US troops to remain in Afghanistan. Watch this video to know more.

WION Fineprint: Donald Trump's big announcement on Afghanistan

The top US military officer said on Wednesday it was too early to talk about the future of US counterterrorism forces in Afghanistan, as US and Taliban forces appear close to an agreement to end the 18-year war.

Negotiations over how to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan have been held in Doha, capital of Qatar, since late last year. The ninth round of talks began last week.

"I am not using the withdrawal word right now," Marine General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters at the Pentagon.

"I'm using: We're going to make sure that Afghanistan is not a sanctuary and we're going to try to have an effort to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan," he added.

The Taliban said on Wednesday it was close to an agreement with US officials on a deal that would see US forces withdraw from Afghanistan in exchange for a Taliban promise that the country would not become a haven for international militants.

"I honestly think it's premature to talk about what our counterterrorism presence in Afghanistan may or may not be without a better appreciation for what will the conditions (be)," Dunford said.

The United States went to war in Afghanistan in response to September 11, 2001, attacks on New York and the Pentagon, seeking to oust the Taliban militants harbouring al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, who led plans to carry out the attacks. About 2,400 US forces have been killed in the conflict.

Some 14,000 US troops remain in Afghanistan, among whom about 5,000 are dedicated to counter-insurgency operations.

Dunford said that in the current security environment, local Afghan security forces needed US support to deal with the violence.

"If an agreement happens in the future, if the security environment changes, then obviously our posture may adjust," Dunford said.

The Taliban now controls more territory than it has since 2001 and the war has ground to a stalemate, with casualties rising among civilians as well as combatants. 
&nbsp;

The top US military officer said on Wednesday it was too early to talk about the future of US counterterrorism forces in Afghanistan, as US and Taliban forces appear close to an agreement to end the 18-year war.

The top US military officer said on Wednesday it was too early to talk about the future of US counterterrorism forces in Afghanistan, as US and Taliban forces appear close to an agreement to end the 18-year war. Negotiations over how to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan have been held in Doha, capital of Qatar, since late last year. The ninth round of talks began last week. "I am not using the withdrawal word right now," Marine General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters at the Pentagon. "I'm using: We're going to make sure that Afghanistan is not a sanctuary and we're going to try to have an effort to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan," he added. The Taliban said on Wednesday it was close to an agreement with US officials on a deal that would see US forces withdraw from Afghanistan in exchange for a Taliban promise that the country would not become a haven for international militants. "I honestly think it's premature to talk about what our counterterrorism presence in Afghanistan may or may not be without a better appreciation for what will the conditions (be)," Dunford said. The United States went to war in Afghanistan in response to September 11, 2001, attacks on New York and the Pentagon, seeking to oust the Taliban militants harbouring al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, who led plans to carry out the attacks. About 2,400 US forces have been killed in the conflict. Some 14,000 US troops remain in Afghanistan, among whom about 5,000 are dedicated to counter-insurgency operations. Dunford said that in the current security environment, local Afghan security forces needed US support to deal with the violence. "If an agreement happens in the future, if the security environment changes, then obviously our posture may adjust," Dunford said. The Taliban now controls more territory than it has since 2001 and the war has ground to a stalemate, with casualties rising among civilians as well as combatants.

Too early to talk about future of counterterrorism forces in Afghanistan: US

Eighteen years after the assassination of revered anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, his only son is hoping to continue the mission against the insurgents by jumping into Afghanistan's chaotic political fray.

With America seemingly on the brink of a deal with the Taliban that would see the Pentagon slash its troop presence in Afghanistan, 30-year-old Ahmad Massoud wants to galvanise anti-Taliban groups and stop the emboldened fighters from ushering in a new wave of hardline Islam.&nbsp;

Following in the steps of his father, who rallied various groups under the banner of the United Front -- also known as the Northern Alliance -- the younger Massoud wants to build a grand coalition of anti-Taliban elements that can oppose the insurgents politically at first, and militarily if necessary.&nbsp;

"I really pray and hope that Afghans and Afghanistan never see another bloodshed," Massoud told AFP in an interview at a family home in Kabul.

"God forbid. But if it comes, not just myself, but there are... hundreds of thousands of young people who are like me. We are ready to pick up guns."

Massoud plans to officially launch his political movement on September 5 in Panjshir, his family's original home valley north of Kabul that neither the Soviets nor the Taliban ever conquered.

Lion of Panjshir

In a fractious country where a grim gallery of brutal warlords and squabbling grifters is woven into the political tapestry, Afghans still cling to Ahmad Shah Massoud as a unifying figure who could have led the country to a Taliban-free future, were it not for his murder by Al-Qaeda operatives.

Dubbed the "Lion of Panjshir", the elder Massoud still emblazons billboards, blast walls, car windows and even coffee mugs in the capital and across the country.&nbsp;

"He was a one-of-a-kind character in Afghan history and I don't think anyone can be like him," Massoud said in fluent English, tinged with a slight London accent from seven years in Britain.&nbsp;

But comparisons to the mujahideen commander are inevitable, especially in a country where the baton of power often passes seamlessly from father to son, and where unifying political figures are vanishingly rare.

Massoud, who returned to Afghanistan in 2016, also bears more than a passing resemblance to his dad, especially since growing a beard and donning the same sort of beige pakol, or Afghan woollen hat, that his father sported.

The elder Massoud was assassinated aged 48, when his son was 12, two days before the seismic events of 9/11 that would forever shape Afghanistan's history and trigger the US-led invasion to hunt Osama bin Laden and topple his Taliban hosts.

After his father's death, Massoud finished his schooling in Iran then moved to England to train as an officer at the country's Sandhurst military academy -- his second choice after failing to get into West Point in New York -- before completing two degrees in London.

'Nothing can protect you'

As Massoud sees it, a planned US-Taliban deal fails to tackle the shortcomings of Afghanistan's political apparatus -- a vicious, winner-takes-all system where absolute power is always the goal -- and instead rewards an extremist movement for their tenacity.

"Unless we go to a process which distributes power to everyone, which decentralises power in Afghanistan, we cannot solve any problems," he said.

"It's going to give a sense of triumph and victory to the Taliban... That's the real fear, that we are legitimising, we are giving hope for the terrorist groups across the world".

Massoud thinks the US has been too quick to grant concessions to the Taliban while excluding other Afghans in the peace talks, leaving the militants poised to expand their influence into any void left by departing American forces.

"It is not an Afghan-led process," Massoud said.

"It's something happening between America and the Taliban, between the regional powers and the Taliban. Where (are) the Afghans?"

The US insists the deal with the Taliban is contingent on talks between the insurgents and the Afghan government, and that Afghanistan's issues will only be resolved through "intra-Afghan" dialogue.

Massoud warned that a precipitous American troop pullout could lead to a collapse of Afghanistan's security forces, where corruption and poor leadership remain prevalent.

Already, he is seeing various groups and militias in Panjshir and elsewhere re-arm and organise ahead of the US draw-down.

"Unfortunately the government is not capable to continue fighting against the Taliban," Massoud said.

As for any concern he may have for his own safety as he steps into Afghanistan's spotlight, Massoud, who has five sisters, is fatalistic.

"Everything about your death has already been determined by God," he said with a smile.

"When the time comes, nothing can protect you."

Eighteen years after the assassination of revered anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, his only son is hoping to continue the mission against the insurgents by jumping into Afghanistan's chaotic political fray.

Eighteen years after the assassination of revered anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, his only son is hoping to continue the mission against the insurgents by jumping into Afghanistan's chaotic political fray. With America seemingly on the brink of a deal with the Taliban that would see the Pentagon slash its troop presence in Afghanistan, 30-year-old Ahmad Massoud wants to galvanise anti-Taliban groups and stop the emboldened fighters from ushering in a new wave of hardline Islam. Following in the steps of his father, who rallied various groups under the banner of the United Front -- also known as the Northern Alliance -- the younger Massoud wants to build a grand coalition of anti-Taliban elements that can oppose the insurgents politically at first, and militarily if necessary. "I really pray and hope that Afghans and Afghanistan never see another bloodshed," Massoud told AFP in an interview at a family home in Kabul. "God forbid. But if it comes, not just myself, but there are... hundreds of thousands of young people who are like me. We are ready to pick up guns." Massoud plans to officially launch his political movement on September 5 in Panjshir, his family's original home valley north of Kabul that neither the Soviets nor the Taliban ever conquered. Lion of Panjshir In a fractious country where a grim gallery of brutal warlords and squabbling grifters is woven into the political tapestry, Afghans still cling to Ahmad Shah Massoud as a unifying figure who could have led the country to a Taliban-free future, were it not for his murder by Al-Qaeda operatives. Dubbed the "Lion of Panjshir", the elder Massoud still emblazons billboards, blast walls, car windows and even coffee mugs in the capital and across the country. "He was a one-of-a-kind character in Afghan history and I don't think anyone can be like him," Massoud said in fluent English, tinged with a slight London accent from seven years in Britain. But comparisons to the mujahideen commander are inevitable, especially in a country where the baton of power often passes seamlessly from father to son, and where unifying political figures are vanishingly rare. Massoud, who returned to Afghanistan in 2016, also bears more than a passing resemblance to his dad, especially since growing a beard and donning the same sort of beige pakol, or Afghan woollen hat, that his father sported. The elder Massoud was assassinated aged 48, when his son was 12, two days before the seismic events of 9/11 that would forever shape Afghanistan's history and trigger the US-led invasion to hunt Osama bin Laden and topple his Taliban hosts. After his father's death, Massoud finished his schooling in Iran then moved to England to train as an officer at the country's Sandhurst military academy -- his second choice after failing to get into West Point in New York -- before completing two degrees in London. 'Nothing can protect you' As Massoud sees it, a planned US-Taliban deal fails to tackle the shortcomings of Afghanistan's political apparatus -- a vicious, winner-takes-all system where absolute power is always the goal -- and instead rewards an extremist movement for their tenacity. "Unless we go to a process which distributes power to everyone, which decentralises power in Afghanistan, we cannot solve any problems," he said. "It's going to give a sense of triumph and victory to the Taliban... That's the real fear, that we are legitimising, we are giving hope for the terrorist groups across the world". Massoud thinks the US has been too quick to grant concessions to the Taliban while excluding other Afghans in the peace talks, leaving the militants poised to expand their influence into any void left by departing American forces. "It is not an Afghan-led process," Massoud said. "It's something happening between America and the Taliban, between the regional powers and the Taliban. Where (are) the Afghans?" The US insists the deal with the Taliban is contingent on talks between the insurgents and the Afghan government, and that Afghanistan's issues will only be resolved through "intra-Afghan" dialogue. Massoud warned that a precipitous American troop pullout could lead to a collapse of Afghanistan's security forces, where corruption and poor leadership remain prevalent. Already, he is seeing various groups and militias in Panjshir and elsewhere re-arm and organise ahead of the US draw-down. "Unfortunately the government is not capable to continue fighting against the Taliban," Massoud said. As for any concern he may have for his own safety as he steps into Afghanistan's spotlight, Massoud, who has five sisters, is fatalistic. "Everything about your death has already been determined by God," he said with a smile. "When the time comes, nothing can protect you."

Afghanistan: Son of famed anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud steps into spotlight

The Taliban said on Wednesday they were close to an agreement with US officials on a deal that would see US forces withdraw from Afghanistan in exchange for a Taliban promise the country would not become a haven for international militants.

Negotiations over how to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan have been held in Qatar's capital, Doha, since late last year. The ninth round of talks began last week.

"We hope to have good news soon for our Muslim, independence-seeking nation," said Suhail Shaheen, a spokesman for the Taliban's political office in Doha.

US officials engaged in talks with the Taliban in Doha were not immediately available for comment.

Two sources with knowledge of the negotiations said the US special representative for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, who has been leading the talks, is scheduled to be in Kabul to brief President Ashraf Ghani about the agreement.

A senior security official in Kabul said the Taliban and US officials had agreed upon a timeline of about 14 to 24 months for the withdrawal of US forces.

Details would be shared with the Afghan government before they were made public, the official said.

The Taliban said on Wednesday they were close to an agreement with US officials on a deal that would see US forces withdraw from Afghanistan in exchange for a Taliban promise the country would not become a haven for international militants.

The Taliban said on Wednesday they were close to an agreement with US officials on a deal that would see US forces withdraw from Afghanistan in exchange for a Taliban promise the country would not become a haven for international militants. Negotiations over how to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan have been held in Qatar's capital, Doha, since late last year. The ninth round of talks began last week. "We hope to have good news soon for our Muslim, independence-seeking nation," said Suhail Shaheen, a spokesman for the Taliban's political office in Doha. US officials engaged in talks with the Taliban in Doha were not immediately available for comment. Two sources with knowledge of the negotiations said the US special representative for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, who has been leading the talks, is scheduled to be in Kabul to brief President Ashraf Ghani about the agreement. A senior security official in Kabul said the Taliban and US officials had agreed upon a timeline of about 14 to 24 months for the withdrawal of US forces. Details would be shared with the Afghan government before they were made public, the official said.

Taliban says near agreement on US withdrawal from Afghanistan

Taliban militants killed at least 14 members of a pro-government militia in Afghanistan on Wednesday, said officials, as Taliban and US&nbsp;officials near a deal aimed at ending the 18-year war.

Government officials said 14 members of the militia were killed and several civilians were wounded during clashes in the western province of Herat.

Abdul Ahad Walizada, a spokesman for Heart police, said the 14 men were killed in Rubat-e-Sangi district of Herat after a large number of Taliban fighters stormed security checkpoints in the Chahardara area.

"At least nine others are wounded in the clashes and the Taliban militants were pushed back after Afghan forces reinforced the area," said Walizada.

Taliban officials were not immediately available for comment.

US&nbsp;and Taliban officials are said to be nearing an agreement, after months of negotiations, under which the United States would start to withdraw troops from Afghanistan in exchange for Taliban pledges not to allow the country to harbour other Islamic extremist groups.

Taliban militants killed at least 14 members of a pro-government militia in Afghanistan on Wednesday, said officials, as Taliban and US officials near a deal aimed at ending the 18-year war.

Taliban militants killed at least 14 members of a pro-government militia in Afghanistan on Wednesday, said officials, as Taliban and US officials near a deal aimed at ending the 18-year war. Government officials said 14 members of the militia were killed and several civilians were wounded during clashes in the western province of Herat. Abdul Ahad Walizada, a spokesman for Heart police, said the 14 men were killed in Rubat-e-Sangi district of Herat after a large number of Taliban fighters stormed security checkpoints in the Chahardara area. "At least nine others are wounded in the clashes and the Taliban militants were pushed back after Afghan forces reinforced the area," said Walizada. Taliban officials were not immediately available for comment. US and Taliban officials are said to be nearing an agreement, after months of negotiations, under which the United States would start to withdraw troops from Afghanistan in exchange for Taliban pledges not to allow the country to harbour other Islamic extremist groups.

Taliban kills 14 pro-government militia in Afghanistan: Officials

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has admitted to the failure of his country's stance on Kashmir and its diplomacy, stated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-turns-into-nightmare-for-minorities-nadeem-nusrat-159052">Voice of Karachi (VoK) Chairman Nadeem Nusrat</a> on Monday.

"Imran Khan is not more than a puppet of Pakistan's military establishment who talks at the behest of his masters in GHQ (Pakistan Army Headquarter). Pakistani premier admits that Pakistan has been isolated at the international stage by saying that if some of the Muslim countries are not with us (Pakistan) today due to economic or other reasons, they will be with us in the future," Nusrat said in a press statement.

The Voice of Karachi Chairman further said that Kashmir has been at the forefront of Pakistan's foreign policy since its inception.

"The military establishment of Pakistan and its notorious intelligence agency ISI spent billions of rupees from the national exchequer to create militant organisations, Kashmir committees, and Kashmir Desks in their embassies in the name of Kashmir's freedom struggle. The failed domestic and foreign policies of Pakistan headed by the military establishment have turned the country into a chaos-like situation," he said.

Nusrat categorically rejected Imran Khan`s claim that it was his government's policy to have peaceful relations with other countries, including India and Afghanistan.

He said that the reality is that the terror outfits involved in deadly attacks in Afghanistan and India are enjoying impunity under the present government of Imran Khan.

&nbsp;"The sincerity of Pakistan to have peace with its neighbours can be measured with no change seen in using terror as a tool of its foreign policy and strategic depth in the region," he added.

The Mohajir leader outlined the plight of the minorities in Pakistan including the Mohajirs, Baloch, Pashtun and people of Gilgit Baltistan.

The VoK chairman added that Islamabad has been "violating the basic rights of its ethnic and religious minorities, the superior judiciary has become the tool of military establishment and violation of the constitution by Army generals is a normal routine in the country.

"There are over a hundred million Mohajirs, Balochs, Pashtuns and other ethnic entities who are facing near-genocide at the hands of Pakistani security forces whose majority hails from the country`s Punjab Province only," the statement said.

The VoK leader claimed that both Karachi and Mohajirs have been deprived of even the fundamental rights by successive civilian and military governments.

"Pakistan has also systematically disenfranchised Karachi's population through blatant gerrymandering and manipulation in census figures, leaving Karachi with negligible presence in the national and provincial legislatures," he said.

"Those who stand up to this inhuman treatment become the victim of unlawful arrests, brutal torture in custody, enforced disappearances, and even extrajudicial executions. Pakistan's Punjabi-dominated security forces have extrajudicially killed over 25,000 Mohajirs since 1992 in Karachi and other Mohajir-majority cities in Pakistan`s Sindh Province," the statement also said.

The horrific state of human rights in Pakistan's largest and most resourceful province, Balochistan, is another source of concern where ethnic Balochs have been demanding greater control over their province`s land and resources.

"The state authorities have responded to this demand by carrying out a brutal military operation that very often uses American-supplied F-16 jet fighters. As per accounts of some local Baloch human rights organizations, Pakistani security forces have killed tens of thousands of Balochs in the last few years, and even more, have become the victim of enforced disappearances," the statement said.

"Another sensitive geostrategic region in South Asia is Pakistan`s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province which shares around 1,500 miles-long border with Afghanistan. Since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Pakistani military establishment has turned the KP province into a haven for almost every extremist Islamist group in the world. Pakistani intelligence officials and religious clerics have recruited and trained hundreds of thousands of young Pashtuns from this impoverished region in the last few decades and shipped them to wage jihad in almost every part of the world. The Taliban was also conceived in a religious seminary in KP," the statement pointed out.

The KP Province has been facing a brutal military crackdown for years, which has left millions of people displaced, Nusrat added.

&nbsp;Those indigenous secular forces who have dared to stand up to Pakistan's Punjabi-dominated military are facing unlawful imprisonment, false charges, and enforced disappearances, he said.

The disputed territories of Gilgit and Baltistan are facing similar levels of persecution where the Pakistani military officials are trying to change the demography by turning the indigenous population into a minority.

Those standing up to this tyranny face enforced disappearances or unlawful imprisonment," the statement said.

"Siege and search operations, unlawful arrests, denial of the universal right of due process, curb on media, freedom of expression and association, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial executions are a routine in Karachi, Balochistan, KP, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Persistent denial of human rights in all these territories is brewing a profound sense of deprivation which could turn into a serious law and order crisis," the statement also read.

"The world must ask every Pakistani leader raising Kashmir issue: Is Pakistan willing to stop its state-sponsored terrorism against non-Punjabi ethnic groups and grant them greater autonomy? Until Pakistan treats its own religious and ethnic entities with dignity and rights they ethically and lawfully deserve, it has no moral ground to plead the Kashmir issue anywhere in the world," the VoK chairman reiterated.

The Mohajir leader further said that the world community must take serious notice of the continuous threats of nuclear war coming from Pakistan's civilian and military leadership.

The immature statements and warmongering would further escalate the tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

He said that both India and Pakistan should start the dialogue process without any delay to resolve all the outstanding issues between the two countries.

"Kashmir, however, is not the only burning issue in the region. Without resolving the longstanding grievances non-Punjabi ethnic groups are facing in Pakistan, peace, and stability will remain an elusive goal in South Asia," Nusrat said.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has admitted to the failure of his country's stance on Kashmir and its diplomacy, stated Voice of Karachi (VoK) Chairman Nadeem Nusrat on Monday.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has admitted to the failure of his country's stance on Kashmir and its diplomacy, stated Voice of Karachi (VoK) Chairman Nadeem Nusrat on Monday. "Imran Khan is not more than a puppet of Pakistan's military establishment who talks at the behest of his masters in GHQ (Pakistan Army Headquarter). Pakistani premier admits that Pakistan has been isolated at the international stage by saying that if some of the Muslim countries are not with us (Pakistan) today due to economic or other reasons, they will be with us in the future," Nusrat said in a press statement. The Voice of Karachi Chairman further said that Kashmir has been at the forefront of Pakistan's foreign policy since its inception. "The military establishment of Pakistan and its notorious intelligence agency ISI spent billions of rupees from the national exchequer to create militant organisations, Kashmir committees, and Kashmir Desks in their embassies in the name of Kashmir's freedom struggle. The failed domestic and foreign policies of Pakistan headed by the military establishment have turned the country into a chaos-like situation," he said. Nusrat categorically rejected Imran Khan`s claim that it was his government's policy to have peaceful relations with other countries, including India and Afghanistan. He said that the reality is that the terror outfits involved in deadly attacks in Afghanistan and India are enjoying impunity under the present government of Imran Khan. "The sincerity of Pakistan to have peace with its neighbours can be measured with no change seen in using terror as a tool of its foreign policy and strategic depth in the region," he added. The Mohajir leader outlined the plight of the minorities in Pakistan including the Mohajirs, Baloch, Pashtun and people of Gilgit Baltistan. The VoK chairman added that Islamabad has been "violating the basic rights of its ethnic and religious minorities, the superior judiciary has become the tool of military establishment and violation of the constitution by Army generals is a normal routine in the country. "There are over a hundred million Mohajirs, Balochs, Pashtuns and other ethnic entities who are facing near-genocide at the hands of Pakistani security forces whose majority hails from the country`s Punjab Province only," the statement said. The VoK leader claimed that both Karachi and Mohajirs have been deprived of even the fundamental rights by successive civilian and military governments. "Pakistan has also systematically disenfranchised Karachi's population through blatant gerrymandering and manipulation in census figures, leaving Karachi with negligible presence in the national and provincial legislatures," he said. "Those who stand up to this inhuman treatment become the victim of unlawful arrests, brutal torture in custody, enforced disappearances, and even extrajudicial executions. Pakistan's Punjabi-dominated security forces have extrajudicially killed over 25,000 Mohajirs since 1992 in Karachi and other Mohajir-majority cities in Pakistan`s Sindh Province," the statement also said. The horrific state of human rights in Pakistan's largest and most resourceful province, Balochistan, is another source of concern where ethnic Balochs have been demanding greater control over their province`s land and resources. "The state authorities have responded to this demand by carrying out a brutal military operation that very often uses American-supplied F-16 jet fighters. As per accounts of some local Baloch human rights organizations, Pakistani security forces have killed tens of thousands of Balochs in the last few years, and even more, have become the victim of enforced disappearances," the statement said. "Another sensitive geostrategic region in South Asia is Pakistan`s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province which shares around 1,500 miles-long border with Afghanistan. Since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Pakistani military establishment has turned the KP province into a haven for almost every extremist Islamist group in the world. Pakistani intelligence officials and religious clerics have recruited and trained hundreds of thousands of young Pashtuns from this impoverished region in the last few decades and shipped them to wage jihad in almost every part of the world. The Taliban was also conceived in a religious seminary in KP," the statement pointed out. The KP Province has been facing a brutal military crackdown for years, which has left millions of people displaced, Nusrat added. Those indigenous secular forces who have dared to stand up to Pakistan's Punjabi-dominated military are facing unlawful imprisonment, false charges, and enforced disappearances, he said. The disputed territories of Gilgit and Baltistan are facing similar levels of persecution where the Pakistani military officials are trying to change the demography by turning the indigenous population into a minority. Those standing up to this tyranny face enforced disappearances or unlawful imprisonment," the statement said. "Siege and search operations, unlawful arrests, denial of the universal right of due process, curb on media, freedom of expression and association, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial executions are a routine in Karachi, Balochistan, KP, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Persistent denial of human rights in all these territories is brewing a profound sense of deprivation which could turn into a serious law and order crisis," the statement also read. "The world must ask every Pakistani leader raising Kashmir issue: Is Pakistan willing to stop its state-sponsored terrorism against non-Punjabi ethnic groups and grant them greater autonomy? Until Pakistan treats its own religious and ethnic entities with dignity and rights they ethically and lawfully deserve, it has no moral ground to plead the Kashmir issue anywhere in the world," the VoK chairman reiterated. The Mohajir leader further said that the world community must take serious notice of the continuous threats of nuclear war coming from Pakistan's civilian and military leadership. The immature statements and warmongering would further escalate the tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. He said that both India and Pakistan should start the dialogue process without any delay to resolve all the outstanding issues between the two countries. "Kashmir, however, is not the only burning issue in the region. Without resolving the longstanding grievances non-Punjabi ethnic groups are facing in Pakistan, peace, and stability will remain an elusive goal in South Asia," Nusrat said.

Pakistan isolation on Kashmir a huge setback to its foreign policy: Nadeem Nusrat

&nbsp;Afghanistan has written to United Nation Security Council about Pakistan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-fired-over-200-missiles-on-afghanistans-kunar-province-in-last-3-days-244565">continues targetting and shelling </a>the country's province bordering its southern neighbour.

Pakistan on August 19 and 20 fired over 200 rockets into the shelter district of&nbsp;northeastern&nbsp;Kunar province bordering Afghanistan causing massive damage in that area and also resulting in the displacement of the local population.&nbsp;

The letter was written by Afghan envoy to United Nation Adela Raz to Poland Envoy to United Nations&nbsp;Joanna Wronecka&nbsp;on August 22.

The letter says, "Afghan government calls on the United Nation Security Council to take necessary measures and actions to bring about an end to the violations identified"

It further added, "Should be grateful if this letter of complaint on Pakistan's continued activities is circulated as an official document of the Security Council".

The violation of Afghan territory continued despite Kabul informing Pakistan through diplomatic channel to cease the provocative activities.&nbsp;

The development comes even as Islamabad using the support of its ally China tried to rake up Kashmir at UNSC earlier this month in the backdrop of New Delhi's internal decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

This is not the first time Afghans have written to the UN. In February this year, Afghanistan had complained to UNSC on Islamabad's engagement with the Taliban and its support to terror groups.&nbsp;Pakistan government had invited the Taliban for talks with Prime Minister Imran Khan, irking Kabul. After approaching the UNSC, the meeting was cancelled though interestingly the announcement came from the Taliban.

Afghanistan has written to United Nation Security Council about Pakistan's continues targetting and shelling the country's province bordering its southern neighbour.

Afghanistan has written to United Nation Security Council about Pakistan's continues targetting and shelling the country's province bordering its southern neighbour. Pakistan on August 19 and 20 fired over 200 rockets into the shelter district of northeastern Kunar province bordering Afghanistan causing massive damage in that area and also resulting in the displacement of the local population. The letter was written by Afghan envoy to United Nation Adela Raz to Poland Envoy to United Nations Joanna Wronecka on August 22. The letter says, "Afghan government calls on the United Nation Security Council to take necessary measures and actions to bring about an end to the violations identified" It further added, "Should be grateful if this letter of complaint on Pakistan's continued activities is circulated as an official document of the Security Council". The violation of Afghan territory continued despite Kabul informing Pakistan through diplomatic channel to cease the provocative activities. The development comes even as Islamabad using the support of its ally China tried to rake up Kashmir at UNSC earlier this month in the backdrop of New Delhi's internal decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. This is not the first time Afghans have written to the UN. In February this year, Afghanistan had complained to UNSC on Islamabad's engagement with the Taliban and its support to terror groups. Pakistan government had invited the Taliban for talks with Prime Minister Imran Khan, irking Kabul. After approaching the UNSC, the meeting was cancelled though interestingly the announcement came from the Taliban.

Afghanistan writes to UNSC on Pakistan shelling its border province; asks for action

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China on Tuesday slammed G7's statement on Hong Kong and said that it's&nbsp;purely internal affairs&nbsp;of China which can well handle it and the members of Group of Seven should not put their nose in with ulterior motives, reported news agency Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-trump-policies-deepen-farmers-pain-democrats-see-an-opening-in-rural-america-246005">As Trump policies deepen farmers' pain, Democrats see an opening in rural America</a>

Seizing on mounting Farm Belt frustration with&nbsp;President Donald&nbsp;Trump's economic agenda, Democratic rivals are stepping up their push to take back part of&nbsp;rural&nbsp;America, whose overwhelming support for&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;helped propel his upset 2016 election victory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-accuses-pakistan-of-military-violations-seeks-action-from-united-nations-246034">Kabul accuses Pakistan of military violations; seeks action from United Nations</a>

Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan,&nbsp;Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals.

Brazil President Bolsonaro open to G7 aid if Macron 'withdraws insults' Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro said Tuesday he was open to discussing G7 aid for fighting fires in the Amazon if his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron "withdraws insults" made against him, news agency AFP reported.

Brazil President Bolsonaro open to G7 aid if Macron 'withdraws insults' Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro said Tuesday he was open to discussing G7 aid for fighting fires in the Amazon if his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron "withdraws insults" made against him, news agency AFP reported. Pakistan increases military activity along LoC; deploys medium range artillery Days after India removed special status for Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), Pakistan after restoring to diplomatic means which failed, is trying to create tensions at the Line of Control(LoC). China slams G7's 'carping remarks' on Hong Kong's internal affairs China on Tuesday slammed G7's statement on Hong Kong and said that it's purely internal affairs of China which can well handle it and the members of Group of Seven should not put their nose in with ulterior motives, reported news agency Reuters. As Trump policies deepen farmers' pain, Democrats see an opening in rural America Seizing on mounting Farm Belt frustration with President Donald Trump's economic agenda, Democratic rivals are stepping up their push to take back part of rural America, whose overwhelming support for Trump helped propel his upset 2016 election victory. Kabul accuses Pakistan of military violations; seeks action from United Nations Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan, Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Afghanistan writes to UN on Pak violations. They said that Pakistan army has violated their airspace

Sidhant Sibal on violation of Afghanistan's airspace by Pakistan

Afghanistan on Tuesday accused Pakistan of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-fired-over-200-missiles-on-afghanistans-kunar-province-in-last-3-days-244565">yet another military violation</a>&nbsp;and sought United Nations' (UN) intervention.&nbsp;

Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan,&nbsp;Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals.

Kabul wrote to the UN&nbsp;Security Council citing the dates for the violations.

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Afghanistan wrote to United Nations Security Council (UNSC), over continuous shelling by Pakistan in various cities of Afghanistan near borders with Pakistan. Afghanistan urged UNSC to take necessary measures. <a href="https://t.co/rRF3QXcEOx">pic.twitter.com/rRF3QXcEOx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1166335028868993024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Afghanistan's provincial governor`s spokesman Abdul Ghani Musamim had earlier&nbsp;claimed that Pakistan had fired over 200 missiles on Afghanistan's Kunar province.

Musamim said that the missiles were fired over a period of three days.Tolo News quoted him as saying that the rocket attacks left four houses destroyed.

Quoting sources, the Afghan agency had reported that the shelling from across the border had been going on for the past few days and had even started spreading fear.&nbsp;

Afghanistan on Tuesday accused Pakistan of yet another military violation and sought United Nations' (UN) intervention. Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan, Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals.

Afghanistan on Tuesday accused Pakistan of yet another military violation and sought United Nations' (UN) intervention. Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan, Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals. Kabul wrote to the UN Security Council citing the dates for the violations. Afghanistan wrote to United Nations Security Council (UNSC), over continuous shelling by Pakistan in various cities of Afghanistan near borders with Pakistan. Afghanistan urged UNSC to take necessary measures. pic.twitter.com/rRF3QXcEOx — ANI (@ANI) August 27, 2019 × Afghanistan's provincial governor`s spokesman Abdul Ghani Musamim had earlier claimed that Pakistan had fired over 200 missiles on Afghanistan's Kunar province. Musamim said that the missiles were fired over a period of three days.Tolo News quoted him as saying that the rocket attacks left four houses destroyed. Quoting sources, the Afghan agency had reported that the shelling from across the border had been going on for the past few days and had even started spreading fear.

Kabul accuses Pakistan of military violations; seeks action from United Nations

Breaking News: Afghanistan writes to UN on Pak violations

US and Taliban representatives held negotiations in Doha on Sunday, an American source close to the process said, as potentially decisive talks to enable Washington to drawdown its military in Afghanistan stretched into the evening.&nbsp;

"Talks resumed late morning today," the US source said.

The third day of the two sides' ninth round of dialogue, which continued until after 1900 GMT an AFP correspondent said, was described as promising by a Taliban source.

The insurgent group had earlier said that it was finalising technical points of an agreement with Washington at the talks being held in a luxury members’ club in the Qatari capital Doha.

"The agreement will be completed after we agree on these points," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen told AFP on Saturday.

Any deal would be announced before the media as well as representatives from neighbouring countries and China, Russia, and the United Nations, he added.

The United States, which invaded Afghanistan and toppled the Taliban from power in 2001 after the September 11 attacks, wants to withdraw thousands of troops but only in return for the group renouncing Al-Qaeda and curbing attacks.

Washington is hoping to strike an agreement with the Taliban by September 1 -- ahead of Afghan polls due the same month, and US presidential polls next year.

The Doha talks are being held against a backdrop of persistent violence in Afghanistan.

The Taliban claimed on Saturday to have killed seven members of the US military in an attack on a convoy near Bagram airfield north of Kabul. American officials dismissed the claims as “lies”.

On Wednesday, two US soldiers were killed by small arms fire in Faryab province in northern Afghanistan, the Pentagon said.

Shaheen, the Taliban spokesman, had said the deaths should have a "positive" impact on the talks in Doha.

US and Taliban representatives held negotiations in Doha on Sunday, an American source close to the process said, as potentially decisive talks to enable Washington to drawdown its military in Afghanistan stretched into the evening.

US and Taliban representatives held negotiations in Doha on Sunday, an American source close to the process said, as potentially decisive talks to enable Washington to drawdown its military in Afghanistan stretched into the evening. "Talks resumed late morning today," the US source said. The third day of the two sides' ninth round of dialogue, which continued until after 1900 GMT an AFP correspondent said, was described as promising by a Taliban source. The insurgent group had earlier said that it was finalising technical points of an agreement with Washington at the talks being held in a luxury members’ club in the Qatari capital Doha. "The agreement will be completed after we agree on these points," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen told AFP on Saturday. Any deal would be announced before the media as well as representatives from neighbouring countries and China, Russia, and the United Nations, he added. The United States, which invaded Afghanistan and toppled the Taliban from power in 2001 after the September 11 attacks, wants to withdraw thousands of troops but only in return for the group renouncing Al-Qaeda and curbing attacks. Washington is hoping to strike an agreement with the Taliban by September 1 -- ahead of Afghan polls due the same month, and US presidential polls next year. The Doha talks are being held against a backdrop of persistent violence in Afghanistan. The Taliban claimed on Saturday to have killed seven members of the US military in an attack on a convoy near Bagram airfield north of Kabul. American officials dismissed the claims as “lies”. On Wednesday, two US soldiers were killed by small arms fire in Faryab province in northern Afghanistan, the Pentagon said. Shaheen, the Taliban spokesman, had said the deaths should have a "positive" impact on the talks in Doha.

US, Taliban push for peace at Doha talks

U.S. President Donald Trump named India as one of the countries that ought to be fighting the Islamic State (IS) in Afghanistan. He also appeared to suggest that Russia, Iran, Turkey, Afghanistan and Pakistan were countries that should be fighting the IS in Afghanistan.

Trump slams India, says 'India not doing enough in Afghanistan'

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that other countries must assume the battle against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/any-role-for-pakistan-backed-extremists-in-afghanistan-is-bad-news-for-south-asia-244288">Islamic extremists</a> as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-vows-to-eliminate-islamic-state-says-will-take-revenge-for-our-people-244235">US negotiates</a> a withdrawal from Afghanistan.

He also warned Europeans to take back nationals captured fighting for the Islamic State, or he will release them back to their countries.

Asked by journalists if he is concerned about the reemergence of the Islamic State group in Iraq, Trump said forces under his lead had wiped out the extremists' caliphate.

Watch: Other countries need to take up fight against Islamic State militants, says Trump

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&nbsp;

"At a certain point Russia, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, they are going to have to fight their battles too."

"We wiped out the caliphate 100 per cent. I did it in record time. But at a certain point, all of these other countries, where ISIS is around ... are going to have to fight them. Because do we want to stay there another 19 years? I don't think so."

He singled out India and Pakistan as frontline countries that are doing little to fight jihadist groups.

"Look, India's right there, they are not fighting it, we're fighting it. Pakistan is next door. They're fighting it, very little.... it's not fair. The United States is seven thousand miles away," he told reporters.

The Trump administration has reduced the US military presence in Syria and Iraq and is negotiating a US withdrawal from Afghanistan with the Taliban insurgents.

But defence experts warn that a vacuum left by the United States could allow an extremist resurgence.

A recent Pentagon report said that the Islamic State is reforming and launching attacks after losing their hold on physical territory in Iraq and Syria.

Trump, meanwhile, assailed France and Germany for not repatriating citizens who had fought with the Islamic State and are now being held in camps in Syria.

"We're holding thousands of ISIS fighters right now. And Europe has to take them," he said.

"If Europe doesn't take them, I'll have no choice but to release them into the countries from which they came. Which is Germany and France and other places."&nbsp;

"We captured them, we've got thousands of them, and now, as usual, our allies don't want 'em," he said.

"The United States is not going to put them in Guantanamo for the next 50 years and pay for it."

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that other countries must assume the battle against Islamic extremists as the US negotiates a withdrawal from Afghanistan.

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that other countries must assume the battle against Islamic extremists as the US negotiates a withdrawal from Afghanistan. He also warned Europeans to take back nationals captured fighting for the Islamic State, or he will release them back to their countries. Asked by journalists if he is concerned about the reemergence of the Islamic State group in Iraq, Trump said forces under his lead had wiped out the extremists' caliphate. Watch: Other countries need to take up fight against Islamic State militants, says Trump × "At a certain point Russia, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, they are going to have to fight their battles too." "We wiped out the caliphate 100 per cent. I did it in record time. But at a certain point, all of these other countries, where ISIS is around ... are going to have to fight them. Because do we want to stay there another 19 years? I don't think so." He singled out India and Pakistan as frontline countries that are doing little to fight jihadist groups. "Look, India's right there, they are not fighting it, we're fighting it. Pakistan is next door. They're fighting it, very little.... it's not fair. The United States is seven thousand miles away," he told reporters. The Trump administration has reduced the US military presence in Syria and Iraq and is negotiating a US withdrawal from Afghanistan with the Taliban insurgents. But defence experts warn that a vacuum left by the United States could allow an extremist resurgence. A recent Pentagon report said that the Islamic State is reforming and launching attacks after losing their hold on physical territory in Iraq and Syria. Trump, meanwhile, assailed France and Germany for not repatriating citizens who had fought with the Islamic State and are now being held in camps in Syria. "We're holding thousands of ISIS fighters right now. And Europe has to take them," he said. "If Europe doesn't take them, I'll have no choice but to release them into the countries from which they came. Which is Germany and France and other places." "We captured them, we've got thousands of them, and now, as usual, our allies don't want 'em," he said. "The United States is not going to put them in Guantanamo for the next 50 years and pay for it."

India should take a larger role in fighting terrorism in Afghanistan: Donald Trump

Taliban's head spokesman Sohail Shaheen, in an interview with a US news channel, said there is no proof that Al Qaeda was behind the deadly 9/11 attack in the United States.

Shaheen comments came at the time when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-president-donald-trump-hails-very-good-discussions-with-the-taliban-243958">US-Taliban talks</a> are underway in Qatar.&nbsp;

Shaheen also stressed on the necessity for the war to end, adding that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-us-service-members-killed-in-afghanistan-nato-244690">death of two US service members in Afghanistan</a> highlights the fact that stopping of violence is essential.&nbsp;

Two American service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, the NATO-led Resolute Support mission said in a statement, as the United States seeks to reach a negotiated end to the nearly 18-year-old war.

The incident brings the number of US troops killed in Afghanistan to at least 14 in 2019.

About 14,000 US troops are stationed in Afghanistan as part of the US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces and to carry out counter-terrorism operations.

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the US military role in Afghanistan has basically turned into a "ridiculous" police force in a sign that he is open to a US troop drawdown there after 18 years of war.

Trump, inheriting a war begun by then-President George W. Bush in response to the September&nbsp;11, 2001 attacks, expressed a willingness to remove some of the US troops there but said some are needed to make sure the United States has intelligence assets on the ground.

Trump was briefed on Friday by top national security aides on a peace plan being negotiated by US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad with leaders of the Afghanistan government and the&nbsp;Taliban.

A pullout has raised fears within the US military and among some lawmakers that Afghanistan could plunge into a new civil war that could see a return of&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;rule and give al Qaeda and other militants a sanctuary in which to expand and plot new attacks on US and allied targets.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> US President Donald Trump yesterday on militant groups in Afghanistan: India is right there, they are not fighting it. We are fighting it. Pakistan is right next door, they are fighting it very little, very very little. It's not fair. <a href="https://t.co/syuYN37i6W">pic.twitter.com/syuYN37i6W</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1164537341735854081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The US President on Wednesday looked frustrated as he spoke about militant groups in Afghanistan. He said, while the United States is doing the fighting, Afghanistan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-should-take-a-larger-role-in-fighting-terrorism-in-afghanistan-donald-trump-244724">neighbours are doing very little</a>.

"India is right there, they are not fighting it. We are fighting it. Pakistan is right next door, they are fighting it very little, very very little. It's not fair," Trump said.&nbsp;

Taliban's head spokesman Sohail Shaheen, in an interview with a US news channel, said there is no proof that Al Qaeda was behind the deadly 9/11 attack in the United States.

Taliban's head spokesman Sohail Shaheen, in an interview with a US news channel, said there is no proof that Al Qaeda was behind the deadly 9/11 attack in the United States. Shaheen comments came at the time when US-Taliban talks are underway in Qatar. Shaheen also stressed on the necessity for the war to end, adding that the death of two US service members in Afghanistan highlights the fact that stopping of violence is essential. Two American service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, the NATO-led Resolute Support mission said in a statement, as the United States seeks to reach a negotiated end to the nearly 18-year-old war. The incident brings the number of US troops killed in Afghanistan to at least 14 in 2019. About 14,000 US troops are stationed in Afghanistan as part of the US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces and to carry out counter-terrorism operations. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the US military role in Afghanistan has basically turned into a "ridiculous" police force in a sign that he is open to a US troop drawdown there after 18 years of war. Trump, inheriting a war begun by then-President George W. Bush in response to the September 11, 2001 attacks, expressed a willingness to remove some of the US troops there but said some are needed to make sure the United States has intelligence assets on the ground. Trump was briefed on Friday by top national security aides on a peace plan being negotiated by US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad with leaders of the Afghanistan government and the Taliban. A pullout has raised fears within the US military and among some lawmakers that Afghanistan could plunge into a new civil war that could see a return of Taliban rule and give al Qaeda and other militants a sanctuary in which to expand and plot new attacks on US and allied targets. #WATCH US President Donald Trump yesterday on militant groups in Afghanistan: India is right there, they are not fighting it. We are fighting it. Pakistan is right next door, they are fighting it very little, very very little. It's not fair. pic.twitter.com/syuYN37i6W — ANI (@ANI) August 22, 2019 × The US President on Wednesday looked frustrated as he spoke about militant groups in Afghanistan. He said, while the United States is doing the fighting, Afghanistan's neighbours are doing very little. "India is right there, they are not fighting it. We are fighting it. Pakistan is right next door, they are fighting it very little, very very little. It's not fair," Trump said.

Taliban's head spokesman says no proof Al Qaeda was behind 9/11 attack

"At a certain point Russia, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, they're going to have to fight their battles," Trump told reporters at the White House, later saying India should also get involved. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Donald Trump slams India over Afghanistan

Two American service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, the NATO press office said without elaborating.

The names of the US&nbsp;service members killed in action were being withheld until after their relatives were notified, in accordance with Pentagon policy, it said.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the US&nbsp;military role in Afghanistan has basically turned into a "ridiculous" police force in a sign that he is open to a US&nbsp;troop drawdown there after 18 years of war.

Trump was briefed on Friday by top national security aides on a peace plan being negotiated by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-negotiator-zalmay-khalilzad-returning-to-doha-for-more-talks-244510">US&nbsp;envoy Zalmay Khalilzad</a> with leaders of the Afghanistan government and the Taliban.

"We're having good discussions. We'll see what happens. It's 18 years. We're not really fighting. We're almost a police force over there. We're not supposed to be a police force," he said.

Some 14,000 US&nbsp;troops remain engaged in America’s longest war, training and advising Afghan security forces and conducting counterinsurgency operations against militant groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State’s local affiliate.

A pullout has raised fears within the US&nbsp;military and among some lawmakers that Afghanistan could plunge into a new civil war that could see a return of Taliban rule and give al Qaeda and other militants a sanctuary in which to expand and plot new attacks on US&nbsp;and allied targets.

Khalilzad was travelling on Tuesday to resume talks with the Taliban in Doha, Qatar, "as part of an overall effort to facilitate a peace process that ends the conflict in Afghanistan," the State Department said in a statement.&nbsp;

Khalilzad will consult with leaders of the Afghan government in Kabul and encourage negotiations between the two sides, it said.

Two American service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, the NATO press office said without elaborating. The names of the US service members killed in action were being withheld until after their relatives were notified, in accordance with Pentagon policy, it said.

Two American service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, the NATO press office said without elaborating. The names of the US service members killed in action were being withheld until after their relatives were notified, in accordance with Pentagon policy, it said. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the US military role in Afghanistan has basically turned into a "ridiculous" police force in a sign that he is open to a US troop drawdown there after 18 years of war. Trump was briefed on Friday by top national security aides on a peace plan being negotiated by US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad with leaders of the Afghanistan government and the Taliban. "We're having good discussions. We'll see what happens. It's 18 years. We're not really fighting. We're almost a police force over there. We're not supposed to be a police force," he said. Some 14,000 US troops remain engaged in America’s longest war, training and advising Afghan security forces and conducting counterinsurgency operations against militant groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State’s local affiliate. A pullout has raised fears within the US military and among some lawmakers that Afghanistan could plunge into a new civil war that could see a return of Taliban rule and give al Qaeda and other militants a sanctuary in which to expand and plot new attacks on US and allied targets. Khalilzad was travelling on Tuesday to resume talks with the Taliban in Doha, Qatar, "as part of an overall effort to facilitate a peace process that ends the conflict in Afghanistan," the State Department said in a statement. Khalilzad will consult with leaders of the Afghan government in Kabul and encourage negotiations between the two sides, it said.

Two US service members killed in Afghanistan: NATO

Pakistan has fired over 200 missiles on Afghanistan`s Kunar province in the last three days, the provincial governor`s spokesman Abdul Ghani Musamim said on Tuesday (local time).

Tolo News quoted Musamim as saying that the rocket attacks left four houses destroyed.

However, no details about casualties have been reported.

The firing has been reportedly carried out to target the suspected hideouts of jihadi militant groups including Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Pajhwok Afghan News reported.

Quoting sources, the Afghan agency reported that the shelling from across the border has been going on for the past few days and has even started spreading fear.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Pakistan has fired over 200 missiles on Afghanistan`s Kunar province in the last three days, the provincial governor`s spokesman Abdul Ghani Musamim said on Tuesday (local time).

Pakistan has fired over 200 missiles on Afghanistan`s Kunar province in the last three days, the provincial governor`s spokesman Abdul Ghani Musamim said on Tuesday (local time). Tolo News quoted Musamim as saying that the rocket attacks left four houses destroyed. However, no details about casualties have been reported. The firing has been reportedly carried out to target the suspected hideouts of jihadi militant groups including Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Pajhwok Afghan News reported. Quoting sources, the Afghan agency reported that the shelling from across the border has been going on for the past few days and has even started spreading fear.

Pakistan fired over 200 missiles on Afghanistan's Kunar province in last 3 days

US President Donald Trump expressed optimism at the state of talks as the Taliban and the United States try to negotiate an agreement on the withdrawal of US forces in exchange for a Taliban commitment on security and peace talks with Afghanistan's US-backed government. Watch this video to know more.

Donald Trump says 'very good discussions' with Taliban and  Afghan govt

The death toll from a suicide bomb attack on a wedding reception in Afghanistan`s capital, Kabul, has risen to 80, two senior officials said on Wednesday.

The initial death toll after the Saturday night blast was 63, but some of the wounded had died, said Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman at the interior ministry.

"Seventeen others have succumbed to their injuries in hospital and over 160 are still being treated either in hospitals or at home," Rahimi said.

Among the 160 people wounded at the wedding blast, many are in critical condition, some not well enough to undergo surgery, said a second senior interior ministry official.

The Islamic State (IS) militant group claimed responsibility for the attack.

Mirwais Elmi Mohammadi, the 26-year-old groom whose wedding party was attacked, said he was in a complete state of disbelief and had no mental strength to attend the funerals of his relatives and friends.

"To see family members die, or get injured at my wedding is a very heavy burden of grief and regret," Mohammadi told Reuters.

Many Afghans have cancelled or scaled back plans for weddings and other festivities in recent days and are demanding that the government tightens security to protect society.

At least 3,812 civilians were killed or wounded in the first half of 2019 in the war against militant groups, including a big increase in the number of casualties caused by government and foreign forces, the United Nations said in July.

Police said more than 25 weddings had been postponed in Kabul after the latest suicide attack renewed fears about the threat posed by IS at a time when the United States and the Taliban appear to be nearing a deal on a US&nbsp;troop withdrawal.

"We pay taxes to the government and it is the responsibility of the government to provide us with high security. We have the right to be protected," said Mohammad Nader Qarghaie, head of the union of wedding halls.&nbsp;

The union, which has more than 100 wedding halls and large banquet rooms as members.

A frustrated Mohammad Ashraf, who owns a food catering business in Kabul, said civilians had to be protected.

"Afghans are being used as pawns by all foreign countries and militant groups to prove their strength," Ashraf said.

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump said the US&nbsp;military role in Afghanistan has basically turned into a "ridiculous" police force in a sign that he was open to a US&nbsp;troop drawdown after a deal with the Taliban.

US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, who has been leading talks with the Taliban, is expected in Qatar on Wednesday to resume meetings with Taliban negotiators.

He is later due to travel to Kabul to meet Afghan leaders.

The death toll from a suicide bomb attack on a wedding reception in Afghanistan`s capital, Kabul, has risen to 80, two senior officials said on Wednesday. The initial death toll after the Saturday night blast was 63, but some of the wounded had died, said Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman at the interior ministry.

The death toll from a suicide bomb attack on a wedding reception in Afghanistan`s capital, Kabul, has risen to 80, two senior officials said on Wednesday. The initial death toll after the Saturday night blast was 63, but some of the wounded had died, said Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman at the interior ministry. "Seventeen others have succumbed to their injuries in hospital and over 160 are still being treated either in hospitals or at home," Rahimi said. Among the 160 people wounded at the wedding blast, many are in critical condition, some not well enough to undergo surgery, said a second senior interior ministry official. The Islamic State (IS) militant group claimed responsibility for the attack. Mirwais Elmi Mohammadi, the 26-year-old groom whose wedding party was attacked, said he was in a complete state of disbelief and had no mental strength to attend the funerals of his relatives and friends. "To see family members die, or get injured at my wedding is a very heavy burden of grief and regret," Mohammadi told Reuters. Many Afghans have cancelled or scaled back plans for weddings and other festivities in recent days and are demanding that the government tightens security to protect society. At least 3,812 civilians were killed or wounded in the first half of 2019 in the war against militant groups, including a big increase in the number of casualties caused by government and foreign forces, the United Nations said in July. Police said more than 25 weddings had been postponed in Kabul after the latest suicide attack renewed fears about the threat posed by IS at a time when the United States and the Taliban appear to be nearing a deal on a US troop withdrawal. "We pay taxes to the government and it is the responsibility of the government to provide us with high security. We have the right to be protected," said Mohammad Nader Qarghaie, head of the union of wedding halls. The union, which has more than 100 wedding halls and large banquet rooms as members. A frustrated Mohammad Ashraf, who owns a food catering business in Kabul, said civilians had to be protected. "Afghans are being used as pawns by all foreign countries and militant groups to prove their strength," Ashraf said. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump said the US military role in Afghanistan has basically turned into a "ridiculous" police force in a sign that he was open to a US troop drawdown after a deal with the Taliban. US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, who has been leading talks with the Taliban, is expected in Qatar on Wednesday to resume meetings with Taliban negotiators. He is later due to travel to Kabul to meet Afghan leaders.

Death toll from Afghan wedding blast rises to 80: Officials

The death toll in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-at-least-66-injured-after-serial-blasts-hit-jalalabad-on-independence-day-244102">multiple bomb blasts in Afghanistan's Jalalabad</a> has risen to 123, officials said on Tuesday.

A series of bombings struck restaurants and public squares on Monday in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad as the country marked the 100th anniversary of its independence.&nbsp;

So far no group has claimed the responsibility for the 14 bombs which struck the city.

President Ashraf Ghani on Monday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-vows-to-eliminate-islamic-state-says-will-take-revenge-for-our-people-244235">vowed to eliminate Islamic State</a> from the country and said that he "will take revenge" for his people.

Ghani made the statement while addressing the nation on its 100th Independence Day.

The latest incident comes a day after 63 people were killed and nearly 200 were wounded in a suicide attack on a wedding in Kabul city.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/series-of-blasts-in-eastern-afghanistan-244291/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Jalalabad is the scene of frequent bomb attacks, and the surrounding terrain is home to both Taliban fighters and the Islamic State group's local affiliate.

Mayhem from Afghanistan's war continues to wreak havoc on Afghans every day, even though the US and the Taliban are in final negotiations for a deal that would see US troops begin to quit Afghanistan and could potentially lead to a reduction in violence.&nbsp;

The death toll in multiple bomb blasts in Afghanistan's Jalalabad has risen to 123, officials said on Tuesday. A series of bombings struck restaurants and public squares on Monday in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad as the country marked the 100th anniversary of its independence.

The death toll in multiple bomb blasts in Afghanistan's Jalalabad has risen to 123, officials said on Tuesday. A series of bombings struck restaurants and public squares on Monday in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad as the country marked the 100th anniversary of its independence. So far no group has claimed the responsibility for the 14 bombs which struck the city. President Ashraf Ghani on Monday vowed to eliminate Islamic State from the country and said that he "will take revenge" for his people. Ghani made the statement while addressing the nation on its 100th Independence Day. The latest incident comes a day after 63 people were killed and nearly 200 were wounded in a suicide attack on a wedding in Kabul city. Jalalabad is the scene of frequent bomb attacks, and the surrounding terrain is home to both Taliban fighters and the Islamic State group's local affiliate. Mayhem from Afghanistan's war continues to wreak havoc on Afghans every day, even though the US and the Taliban are in final negotiations for a deal that would see US troops begin to quit Afghanistan and could potentially lead to a reduction in violence.

Death toll reaches 123 in multiple bomb blasts in Afghanistan's Jalalabad

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad has almost stuck a peace deal with the Taliban during the recently-concluded Eighth Round of talks at Doha.&nbsp;

Although violence by Taliban has not come down, the US displaying extraordinary zeal to end its 18-year-old military engagement in Afghanistan is bending over backwards to reach a face-saving deal when the country goes to elections next year. &nbsp;

Afghanistan has turned out to be the longest overseas operations of the US military and has cost it over 2,400 lives and nearly $1 trillion. As a result, war-weariness and fatigue have set in.

President Donald Trump is, therefore, banking on Islamabad to get the Taliban to the negotiating table, which explains Ambassador Khalilzad’s stopover at Islamabad en route to Doha. The deal apparently entails time-bound withdrawal by the US troops in return for an assurance by the Taliban that they will not allow the territory under their control to turn into a sanctuary for international terrorism.&nbsp;

According to reports trickling out, there is some disagreement between the US and the Taliban over the time frame of the withdrawal of 14,000 US troops from Afghanistan. However, Khalilzad appeared optimistic about the deal, which would serve Trump’s objective of getting US troops home, while allowing the Taliban to proclaim victory for ‘having driven out’ foreign troops from Afghan territory.

After the deal is finalised, it is expected to be followed by intra-Afghan negotiations in Norway. These negotiations are going to be a tough nut to crack, as the Taliban has consistently refused to accord any legitimacy to the Afghan government led by President Ashraf Ghani. &nbsp;

Although Khalilzad’s expected presence at these negotiations may ensure some forward movement, it is unlikely that lasting peace will come to Afghanistan. The whole process of negotiations with the Taliban has weakened the position of President Ghani and his government.&nbsp;

In a tribal society, negotiations are usually between equals, and the US, by negotiating with the Taliban without the presence of Afghan government, has not only given a veneer of respectability to Taliban, it has also raised their stature and simultaneously undermined the authority of the Afghan government. &nbsp;

This has demoralised the Afghan National Army, which has been the main bulwark against the Taliban. One needs to appreciate that the power change in Afghanistan has come about because the established authority has been militarily defeated due to the defection of its key military commanders.&nbsp;

In view of this precedent, it becomes even more important that anything that demoralises the military should be avoided. In any case, Taliban’s presence in the government means imposition of its own rigid obscurantist ideology on the Afghan populace.&nbsp;

Religious and sectarian minorities as well as women are accordingly concerned about their future under any regime that has Taliban as a component. Consequently, those with avenues have started making alternate plans.&nbsp;

The US decision to talk to Taliban has also transformed Pakistan’s fortunes. As most of the Taliban leadership is located on Pakistani soil and Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the chief negotiator of Taliban at Doha, was in Pakistan’s custody for almost nine years, Islamabad is trying to occupy the centre stage again, which is quite evident from its belligerent rhetoric on Kashmir.&nbsp;

 
During Imran Khan’s recent visit to the United States, not only did Trump agree to the reinstatement of economic assistance and quadrupling of trade, he even volunteered to mediate on Kashmir. All this benevolence on Pakistan was showered primarily because the US had changed its stance on Afghanistan and the Pakistan Army, which has sheltered Taliban leadership for close to two decades, could well ensure a deal with the Taliban, and before Trump’s re-election. &nbsp;&nbsp;

US interlocutors, as well as most western analysts, mistakenly believe that it is feasible to isolate Al Qaeda, while cuddling up to Taliban. They often overlook the theological dimensions of relationship between Taliban and Al Qaeda.&nbsp;

Theologically, jihad mandates that it should be waged under a righteous leader and those waging it must control some fort, city or territory. Consequently, the Al Qaeda has never talked of jihad under the leadership of Osama bin Laden or Ayman al Zawahiri. They have always declared that they are waging a jihad under Amir ul Muminin (Commander of the Faithful), who was earlier Mullah Omar and is now Maulavi Hibatullah Akhundzada, the leader of Taliban.&nbsp;

Consequently, if there were to be prolonged peace between the Taliban and the West, then Al Qaeda’s jihad would lose theological legitimacy. So, as long as Al Qaeda survives, it will not allow sustained peace between the US and Taliban. While a peace deal may provide President Trump a fig leaf to pull out from Afghanistan, in the long run, it will turn out to be extremely counter-productive. &nbsp;

Any Taliban regime in the future is likely to be far more closely aligned with global jihadi movements and their aims and objectives are no longer going to be confined within the geographical frontiers of Afghanistan. It will start exporting its ideology to the neighbourhood, promoting radical outfits in different parts of South and Central Asia. This could pose a serious challenge to India. It is in India’s interest to crush Taliban in Afghanistan rather than deal with them at Wagah or Srinagar.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-taliban-s-seat-at-the-table-2783216">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad has almost stuck a peace deal with the Taliban during the recently-concluded Eighth Round of talks at Doha. Although violence by Taliban has not come down, the US displaying extraordinary zeal to end its 18-year-old military engagement in Afghanistan is bending over backwards to reach a face-saving deal when the country goes to elections next year.

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad has almost stuck a peace deal with the Taliban during the recently-concluded Eighth Round of talks at Doha. Although violence by Taliban has not come down, the US displaying extraordinary zeal to end its 18-year-old military engagement in Afghanistan is bending over backwards to reach a face-saving deal when the country goes to elections next year. Afghanistan has turned out to be the longest overseas operations of the US military and has cost it over 2,400 lives and nearly $1 trillion. As a result, war-weariness and fatigue have set in. President Donald Trump is, therefore, banking on Islamabad to get the Taliban to the negotiating table, which explains Ambassador Khalilzad’s stopover at Islamabad en route to Doha. The deal apparently entails time-bound withdrawal by the US troops in return for an assurance by the Taliban that they will not allow the territory under their control to turn into a sanctuary for international terrorism. According to reports trickling out, there is some disagreement between the US and the Taliban over the time frame of the withdrawal of 14,000 US troops from Afghanistan. However, Khalilzad appeared optimistic about the deal, which would serve Trump’s objective of getting US troops home, while allowing the Taliban to proclaim victory for ‘having driven out’ foreign troops from Afghan territory. After the deal is finalised, it is expected to be followed by intra-Afghan negotiations in Norway. These negotiations are going to be a tough nut to crack, as the Taliban has consistently refused to accord any legitimacy to the Afghan government led by President Ashraf Ghani. Although Khalilzad’s expected presence at these negotiations may ensure some forward movement, it is unlikely that lasting peace will come to Afghanistan. The whole process of negotiations with the Taliban has weakened the position of President Ghani and his government. In a tribal society, negotiations are usually between equals, and the US, by negotiating with the Taliban without the presence of Afghan government, has not only given a veneer of respectability to Taliban, it has also raised their stature and simultaneously undermined the authority of the Afghan government. This has demoralised the Afghan National Army, which has been the main bulwark against the Taliban. One needs to appreciate that the power change in Afghanistan has come about because the established authority has been militarily defeated due to the defection of its key military commanders. In view of this precedent, it becomes even more important that anything that demoralises the military should be avoided. In any case, Taliban’s presence in the government means imposition of its own rigid obscurantist ideology on the Afghan populace. Religious and sectarian minorities as well as women are accordingly concerned about their future under any regime that has Taliban as a component. Consequently, those with avenues have started making alternate plans. The US decision to talk to Taliban has also transformed Pakistan’s fortunes. As most of the Taliban leadership is located on Pakistani soil and Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the chief negotiator of Taliban at Doha, was in Pakistan’s custody for almost nine years, Islamabad is trying to occupy the centre stage again, which is quite evident from its belligerent rhetoric on Kashmir. During Imran Khan’s recent visit to the United States, not only did Trump agree to the reinstatement of economic assistance and quadrupling of trade, he even volunteered to mediate on Kashmir. All this benevolence on Pakistan was showered primarily because the US had changed its stance on Afghanistan and the Pakistan Army, which has sheltered Taliban leadership for close to two decades, could well ensure a deal with the Taliban, and before Trump’s re-election. US interlocutors, as well as most western analysts, mistakenly believe that it is feasible to isolate Al Qaeda, while cuddling up to Taliban. They often overlook the theological dimensions of relationship between Taliban and Al Qaeda. Theologically, jihad mandates that it should be waged under a righteous leader and those waging it must control some fort, city or territory. Consequently, the Al Qaeda has never talked of jihad under the leadership of Osama bin Laden or Ayman al Zawahiri. They have always declared that they are waging a jihad under Amir ul Muminin (Commander of the Faithful), who was earlier Mullah Omar and is now Maulavi Hibatullah Akhundzada, the leader of Taliban. Consequently, if there were to be prolonged peace between the Taliban and the West, then Al Qaeda’s jihad would lose theological legitimacy. So, as long as Al Qaeda survives, it will not allow sustained peace between the US and Taliban. While a peace deal may provide President Trump a fig leaf to pull out from Afghanistan, in the long run, it will turn out to be extremely counter-productive. Any Taliban regime in the future is likely to be far more closely aligned with global jihadi movements and their aims and objectives are no longer going to be confined within the geographical frontiers of Afghanistan. It will start exporting its ideology to the neighbourhood, promoting radical outfits in different parts of South and Central Asia. This could pose a serious challenge to India. It is in India’s interest to crush Taliban in Afghanistan rather than deal with them at Wagah or Srinagar. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Any role for Pakistan-backed extremists in Afghanistan is bad news for South Asia

Afghanistan is in the grip of violence again. Two brutal attacks have been taken place in two days. Watch this video to know more.

Series of blasts in Eastern Afghanistan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-states-announces-humanitarian-aid-to-afghanistan-worth-125-million-244429">United States announces humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million</a> 
 
The funding will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bus-hijacker-shot-by-police-passengers-unhurt-244455">Brazil bus hijacker shot by police; passengers unhurt</a> 
 
At least 16 people were trapped on the bus after it was commandeered by the gunman on a heavily transited bridge connecting Rio with the neighbouring city of Niteroi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-cries-foul-over-facebook-the-twitter-block-of-fake-accounts-244383">China cries foul after Facebook, Twitter block fake accounts linked to Hong Kong protests</a> 
 
Twitter Inc said on Monday it suspended 936 accounts and the operations appeared to be a coordinated state-backed effort originating in China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-says-us-missile-test-to-result-in-arms-race-to-jeopardize-global-security-244367">US missile test will result in arms race, seriously damage international security , warns China</a> 
 
On August 2, the Russian-US Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), which banned ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (310 to 3,417 miles), was terminated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-delhi-high-court-dismisses-p-chidambarams-bail-pleas-244365">No protection from arrest for P Chidambaram as Delhi High Court dismisses bail pleas</a>

The pleas have been opposed by both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED).&nbsp;

United States announces humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million The funding will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year.

United States announces humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million The funding will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year. Brazil bus hijacker shot by police; passengers unhurt At least 16 people were trapped on the bus after it was commandeered by the gunman on a heavily transited bridge connecting Rio with the neighbouring city of Niteroi. China cries foul after Facebook, Twitter block fake accounts linked to Hong Kong protests Twitter Inc said on Monday it suspended 936 accounts and the operations appeared to be a coordinated state-backed effort originating in China. US missile test will result in arms race, seriously damage international security , warns China On August 2, the Russian-US Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), which banned ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (310 to 3,417 miles), was terminated. No protection from arrest for P Chidambaram as Delhi High Court dismisses bail pleas The pleas have been opposed by both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The United States on Tuesday announced additional humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million, US Embassy in Afghanistan said in a statement.&nbsp;

This will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
NEW: <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbassyKabul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USEmbassyKabul</a> announces $125 million in <a href="https://twitter.com/USAID?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAID</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/USAIDFFP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAIDFFP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StatePRM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StatePRM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/humanitarian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#humanitarian</a> aid for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> to provide 
🔹 food 🍚 
🔹 water 🥤 
🔹 health ⚕️ 
🔹 shelter 🏘️ 
+ more to help Afghans displaced by flooding, conflict, &amp; drought<a href="https://t.co/u2o9QIN3RS">https://t.co/u2o9QIN3RS</a> <a href="https://t.co/m6SESaJdLO">pic.twitter.com/m6SESaJdLO</a>
— USAID/OFDA (@theOFDA) <a href="https://twitter.com/theOFDA/status/1163786665040732165?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The humanitarian aid for Afghanistan will be used to provide food, water, health, shelter and "more to help Afghans displaced by flooding, conflict and drought," read a tweet posted by USAID's Office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The United States announces almost $125 million in humanitarian assistance to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>. This brings the total U.S. funding in this fiscal year to nearly $190 million. Full statement: <a href="https://t.co/AuPnKAZ3fG">https://t.co/AuPnKAZ3fG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldHumanitarianDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldHumanitarianDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/USAIDAfghan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAIDAfghan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StatePRM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StatePRM</a> <a href="https://t.co/I8dol1jP1t">pic.twitter.com/I8dol1jP1t</a>
— U.S. Embassy Kabul (@USEmbassyKabul) <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbassyKabul/status/1163698228178628608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The United States announces an additional amount of nearly $125 million in humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of vulnerable Afghans inside Afghanistan, including internally displaced persons, conflict and flood-affected communities, and Afghan returnees. This brings the total US&nbsp;funding in this fiscal year to the Afghan humanitarian response to nearly $190 million, including for Afghan refugees in the region," the statement read.

The United States also urged all countries to come ahead and "make or increase their contributions to the UN humanitarian appeal for Afghanistan", which is currently only 27 per cent funded.&nbsp;

"The United States remains committed to supporting the most vulnerable Afghans and stands with the Afghan people in their dedication to helping create an Afghanistan in which all its citizens have the opportunity to live in peace and dignity," the statement posted on the website of US&nbsp;Embassy in Afghanistan read.&nbsp;

The additional funding will support life-saving activities and provide "emergency food, nutrition, clean drinking water, sanitation and hygiene, emergency health, disaster preparedness and risk reduction, shelter, protection, humanitarian coordination and logistics, and non-food items and relief commodities" along with "refugee repatriation grants, education, livelihoods and other efforts to promote long-term integration of returning refugees".

On Monday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/death-toll-reaches-123-in-multiple-bomb-blasts-in-afghanistans-jalalabad-244306">a series of bombings</a> struck restaurants and public squares in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad as the country marked the 100th anniversary of its independence.&nbsp;

President Ashraf Ghani on Monday&nbsp;vowed to eliminate Islamic State&nbsp;from the country and said that he "will take revenge" for his people. Ghani made the statement while addressing the nation on its 100th Independence Day.

On Saturday, a deadly suicide-bomb blast took rocked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-wedding-suicide-attack-in-kabul-243841">Darulaman area of Kabul city</a>.&nbsp;

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-un-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-condemns-kabul-attack-that-killed-63-243955">Guterres condemned the attack</a> which&nbsp;claimed at least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-dead-100-injured-as-blast-rips-through-wedding-party-in-afghanistans-kabul-243740">63 lives and wounded over 180</a>.

Mayhem from Afghanistan's war continues to wreak havoc on Afghans every day, even though the US and the Taliban are in final negotiations for a deal that would see US troops begin to quit Afghanistan and could potentially lead to a reduction in violence.&nbsp;

The United States on Tuesday announced additional humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million, US Embassy in Afghanistan said in a statement. This will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year.

The United States on Tuesday announced additional humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million, US Embassy in Afghanistan said in a statement. This will now take the overall US funding to Afghanistan to nearly $190 million this fiscal year. NEW: @USEmbassyKabul announces $125 million in @USAID @USAIDFFP @StatePRM #humanitarian aid for #Afghanistan to provide 🔹 food 🍚 🔹 water 🥤 🔹 health ⚕️ 🔹 shelter 🏘️ + more to help Afghans displaced by flooding, conflict, & droughthttps://t.co/u2o9QIN3RS pic.twitter.com/m6SESaJdLO — USAID/OFDA (@theOFDA) August 20, 2019 × The humanitarian aid for Afghanistan will be used to provide food, water, health, shelter and "more to help Afghans displaced by flooding, conflict and drought," read a tweet posted by USAID's Office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance. The United States announces almost $125 million in humanitarian assistance to #Afghanistan. This brings the total U.S. funding in this fiscal year to nearly $190 million. Full statement: https://t.co/AuPnKAZ3fG #WorldHumanitarianDay @USAIDAfghan @StatePRM pic.twitter.com/I8dol1jP1t — U.S. Embassy Kabul (@USEmbassyKabul) August 20, 2019 × "The United States announces an additional amount of nearly $125 million in humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of vulnerable Afghans inside Afghanistan, including internally displaced persons, conflict and flood-affected communities, and Afghan returnees. This brings the total US funding in this fiscal year to the Afghan humanitarian response to nearly $190 million, including for Afghan refugees in the region," the statement read. The United States also urged all countries to come ahead and "make or increase their contributions to the UN humanitarian appeal for Afghanistan", which is currently only 27 per cent funded. "The United States remains committed to supporting the most vulnerable Afghans and stands with the Afghan people in their dedication to helping create an Afghanistan in which all its citizens have the opportunity to live in peace and dignity," the statement posted on the website of US Embassy in Afghanistan read. The additional funding will support life-saving activities and provide "emergency food, nutrition, clean drinking water, sanitation and hygiene, emergency health, disaster preparedness and risk reduction, shelter, protection, humanitarian coordination and logistics, and non-food items and relief commodities" along with "refugee repatriation grants, education, livelihoods and other efforts to promote long-term integration of returning refugees". On Monday, a series of bombings struck restaurants and public squares in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad as the country marked the 100th anniversary of its independence. President Ashraf Ghani on Monday vowed to eliminate Islamic State from the country and said that he "will take revenge" for his people. Ghani made the statement while addressing the nation on its 100th Independence Day. On Saturday, a deadly suicide-bomb blast took rocked Darulaman area of Kabul city. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack which claimed at least 63 lives and wounded over 180. Mayhem from Afghanistan's war continues to wreak havoc on Afghans every day, even though the US and the Taliban are in final negotiations for a deal that would see US troops begin to quit Afghanistan and could potentially lead to a reduction in violence.

United States announces humanitarian aid to Afghanistan worth $125 million

Afghanistan's ambassador to Spain was mugged at the weekend in Barcelona, police and diplomatic sources said Monday, the latest in a string of high-profile crimes in the city.

The assailants attacked Humayoon Rasaw late Sunday on a street in the centre of town, throwing him to the ground to steal his watch, a police spokeswoman said.

The ambassador, who was in Barcelona for celebrations marking war-torn Afghanistan's national day, suffered a leg injury but "is fine," according to a source at the Afghan embassy in Madrid.

The robbery comes as Barcelona, one of Europe's most visited cities, has seen a sharp rise in crimes, including several involving foreigners which have made global headlines.

The Mediterranean city has seen eight murders since July, an unusually high number in Spain which has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe.

Robberies, especially those targeting foreign visitors, have also risen.

Recorded thefts in Spain's second-largest city, home to around 1.6 million people, have doubled over the past four years.

In the first half of 2019, violent robberies jumped by 31 per cent over the same period last year.

In late June a South Korean woman who was part of an official government delegation died after a thief snatched her purse, causing her to fall and seriously injure her head.

Earlier this month a Chinese man died in a fight outside a Barcelona nightclub.

Afghanistan's ambassador to Spain was mugged at the weekend in Barcelona, police and diplomatic sources said Monday, the latest in a string of high-profile crimes in the city.

Afghanistan's ambassador to Spain was mugged at the weekend in Barcelona, police and diplomatic sources said Monday, the latest in a string of high-profile crimes in the city. The assailants attacked Humayoon Rasaw late Sunday on a street in the centre of town, throwing him to the ground to steal his watch, a police spokeswoman said. The ambassador, who was in Barcelona for celebrations marking war-torn Afghanistan's national day, suffered a leg injury but "is fine," according to a source at the Afghan embassy in Madrid. The robbery comes as Barcelona, one of Europe's most visited cities, has seen a sharp rise in crimes, including several involving foreigners which have made global headlines. The Mediterranean city has seen eight murders since July, an unusually high number in Spain which has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. Robberies, especially those targeting foreign visitors, have also risen. Recorded thefts in Spain's second-largest city, home to around 1.6 million people, have doubled over the past four years. In the first half of 2019, violent robberies jumped by 31 per cent over the same period last year. In late June a South Korean woman who was part of an official government delegation died after a thief snatched her purse, causing her to fall and seriously injure her head. Earlier this month a Chinese man died in a fight outside a Barcelona nightclub.

Afghanistan ambassador to Spain hurt in Barcelona mugging

US President Donald Trump on Sunday hailed progress in negotiations on an Afghanistan peace deal, saying that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fears-in-us-of-bad-peace-deal-with-the-taliban-243743">talks with both the Taliban</a> and the Afghan government are going well.

But while Trump said the United States has things "under control," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-dead-100-injured-as-blast-rips-through-wedding-party-in-afghanistans-kabul-243740">a massive bombing in Kabul</a> highlighted the rampant violence still plaguing Afghanistan and the major challenges it would face even if an agreement is reached.

"We're having very good discussions with the Taliban. We're having very good discussions with the Afghan government," Trump told reporters.

Expectations are rising for a deal in which the United States would start withdrawing its soldiers from Afghanistan after nearly two decades of war that has ground into a stalemate.

"We've really got it down to probably 13,000 people and we'll be bringing it down a little bit more and then we'll decide whether or not we'll be staying longer or not," Trump said.

"We have things under control very well with the small force. We can probably make it a little bit smaller and then we'll decide," he said, adding: "It'll depend on the Taliban, it'll depend on the Afghan government."

A US-Taliban agreement would not by itself bring an end to Afghanistan's war, as the insurgents would still need to make a deal with the Washington-backed government in Kabul.

Bombing highlights challenges

Trump reiterated Sunday that the United States would maintain an intelligence presence in the country even if it withdraws troops, in order to guard against potential militant threats.

"I think it's very important that we continue intelligence there in all cases, because it is somewhat of a nest for hitting us," the president said.

Washington is keen to end its involvement in Afghanistan, where it has spent more than $1 trillion and Trump has said since the start of his presidency that he wants troops out.

In return, the Taliban would commit to various security guarantees, including that the Islamist hardliners who long harboured Al-Qaeda would not allow Afghanistan to become a jihadist safe haven -- but any such promise would be tough to keep.

On Saturday, a bombing at a packed Afghan wedding hall killed at least 63 people, underscoring both the inadequacy of Afghanistan's security forces and the massive challenges they face.

The Islamic State group claimed the attack, saying that one of its fighters blew himself up at a "large gathering" in Kabul while others "detonated a parked explosives-laden vehicle" when security forces arrived.

While the police and army claim they prevent most bombings from ever happening, insurgents pull off horrific attacks with chilling regularity.

And even as Trump claimed progress in talks, little has changed for Afghans on the ground.

A UN tally found last year was the deadliest on record, with at least 3,804 civilian deaths caused by the war -- including 927 children.&nbsp;

And according to the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 217,000 people had to flee their homes because of fighting during the first seven months of 2019, prompting a huge need for humanitarian aid across the war-torn nation.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday hailed progress in negotiations on an Afghanistan peace deal, saying that talks with both the Taliban and the Afghan government are going well.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday hailed progress in negotiations on an Afghanistan peace deal, saying that talks with both the Taliban and the Afghan government are going well. But while Trump said the United States has things "under control," a massive bombing in Kabul highlighted the rampant violence still plaguing Afghanistan and the major challenges it would face even if an agreement is reached. "We're having very good discussions with the Taliban. We're having very good discussions with the Afghan government," Trump told reporters. Expectations are rising for a deal in which the United States would start withdrawing its soldiers from Afghanistan after nearly two decades of war that has ground into a stalemate. "We've really got it down to probably 13,000 people and we'll be bringing it down a little bit more and then we'll decide whether or not we'll be staying longer or not," Trump said. "We have things under control very well with the small force. We can probably make it a little bit smaller and then we'll decide," he said, adding: "It'll depend on the Taliban, it'll depend on the Afghan government." A US-Taliban agreement would not by itself bring an end to Afghanistan's war, as the insurgents would still need to make a deal with the Washington-backed government in Kabul. Bombing highlights challenges Trump reiterated Sunday that the United States would maintain an intelligence presence in the country even if it withdraws troops, in order to guard against potential militant threats. "I think it's very important that we continue intelligence there in all cases, because it is somewhat of a nest for hitting us," the president said. Washington is keen to end its involvement in Afghanistan, where it has spent more than $1 trillion and Trump has said since the start of his presidency that he wants troops out. In return, the Taliban would commit to various security guarantees, including that the Islamist hardliners who long harboured Al-Qaeda would not allow Afghanistan to become a jihadist safe haven -- but any such promise would be tough to keep. On Saturday, a bombing at a packed Afghan wedding hall killed at least 63 people, underscoring both the inadequacy of Afghanistan's security forces and the massive challenges they face. The Islamic State group claimed the attack, saying that one of its fighters blew himself up at a "large gathering" in Kabul while others "detonated a parked explosives-laden vehicle" when security forces arrived. While the police and army claim they prevent most bombings from ever happening, insurgents pull off horrific attacks with chilling regularity. And even as Trump claimed progress in talks, little has changed for Afghans on the ground. A UN tally found last year was the deadliest on record, with at least 3,804 civilian deaths caused by the war -- including 927 children. And according to the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 217,000 people had to flee their homes because of fighting during the first seven months of 2019, prompting a huge need for humanitarian aid across the war-torn nation.

US president Donald Trump hails 'very good' discussions with the Taliban

Afghanistan has slammed Pakistan for linking developments in Kashmir with the Afghan peace process, calling such statements "reckless, unwarranted and irresponsible" and asked the country to act on terror groups it has been hosting.

Pakistan's Ambassador to US Asad Maheed Khan in an interview said the current India Pakistan escalation "comes at a wrong time" as it could impact the Afghan peace process.

Calling the statement a poor excuse by Pakistan to justify "It's inaction against the Taliban and to avoid taking a decisive stance against the militant group" Afghan Embassy in US in a statement said, "We believe Pakistan's motive and insistence to purposely tie Afghanistan to the Kashmir issue is a deliberate attempt to prolong violence happening on Afghan soil."

Asking Islamabad to take sincere and forceful law and order measure through police action inside Pakistan, Afghan embassy said, "Afghan stability is frequently threatened by Pakistan based, sanctioned and supported militant and terrorist group which operate openly from Pakistan's governed space and regularly spills over into Afghanistan that undermines Afghan security."

It is not the first time the Pakistan government has linked India and Pakistan tensions with the stability of Afghan Peace Process. Earlier, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said New Delhi's action at Line of Control (LoC) can be a distraction.

Former envoys see statements by Pakistani foreign minister and Pakistan envoy to US as Islamabad's attempt to blackmail Washington who wants to leave Afghanistan as soon as possible.

Kanwal Sibal, former foreign secretary said, "Imran Khan is playing the old game of linking India’s legitimate actions in J&amp;K to curb Pak-supported terrorism to its complying with US demands to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to promote the so-called&nbsp;peace process in Afghanistan which is a sham."

In February, Afghan foreign ministry had summoned the Pakistani envoy to Kabul Zahid Nasrullah who had said any action by Indian army post-Pulwama, which was perpetrated by Pakistan based terror group--Jaish-e-Mohammed, could impact the peace process.

Afghanistan has slammed Pakistan for linking developments in Kashmir with the Afghan peace process, calling such statements "reckless, unwarranted and irresponsible" and asked the country to act on terror groups it has been hosting.

Afghanistan has slammed Pakistan for linking developments in Kashmir with the Afghan peace process, calling such statements "reckless, unwarranted and irresponsible" and asked the country to act on terror groups it has been hosting. Pakistan's Ambassador to US Asad Maheed Khan in an interview said the current India Pakistan escalation "comes at a wrong time" as it could impact the Afghan peace process. Calling the statement a poor excuse by Pakistan to justify "It's inaction against the Taliban and to avoid taking a decisive stance against the militant group" Afghan Embassy in US in a statement said, "We believe Pakistan's motive and insistence to purposely tie Afghanistan to the Kashmir issue is a deliberate attempt to prolong violence happening on Afghan soil." Asking Islamabad to take sincere and forceful law and order measure through police action inside Pakistan, Afghan embassy said, "Afghan stability is frequently threatened by Pakistan based, sanctioned and supported militant and terrorist group which operate openly from Pakistan's governed space and regularly spills over into Afghanistan that undermines Afghan security." It is not the first time the Pakistan government has linked India and Pakistan tensions with the stability of Afghan Peace Process. Earlier, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said New Delhi's action at Line of Control (LoC) can be a distraction. Former envoys see statements by Pakistani foreign minister and Pakistan envoy to US as Islamabad's attempt to blackmail Washington who wants to leave Afghanistan as soon as possible. Kanwal Sibal, former foreign secretary said, "Imran Khan is playing the old game of linking India’s legitimate actions in J&K to curb Pak-supported terrorism to its complying with US demands to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to promote the so-called peace process in Afghanistan which is a sham." In February, Afghan foreign ministry had summoned the Pakistani envoy to Kabul Zahid Nasrullah who had said any action by Indian army post-Pulwama, which was perpetrated by Pakistan based terror group--Jaish-e-Mohammed, could impact the peace process.

Afghanistan slams Pakistan's 'reckless' claim that Kashmir issue may impact peace process

For years, as violence raged through Afghanistan, lavish weddings offered a rare opportunity for celebration, but now even that is under threat after last weekend's deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-dead-100-injured-as-blast-rips-through-wedding-party-in-afghanistans-kabul-243740">attack </a>on a party venue sent shock waves through one of Kabul's key industries.

Over-the-top, glitzy weddings are a big deal for Afghans and for the economy in Kabul, where showy venues the size of aircraft hangars dot the city and employ thousands of workers.

Wedding hall owners and betrothed couples alike are wondering what's next after Saturday's attack, when an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-wedding-suicide-attack-in-kabul-243841"> Islamic State bomber</a> killed at least 63 guests and staff and wounded scores more during celebrations at the Shahr-e-Dubai wedding hall in western Kabul.

"Wedding halls were one of the few businesses that were still functioning relatively well despite all the problems," said Ghulam Sakhi Sultani, one of the Shahr-e-Dubai's three owners.&nbsp;

"It will be hard to regain the trust of the people to hold mass weddings inside a wedding hall following this attack."

While Afghan weddings have been hit in the past, attacks have typically targeted smaller functions away from the capital.

"We fear the terrorists may have chosen mass wedding gatherings as their new targets," said Sultani, who was out of the country when the bombing happened and spoke to AFP by phone late Sunday. Ten of his staff were killed or injured.

"Today, most of them did not show up. When we contacted them, they said they fear for their lives."

&nbsp;No security&nbsp;

Saturday's attack exposes the vulnerability of the wedding halls.&nbsp;

In a city where bombs go off almost daily and crime is rampant, Kabul weddings typically don't have any security measures at all, and the halls themselves often have few emergency exits.

Couples frequently invite more than 1,000 guests, and gate crashers often wander in off the street.&nbsp;

Unless VIPs are present, it is considered insulting to frisk guests, and strangers blend in easily with the crowds of friends and relatives.

"We will take extra security measures, but it will be hard to stop a bomber among hundreds of guests coming to a wedding party," Sultani said.

Sharif, the manager of another Kabul wedding hall who only gave one name, said his business was already suffering, with no new couples calling to book the venue since the attack.

"We are supposed to provide a joyful and safe environment for people to celebrate the start of their new life together, but following the horrific attack last night, everything will change," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"I don't think people will trust us or the government for their security any more."

The attack underscores both the inadequacy of Afghanistan's security forces and the scale of the challenge they face in a city that sees frequent attacks by IS, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-condemns-kabul-suicide-attack-says-taliban-cant-escape-blame-243788">Taliban</a>, criminals and other groups.

Dawood Hotak, a 26-year-old engaged student, blamed local police and said he now plans to get married at home instead of at a wedding hall.

"People should be searched before entering the wedding halls," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"If there would have been body searches, I am sure the attack would have been prevented."

Fellow student Ahmad Jawed, 24, was also angry at the authorities and lamented the lack of security.

"How come a wedding hall does not get attacked when there is VIP party or ceremony?" he said.&nbsp;

"The security institutions fail to provide security to ordinary Afghans."

&nbsp;'No more safe places'&nbsp;

Kabul weddings pump millions of dollars into the local economy, with the events typically a costly affair

A fancy wedding with all the trimmings -- including singers, live music and vast plates of food -- can cost $15,000 or more, an absolute fortune in one of the world's poorest countries.&nbsp;

Young grooms often splash out their life savings or take on debt for a night of celebration.

A few years ago, Afghan politicians passed legislation to cap wedding costs and limit the number of guests to 500, but this has been roundly ignored.

Last November, a suicide bomber hit the Uranus Wedding Palace in the capital as religious scholars gathered, killing at least 55, but Saturday's attack is thought to be the first of its kind against a Kabul wedding in full swing.

"There are no more safe places in Kabul," the Uranus's manager Haji Ghulam Sediq told AFP.&nbsp;

"It is not just the employees and the guests, I myself am fearful."

For years, as violence raged through Afghanistan, lavish weddings offered a rare opportunity for celebration, but now even that is under threat after last weekend's deadly attack on a party venue sent shock waves through one of Kabul's key industries.

For years, as violence raged through Afghanistan, lavish weddings offered a rare opportunity for celebration, but now even that is under threat after last weekend's deadly attack on a party venue sent shock waves through one of Kabul's key industries. Over-the-top, glitzy weddings are a big deal for Afghans and for the economy in Kabul, where showy venues the size of aircraft hangars dot the city and employ thousands of workers. Wedding hall owners and betrothed couples alike are wondering what's next after Saturday's attack, when an Islamic State bomber killed at least 63 guests and staff and wounded scores more during celebrations at the Shahr-e-Dubai wedding hall in western Kabul. "Wedding halls were one of the few businesses that were still functioning relatively well despite all the problems," said Ghulam Sakhi Sultani, one of the Shahr-e-Dubai's three owners. "It will be hard to regain the trust of the people to hold mass weddings inside a wedding hall following this attack." While Afghan weddings have been hit in the past, attacks have typically targeted smaller functions away from the capital. "We fear the terrorists may have chosen mass wedding gatherings as their new targets," said Sultani, who was out of the country when the bombing happened and spoke to AFP by phone late Sunday. Ten of his staff were killed or injured. "Today, most of them did not show up. When we contacted them, they said they fear for their lives." No security Saturday's attack exposes the vulnerability of the wedding halls. In a city where bombs go off almost daily and crime is rampant, Kabul weddings typically don't have any security measures at all, and the halls themselves often have few emergency exits. Couples frequently invite more than 1,000 guests, and gate crashers often wander in off the street. Unless VIPs are present, it is considered insulting to frisk guests, and strangers blend in easily with the crowds of friends and relatives. "We will take extra security measures, but it will be hard to stop a bomber among hundreds of guests coming to a wedding party," Sultani said. Sharif, the manager of another Kabul wedding hall who only gave one name, said his business was already suffering, with no new couples calling to book the venue since the attack. "We are supposed to provide a joyful and safe environment for people to celebrate the start of their new life together, but following the horrific attack last night, everything will change," he told AFP. "I don't think people will trust us or the government for their security any more." The attack underscores both the inadequacy of Afghanistan's security forces and the scale of the challenge they face in a city that sees frequent attacks by IS, the Taliban, criminals and other groups. Dawood Hotak, a 26-year-old engaged student, blamed local police and said he now plans to get married at home instead of at a wedding hall. "People should be searched before entering the wedding halls," he told AFP. "If there would have been body searches, I am sure the attack would have been prevented." Fellow student Ahmad Jawed, 24, was also angry at the authorities and lamented the lack of security. "How come a wedding hall does not get attacked when there is VIP party or ceremony?" he said. "The security institutions fail to provide security to ordinary Afghans." 'No more safe places' Kabul weddings pump millions of dollars into the local economy, with the events typically a costly affair A fancy wedding with all the trimmings -- including singers, live music and vast plates of food -- can cost $15,000 or more, an absolute fortune in one of the world's poorest countries. Young grooms often splash out their life savings or take on debt for a night of celebration. A few years ago, Afghan politicians passed legislation to cap wedding costs and limit the number of guests to 500, but this has been roundly ignored. Last November, a suicide bomber hit the Uranus Wedding Palace in the capital as religious scholars gathered, killing at least 55, but Saturday's attack is thought to be the first of its kind against a Kabul wedding in full swing. "There are no more safe places in Kabul," the Uranus's manager Haji Ghulam Sediq told AFP. "It is not just the employees and the guests, I myself am fearful."

Kabul's glitzy wedding industry fears for future after attack

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the suicide attack in Afghanistan's Kabul which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-dead-100-injured-as-blast-rips-through-wedding-party-in-afghanistans-kabul-243740">killed at least 63 people</a> and injuring over 180.

"The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific 17 August terrorist attack on a wedding ceremony in Kabul, claiming the lives of 63 people and injuring over 180," Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement cited by media reports.

The UN chief expressed "his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and the Government and people of Afghanistan,'' the statement further added.

The deadly suicide-bomb blast took place in the Darulaman area of Kabul city.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-wedding-suicide-attack-in-kabul-243841">Islamic State group claimed responsibility</a> for the attack.

Watch: Islamic state claims responsibility for wedding suicide attack in Kabul

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-wedding-suicide-attack-in-kabul-243842/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to eyewitnesses, the suicide bomber laid explosives among the wedding participants and detonated them.

The blast happened in western Kabul, a predominantly Shia locality. The Shia minority has been targeted by the Taliban multiple times over the years.

These attacks come at a time when the United States are discussing a peace deal in Afghanistan, a deal that involves the Taliban giving up arms.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the suicide attack in Afghanistan's Kabul which killed at least 63 people and injuring over 180. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific 17 August terrorist attack on a wedding ceremony in Kabul, claiming the lives of 63 people and injuring over 180," Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement cited by media reports.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the suicide attack in Afghanistan's Kabul which killed at least 63 people and injuring over 180. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific 17 August terrorist attack on a wedding ceremony in Kabul, claiming the lives of 63 people and injuring over 180," Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement cited by media reports. The UN chief expressed "his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and the Government and people of Afghanistan,'' the statement further added. The deadly suicide-bomb blast took place in the Darulaman area of Kabul city. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack. Watch: Islamic state claims responsibility for wedding suicide attack in Kabul According to eyewitnesses, the suicide bomber laid explosives among the wedding participants and detonated them. The blast happened in western Kabul, a predominantly Shia locality. The Shia minority has been targeted by the Taliban multiple times over the years. These attacks come at a time when the United States are discussing a peace deal in Afghanistan, a deal that involves the Taliban giving up arms.

Afghanistan: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemns Kabul attack that killed 63

A series of bombings struck restaurants and public squares on Monday in the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad, wounding at least 34 people, officials said, as the country marked the 100th anniversary of its independence.

Afghanistan: Explosions in Jalalabad wound dozens on I-Day

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