hope ensured West Indies' victory by nine wickets. Campbell and Hope remained unbeaten on 19 and 6 respectively. The team from the Caribbean knocked off the target in just 6.2 overs and they just needed 92 minutes to brush off Afghanistan's challenge on the third day. Resuming day three at 109/7, Afghanistan immediately lost their eighth wicket as skipper Jason Holder removed Rashid Khan (1) in the 38th over. Soon after, Holder castled the stumps of Yamin Ahmadzai (1) reducing Afghanistan to 119/9, with just a slender lead of 29 runs over the team from the Caribbean. The last wicket was also taken by Holder and as a result, Afghanistan was bowled out for 120, setting West Indies a target of 31 for the win. Holder, Rahkeem Cornwall and Roston Chase picked three wickets each for West Indies while Javed Ahmadi was the top-scorer for Afghanistan with a knock of 62 runs.

West Indies beat Afghanistan by nine wickets within three days in only Test

Two members of Afghan security forces and 24 terrorists were killed in an armed conflict between the two sides in Afghanistan's northern province of Jowzjan, the provincial government said on Saturday.

The clashes occurred in Darzab district during a "cleanup operation" by the Afghan security forces on Friday night and also left 16 terrorists wounded, provincial government spokesperson Maruf Haazar told Xinhua news agency.

Eight terrorists killed in the operation belonged to Taliban's commando force Sara Qeta, the spokesperson said, adding that no civilians were hurt during clashes.

The Taliban has not made any comment on the report yet.&nbsp;

Two members of Afghan security forces and 24 terrorists were killed in an armed conflict between the two sides in Afghanistan's northern province of Jowzjan, the provincial government said on Saturday.

Two members of Afghan security forces and 24 terrorists were killed in an armed conflict between the two sides in Afghanistan's northern province of Jowzjan, the provincial government said on Saturday. The clashes occurred in Darzab district during a "cleanup operation" by the Afghan security forces on Friday night and also left 16 terrorists wounded, provincial government spokesperson Maruf Haazar told Xinhua news agency. Eight terrorists killed in the operation belonged to Taliban's commando force Sara Qeta, the spokesperson said, adding that no civilians were hurt during clashes. The Taliban has not made any comment on the report yet.

Afghanistan: 2 soldiers, 24 terrorists killed during clashes in Jowzjan

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar and acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Idrees Zaman on Sunday exchanged instruments of ratification of India-Afghanistan Extradition Treaty to transport criminal offenders between the two countries.

"The instrument of ratification of Extradition Treaty between the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of India, approved and ratified by the relevant authorities of the two governments, were exchanged by the Acting Foreign Minister HE&nbsp;Idrees Zaman and the Indian Ambassador to Kabul Mr. Vinay Kumar, today," the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

"The said agreement was signed by the authorised representatives of the two countries in New Delhi, India on September 14, 2016," the Ministry added.

The treaty, signed during Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in 2016, would provide a legal framework for seeking extradition of terrorists, economic offenders and criminals from and to Afghanistan.

India has extradition treaties with at least 37 countries, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar and acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Idrees Zaman on Sunday exchanged instruments of ratification of India-Afghanistan Extradition Treaty to transport criminal offenders between the two countries.

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar and acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Idrees Zaman on Sunday exchanged instruments of ratification of India-Afghanistan Extradition Treaty to transport criminal offenders between the two countries. "The instrument of ratification of Extradition Treaty between the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of India, approved and ratified by the relevant authorities of the two governments, were exchanged by the Acting Foreign Minister HE Idrees Zaman and the Indian Ambassador to Kabul Mr. Vinay Kumar, today," the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement. "The said agreement was signed by the authorised representatives of the two countries in New Delhi, India on September 14, 2016," the Ministry added. The treaty, signed during Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in 2016, would provide a legal framework for seeking extradition of terrorists, economic offenders and criminals from and to Afghanistan. India has extradition treaties with at least 37 countries, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

India, Afghanistan exchange treaty to extradite criminal offenders

A foreign national was killed and at least five other people wounded in a grenade attack on a United Nations vehicle in Kabul on Sunday, an Afghan official said.

The attack happened on a road frequently used by UN traffic shuttling workers between central Kabul and a large UN compound on the outskirts of the capital.

"At around 6:20 pm (1350 GMT) a grenade was hurled at a UN vehicle," interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said.

Aside from the one fatality, Rahimi said five other people -- including two Afghan staff -- were wounded. The nationalities of the other victims were not released.

A UN official did not immediately return a message seeking comment, and no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. The Taliban did not respond to a query.

The blast comes during what has been a period of relative and uneasy calm in Kabul, where the rate of large-scale attacks has dropped in recent weeks.

The comparative lull followed a blood-stained presidential campaign season that ended with a general election nearly two months ago.

But Afghans are still waiting for the results of that September 28 poll, with a recount bogged down by various technical difficulties and complaints from main candidates.

Additionally, Afghans are waiting to see what might happen next in negotiations between the Taliban and the US.

President Donald Trump in September ended those yearlong talks as Taliban violence continued, but on Friday he suggested to US broadcaster Fox News that negotiations could be getting underway again.

Aid agencies and non-governmental groups are sometimes targeted in Afghanistan's war.&nbsp;

For instance, the Taliban in May targeted Counterpart International, a US-funded non-profit group working with marginalised people. Nine people were killed in that attack.

But the UN's white vehicles, easily identifiable with the world body's initials painted on the side, are rarely involved in attacks and circulate routinely around Kabul and in the provinces.

In 2011, seven foreign UN workers -- including four Nepalis, a Swede, a Norwegian and a Romanian -- were killed in an attack on a UN compound in the northern city of Mazar-i-Shari 
&nbsp;

A foreign national was killed and at least five other people wounded in a grenade attack on a United Nations vehicle in Kabul on Sunday, an Afghan official said.

A foreign national was killed and at least five other people wounded in a grenade attack on a United Nations vehicle in Kabul on Sunday, an Afghan official said. The attack happened on a road frequently used by UN traffic shuttling workers between central Kabul and a large UN compound on the outskirts of the capital. "At around 6:20 pm (1350 GMT) a grenade was hurled at a UN vehicle," interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said. Aside from the one fatality, Rahimi said five other people -- including two Afghan staff -- were wounded. The nationalities of the other victims were not released. A UN official did not immediately return a message seeking comment, and no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. The Taliban did not respond to a query. The blast comes during what has been a period of relative and uneasy calm in Kabul, where the rate of large-scale attacks has dropped in recent weeks. The comparative lull followed a blood-stained presidential campaign season that ended with a general election nearly two months ago. But Afghans are still waiting for the results of that September 28 poll, with a recount bogged down by various technical difficulties and complaints from main candidates. Additionally, Afghans are waiting to see what might happen next in negotiations between the Taliban and the US. President Donald Trump in September ended those yearlong talks as Taliban violence continued, but on Friday he suggested to US broadcaster Fox News that negotiations could be getting underway again. Aid agencies and non-governmental groups are sometimes targeted in Afghanistan's war. For instance, the Taliban in May targeted Counterpart International, a US-funded non-profit group working with marginalised people. Nine people were killed in that attack. But the UN's white vehicles, easily identifiable with the world body's initials painted on the side, are rarely involved in attacks and circulate routinely around Kabul and in the provinces. In 2011, seven foreign UN workers -- including four Nepalis, a Swede, a Norwegian and a Romanian -- were killed in an attack on a UN compound in the northern city of Mazar-i-Shari

Afghanistan: Foreign national killed as UN vehicle hit in Kabul blast

At least three people were killed and two members of the security forces suffered injuries in an explosion in Alasai district, Kapisa province.

The provincial police spokesman Abdul Shayiq Shorish confirmed the casualties and said the explosion took place at a market in the district, Tolo News reported.

Meanwhile, one policeman was injured as a magnetic bomb hit a police vehicle in Kabul`s police district nine early on Saturday, a spokesperson of the Afghan Interior Ministry told Sputnik.

"At 8:20 a.m.&nbsp;this morning, a police ranger car was hit by a magnetic mine in the area of the ninth district, Wazir Kala. One of its occupants is ... injured," the ministry spokesperson said.

At least three people were killed and two members of the security forces suffered injuries in an explosion in Alasai district, Kapisa province. The provincial police spokesman Abdul Shayiq Shorish confirmed the casualties and said the explosion took place at a market in the district, Tolo News reported.

At least three people were killed and two members of the security forces suffered injuries in an explosion in Alasai district, Kapisa province. The provincial police spokesman Abdul Shayiq Shorish confirmed the casualties and said the explosion took place at a market in the district, Tolo News reported. Meanwhile, one policeman was injured as a magnetic bomb hit a police vehicle in Kabul`s police district nine early on Saturday, a spokesperson of the Afghan Interior Ministry told Sputnik. "At 8:20 a.m. this morning, a police ranger car was hit by a magnetic mine in the area of the ninth district, Wazir Kala. One of its occupants is ... injured," the ministry spokesperson said.

Two explosions rock Afghanistan, three killed

The Taliban has released ten captured Afghan soldiers, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said on Friday. 
 
The ICRC said that ten&nbsp;Afghan soldiers were handed over to Red Cross by Taliban in Nahr-e Saraj district, Helmand, who transferred them to the Afghan authorities in Lashkar Gah on Thursday, Tolo News reported. 
 
This comes days after the terrorist group released two foreign professors as part of a prisoner swap deal between the group and the Afghan government, under which the latter released three terrorists, including Anas Haqqani, from Bagram prison. 
 
US Special Representative for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad has welcomed the recent steps by Taliban and hoped that they lead to a reduction in violence and rapid progress towards a political settlement involving the Afghan government.

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(1/2) Welcome the news that the Taliban released 10 Afghan soldiers today. This action followed the release of Taliban prisoners by the Afghan government, and the separate Taliban goodwill gesture of releasing two <a href="https://twitter.com/AUAfghanistan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AUAfghanistan</a> professors.
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1197630918099386369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"US envoy @US4AfghanPeace Welcomes the news that the #Taliban released 10 Afghan soldiers today. This action followed the release of Taliban prisoners by the Afghan government and the separate Taliban goodwill gesture of releasing two @AUAfghanistan professors," said Khalilzad

"Hopeful these steps lead to a reduction in violence and rapid progress towards a political settlement involving the Afghan government, the Taliban, and other Afghan leaders. The Afghan people yearn for peace and security, and we stand with them," he added.

The Taliban has released ten captured Afghan soldiers, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said on Friday. The ICRC said that ten Afghan soldiers were handed over to Red Cross by Taliban in Nahr-e Saraj district, Helmand, who transferred them to the Afghan authorities in Lashkar Gah on Thursday, Tolo News reported.

The Taliban has released ten captured Afghan soldiers, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said on Friday. The ICRC said that ten Afghan soldiers were handed over to Red Cross by Taliban in Nahr-e Saraj district, Helmand, who transferred them to the Afghan authorities in Lashkar Gah on Thursday, Tolo News reported. This comes days after the terrorist group released two foreign professors as part of a prisoner swap deal between the group and the Afghan government, under which the latter released three terrorists, including Anas Haqqani, from Bagram prison. US Special Representative for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad has welcomed the recent steps by Taliban and hoped that they lead to a reduction in violence and rapid progress towards a political settlement involving the Afghan government. (1/2) Welcome the news that the Taliban released 10 Afghan soldiers today. This action followed the release of Taliban prisoners by the Afghan government, and the separate Taliban goodwill gesture of releasing two @AUAfghanistan professors. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) November 21, 2019 × "US envoy @US4AfghanPeace Welcomes the news that the #Taliban released 10 Afghan soldiers today. This action followed the release of Taliban prisoners by the Afghan government and the separate Taliban goodwill gesture of releasing two @AUAfghanistan professors," said Khalilzad "Hopeful these steps lead to a reduction in violence and rapid progress towards a political settlement involving the Afghan government, the Taliban, and other Afghan leaders. The Afghan people yearn for peace and security, and we stand with them," he added.

Ten Afghan soldiers released by Taliban: Red Cross

The United States said Thursday that it supported continued<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-troop-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-its-effects-on-india-199574"> Indian involvement in Afghanistan</a>, even as President Donald Trump looks to withdraw troops.

India is one of the most enthusiastic backers of Afghanistan's government, contributing more than $3 billion since the 2001 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/timeline-of-two-decades-of-us-intervention-in-afghanistan-246619">US-led invasion toppled the Taliban</a>.

"The United States welcomes India's substantial investment in and assistance to Afghanistan," said Nancy Izzo Jackson, a State Department official in charge of Afghanistan.

"And we will continue to support efforts to achieve an honourable and enduring outcome in Afghanistan that preserves our investment in Afghanistan's future," she told a conference on India's role in Afghanistan at the Hudson Institute.

India constructed Afghanistan's new parliament building and has also wooed Afghans with its soft power, including Bollywood films.

But India's involvement in Afghanistan has been a cause of consternation for rival Pakistan, which has maintained ties to the Taliban in part citing fears of encirclement.

The United States earlier this year reached a deal with the Taliban to pull troops from Afghanistan and wind down America's longest war.

But Trump said in September that he was withdrawing an invitation to the insurgents to meet near Washington due to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-us-service-members-killed-in-afghanistan-nato-244690"> killing of a US soldier.</a>

Harsh Vardhan Shringla, the Indian ambassador in Washington, said that any settlement in Afghanistan needed to ensure that "there is no room for any terrorist elements to create a foothold."

"It is also important to deliver the message to terrorists that democracies do not surrender to terrorism and in the ideological battle of the 'emirate' versus the 'republic,' the latter prevails," he said. 
&nbsp;

The United States said Thursday that it supported continued Indian involvement in Afghanistan, even as President Donald Trump looks to withdraw troops. India is one of the most enthusiastic backers of Afghanistan's government, contributing more than $3 billion since the 2001 US-led invasion toppled the Taliban.

The United States said Thursday that it supported continued Indian involvement in Afghanistan, even as President Donald Trump looks to withdraw troops. India is one of the most enthusiastic backers of Afghanistan's government, contributing more than $3 billion since the 2001 US-led invasion toppled the Taliban. "The United States welcomes India's substantial investment in and assistance to Afghanistan," said Nancy Izzo Jackson, a State Department official in charge of Afghanistan. "And we will continue to support efforts to achieve an honourable and enduring outcome in Afghanistan that preserves our investment in Afghanistan's future," she told a conference on India's role in Afghanistan at the Hudson Institute. India constructed Afghanistan's new parliament building and has also wooed Afghans with its soft power, including Bollywood films. But India's involvement in Afghanistan has been a cause of consternation for rival Pakistan, which has maintained ties to the Taliban in part citing fears of encirclement. The United States earlier this year reached a deal with the Taliban to pull troops from Afghanistan and wind down America's longest war. But Trump said in September that he was withdrawing an invitation to the insurgents to meet near Washington due to the killing of a US soldier. Harsh Vardhan Shringla, the Indian ambassador in Washington, said that any settlement in Afghanistan needed to ensure that "there is no room for any terrorist elements to create a foothold." "It is also important to deliver the message to terrorists that democracies do not surrender to terrorism and in the ideological battle of the 'emirate' versus the 'republic,' the latter prevails," he said.

United States welcomes India's substantial assistance to Afghanistan: State department official

Two American service members have been killed in a helicopter crash in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-president-claims-victory-over-islamic-state-263202">Afghanistan</a>, US forces there said Wednesday,&nbsp;adding that the crash appeared to be an accident, though the Taliban claimed they had shot it down.

A statement from US Forces Afghanistan said the crash on Wednesday was being investigated, "however preliminary reports do not indicate it was caused by enemy fire".

It did not reveal the crash location and said it was withholding the names of those killed until next of kin could be told.&nbsp;

The Taliban claimed they had shot the helicopter down in Charkh district of Logar province at 1.00 am.

"The Americans wanted to raid a mujahideen base, but their helicopter was shot down and caught fire. All on board were killed," their main spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said.

Roughly 13,000 US troops remain in Afghanistan, 18 years after Washington invaded in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has been eager to withdraw, but General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told US media this month that American forces are likely to remain "for several more years". &nbsp;&nbsp;

More than 2,500 Afghan civilians have been killed in the fighting so far this year, the United Nations says.

Two American service members have been killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan, US forces there said Wednesday, adding that the crash appeared to be an accident, though the Taliban claimed they had shot it down.

Two American service members have been killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan, US forces there said Wednesday, adding that the crash appeared to be an accident, though the Taliban claimed they had shot it down. A statement from US Forces Afghanistan said the crash on Wednesday was being investigated, "however preliminary reports do not indicate it was caused by enemy fire". It did not reveal the crash location and said it was withholding the names of those killed until next of kin could be told. The Taliban claimed they had shot the helicopter down in Charkh district of Logar province at 1.00 am. "The Americans wanted to raid a mujahideen base, but their helicopter was shot down and caught fire. All on board were killed," their main spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said. Roughly 13,000 US troops remain in Afghanistan, 18 years after Washington invaded in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks. US President Donald Trump has been eager to withdraw, but General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told US media this month that American forces are likely to remain "for several more years". More than 2,500 Afghan civilians have been killed in the fighting so far this year, the United Nations says.

Afghanistan: Two US troops killed in helicopter crash

Security forces have "obliterated" Islamic State (IS) militants in Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani said on Tuesday, hours after a prisoner swap with Taliban insurgents raised hopes of a lull in violence in the country.

More than 600 fighters from IS, locally known as Daesh, have surrendered with their families to the Afghan government in past weeks. Officials say airstrikes by Afghan and coalition forces, lack of funds and low morale have forced the group to give up.

"No one believed one year ago that we would stand up and today be saying we have obliterated Daesh," Ghani told a gathering of elders and officials in Jalalabad, the main city of eastern Nangarhar province that saw a wave of suicide attacks in past years claimed by the jihadists.

"Now that Daesh militants have surrendered, I ask authorities to treat their families humanely," Ghani added.

The government says among fighters in its custody are foreign nationals from Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and the Maldives.

However, the Afghan Taliban, which has been battling IS and the government for control of the country disputed that.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's official spokesman, described Ghani's announcement as "absurd".

Security forces have "obliterated" Islamic State (IS) militants in Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani said on Tuesday, hours after a prisoner swap with Taliban insurgents raised hopes of a lull in violence in the country.

Security forces have "obliterated" Islamic State (IS) militants in Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani said on Tuesday, hours after a prisoner swap with Taliban insurgents raised hopes of a lull in violence in the country. More than 600 fighters from IS, locally known as Daesh, have surrendered with their families to the Afghan government in past weeks. Officials say airstrikes by Afghan and coalition forces, lack of funds and low morale have forced the group to give up. "No one believed one year ago that we would stand up and today be saying we have obliterated Daesh," Ghani told a gathering of elders and officials in Jalalabad, the main city of eastern Nangarhar province that saw a wave of suicide attacks in past years claimed by the jihadists. "Now that Daesh militants have surrendered, I ask authorities to treat their families humanely," Ghani added. The government says among fighters in its custody are foreign nationals from Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and the Maldives. However, the Afghan Taliban, which has been battling IS and the government for control of the country disputed that. Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's official spokesman, described Ghani's announcement as "absurd".

Afghanistan's president claims victory over Islamic State

The Afghan Taliban released two Western hostages on Tuesday, Afghan government officials said, completing a delayed prisoner swap for three of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-commanders-slated-to-be-swapped-for-western-hostages-arrive-in-qatar-263122">militant group's commanders</a> and raising hopes for of a revival of efforts for peace.

American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors.

The US-backed government's decision to carry out the swap is seen as key to securing direct talks with the Islamist militants, who have, until now, refused to engage with what they call an illegitimate "puppet" regime in Kabul.

"The two professors are safely freed and are being taken care of now," said a senior Afghan official on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media.

He did not provide further details.

Earlier on Tuesday, three Taliban sources familiar with the deal, including one in Qatar, home to the political leadership of the Afghan Taliban, said the three Taliban commanders who are part of the swap were freed from jail in Afghanistan.

"Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar," said a Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he is not authorised to speak publicly about the deal.

Spokesmen for the Afghan government and the United States embassy in Kabul were not immediately available for comment.

On November&nbsp;12, President Ashraf Ghani said Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network, a militant faction of the Taliban responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two other Taliban commanders.

But the swap was abruptly postponed, with the Taliban then shifting their hostages to a new location.

The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan.

King and Weeks were last seen in a 2017 hostage video looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release.

The prisoner exchange could help nudge forward efforts to end the Afghan war.

The United States and the Taliban were for most of the past year discussing a plan for the withdrawal of US troops in exchange for Taliban security guarantees.

But US President Donald Trump halted the talks last month, despite his hopes to end America's longest war, following the death of a US soldier and 11 other people in a Taliban bomb attack in Kabul.

Before the talks were broken off, the United States and the Taliban both said they were close to reaching a deal.

The Afghan Taliban released two Western hostages on Tuesday, Afghan government officials said, completing a delayed prisoner swap for three of the militant group's commanders and raising hopes for of a revival of efforts for peace.

The Afghan Taliban released two Western hostages on Tuesday, Afghan government officials said, completing a delayed prisoner swap for three of the militant group's commanders and raising hopes for of a revival of efforts for peace. American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors. The US-backed government's decision to carry out the swap is seen as key to securing direct talks with the Islamist militants, who have, until now, refused to engage with what they call an illegitimate "puppet" regime in Kabul. "The two professors are safely freed and are being taken care of now," said a senior Afghan official on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. He did not provide further details. Earlier on Tuesday, three Taliban sources familiar with the deal, including one in Qatar, home to the political leadership of the Afghan Taliban, said the three Taliban commanders who are part of the swap were freed from jail in Afghanistan. "Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar," said a Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he is not authorised to speak publicly about the deal. Spokesmen for the Afghan government and the United States embassy in Kabul were not immediately available for comment. On November 12, President Ashraf Ghani said Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network, a militant faction of the Taliban responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two other Taliban commanders. But the swap was abruptly postponed, with the Taliban then shifting their hostages to a new location. The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan. King and Weeks were last seen in a 2017 hostage video looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release. The prisoner exchange could help nudge forward efforts to end the Afghan war. The United States and the Taliban were for most of the past year discussing a plan for the withdrawal of US troops in exchange for Taliban security guarantees. But US President Donald Trump halted the talks last month, despite his hopes to end America's longest war, following the death of a US soldier and 11 other people in a Taliban bomb attack in Kabul. Before the talks were broken off, the United States and the Taliban both said they were close to reaching a deal.

Western hostages freed by Afghan Taliban in swap for top commanders

Three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-police-chief-along-with-3-bodyguard-killed-in-taliban-ambush-262472">Taliban</a> commanders part of a swap between prisoners for two western hostages have landed in Qatar, Reuters reported today.

This swap can be attributed to the efforts made by Afghan government to conduct direct talks with the Taliban. The latter have always referred to the Afghan government as an illegitimate puppet regime.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-still-holding-western-hostages-spokesman-262471">hostages held by the Taliban</a> include an American named Kevin King and an Australian named Timothy Weeks. They're both university professors slated to be released today.

"Our three prisoners had been freed on Monday night," said one of the sources, a senior Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he was not authorised to speak publicly about the deal.

"Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar", the source added.

This swap came in the aftermath of an announcement on November 12 by President Ashraf Ghani. He had said that Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two Taliban commanders.&nbsp;

An earlier swap was scheduled but was later cancelled as the Taliban abruptly shifted their hostages to a new location as the commanders were unable to land in Qatar.

The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale militant attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan.

King and Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exchange-of-prisoners-between-taliban-afghan-government-yet-to-take-place-262209">They appeared in a hostage video</a> a year later looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release.

There has been no word from the Afghan government as well as the United States embassy in Kabul.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Three Taliban commanders part of a swap between prisoners for two western hostages have landed in Qatar, Reuters reported today. This swap can be attributed to the efforts made by Afghan government to conduct direct talks with the Taliban.

Three Taliban commanders part of a swap between prisoners for two western hostages have landed in Qatar, Reuters reported today. This swap can be attributed to the efforts made by Afghan government to conduct direct talks with the Taliban. The latter have always referred to the Afghan government as an illegitimate puppet regime. The hostages held by the Taliban include an American named Kevin King and an Australian named Timothy Weeks. They're both university professors slated to be released today. "Our three prisoners had been freed on Monday night," said one of the sources, a senior Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he was not authorised to speak publicly about the deal. "Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar", the source added. This swap came in the aftermath of an announcement on November 12 by President Ashraf Ghani. He had said that Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two Taliban commanders. An earlier swap was scheduled but was later cancelled as the Taliban abruptly shifted their hostages to a new location as the commanders were unable to land in Qatar. The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale militant attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan. King and Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors. They appeared in a hostage video a year later looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release. There has been no word from the Afghan government as well as the United States embassy in Kabul. (With inputs from Reuters)

Taliban commanders slated to be swapped for Western hostages arrive in Qatar

Two key members of the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist group were arrested by the Afghan special forces during an operation in the country's east, the Afghan National Directorate of Security said on Sunday.

The arrests were made during raids in the late hours of Saturday in the Qarghayi district of Laghman province.

Various weapons, radio equipment, hand grenades, a handgun and 3,000 rounds of ammunition were seized by the special forces from those arrested, a statement released by the directorate highlighted.

Two other people were detained in connection with aiding terrorist groups.

Afghan security forces have recently intensified the fight against IS, regularly reporting about terrorists and their family members surrendering as a result of counter-terrorism operations.

Last week, acting Interior Minister Massoud Andarabi announced that the IS had been defeated in the country, pledging that remaining small cells would be eliminated.&nbsp;

Two key members of the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist group were arrested by the Afghan special forces during an operation in the country's east, the Afghan National Directorate of Security said on Sunday.

Two key members of the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist group were arrested by the Afghan special forces during an operation in the country's east, the Afghan National Directorate of Security said on Sunday. The arrests were made during raids in the late hours of Saturday in the Qarghayi district of Laghman province. Various weapons, radio equipment, hand grenades, a handgun and 3,000 rounds of ammunition were seized by the special forces from those arrested, a statement released by the directorate highlighted. Two other people were detained in connection with aiding terrorist groups. Afghan security forces have recently intensified the fight against IS, regularly reporting about terrorists and their family members surrendering as a result of counter-terrorism operations. Last week, acting Interior Minister Massoud Andarabi announced that the IS had been defeated in the country, pledging that remaining small cells would be eliminated.

Two Islamic State terrorists arrested, weapons seized in eastern Afghanistan

The prisoner exchange between the Taliban group and the Afghan government has not happened yet, a source close to the group told Sputnik. 
 
President Ashraf Ghani on Monday announced that the government would release Anas Haqqani, Abdul Rashid and Haji Mali Khan in exchange for two lecturers of an American University. 
 
According to the source, the Taliban prisoners were brought to Qatar, but had yet to be handed over to the group. 
 
Asadullah Wahid, a lecturer at Kabul University who had gone to Qatar for a meeting with the Taliban leaders, told Sputnik that the United States did not want the exchange to be covered by the media. 
 
"They [the prisoners] have not been handed over to the Taliban, but there is information that the Taliban prisoners have arrived in Qatar," Wahid said, confirming the information gathered from the Taliban source. 
 
The lecturers will be transferred to Pakistan first, and then to Qatar for exchange. 
 
The scholars hail from the United States and Australia.

The prisoner exchange between the Taliban group and the Afghan government has not happened yet, a source close to the group told Sputnik. President Ashraf Ghani on Monday announced that the government would release Anas Haqqani, Abdul Rashid and Haji Mali Khan in exchange for two lecturers of an American University.

The prisoner exchange between the Taliban group and the Afghan government has not happened yet, a source close to the group told Sputnik. President Ashraf Ghani on Monday announced that the government would release Anas Haqqani, Abdul Rashid and Haji Mali Khan in exchange for two lecturers of an American University. According to the source, the Taliban prisoners were brought to Qatar, but had yet to be handed over to the group. Asadullah Wahid, a lecturer at Kabul University who had gone to Qatar for a meeting with the Taliban leaders, told Sputnik that the United States did not want the exchange to be covered by the media. "They [the prisoners] have not been handed over to the Taliban, but there is information that the Taliban prisoners have arrived in Qatar," Wahid said, confirming the information gathered from the Taliban source. The lecturers will be transferred to Pakistan first, and then to Qatar for exchange. The scholars hail from the United States and Australia.

Exchange of prisoners between Taliban, Afghan government yet to take place

In an effort to normalise their bilateral relationship, Pakistan and Afghanistan on Monday decided to form a technical committee to "solve" their "problems and issues related to Afghan market" in Peshawar.

The decision was taken during the meeting between Afghanistan National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief General Faiz Hameed."NSA @hmohib met w/ Faiz Hameed Director General&nbsp;of Inter-Services Intelligence and Suhail Mahmood Foreign Secretary of Pakistan. They talked over efforts to normalize Afghan-Pak relations, the formation of a technical committee to solve the problems &amp; issue of Afghan Market in Peshawar," Hamdullah Mohib`s spokesperson Kabir Haqmal tweeted.

The Hameed-led delegation reached Kabul to discuss the escalation of tension between the two countries after Pakistani policemen raided Afghan market in Peshawar last month. In protest, Afghanistan has closed its consulate in Peshawar.

Kabul has accused Pakistani police of repeatedly attacking the Afghan market and taking down the Afghan national flag. "Many soldiers came here, acting like terrorists. This is not acceptable. This is not good for improving relations between the two countries," Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan Shukrullah Atif Mashal had said on October 12.

The Afghan Consulate claims the Afghan Market as a property of the Afghan government. However, reports suggest that there is another claimant to the property.Meanwhile, protests took place in front of the Pakistan Embassy in Kabul.

The protesters chanted slogans against Pakistan with some of them saying that "our flag is our national identity, no one can disrespect our identity. "Making the matter worse, Pakistan Foreign Office, early this month, had summoned the Afghan envoy to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel.

On November 4, Afghanistan had objected to the summoning of its charge d`affaires by Pakistan`s Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country`s embassy in Kabul.

A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on last Monday had said: "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan`s Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity`s personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles."

In an effort to normalise their bilateral relationship, Pakistan and Afghanistan on Monday decided to form a technical committee to "solve" their "problems and issues related to Afghan market" in Peshawar.

In an effort to normalise their bilateral relationship, Pakistan and Afghanistan on Monday decided to form a technical committee to "solve" their "problems and issues related to Afghan market" in Peshawar. The decision was taken during the meeting between Afghanistan National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief General Faiz Hameed."NSA @hmohib met w/ Faiz Hameed Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence and Suhail Mahmood Foreign Secretary of Pakistan. They talked over efforts to normalize Afghan-Pak relations, the formation of a technical committee to solve the problems & issue of Afghan Market in Peshawar," Hamdullah Mohib`s spokesperson Kabir Haqmal tweeted. The Hameed-led delegation reached Kabul to discuss the escalation of tension between the two countries after Pakistani policemen raided Afghan market in Peshawar last month. In protest, Afghanistan has closed its consulate in Peshawar. Kabul has accused Pakistani police of repeatedly attacking the Afghan market and taking down the Afghan national flag. "Many soldiers came here, acting like terrorists. This is not acceptable. This is not good for improving relations between the two countries," Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan Shukrullah Atif Mashal had said on October 12. The Afghan Consulate claims the Afghan Market as a property of the Afghan government. However, reports suggest that there is another claimant to the property.Meanwhile, protests took place in front of the Pakistan Embassy in Kabul. The protesters chanted slogans against Pakistan with some of them saying that "our flag is our national identity, no one can disrespect our identity. "Making the matter worse, Pakistan Foreign Office, early this month, had summoned the Afghan envoy to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel. On November 4, Afghanistan had objected to the summoning of its charge d`affaires by Pakistan`s Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country`s embassy in Kabul. A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on last Monday had said: "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan`s Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity`s personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles."

Pakistan, Afghanistan to form technical committee to 'solve' market-related issues in Peshawar

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced Tuesday that three high-ranking Taliban prisoners would be released, in an apparent exchange for two Western hostages who were kidnapped by the insurgents in 2016.

The three Taliban prisoners include Anas Haqqani, who was seized in 2014 and whose older brother is the deputy Taliban leader and head of the Haqqani network, a notorious Taliban affiliate.

"We have decided to conditionally release three Taliban prisoners who... have been in Bagram prison in the custody of the Afghan government for some time," Ghani said in an announcement at the presidential palace.

He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages, an Australian and an American, and it was not clear when or where they would be freed.

But Ghani noted in his speech that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists".

He added that the release of the two professors would "pave the way" for the start of unofficial direct talks between his government and the Taliban, who long have refused to negotiate with Ghani's administration.&nbsp;

Ghani, flanked by his top security advisors, said the decision to release the three Taliban prisoners had been "very hard and necessary".

In August 2016, gunmen wearing military uniforms kidnapped two professors of the American University of Afghanistan in the heart of Kabul.

The two, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks, later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health.

The elite American University of Afghanistan opened in 2006 and has attracted a number of faculty members from Western countries.

The US and the Australian embassies in Kabul declined to provide immediate comment. American University also did not comment.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced Tuesday that three high-ranking Taliban prisoners would be released, in an apparent exchange for two Western hostages who were kidnapped by the insurgents in 2016.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced Tuesday that three high-ranking Taliban prisoners would be released, in an apparent exchange for two Western hostages who were kidnapped by the insurgents in 2016. The three Taliban prisoners include Anas Haqqani, who was seized in 2014 and whose older brother is the deputy Taliban leader and head of the Haqqani network, a notorious Taliban affiliate. "We have decided to conditionally release three Taliban prisoners who... have been in Bagram prison in the custody of the Afghan government for some time," Ghani said in an announcement at the presidential palace. He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages, an Australian and an American, and it was not clear when or where they would be freed. But Ghani noted in his speech that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists". He added that the release of the two professors would "pave the way" for the start of unofficial direct talks between his government and the Taliban, who long have refused to negotiate with Ghani's administration. Ghani, flanked by his top security advisors, said the decision to release the three Taliban prisoners had been "very hard and necessary". In August 2016, gunmen wearing military uniforms kidnapped two professors of the American University of Afghanistan in the heart of Kabul. The two, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks, later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health. The elite American University of Afghanistan opened in 2006 and has attracted a number of faculty members from Western countries. The US and the Australian embassies in Kabul declined to provide immediate comment. American University also did not comment.

Afghanistan to release senior Taliban prisoners in apparent swap

A Pakistani delegation led by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), chief General Faiz Hameed, arrived in Kabul on Monday to apologize to Afghan officials over the harassment of Kabul envoy, Tolo News reported citing a reliable source. 
 
Two Pakistan Foreign Ministry's deputies are also part of the delegation. The source told that the Pakistani delegation will "apologise" to Afghan officials over the harassment of Afghanistan's ambassador in Islamabad. 
 
Neither the Afghan nor Pakistani government has confirmed the report so far. 
 
On November 3, Pakistan Foreign Office summoned the Afghan envoy to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel.

Afghanistan, on November 4, had&nbsp;objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul. 
 
A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity's personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles."

A Pakistani delegation led by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), chief General Faiz Hameed, arrived in Kabul on Monday to apologize to Afghan officials over the harassment of Kabul envoy, Tolo News reported citing a reliable source.

A Pakistani delegation led by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), chief General Faiz Hameed, arrived in Kabul on Monday to apologize to Afghan officials over the harassment of Kabul envoy, Tolo News reported citing a reliable source. Two Pakistan Foreign Ministry's deputies are also part of the delegation. The source told that the Pakistani delegation will "apologise" to Afghan officials over the harassment of Afghanistan's ambassador in Islamabad. Neither the Afghan nor Pakistani government has confirmed the report so far. On November 3, Pakistan Foreign Office summoned the Afghan envoy to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel. Afghanistan, on November 4, had objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul. A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity's personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles."

Pakistan officials to apologise in Kabul for harassing Afghanistan envoy

Five terrorists were killed and three others sustained injuries after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) went off prematurely in Afghanistan's northern province of Kunduz, the country's military said on Monday. 
 
The incident occurred at around 8 pm on Sunday when terrorists were planting a home-made IED in Haji Mehrab locality of Ali Abad district to target security forces, Afghan Army's 217 Pamir Corps said in a statement, as cited by Xinhua news agency. 
 
No civilians have been reported dead or injured in the incident.

Five terrorists were killed and three others sustained injuries after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) went off prematurely in Afghanistan's northern province of Kunduz, the country's military said on Monday.

Five terrorists were killed and three others sustained injuries after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) went off prematurely in Afghanistan's northern province of Kunduz, the country's military said on Monday. The incident occurred at around 8 pm on Sunday when terrorists were planting a home-made IED in Haji Mehrab locality of Ali Abad district to target security forces, Afghan Army's 217 Pamir Corps said in a statement, as cited by Xinhua news agency. No civilians have been reported dead or injured in the incident.

Afghanistan: Five terrorists killed as IED explodes prematurely

The Islamic State group's Afghan branch has been "defeated" in one of the key eastern provinces where it first sought to establish a stronghold, a top Afghan security official said Sunday.

The claim comes after the jihadists first burst into Afghanistan's conflict in 2015, when they overran large parts of Nangarhar and Kunar provinces, near the Pakistan border.

In the years since, they have claimed responsibility for a string of horrific bombings across Afghanistan, including at a wedding hall in Kabul, and have been continually attacked by US, Afghan and even Taliban forces.

IS "were defeated in Nangarhar, their centres were destroyed", acting interior minister Massoud Andarabi told reporters in Jalalabad, the Nangarhar provincial capital, amid ongoing operations against the jihadists.&nbsp;

"We will soon destroy their last centres. With the people's help, we will completely eliminate them. Some of their smaller groups are surrendering, other small groups will be eliminated in other provinces."

He went on to say that IS were being "completely defeated" in Afghanistan.

US Forces-Afghanistan, which closely monitors the IS footprint in Afghanistan, declined to comment, referring a query back to the Interior Ministry.

Attaullah Khogyani, the spokesman for Nangarhar's governor, said 32 IS fighters surrendered to government forces on Saturday.&nbsp;

"They are coming in big numbers," he told AFP.&nbsp;

IS have suffered a string of major defeats in recent months, including the collapse of their self-proclaimed "caliphate" in Syria and the death of the group's leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who was killed in a US raid in Syria last month.&nbsp;

Connections between Baghdadi and the IS affiliate in Afghanistan, better known as IS in the Khorasan, or IS-K, have always been murky.&nbsp;

But Khogyani said Baghdadi's death had disrupted IS-K's command and control structure.

"It has affected the fighters on the ground here, they are either surrendering to the government or going back to their ordinary lives," he said.

The Islamic State group's Afghan branch has been "defeated" in one of the key eastern provinces where it first sought to establish a stronghold, a top Afghan security official said Sunday.

The Islamic State group's Afghan branch has been "defeated" in one of the key eastern provinces where it first sought to establish a stronghold, a top Afghan security official said Sunday. The claim comes after the jihadists first burst into Afghanistan's conflict in 2015, when they overran large parts of Nangarhar and Kunar provinces, near the Pakistan border. In the years since, they have claimed responsibility for a string of horrific bombings across Afghanistan, including at a wedding hall in Kabul, and have been continually attacked by US, Afghan and even Taliban forces. IS "were defeated in Nangarhar, their centres were destroyed", acting interior minister Massoud Andarabi told reporters in Jalalabad, the Nangarhar provincial capital, amid ongoing operations against the jihadists. "We will soon destroy their last centres. With the people's help, we will completely eliminate them. Some of their smaller groups are surrendering, other small groups will be eliminated in other provinces." He went on to say that IS were being "completely defeated" in Afghanistan. US Forces-Afghanistan, which closely monitors the IS footprint in Afghanistan, declined to comment, referring a query back to the Interior Ministry. Attaullah Khogyani, the spokesman for Nangarhar's governor, said 32 IS fighters surrendered to government forces on Saturday. "They are coming in big numbers," he told AFP. IS have suffered a string of major defeats in recent months, including the collapse of their self-proclaimed "caliphate" in Syria and the death of the group's leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who was killed in a US raid in Syria last month. Connections between Baghdadi and the IS affiliate in Afghanistan, better known as IS in the Khorasan, or IS-K, have always been murky. But Khogyani said Baghdadi's death had disrupted IS-K's command and control structure. "It has affected the fighters on the ground here, they are either surrendering to the government or going back to their ordinary lives," he said.

Islamic State 'defeated' in key Afghan province: Report

An Afghan police officer and a terrorist were killed and four police officers sustained injuries in a suicide car bombing carried out by the Taliban at a military camp in southern Kandahar province on Saturday, police said. 
 
Provincial police spokesperson Jamal Barakzai told Xinhua news agency that the incident occurred after a terrorist rammed an explosive-laden military vehicle to a police camp in Chinarto, an area in Shah Wali Kot district. The camp belonged to the Afghan National Police. 
 
The incident was followed by clashes between security forces and terrorists who arrived at the military base after the bombing.

An Afghan police officer and a terrorist were killed and four police officers sustained injuries in a suicide car bombing carried out by the Taliban at a military camp in southern Kandahar province on Saturday, police said.

An Afghan police officer and a terrorist were killed and four police officers sustained injuries in a suicide car bombing carried out by the Taliban at a military camp in southern Kandahar province on Saturday, police said. Provincial police spokesperson Jamal Barakzai told Xinhua news agency that the incident occurred after a terrorist rammed an explosive-laden military vehicle to a police camp in Chinarto, an area in Shah Wali Kot district. The camp belonged to the Afghan National Police. The incident was followed by clashes between security forces and terrorists who arrived at the military base after the bombing.

Afghanistan: 2 killed, 4 injured in suicide car bombing

At least four judges were killed on Thursday in an ambush in Afghanistan`s Logar province.

According to the police officials, an ambush occurred in the Mohammad Agha district as the judges were returning home from their weekly holiday, Tolo News reported.

The official also stated that the Taliban is responsible for the attack.

But the terrorist organisation has not responded to the comment.

The police further added that an investigation is underway for more details.

At least four judges were killed on Thursday in an ambush in Afghanistan`s Logar province. According to the police officials, an ambush occurred in the Mohammad Agha district as the judges were returning home from their weekly holiday, Tolo News reported.

At least four judges were killed on Thursday in an ambush in Afghanistan`s Logar province. According to the police officials, an ambush occurred in the Mohammad Agha district as the judges were returning home from their weekly holiday, Tolo News reported. The official also stated that the Taliban is responsible for the attack. But the terrorist organisation has not responded to the comment. The police further added that an investigation is underway for more details.

Four judges killed in Afghanistan's Logar province

Height became a problem in finding accommodation for an Afghani man who flew down to watch one-day international cricket series between Afghanistan and West Indies here.

Sher Khan, who is 8 feet and two-inch tall, visited several hotels in search of a place to stay but no hotel allegedly agreed to rent him a room courtesy to his height.

Disappointed and alone in a new city, Khan approached police for help which took him to a Hotel Rajdhani in Naka area where he spent Tuesday night.

Hundreds of people gathered outside the hotel to see the tall who is a resident of Kabul.

"As many as 200 people have come to see him. He is very disturbed," hotel owner Ranu told ANI on Wednesday.

Due to the people gathered outside the hotel, the police had to escort Khan to Ekana Stadium where the international match is being played. Ranu said the man will be staying in the city for the next four to five days.&nbsp;

Height became a problem in finding accommodation for an Afghani man who flew down to watch one-day international cricket series between Afghanistan and West Indies here.

Height became a problem in finding accommodation for an Afghani man who flew down to watch one-day international cricket series between Afghanistan and West Indies here. Sher Khan, who is 8 feet and two-inch tall, visited several hotels in search of a place to stay but no hotel allegedly agreed to rent him a room courtesy to his height. Disappointed and alone in a new city, Khan approached police for help which took him to a Hotel Rajdhani in Naka area where he spent Tuesday night. Hundreds of people gathered outside the hotel to see the tall who is a resident of Kabul. "As many as 200 people have come to see him. He is very disturbed," hotel owner Ranu told ANI on Wednesday. Due to the people gathered outside the hotel, the police had to escort Khan to Ekana Stadium where the international match is being played. Ranu said the man will be staying in the city for the next four to five days.

Eight-feet tall Afghan cricket fan struggles to find accommodation in India

US Congressional report on Afghan Affairs has specifically mentioned that Pakistan has been playing 'an active but negative role' in Afghanistan while simultaneously, is fearful of strategic encirclement by India.

In its latest report on Afghanistan, the independent and bipartisan Congressional Research Service (CRS) identified Pakistan as the most important neighbour of Afghanistan. Pakistan, it said, has played an active, and by many accounts, a negative role in Afghan affairs for decades.

"Pakistan's security services maintain ties to Afghan insurgent groups, most notably the Haqqani Network, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) that has become an official, the semi-autonomous component of the Taliban," CRS, which periodically prepares reports on issues of importance for Congressmen for them to make informed decisions, said.

Pakistan is concerned about the strategic encirclement by India as New Delhi is establishing strong relations with Central Asian countries.

"India's diplomatic and commercial presence in Afghanistan and US rhetorical support for it exacerbates Pakistani fears of encirclement. Indian interest in Afghanistan stems largely from India's broader regional rivalry with Pakistan, which impedes Indian efforts to establish stronger and more direct commercial and political relations with Central Asia," the CRS said in its latest report on Afghanistan released on November 1.

The US&nbsp;officials have long identified militant safe havens in Pakistan as a threat to security in Afghanistan, though some Pakistani officials dispute that charge and note the Taliban's increased territorial control within Afghanistan itself, the report said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-chief-of-staff-summoned-to-testify-in-impeachment-probe-260220">President Donald Trump</a>, it added, has also accused Pakistan of "housing the very terrorists that we are fighting."

"Pakistan may view a weak and destabilised Afghanistan as preferable to a strong, unified Afghan state (particularly one led by an ethnic Pashtun-dominated government in Kabul; Pakistan has a large and restive Pashtun minority)," the CRS said.

However, instability in Afghanistan could rebound to Pakistan's detriment; Pakistan has struggled with indigenous Islamist militants of its own, the report added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-set-to-attend-afghanistan-peace-talks-in-russia-257851">Afghanistan-Pakistan</a> relations are further complicated by the presence of over a million Afghan refugees in Pakistan, as well a long-running and ethnically tinged dispute over their shared 1,600-mile border.

In his August 2017 speech, the US President did encourage India to play a greater role in Afghan economic development.

The CRS said insurgent and terrorist groups have demonstrated considerable capabilities in 2019, throwing into sharp relief the daunting security challenges that the Afghan government and its US and international partners face.

At the same time, prospects for a negotiated settlement, driven by direct US-Taliban talks, are uncertain in light of the September 2019 cancellation of those negotiations and the Taliban's continued refusal to talk to the Afghan government, it said.

However, a potential collapse of the Afghan military and/or the government that commands it could have significant implications for the United States, particularly given the nature of negotiated security arrangements, the report warned.

Regardless of how likely the Taliban would be to gain full control over all or even most of the country, the breakdown of social order and the fracturing of the country into fiefdoms controlled by paramilitary commanders and their respective militias may be plausible, even probable, it added.

US Congressional report on Afghan Affairs has specifically mentioned that Pakistan has been playing 'an active but negative role' in Afghanistan while simultaneously, is fearful of strategic encirclement by India.

US Congressional report on Afghan Affairs has specifically mentioned that Pakistan has been playing 'an active but negative role' in Afghanistan while simultaneously, is fearful of strategic encirclement by India. In its latest report on Afghanistan, the independent and bipartisan Congressional Research Service (CRS) identified Pakistan as the most important neighbour of Afghanistan. Pakistan, it said, has played an active, and by many accounts, a negative role in Afghan affairs for decades. "Pakistan's security services maintain ties to Afghan insurgent groups, most notably the Haqqani Network, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) that has become an official, the semi-autonomous component of the Taliban," CRS, which periodically prepares reports on issues of importance for Congressmen for them to make informed decisions, said. Pakistan is concerned about the strategic encirclement by India as New Delhi is establishing strong relations with Central Asian countries. "India's diplomatic and commercial presence in Afghanistan and US rhetorical support for it exacerbates Pakistani fears of encirclement. Indian interest in Afghanistan stems largely from India's broader regional rivalry with Pakistan, which impedes Indian efforts to establish stronger and more direct commercial and political relations with Central Asia," the CRS said in its latest report on Afghanistan released on November 1. The US officials have long identified militant safe havens in Pakistan as a threat to security in Afghanistan, though some Pakistani officials dispute that charge and note the Taliban's increased territorial control within Afghanistan itself, the report said. President Donald Trump, it added, has also accused Pakistan of "housing the very terrorists that we are fighting." "Pakistan may view a weak and destabilised Afghanistan as preferable to a strong, unified Afghan state (particularly one led by an ethnic Pashtun-dominated government in Kabul; Pakistan has a large and restive Pashtun minority)," the CRS said. However, instability in Afghanistan could rebound to Pakistan's detriment; Pakistan has struggled with indigenous Islamist militants of its own, the report added. Afghanistan-Pakistan relations are further complicated by the presence of over a million Afghan refugees in Pakistan, as well a long-running and ethnically tinged dispute over their shared 1,600-mile border. In his August 2017 speech, the US President did encourage India to play a greater role in Afghan economic development. The CRS said insurgent and terrorist groups have demonstrated considerable capabilities in 2019, throwing into sharp relief the daunting security challenges that the Afghan government and its US and international partners face. At the same time, prospects for a negotiated settlement, driven by direct US-Taliban talks, are uncertain in light of the September 2019 cancellation of those negotiations and the Taliban's continued refusal to talk to the Afghan government, it said. However, a potential collapse of the Afghan military and/or the government that commands it could have significant implications for the United States, particularly given the nature of negotiated security arrangements, the report warned. Regardless of how likely the Taliban would be to gain full control over all or even most of the country, the breakdown of social order and the fracturing of the country into fiefdoms controlled by paramilitary commanders and their respective militias may be plausible, even probable, it added.

Pakistan fearful of strategic encirclement by India: US report on Afghan affairs

Afghanistan has objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul. 
 
A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday stated that the country would "seriously investigate" the harassment claims, and provided assurance that it is committed to ensuring the safety of Pakistani diplomats. 
 
"Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity's personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles," the statement read. 
 
"The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan states that the Government of Afghanistan shall seriously investigate this claim and provides assurance that the Government of Afghanistan is committed to providing safety to the diplomats of Pakistan as well as other diplomats in the country," it added. 
 
The ministry called on the Pakistani government to align its diplomatic relations with Afghanistan in compliance with international conventions and accepted diplomatic norms. 
The matter pertains to Pakistan Foreign officer summoning Afghan envoy on Sunday to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel. The country has also suspended its consular services indefinitely owing to security concerns after the harassment claims. 
 
"The Afghan Cd'A was informed that the Officers and Staff of the Embassy of Pakistan were being harassed over the past two days. They were obstructed on the road and the Embassy vehicles were also hit by motorcycles while going towards the Embassy," the statement by Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs read, adding that he has been asked to relay Pakistan's concerns to Afghan authorities and to urge them "to immediately investigate these security violations and harassment incidents".

Afghanistan has objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul.

Afghanistan has objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul. A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday stated that the country would "seriously investigate" the harassment claims, and provided assurance that it is committed to ensuring the safety of Pakistani diplomats. "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity's personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles," the statement read. "The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan states that the Government of Afghanistan shall seriously investigate this claim and provides assurance that the Government of Afghanistan is committed to providing safety to the diplomats of Pakistan as well as other diplomats in the country," it added. The ministry called on the Pakistani government to align its diplomatic relations with Afghanistan in compliance with international conventions and accepted diplomatic norms. The matter pertains to Pakistan Foreign officer summoning Afghan envoy on Sunday to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel. The country has also suspended its consular services indefinitely owing to security concerns after the harassment claims. "The Afghan Cd'A was informed that the Officers and Staff of the Embassy of Pakistan were being harassed over the past two days. They were obstructed on the road and the Embassy vehicles were also hit by motorcycles while going towards the Embassy," the statement by Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs read, adding that he has been asked to relay Pakistan's concerns to Afghan authorities and to urge them "to immediately investigate these security violations and harassment incidents".

Afghanistan objects to summoning of envoy by Pakistan over harassment claims

At least five Taliban terrorists were killed by Afghan police in an operation launched in Shena Qala village of Barak-e-Barak district in Afghanistan.

Five Taliban members were killed in an operation carried by special police forces in central Logar province on Monday, Tolo News reported.

The police officials also seized weapons during the operation in Barak-e-Barak.

So far, the Taliban has not commented on the Afghan police operation.

Meanwhile, Afghan security forces found two Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) in the Jaghatu district of Ghazni province and safely detonated them.

&nbsp;

At least five Taliban terrorists were killed by Afghan police in an operation launched in Shena Qala village of Barak-e-Barak district in Afghanistan. Five Taliban members were killed in an operation carried by special police forces in central Logar province on Monday, Tolo News reported.

At least five Taliban terrorists were killed by Afghan police in an operation launched in Shena Qala village of Barak-e-Barak district in Afghanistan. Five Taliban members were killed in an operation carried by special police forces in central Logar province on Monday, Tolo News reported. The police officials also seized weapons during the operation in Barak-e-Barak. So far, the Taliban has not commented on the Afghan police operation. Meanwhile, Afghan security forces found two Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) in the Jaghatu district of Ghazni province and safely detonated them.

Five Taliban terrorists killed in Afghanistan's Logar province

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