Afghanistan's usually bustling capital Kabul slowed to a crawl Tuesday amid massive security for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thousands-gather-in-kabul-for-afghan-peace-meeting-214371/amp">high-stakes peace summit</a> that has previously been a target for insurgent attacks.

Police flooded the city and authorities blocked off key roads around the venue of the so-called "loya jirga" -- where some 3,000 tribal elders, religious figures, and politicians from across Afghanistan are gathering over four days to discuss possible conditions for a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-peace-if-taliban-do-not-adapt-us-envoy-zalmay-khalilzad-214206"> peace deal with the Taliban</a>.

Taliban suicide bombers armed with rockets and guns attacked a 2010 peace jirga at the same venue, and in 2011, two rockets were fired into Kabul during a two-day jirga.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-caliphate-collapse-jihadists-head-to-afghanistan-to-plot-attacks-214689">After 'caliphate' collapse, jihadists head to Afghanistan to plot attacks: US officials</a>

Despite such past attacks, Kabul residents are infuriated with the scale of the lockdown, which has already been blamed for at least one death and has paralysed businesses in what would ordinarily be a busy week before Ramadan begins.

Local media reported that a newborn baby died when the father, who was trying to take the infant to a hospital, was blocked by security forces.

Adding to the slowdown, authorities have declared a week-long public holiday in Kabul.

"Yesterday, I could only take two passengers from one part of the city to the other. It took me three hours to complete a 15-minute ride," Nasrullah, a taxi driver who gave only his first name, told AFP.&nbsp;

Shopkeeper Taj Mohammad said poor people had been particularly impacted.

"It is good to provide security for the participants, but that should not cost people's businesses," Mohammad said.

Siam Pasarly, an economics expert, estimated the holidays were costing the business community $1 million a day.&nbsp;

"Afghanistan is a developing country and its economic engine should be running all day," he said. "A week-long shutdown is like a poison to the economy."

The loya jirga -- literally "grand assembly" in Pashto -- is being held as the US and Taliban are discussing a possible foreign troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and various Taliban pledges.

The jirga is seen as an attempt by the Afghan government to influence the peace talks which so far have cut out President Ashraf Ghani, whom the Taliban view as a US stooge.

But some prominent Afghans, presidential hopefuls, and government officials including the country's Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah have boycotted the assembly.&nbsp;

Ahmad Khan, another taxi driver, bemoaned the meeting as a "waste of time".

"Holding this jirga is an economic blow for poor labour like us, who come out in the morning for a morsel of food, and how can we provide food for our families in the next few days," he told AFP.

"Such jirgas have been held in the past with no positive results, and the government have failed to convince the Taliban to join the talks." 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan's usually bustling capital Kabul slowed to a crawl Tuesday amid massive security for a high-stakes peace summit that has previously been a target for insurgent attacks.

Afghanistan's usually bustling capital Kabul slowed to a crawl Tuesday amid massive security for a high-stakes peace summit that has previously been a target for insurgent attacks. Police flooded the city and authorities blocked off key roads around the venue of the so-called "loya jirga" -- where some 3,000 tribal elders, religious figures, and politicians from across Afghanistan are gathering over four days to discuss possible conditions for a peace deal with the Taliban. Taliban suicide bombers armed with rockets and guns attacked a 2010 peace jirga at the same venue, and in 2011, two rockets were fired into Kabul during a two-day jirga. Also read: After 'caliphate' collapse, jihadists head to Afghanistan to plot attacks: US officials Despite such past attacks, Kabul residents are infuriated with the scale of the lockdown, which has already been blamed for at least one death and has paralysed businesses in what would ordinarily be a busy week before Ramadan begins. Local media reported that a newborn baby died when the father, who was trying to take the infant to a hospital, was blocked by security forces. Adding to the slowdown, authorities have declared a week-long public holiday in Kabul. "Yesterday, I could only take two passengers from one part of the city to the other. It took me three hours to complete a 15-minute ride," Nasrullah, a taxi driver who gave only his first name, told AFP. Shopkeeper Taj Mohammad said poor people had been particularly impacted. "It is good to provide security for the participants, but that should not cost people's businesses," Mohammad said. Siam Pasarly, an economics expert, estimated the holidays were costing the business community $1 million a day. "Afghanistan is a developing country and its economic engine should be running all day," he said. "A week-long shutdown is like a poison to the economy." The loya jirga -- literally "grand assembly" in Pashto -- is being held as the US and Taliban are discussing a possible foreign troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and various Taliban pledges. The jirga is seen as an attempt by the Afghan government to influence the peace talks which so far have cut out President Ashraf Ghani, whom the Taliban view as a US stooge. But some prominent Afghans, presidential hopefuls, and government officials including the country's Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah have boycotted the assembly. Ahmad Khan, another taxi driver, bemoaned the meeting as a "waste of time". "Holding this jirga is an economic blow for poor labour like us, who come out in the morning for a morsel of food, and how can we provide food for our families in the next few days," he told AFP. "Such jirgas have been held in the past with no positive results, and the government have failed to convince the Taliban to join the talks."

Kabul on lockdown as assembly discusses peace with the Taliban

Afghanistan women want more representation in peace talks. Women want a place in Afghanistan peace talks. Watch video to know more.

Afghan women demand strong voice in peace talks

US special envoy for peace in Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Sunday (April 28) said the possibility of a peace agreement with the Taliban depends on the declaration of a permanent ceasefire and a commitment to end the ongoing war.

Afghan peace deal hinges on ceasefire by Taliban: US peace envoy

Thousands of politicians and officials from across<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-grand-assembly-for-troubled-peace-process-213609&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijhvG35vThAhXC7HMBHYH9ANkQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2j535LCvVwBz6_yAzm3xrk"> Afghanistan gathered amid tight security in Kabul</a> Monday to discuss the war and US efforts to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

More than 3,000 people have been invited to the rare "loya jirga", which is being billed as the largest in modern Afghan history, in a bid to set possible conditions under which they might accept a peace settlement.

The loya jirga -- literally "grand assembly" in Pashto -- is being held at the US and Taliban are discussing a possible foreign troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and various Taliban pledges.&nbsp;

The talks have so far cut out the government of<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-envoy-ghani-push-intra-afghan-talks-214023&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijhvG35vThAhXC7HMBHYH9ANkQFjADegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3D_YniyhB3LPFKzlWdOqDD"> President Ashraf Ghani</a>, whom the Taliban view as a US stooge.

"We want to specify the main lines for the negotiations with the Taliban," Ghani said at the start of the summit. "We want clear advice from all of you."

Ghani's government hopes the high-stakes meeting will set out Kabul's conditions for any deal, including the continuation of the constitution and the protection of women's rights, the media, and free speech.

Ghani had invited the Taliban but the insurgents, having waged an unrelenting guerrilla war since 2001, refused.&nbsp;

Much of Kabul was locked down Monday, with a weeklong public holiday declared for the duration of the four-day event.

Streets across the capital were closed and hilly overlooks blocked. In the past, the Taliban have blasted rockets at a tent hosting a loya jirga.

In a statement, the Taliban have vowed that any decisions or resolutions made at a loya jirga are "never acceptable to the real and devout sons of this homeland".

The most recent jirga was held in 2013 when Afghan officials endorsed a security agreement that allowed US troops to stay in Afghanistan beyond their planned withdrawal in 2014.

Thousands of politicians and officials from across Afghanistan gathered amid tight security in Kabul Monday to discuss the war and US efforts to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

Thousands of politicians and officials from across Afghanistan gathered amid tight security in Kabul Monday to discuss the war and US efforts to forge a peace deal with the Taliban. More than 3,000 people have been invited to the rare "loya jirga", which is being billed as the largest in modern Afghan history, in a bid to set possible conditions under which they might accept a peace settlement. The loya jirga -- literally "grand assembly" in Pashto -- is being held at the US and Taliban are discussing a possible foreign troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and various Taliban pledges. The talks have so far cut out the government of President Ashraf Ghani, whom the Taliban view as a US stooge. "We want to specify the main lines for the negotiations with the Taliban," Ghani said at the start of the summit. "We want clear advice from all of you." Ghani's government hopes the high-stakes meeting will set out Kabul's conditions for any deal, including the continuation of the constitution and the protection of women's rights, the media, and free speech. Ghani had invited the Taliban but the insurgents, having waged an unrelenting guerrilla war since 2001, refused. Much of Kabul was locked down Monday, with a weeklong public holiday declared for the duration of the four-day event. Streets across the capital were closed and hilly overlooks blocked. In the past, the Taliban have blasted rockets at a tent hosting a loya jirga. In a statement, the Taliban have vowed that any decisions or resolutions made at a loya jirga are "never acceptable to the real and devout sons of this homeland". The most recent jirga was held in 2013 when Afghan officials endorsed a security agreement that allowed US troops to stay in Afghanistan beyond their planned withdrawal in 2014.

Thousands gather in Kabul for Afghan peace meeting

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US President Donald&nbsp;Trump on Saturday sent his sympathies to the families of the victims of a San Diego-area synagogue shooting, saying it appeared to be a hate crime and that authorities will "get to the bottom of it."

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The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for three men who blew themselves up in clashes with Sri Lankan police, the militant group said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-barca-to-eighth-la-liga-title-in-11-years-214022">Messi fires Barcelona to eighth La Liga title in 11 years</a>

Lionel Messi clinched an eighth La Liga title for Barcelona in 11 seasons on Saturday as he scored the only goal in a 1-0 win at home to Levante.

The Argentine star struck his league-leading 34th goal of the campaign after coming off the bench for the second half to help Barca wrap up the title with three games remaining.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ask-sbi-to-release-one-months-salary-to-jet-airways-staff-national-aviators-guild-to-pm-modi-214028">Ask SBI to release one month's salary to Jet Airways staff: National Aviator's Guild to PM Modi</a>

The National Aviator's Guild (NAG), which represents pilots of the grounded carrier Jet Airways, Saturday requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to "direct" the airline's lender State Bank of India to release one month's salary of all the employees.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-envoy-ghani-push-intra-afghan-talks-214023">US envoy, Ghani push 'intra-Afghan' talks</a>

The United States and Afghanistan stressed the need for "intra-Afghan dialogue" when US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani held talks on Saturday, a palace statement said.

San Diego-area synagogue shooting appears to be hate crime, says Trump as gunman identified US President Donald Trump on Saturday sent his sympathies to the families of the victims of a San Diego-area synagogue shooting, saying it appeared to be a hate crime and that authorities will "get to the bottom of it.

San Diego-area synagogue shooting appears to be hate crime, says Trump as gunman identified US President Donald Trump on Saturday sent his sympathies to the families of the victims of a San Diego-area synagogue shooting, saying it appeared to be a hate crime and that authorities will "get to the bottom of it." Islamic State says its fighters behind police clashes in Sri Lanka The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for three men who blew themselves up in clashes with Sri Lankan police, the militant group said in a statement. Messi fires Barcelona to eighth La Liga title in 11 years Lionel Messi clinched an eighth La Liga title for Barcelona in 11 seasons on Saturday as he scored the only goal in a 1-0 win at home to Levante. The Argentine star struck his league-leading 34th goal of the campaign after coming off the bench for the second half to help Barca wrap up the title with three games remaining. Ask SBI to release one month's salary to Jet Airways staff: National Aviator's Guild to PM Modi The National Aviator's Guild (NAG), which represents pilots of the grounded carrier Jet Airways, Saturday requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to "direct" the airline's lender State Bank of India to release one month's salary of all the employees. US envoy, Ghani push 'intra-Afghan' talks The United States and Afghanistan stressed the need for "intra-Afghan dialogue" when US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani held talks on Saturday, a palace statement said.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The United States and Afghanistan stressed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-grand-assembly-for-troubled-peace-process-213997">need for "intra-Afghan dialogue"</a> when US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani held talks on Saturday, a palace statement said.

Their meeting came during a marathon multi-country tour by Khalilzad, who is to visit Qatar -- the usual venue for talks with the Taliban.

"Dr Khalilzad briefed the president and other government officials about his trips and future plans for peace," a palace statement said.

"Both sides once again emphasised an intra-Afghan dialogue between the Afghan government and the Taliban, led by the Afghan government."&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump is eager to reach a solution to end his country's longest-ever war, which dislodged the Taliban following the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States.

Before Khalilzad embarked on his tour, the State Department said that in Doha, the Qatari capital, he will "press forward on negotiations with the Taliban to reach a consensus on core national security issues, and urge their participation in an inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue."&nbsp;

Despite several rounds of talks with Khalilzad, the Taliban have refused to negotiate with Ghani's internationally recognised government.

Hopes for a breakthrough earlier in April were dashed when a dialogue planned between the Taliban and Afghan officials in Doha collapsed at the last minute.

On Friday the US found backing from rivals Russia and China on the key formula of the peace deal it is negotiating in Afghanistan -- withdrawing troops in return for Taliban pledges not to welcome foreign extremists.

After Khalilzad met Russian and Chinese representatives in Moscow, he described the consensus as a "milestone." A joint statement by the three countries called for an "inclusive Afghan-led" peace process and outlined points expected to feature in an eventual agreement.

On Monday, Afghanistan convenes a rare "loya jirga," where more than 2,000 people from across the country have been invited to discuss the war and US efforts to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

The United States and Afghanistan stressed the need for "intra-Afghan dialogue" when US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani held talks on Saturday, a palace statement said.

The United States and Afghanistan stressed the need for "intra-Afghan dialogue" when US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani held talks on Saturday, a palace statement said. Their meeting came during a marathon multi-country tour by Khalilzad, who is to visit Qatar -- the usual venue for talks with the Taliban. "Dr Khalilzad briefed the president and other government officials about his trips and future plans for peace," a palace statement said. "Both sides once again emphasised an intra-Afghan dialogue between the Afghan government and the Taliban, led by the Afghan government." US President Donald Trump is eager to reach a solution to end his country's longest-ever war, which dislodged the Taliban following the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States. Before Khalilzad embarked on his tour, the State Department said that in Doha, the Qatari capital, he will "press forward on negotiations with the Taliban to reach a consensus on core national security issues, and urge their participation in an inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue." Despite several rounds of talks with Khalilzad, the Taliban have refused to negotiate with Ghani's internationally recognised government. Hopes for a breakthrough earlier in April were dashed when a dialogue planned between the Taliban and Afghan officials in Doha collapsed at the last minute. On Friday the US found backing from rivals Russia and China on the key formula of the peace deal it is negotiating in Afghanistan -- withdrawing troops in return for Taliban pledges not to welcome foreign extremists. After Khalilzad met Russian and Chinese representatives in Moscow, he described the consensus as a "milestone." A joint statement by the three countries called for an "inclusive Afghan-led" peace process and outlined points expected to feature in an eventual agreement. On Monday, Afghanistan convenes a rare "loya jirga," where more than 2,000 people from across the country have been invited to discuss the war and US efforts to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

US envoy, Ghani push 'intra-Afghan' talks

Two security personnel were killed and two others were injured following an IED blast at a check post in northwest Pakistan on Saturday, sources said.

The explosives, which were planted close to the check post in Sheva tehsil of North Aaziristan District bordering Afghanistan, went off when the levies personnel reported for duty, eye witnesses said.

The deceased, identified as Ameer Zaman and Abdul Wali, were local residents, they said.

Two security personnel were killed and two others were injured following an IED blast at a check post in northwest Pakistan on Saturday, sources said. The explosives, which were planted close to the check post in Sheva tehsil of North Aaziristan District bordering Afghanistan, went off when the levies personnel reported for duty, eye witnesses said.

Two security personnel were killed and two others were injured following an IED blast at a check post in northwest Pakistan on Saturday, sources said. The explosives, which were planted close to the check post in Sheva tehsil of North Aaziristan District bordering Afghanistan, went off when the levies personnel reported for duty, eye witnesses said. The deceased, identified as Ameer Zaman and Abdul Wali, were local residents, they said.

IED blast kills two security personnel in Pakistan

The United States on Friday found backing from rivals Russia and China on the key formula of a peace deal it is negotiating in Afghanistan -- withdrawing troops in return for Taliban pledges not to welcome foreign extremists.

Zalmay Khalilzad, the US envoy who is set shortly to hold his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-taliban-talks-peace-remains-a-distant-dream-for-afghanistan-213647">latest round of talks with the Taliban</a>, called the consensus a "milestone" in efforts to end the war after he met Russian and Chinese representatives in Moscow.

A joint statement by the three countries called for an "inclusive Afghan-led" peace process and outlined points expected to feature in an eventual agreement.

"The three sides call for an orderly and responsible withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan as part of the overall peace process," said the statement issued by the US State Department.

They also said that the Taliban have made a "commitment" to fight the extremist Islamic State group and sever ties to Al-Qaeda.

The Taliban have promised to "ensure the areas they control will not be used to threaten any other country," the statement said, calling on them to prevent any "terrorist recruiting, training and fund-raising."

Khalilzad said that the statement, along with his talks earlier in the week in London with European envoys, "means we have an emerging international consensus on US approach to end the war AND assurances terrorism never again emanates from Afghanistan."

"More to do but important milestone," he tweeted.

President Donald Trump is eager to end America's longest-ever war, which was launched in response to the September 11, 2001 attacks, when the then Taliban regime gave shelter to Al-Qaeda.

Russia and China both have strong interests in Afghanistan. Some 14,000 Soviet soldiers were killed in Afghanistan from 1979 to 1989 in a conflict with US-backed Islamic guerrillas.

China has been stepping up its involvement in Afghanistan both militarily and economically as it voices worries that militants could sneak into its restive Muslim-majority Xinjiang region.

Khalilzad will also hold separate talks during his latest trip with Pakistan and India, which have strongly different views on Afghanistan.

One major sticking point is the Taliban's refusal to negotiate with the government of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, which has wide-ranging international support.

The United States, Russia and China called on the Taliban to speak as soon as possible with a "broad, representative Afghan delegation that includes the government."

One country that has criticized the US approach is Iran, whose foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, recently said that the United States had alienated Afghans by turning the Taliban into king-makers.

The United States on Friday found backing from rivals Russia and China on the key formula of a peace deal it is negotiating in Afghanistan -- withdrawing troops in return for Taliban pledges not to welcome foreign extremists.

The United States on Friday found backing from rivals Russia and China on the key formula of a peace deal it is negotiating in Afghanistan -- withdrawing troops in return for Taliban pledges not to welcome foreign extremists. Zalmay Khalilzad, the US envoy who is set shortly to hold his latest round of talks with the Taliban, called the consensus a "milestone" in efforts to end the war after he met Russian and Chinese representatives in Moscow. A joint statement by the three countries called for an "inclusive Afghan-led" peace process and outlined points expected to feature in an eventual agreement. "The three sides call for an orderly and responsible withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan as part of the overall peace process," said the statement issued by the US State Department. They also said that the Taliban have made a "commitment" to fight the extremist Islamic State group and sever ties to Al-Qaeda. The Taliban have promised to "ensure the areas they control will not be used to threaten any other country," the statement said, calling on them to prevent any "terrorist recruiting, training and fund-raising." Khalilzad said that the statement, along with his talks earlier in the week in London with European envoys, "means we have an emerging international consensus on US approach to end the war AND assurances terrorism never again emanates from Afghanistan." "More to do but important milestone," he tweeted. President Donald Trump is eager to end America's longest-ever war, which was launched in response to the September 11, 2001 attacks, when the then Taliban regime gave shelter to Al-Qaeda. Russia and China both have strong interests in Afghanistan. Some 14,000 Soviet soldiers were killed in Afghanistan from 1979 to 1989 in a conflict with US-backed Islamic guerrillas. China has been stepping up its involvement in Afghanistan both militarily and economically as it voices worries that militants could sneak into its restive Muslim-majority Xinjiang region. Khalilzad will also hold separate talks during his latest trip with Pakistan and India, which have strongly different views on Afghanistan. One major sticking point is the Taliban's refusal to negotiate with the government of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, which has wide-ranging international support. The United States, Russia and China called on the Taliban to speak as soon as possible with a "broad, representative Afghan delegation that includes the government." One country that has criticized the US approach is Iran, whose foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, recently said that the United States had alienated Afghans by turning the Taliban into king-makers.

US agrees with Russia, China on pulling troops from Afghanistan

Afghanistan on Monday will convene a rare "loya jirga" -- a massive meeting for delegates from across the country to discuss the war and US efforts to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

More than 2,000 people have been invited to gather amid tight security for four days of debate under a large tent in Kabul.

Here is a look at the history of loya jirgas, and what to expect from this one.

What is a loya jirga?

A loya jirga -- literally "grand assembly" in Pashto -- is traditionally comprised of Afghan elders.

Such gatherings have a centuries-old history in Afghan culture and are periodically convened to reach a consensus on major political issues.

The most recent jirga was held in 2013, when Afghan officials endorsed a security agreement that allowed US troops to stay in Afghanistan beyond their planned withdrawal in 2014.

In August 2007, the first joint Afghan-Pakistan jirga was held in Kabul after relations between the neighbours deteriorated amid Afghan accusations that Pakistan was harbouring Taliban and Al-Qaeda fighters.

In 2003, former president Sibghatullah Mojaddedi chaired a loya jirga that approved Afghanistan's new constitution for a post-Taliban era.

The events usually comprise political figures, religious scholars, teachers, activists and community leaders. Delegates typically break into smaller groups to tackle various matters.

What is on the agenda?

The upcoming loya jirga is being held at a time when the US and Taliban militants have held several rounds of talks.

The two sides have discussed a possible troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in exchange for a ceasefire and various pledges from the Taliban.&nbsp;

But crucially, the talks have thus far cut out the government of President Ashraf Ghani, whom the Taliban view as a US stooge.

Ghani's government is jostling for influence in the peace talks and the jirga aims to set out Kabul's red lines for any deal, including the continuation of the constitution and the protection of women's rights, the media, and free speech.

Ghani has invited the Taliban to participate, but the insurgents, having waged an unrelenting guerrilla war since 2001, have predictably refused.&nbsp;

In the past, the Taliban have blasted rockets at the loya jirga tent, and much of Kabul is being locked down under a massive security operation for this year's event.

In a statement, the Taliban vowed that any decisions or resolutions made at a loya jirga are "never acceptable to the real and devout sons of this homeland".

Who will be there?

Top politicians including Ghani, former president Hamid Karzai, ex-foreign minister Zalmay Rassoul, former warlord Abdul Rab Rasoul Sayyaf and many other Afghan officials are attending.

But chief executive Abdullah Abdullah, notorious former warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, and Ghani's former national security advisor Mohammad Haneef Atmar are boycotting the event, saying it was pulled together without consultation and is being used by Ghani to campaign ahead of presidential elections slated for September.

What is at stake?

A lot. Ghani's credibility, fast dwindling in the eyes of the West, will be put to the test, with observers waiting to see if he can secure a meaningful consensus, or whether the event will unravel amid bickering and in-fighting.

A planned meeting between Afghan officials and the Taliban in Qatar collapsed at the last minute this month over recriminations about the number of delegates Ghani wanted to bring to Doha.

His original roster comprised 250 members, which the Taliban likened to a guest list for an Afghan wedding.&nbsp;

A new round of talks between the Taliban and the US is due to take place in Doha in the coming days.

A meaningful and clear signal from Kabul will be key for US negotiators.&nbsp;

Afghanistan on Monday will convene a rare "loya jirga" -- a massive meeting for delegates from across the country to discuss the war and US efforts to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

Afghanistan on Monday will convene a rare "loya jirga" -- a massive meeting for delegates from across the country to discuss the war and US efforts to forge a peace deal with the Taliban. More than 2,000 people have been invited to gather amid tight security for four days of debate under a large tent in Kabul. Here is a look at the history of loya jirgas, and what to expect from this one. What is a loya jirga? A loya jirga -- literally "grand assembly" in Pashto -- is traditionally comprised of Afghan elders. Such gatherings have a centuries-old history in Afghan culture and are periodically convened to reach a consensus on major political issues. The most recent jirga was held in 2013, when Afghan officials endorsed a security agreement that allowed US troops to stay in Afghanistan beyond their planned withdrawal in 2014. In August 2007, the first joint Afghan-Pakistan jirga was held in Kabul after relations between the neighbours deteriorated amid Afghan accusations that Pakistan was harbouring Taliban and Al-Qaeda fighters. In 2003, former president Sibghatullah Mojaddedi chaired a loya jirga that approved Afghanistan's new constitution for a post-Taliban era. The events usually comprise political figures, religious scholars, teachers, activists and community leaders. Delegates typically break into smaller groups to tackle various matters. What is on the agenda? The upcoming loya jirga is being held at a time when the US and Taliban militants have held several rounds of talks. The two sides have discussed a possible troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in exchange for a ceasefire and various pledges from the Taliban. But crucially, the talks have thus far cut out the government of President Ashraf Ghani, whom the Taliban view as a US stooge. Ghani's government is jostling for influence in the peace talks and the jirga aims to set out Kabul's red lines for any deal, including the continuation of the constitution and the protection of women's rights, the media, and free speech. Ghani has invited the Taliban to participate, but the insurgents, having waged an unrelenting guerrilla war since 2001, have predictably refused. In the past, the Taliban have blasted rockets at the loya jirga tent, and much of Kabul is being locked down under a massive security operation for this year's event. In a statement, the Taliban vowed that any decisions or resolutions made at a loya jirga are "never acceptable to the real and devout sons of this homeland". Who will be there? Top politicians including Ghani, former president Hamid Karzai, ex-foreign minister Zalmay Rassoul, former warlord Abdul Rab Rasoul Sayyaf and many other Afghan officials are attending. But chief executive Abdullah Abdullah, notorious former warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, and Ghani's former national security advisor Mohammad Haneef Atmar are boycotting the event, saying it was pulled together without consultation and is being used by Ghani to campaign ahead of presidential elections slated for September. What is at stake? A lot. Ghani's credibility, fast dwindling in the eyes of the West, will be put to the test, with observers waiting to see if he can secure a meaningful consensus, or whether the event will unravel amid bickering and in-fighting. A planned meeting between Afghan officials and the Taliban in Qatar collapsed at the last minute this month over recriminations about the number of delegates Ghani wanted to bring to Doha. His original roster comprised 250 members, which the Taliban likened to a guest list for an Afghan wedding. A new round of talks between the Taliban and the US is due to take place in Doha in the coming days. A meaningful and clear signal from Kabul will be key for US negotiators.

Afghanistan's grand assembly for troubled peace process

The 17th legislative term of the Wolesi Jirga, or the Afghan Parliament, was inaugurated on Friday by President Ashraf Ghani, even though the final results of five provinces is awaited.

As per the law, the parliament was supposed to be inaugurated earlier but was delayed due to "controversies", according to TOLO news.

The parliament inauguration was attended by senior government officials and new lawmakers.

Addressing the ceremony, the Afghan President highlighted that the majority of the new parliament members are from a younger generation who will protect women`s rights, human rights and other rights of Afghans.

He added that the Afghan government had no role to play in the delay of the parliament inauguration.

Ghani, during his address, said that the current challenges in Afghanistan are because of the "imposed war" which has been fueled by "direct foreign support" of the Taliban.

He reinforced that he would remain President of Afghanistan until the next Presidential elections, slated for September 28.

The Afghan leader highlighted that the key to peace lies in unity among Afghans and in women`s participation, adding that the republic system would continue

The 17th legislative term of the Wolesi Jirga, or the Afghan Parliament, was inaugurated on Friday by President Ashraf Ghani, even though the final results of five provinces is awaited.

The 17th legislative term of the Wolesi Jirga, or the Afghan Parliament, was inaugurated on Friday by President Ashraf Ghani, even though the final results of five provinces is awaited. As per the law, the parliament was supposed to be inaugurated earlier but was delayed due to "controversies", according to TOLO news. The parliament inauguration was attended by senior government officials and new lawmakers. Addressing the ceremony, the Afghan President highlighted that the majority of the new parliament members are from a younger generation who will protect women`s rights, human rights and other rights of Afghans. He added that the Afghan government had no role to play in the delay of the parliament inauguration. Ghani, during his address, said that the current challenges in Afghanistan are because of the "imposed war" which has been fueled by "direct foreign support" of the Taliban. He reinforced that he would remain President of Afghanistan until the next Presidential elections, slated for September 28. The Afghan leader highlighted that the key to peace lies in unity among Afghans and in women`s participation, adding that the republic system would continue

17th legislative term of Afghan Parliament inaugurated

After several rounds of US Taliban Peace Talks in Doha, the reluctantly agreed upon ‘so-called intra-Afghan dialogue’ scheduled on April 19 was abruptly cancelled on April 18 amidst insignificant disagreements over the size and composition of the Afghan delegation.

US State Department conveyed their disappointment to President Ashraf Ghani on April 21 and condemned Taliban's announcement of starting another offensive in the spring.&nbsp;

However, it had to happen as the Taliban was in no mood to talk to present Afghan government calling them a puppet&nbsp;of 'foreign powers'. Afghanistan current regime is also not too happy with a sense of isolation during&nbsp;various rounds of US -Taliban Peace Talks without their participation.

The reality of Afghanistan&nbsp;

After 17 years of war, the Taliban seized more territory and controls. Taliban cannot be relied upon for any kind of peace settlement with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar being their chief negotiator. Baradar&nbsp;has political ambitions and has held various appointments in erstwhile Taliban government prior to US invasion.

 They will eventually find reasons to rule the country, even if they promise to allow to have a peaceful democratic solution. President Ghani-led&nbsp;does not give the confidence of&nbsp;being strong enough to face the Taliban all by themselves.&nbsp;

Taliban is unlikely to give up the ambition of ruling through Sharia laws irrespective of the liberalised words they have been using during the peace talks.

The Afghan military is not yet strong enough to take on the Taliban in the entire country. It still needs a lot of training, capability and military hardware. With continuous attacks by Taliban and splinter groups of Daesh getting into Afghanistan, peace is a distant dream.&nbsp;

Significance of US-Taliban Peace Talks&nbsp;

During US-Taliban Peace talks, there seemed to be some consensus on ‘Issues of Framework Agreement’. The US has agreed for a phased withdrawal from Afghanistan after the final agreement.

Timelines for withdrawal, however, have not been agreed as the Taliban wants withdrawal in eighteen months and the US is suggesting a period of five years linking it with the implementation of the agreement.&nbsp;

Taliban has agreed that it won't allow any terrorist group to operate from Afghani soil and will get rid of all foreign terrorist groups like ISIS and Al Qaeda. This, however, is unrealistic and in my opinion, unlikely to happen.&nbsp;

The US Taliban exclusive peace talks have isolated the present regime in power under President Ghani. It is clear that unless the present democratically elected Government is on board, no peaceful elections can take place.

The democratic peaceful elections are unlikely in the near future unless intra-Afghanistan talks take place. The US wants to withdraw as per their time table and President Trump wants to make such an announcement before the next election.&nbsp;

President Trump’s decision to withdraw from Afghanistan will definitely alter the strategic balance in favour of the Taliban, Pakistan, China and Russia. It, however, poses a question that is the US willing to concede this important strategic space in the Af-Pak region to its competitors so easily knowing that China and Pakistan are waiting to grab it?&nbsp;

&nbsp;In an interview to CNN Trump had indicated that Russia, China, India and Pakistan should replace US troops in Afghanistan and resolve this problem as a regional issue. In my opinion, treating it is a regional issue may not be realistic&nbsp;with the growing strength of Taliban, and some existence of Al Qaeda, Haqqani network and Daesh, I see a large caliphate in making.

The position of other stakeholders &nbsp;

There are conflicting interests of every stakeholder. Pakistan nurtured Taliban and Al Qaeda, hence would be happy if the Taliban is on driving seat, but it will not compromise on Durand line because it wants strategic depth. Taliban also will not compromise on the border issue with Pakistan.

The US is fed up of fighting but if it withdraws, it will lose the strategic space to China.&nbsp;

Russia had entered Afghanistan earlier to deny the US influence there during the cold war period. The US helped Mujahideen to counter Russia. Later Russia found it difficult to sustain and withdrew unilaterally.&nbsp;

Russia, however, has been considering the establishment of a second military base in the southern flank of Tajikistan and Turkmenistan bordering Afghanistan to fulfil its strategic interest. Russians also hosted Peace Talks on Afghanistan with all stakeholders and also invited India.

China has been actively engaging with the Taliban in the recent past and Pakistan harboured them even when multi-national forces were fighting with them earlier.&nbsp;

I, therefore, see no reason why Pakistan will not be amenable to Afghanistan under Taliban Islamic rule. If Taliban guarantees China’s that it will not support The East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) operating in Xinjiang, they may also be amenable to Taliban rule.

Implications for India &nbsp;&nbsp;

India is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan. It has helped the country with infrastructure and invested over $10 billion since 2002 in doing so. Afghan exports to India stood at $740 million in 2018, making it the largest export destination. 
 
Any new dispensation in Afghanistan involving the Taliban, if not friendly to India, may jeopardise India’s investments in Afghanistan.&nbsp; 
 
Taliban may not want to speak to Afghan establishment but the talks with the US have no meaning if the Afghan government is not part of it, because the electoral process cannot begin otherwise.

The US on their part is not going to give up its efforts to create conditions for its smooth pullout from Afghanistan. Their special envoy for Afghanistan reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, is already on another regional trip to Qatar for a new round of negotiations with the Taliban, aiming to find a political solution to the Afghan war despite the disappointment of the cancellation of ‘Intra-Afghan dialogue’.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After several rounds of US Taliban Peace Talks in Doha, the reluctantly agreed upon ‘so-called intra-Afghan dialogue’ scheduled on April 19 was abruptly cancelled on April 18 amidst insignificant disagreements over the size and composition of the Afghan delegation.

After several rounds of US Taliban Peace Talks in Doha, the reluctantly agreed upon ‘so-called intra-Afghan dialogue’ scheduled on April 19 was abruptly cancelled on April 18 amidst insignificant disagreements over the size and composition of the Afghan delegation. US State Department conveyed their disappointment to President Ashraf Ghani on April 21 and condemned Taliban's announcement of starting another offensive in the spring. However, it had to happen as the Taliban was in no mood to talk to present Afghan government calling them a puppet of 'foreign powers'. Afghanistan current regime is also not too happy with a sense of isolation during various rounds of US -Taliban Peace Talks without their participation. The reality of Afghanistan After 17 years of war, the Taliban seized more territory and controls. Taliban cannot be relied upon for any kind of peace settlement with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar being their chief negotiator. Baradar has political ambitions and has held various appointments in erstwhile Taliban government prior to US invasion.  They will eventually find reasons to rule the country, even if they promise to allow to have a peaceful democratic solution. President Ghani-led does not give the confidence of being strong enough to face the Taliban all by themselves. Taliban is unlikely to give up the ambition of ruling through Sharia laws irrespective of the liberalised words they have been using during the peace talks. The Afghan military is not yet strong enough to take on the Taliban in the entire country. It still needs a lot of training, capability and military hardware. With continuous attacks by Taliban and splinter groups of Daesh getting into Afghanistan, peace is a distant dream. Significance of US-Taliban Peace Talks During US-Taliban Peace talks, there seemed to be some consensus on ‘Issues of Framework Agreement’. The US has agreed for a phased withdrawal from Afghanistan after the final agreement. Timelines for withdrawal, however, have not been agreed as the Taliban wants withdrawal in eighteen months and the US is suggesting a period of five years linking it with the implementation of the agreement. Taliban has agreed that it won't allow any terrorist group to operate from Afghani soil and will get rid of all foreign terrorist groups like ISIS and Al Qaeda. This, however, is unrealistic and in my opinion, unlikely to happen. The US Taliban exclusive peace talks have isolated the present regime in power under President Ghani. It is clear that unless the present democratically elected Government is on board, no peaceful elections can take place. The democratic peaceful elections are unlikely in the near future unless intra-Afghanistan talks take place. The US wants to withdraw as per their time table and President Trump wants to make such an announcement before the next election. President Trump’s decision to withdraw from Afghanistan will definitely alter the strategic balance in favour of the Taliban, Pakistan, China and Russia. It, however, poses a question that is the US willing to concede this important strategic space in the Af-Pak region to its competitors so easily knowing that China and Pakistan are waiting to grab it? In an interview to CNN Trump had indicated that Russia, China, India and Pakistan should replace US troops in Afghanistan and resolve this problem as a regional issue. In my opinion, treating it is a regional issue may not be realistic with the growing strength of Taliban, and some existence of Al Qaeda, Haqqani network and Daesh, I see a large caliphate in making. The position of other stakeholders There are conflicting interests of every stakeholder. Pakistan nurtured Taliban and Al Qaeda, hence would be happy if the Taliban is on driving seat, but it will not compromise on Durand line because it wants strategic depth. Taliban also will not compromise on the border issue with Pakistan. The US is fed up of fighting but if it withdraws, it will lose the strategic space to China. Russia had entered Afghanistan earlier to deny the US influence there during the cold war period. The US helped Mujahideen to counter Russia. Later Russia found it difficult to sustain and withdrew unilaterally. Russia, however, has been considering the establishment of a second military base in the southern flank of Tajikistan and Turkmenistan bordering Afghanistan to fulfil its strategic interest. Russians also hosted Peace Talks on Afghanistan with all stakeholders and also invited India. China has been actively engaging with the Taliban in the recent past and Pakistan harboured them even when multi-national forces were fighting with them earlier. I, therefore, see no reason why Pakistan will not be amenable to Afghanistan under Taliban Islamic rule. If Taliban guarantees China’s that it will not support The East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) operating in Xinjiang, they may also be amenable to Taliban rule. Implications for India India is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan. It has helped the country with infrastructure and invested over $10 billion since 2002 in doing so. Afghan exports to India stood at $740 million in 2018, making it the largest export destination. Any new dispensation in Afghanistan involving the Taliban, if not friendly to India, may jeopardise India’s investments in Afghanistan. Taliban may not want to speak to Afghan establishment but the talks with the US have no meaning if the Afghan government is not part of it, because the electoral process cannot begin otherwise. The US on their part is not going to give up its efforts to create conditions for its smooth pullout from Afghanistan. Their special envoy for Afghanistan reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, is already on another regional trip to Qatar for a new round of negotiations with the Taliban, aiming to find a political solution to the Afghan war despite the disappointment of the cancellation of ‘Intra-Afghan dialogue’. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

US-Taliban talks: Peace remains a distant dream for Afghanistan

Pakistani destroyed narcotics and other smuggled contraband worth three billion rupees ($21 million) on Thursday (April 25), officials said, including a "historic" amount of a compound used to make heroin.

Pakistan destroys "historic" haul of compound used to make heroin

Afghan civilians are for the first time being killed in greater numbers by US and pro-government forces than by the Taliban and other insurgent groups, a UN report released Wednesday revealed.

The bloody milestone comes as the US steps up its air campaign in Afghanistan while pushing for a peace deal with the Taliban, who now control or influence more parts of the country than at any time since they were ousted in 2001.

During the first three months of 2019, international and pro-government forces were responsible for the deaths of 305 civilians, whereas insurgent groups killed 227 people, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a quarterly report.

Most of the deaths resulted from air strikes or from search operations on the ground, primarily conducted by US-backed Afghan forces, some of which UNAMA said "appear to act with impunity".

"UNAMA urges both the Afghan national security forces and international military forces to conduct investigations into allegations of civilian casualties, to publish the results of their findings, and to provide compensation to victims as appropriate," the report states.&nbsp;

UNAMA started compiling civilian casualty data in 2009 amid deteriorating security conditions in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

It is the first tally since records began that shows pro-government forces have killed more civilians than insurgents have.&nbsp;

In 2017, the US military started quickening its operational tempo after President Donald Trump loosened restrictions and made it easier for American forces to bomb Taliban positions.&nbsp;

While other nations may contribute logistical or technical support, it is US aircraft that conduct most strikes. Afghanistan's fledgeling air force is also flying more sorties.

The US has sent huge B-52 bombers on runs over the country and benefited from an increase in aerial hardware as operations against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria tapered off.

UNAMA's report did however find that overall, civilian casualties dropped 23 per cent as compared to the first three months of 2018.

In all, UNAMA documented 1,773 casualties last quarter: 581 deaths and 1,192 injured -- the lowest first-quarter toll since 2013.&nbsp;

The drop was driven by a decrease in the use of suicide bomb attacks, but UNAMA did not know if this trend came as a result of a harsh winter or if the Taliban were trying to kill fewer civilians during peace talks.

Still, UNAMA chief Tadamichi Yamamoto, who also serves as the UN secretary general's special representative for Afghanistan, said a "shocking number" of civilians are being killed or maimed.

"All parties must do more to safeguard civilians," Yamamoto said in a statement.

Last year was the deadliest yet for Afghan civilians, with 3,804 killed, according to UNAMA.

Afghan civilians are for the first time being killed in greater numbers by US and pro-government forces than by the Taliban and other insurgent groups, a UN report released Wednesday revealed.

Afghan civilians are for the first time being killed in greater numbers by US and pro-government forces than by the Taliban and other insurgent groups, a UN report released Wednesday revealed. The bloody milestone comes as the US steps up its air campaign in Afghanistan while pushing for a peace deal with the Taliban, who now control or influence more parts of the country than at any time since they were ousted in 2001. During the first three months of 2019, international and pro-government forces were responsible for the deaths of 305 civilians, whereas insurgent groups killed 227 people, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a quarterly report. Most of the deaths resulted from air strikes or from search operations on the ground, primarily conducted by US-backed Afghan forces, some of which UNAMA said "appear to act with impunity". "UNAMA urges both the Afghan national security forces and international military forces to conduct investigations into allegations of civilian casualties, to publish the results of their findings, and to provide compensation to victims as appropriate," the report states. UNAMA started compiling civilian casualty data in 2009 amid deteriorating security conditions in Afghanistan. It is the first tally since records began that shows pro-government forces have killed more civilians than insurgents have. In 2017, the US military started quickening its operational tempo after President Donald Trump loosened restrictions and made it easier for American forces to bomb Taliban positions. While other nations may contribute logistical or technical support, it is US aircraft that conduct most strikes. Afghanistan's fledgeling air force is also flying more sorties. The US has sent huge B-52 bombers on runs over the country and benefited from an increase in aerial hardware as operations against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria tapered off. UNAMA's report did however find that overall, civilian casualties dropped 23 per cent as compared to the first three months of 2018. In all, UNAMA documented 1,773 casualties last quarter: 581 deaths and 1,192 injured -- the lowest first-quarter toll since 2013. The drop was driven by a decrease in the use of suicide bomb attacks, but UNAMA did not know if this trend came as a result of a harsh winter or if the Taliban were trying to kill fewer civilians during peace talks. Still, UNAMA chief Tadamichi Yamamoto, who also serves as the UN secretary general's special representative for Afghanistan, said a "shocking number" of civilians are being killed or maimed. "All parties must do more to safeguard civilians," Yamamoto said in a statement. Last year was the deadliest yet for Afghan civilians, with 3,804 killed, according to UNAMA.

More civilians now killed by US, Afghan forces than by insurgents: UN report

Afghan Taliban insurgents are battling fighters loyal to Islamic State over control of territory in eastern Afghanistan in some of the heaviest clashes over the past year between the rival militants, officials said on Wednesday.

The fighting erupted on Monday in two districts of the eastern Afghan border province of Nangarhar, when Islamic State fighters attacked villages under Taliban control.&nbsp;

"Islamic State fighters have captured six villages in Khogyani and Shirzad districts but the fighting has not stopped," said Sohrab Qaderi, a member Nangarhar`s the provincial council.

About 500 families had fled from the fighting, he said.

Casualty figures were not available.

A spokesman for the Taliban, who control more territory than at any point since they were ousted from power nearly 18 years ago, was not available for comment.

Islamic State fighters first appeared in eastern Afghanistan in around 2014 and have battled the Taliban as well as government and foreign forces.

The Afghan affiliate of Islamic State, sometimes known as Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K), after an old name for the region that includes Afghanistan, has made some inroads into other areas, in the north in particular.

It has also established a reputation for unusual cruelty, even by the standards of the Afghan conflict, and has been behind some of the deadliest attacks in urban centres.

While Nangarhar, on the border with Pakistan, has been an Islamic State stronghold, some villages in Khogyani and Shirzad districts have been controlled by the Taliban.

Fleeing villagers said they had to run for their lives.

"I could only rescue my family. We had to leave everything," said Shawkat, 36, a resident of Markikhel village in Shirzad district who sought safety in a neighbouring village.

Attaullah Khogyani, a spokesman for the provincial governor said, authorities would help the displaced villagers with food and medicine.

In August, more than 150 Islamic State fighters surrendered to the Afghan security forces after they were defeated by the Taliban in the northwestern province of Jawzjan.

The US military estimates there are about 2,000 Islamic State fighters in Afghanistan.

Many are former Taliban. There is scant evidence of direct links with Islamic State in the Middle East, where the group has lost territory it once held in Syria and Iraq to Western-backed forces.

Afghan Taliban insurgents are battling fighters loyal to Islamic State over control of territory in eastern Afghanistan in some of the heaviest clashes over the past year between the rival militants, officials said on Wednesday.

Afghan Taliban insurgents are battling fighters loyal to Islamic State over control of territory in eastern Afghanistan in some of the heaviest clashes over the past year between the rival militants, officials said on Wednesday. The fighting erupted on Monday in two districts of the eastern Afghan border province of Nangarhar, when Islamic State fighters attacked villages under Taliban control. "Islamic State fighters have captured six villages in Khogyani and Shirzad districts but the fighting has not stopped," said Sohrab Qaderi, a member Nangarhar`s the provincial council. About 500 families had fled from the fighting, he said. Casualty figures were not available. A spokesman for the Taliban, who control more territory than at any point since they were ousted from power nearly 18 years ago, was not available for comment. Islamic State fighters first appeared in eastern Afghanistan in around 2014 and have battled the Taliban as well as government and foreign forces. The Afghan affiliate of Islamic State, sometimes known as Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K), after an old name for the region that includes Afghanistan, has made some inroads into other areas, in the north in particular. It has also established a reputation for unusual cruelty, even by the standards of the Afghan conflict, and has been behind some of the deadliest attacks in urban centres. While Nangarhar, on the border with Pakistan, has been an Islamic State stronghold, some villages in Khogyani and Shirzad districts have been controlled by the Taliban. Fleeing villagers said they had to run for their lives. "I could only rescue my family. We had to leave everything," said Shawkat, 36, a resident of Markikhel village in Shirzad district who sought safety in a neighbouring village. Attaullah Khogyani, a spokesman for the provincial governor said, authorities would help the displaced villagers with food and medicine. In August, more than 150 Islamic State fighters surrendered to the Afghan security forces after they were defeated by the Taliban in the northwestern province of Jawzjan. The US military estimates there are about 2,000 Islamic State fighters in Afghanistan. Many are former Taliban. There is scant evidence of direct links with Islamic State in the Middle East, where the group has lost territory it once held in Syria and Iraq to Western-backed forces.

Heavy fighting flares between Taliban, Islamic State in Afghanistan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-serial-blasts-13-under-arrest-ninth-bomb-defused-near-colombo-airport-212476">Sri Lanka blasts: 13 under arrest, ninth bomb defused near Colombo airport</a>

Thirteen people were arrested by Sri Lankan police in connection with a series of eight devastating bomb blasts in the country on churches and hotels that killed more than 207 people and injured 500, officials said Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/25-foreigners-among-207-killed-in-sri-lanka-mayhem-report-212463">5 Indians among 25 foreigners killed in Sri Lanka mayhem: Report</a>

At least five Indians were killed in the serial bomb blasts that ravaged Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday in the island country's bloodiest day since the civil war ended a decade ago.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-memo-circulated-a-day-before-had-warned-of-attack-212458">Sri Lanka: Memo circulated a day before had warned of attack</a>

A memo that warned of a potential attack was circulated a day before the deadly explosions in Sri Lanka, reports CNN.The memo dated April 11 was signed by Sri Lanka`s deputy inspector general of police.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-protest-leaders-halt-talks-with-military-212459">Sudan protest leaders halt talks with military</a>

Sudanese protest leaders Sunday suspended talks with military rulers, after the army failed to meet their demand for an immediate transfer to civilian rule.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/game-of-thrones-s8-episode-2-leaks-online-hours-before-hbo-airing-212461">'Game of Thrones' S8 episode 2 leaks online hours before HBO airing</a>

According to The Wrap, fans of the epic fantasy series alerted on social media about the leak, claiming that the to-be-aired episode was released early via Amazon Prime Video in Germany.

Sri Lanka blasts: 13 under arrest, ninth bomb defused near Colombo airport Thirteen people were arrested by Sri Lankan police in connection with a series of eight devastating bomb blasts in the country on churches and hotels that killed more than 207 people and injured 500, officials said Monday.

Sri Lanka blasts: 13 under arrest, ninth bomb defused near Colombo airport Thirteen people were arrested by Sri Lankan police in connection with a series of eight devastating bomb blasts in the country on churches and hotels that killed more than 207 people and injured 500, officials said Monday. 5 Indians among 25 foreigners killed in Sri Lanka mayhem: Report At least five Indians were killed in the serial bomb blasts that ravaged Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday in the island country's bloodiest day since the civil war ended a decade ago. Sri Lanka: Memo circulated a day before had warned of attack A memo that warned of a potential attack was circulated a day before the deadly explosions in Sri Lanka, reports CNN.The memo dated April 11 was signed by Sri Lanka`s deputy inspector general of police. Sudan protest leaders halt talks with military Sudanese protest leaders Sunday suspended talks with military rulers, after the army failed to meet their demand for an immediate transfer to civilian rule. 'Game of Thrones' S8 episode 2 leaks online hours before HBO airing According to The Wrap, fans of the epic fantasy series alerted on social media about the leak, claiming that the to-be-aired episode was released early via Amazon Prime Video in Germany.

Upcoming talks between the Taliban and the United States will focus on the timetable for pulling all foreign forces from Afghanistan, according to a senior Taliban member.

In an interview with AFP, the Taliban's political spokesman Suhail Shaheen said previous negotiations with Washington saw the two sides agree to a total withdrawal, with only the details needing to be fleshed out.

"In our last round of talks with the US side, we agreed with them on withdrawal of all foreign forces from Afghanistan," Shaheen said late Saturday in Doha.

In return for a withdrawal, he said the Taliban have committed to preventing terror groups using Afghanistan as a safe haven or for launching attacks on other countries.

"But still there are some details to be discussed, and this discussion will take place in our next round of talks and that is about (the) timetable of the withdrawal of forces from the country and other details," Shaheen said.

The next round of talks is expected to take place in Doha in the coming weeks, but no dates have been formally announced.

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who is leading the talks for Washington, said after the latest round ended that "real strides" had been made, but he insisted no agreement was reached on when the US and other countries might leave Afghanistan.

He spoke of an agreement "in draft" on the issues of counter-terrorism, assurances from the Taliban and troop withdrawal, and suggested the next phases would be intra-Afghan dialogue and a ceasefire, but stressed that nothing was finalised.&nbsp;

Khalilzad has also said that "nothing is agreed to until everything has been agreed to."

Collapsed summit

A summit between the Taliban and Afghan politicians and representatives that was due to take place over the weekend collapsed amid bickering about Kabul's lengthy list of delegates, which initially comprised 250 people.&nbsp;

The conference would have been separate from main US-Taliban peace talks.

The main delegation did not meet with the Taliban, but women's rights organisation Women for Afghan Women (WAW) said two of its members had been present at a meeting that included about two dozen Taliban officials.&nbsp;

Talks so far have faced fierce criticism in Afghanistan and internationally for their lack of women participants.

"WAW expressed concerns for women's future role in society, noting the tremendous strides they have made since 2001," the group said in a statement.

While in power from 1996-2001, the Taliban banned girls' education, shredded any Western notion of women's rights and executed women on flimsy allegations of adultery.

The militants now say they support some access to education for girls, though this would be along religious lines in segregated schools.

Shaheen spoke to AFP in Qatari capital Doha, which has become the main hub for Afghanistan peace talks and once hosted a political office for the Taliban.&nbsp;

That facility was closed down after protests by Kabul, which said the Taliban were using the office as a de facto embassy.

"Right now, we do not have any office," Shaheen said.&nbsp;

"We need an office in order to issue statements, to hold the press conferences in order to give information out to the media about peace and to our own people on a daily basis".

Upcoming talks between the Taliban and the United States will focus on the timetable for pulling all foreign forces from Afghanistan, according to a senior Taliban member.

Upcoming talks between the Taliban and the United States will focus on the timetable for pulling all foreign forces from Afghanistan, according to a senior Taliban member. In an interview with AFP, the Taliban's political spokesman Suhail Shaheen said previous negotiations with Washington saw the two sides agree to a total withdrawal, with only the details needing to be fleshed out. "In our last round of talks with the US side, we agreed with them on withdrawal of all foreign forces from Afghanistan," Shaheen said late Saturday in Doha. In return for a withdrawal, he said the Taliban have committed to preventing terror groups using Afghanistan as a safe haven or for launching attacks on other countries. "But still there are some details to be discussed, and this discussion will take place in our next round of talks and that is about (the) timetable of the withdrawal of forces from the country and other details," Shaheen said. The next round of talks is expected to take place in Doha in the coming weeks, but no dates have been formally announced. US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who is leading the talks for Washington, said after the latest round ended that "real strides" had been made, but he insisted no agreement was reached on when the US and other countries might leave Afghanistan. He spoke of an agreement "in draft" on the issues of counter-terrorism, assurances from the Taliban and troop withdrawal, and suggested the next phases would be intra-Afghan dialogue and a ceasefire, but stressed that nothing was finalised. Khalilzad has also said that "nothing is agreed to until everything has been agreed to." Collapsed summit A summit between the Taliban and Afghan politicians and representatives that was due to take place over the weekend collapsed amid bickering about Kabul's lengthy list of delegates, which initially comprised 250 people. The conference would have been separate from main US-Taliban peace talks. The main delegation did not meet with the Taliban, but women's rights organisation Women for Afghan Women (WAW) said two of its members had been present at a meeting that included about two dozen Taliban officials. Talks so far have faced fierce criticism in Afghanistan and internationally for their lack of women participants. "WAW expressed concerns for women's future role in society, noting the tremendous strides they have made since 2001," the group said in a statement. While in power from 1996-2001, the Taliban banned girls' education, shredded any Western notion of women's rights and executed women on flimsy allegations of adultery. The militants now say they support some access to education for girls, though this would be along religious lines in segregated schools. Shaheen spoke to AFP in Qatari capital Doha, which has become the main hub for Afghanistan peace talks and once hosted a political office for the Taliban. That facility was closed down after protests by Kabul, which said the Taliban were using the office as a de facto embassy. "Right now, we do not have any office," Shaheen said. "We need an office in order to issue statements, to hold the press conferences in order to give information out to the media about peace and to our own people on a daily basis".

US withdrawal from Afghanistan focus of next talks: Taliban

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-haftar-forces-near-libya-capital-launch-counter-attack-212186">Anti-Haftar forces near Libya capital launch counter-attack</a>

Forces loyal to Libya's unity government announced Saturday a counter-attack against military strongman&nbsp;Khalifa Haftar's fighters, as clashes south of the capital Tripoli intensified.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attack-at-government-office-building-kills-11-in-kabul-212189">Attack at government office building kills 11 in Kabul</a>

Eleven people were killed and eight civilians wounded after assailants armed with guns, grenades and suicide bomb jackets stormed an 18-story&nbsp;government office building in Afghanistan's capital&nbsp;of Kabul on Saturday.

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Ukraine readied Saturday for a change in leadership as a young comedian appeared set to crush his incumbent rival in presidential polls, delivering a stinging rebuke to the old elite.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-syrian-soldiers-killed-in-is-attacks-212191">50 Syrian soldiers killed in Islamic State attacks</a>

At least 50 Syrian soldiers have been killed in attacks carried out by Islamic State and al Qaeda in the last few days, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-30000-displaced-in-libya-after-haftar-offensive-212187">Over 30,000 displaced in Libya after Haftar offensive</a>

Expressing "grave concern" over the violation of International Humanitarian Law in Libya, United Nations said nearly 30,200 people have been displaced so far amid&nbsp;hostilities in the country.

Anti-Haftar forces near Libya capital launch counter-attack Forces loyal to Libya's unity government announced Saturday a counter-attack against military strongman Khalifa Haftar's fighters, as clashes south of the capital Tripoli intensified.

Anti-Haftar forces near Libya capital launch counter-attack Forces loyal to Libya's unity government announced Saturday a counter-attack against military strongman Khalifa Haftar's fighters, as clashes south of the capital Tripoli intensified. Attack at government office building kills 11 in Kabul Eleven people were killed and eight civilians wounded after assailants armed with guns, grenades and suicide bomb jackets stormed an 18-story government office building in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Saturday. As comedian eyes presidency, Ukraine braces for uncertain future Ukraine readied Saturday for a change in leadership as a young comedian appeared set to crush his incumbent rival in presidential polls, delivering a stinging rebuke to the old elite. 50 Syrian soldiers killed in Islamic State attacks At least 50 Syrian soldiers have been killed in attacks carried out by Islamic State and al Qaeda in the last few days, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights on Saturday. Over 30,000 displaced in Libya after Haftar offensive Expressing "grave concern" over the violation of International Humanitarian Law in Libya, United Nations said nearly 30,200 people have been displaced so far amid hostilities in the country.

The Islamic State (IS) group on Sunday claimed responsibility for the attack that killed at least 10 people in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attack-at-government-office-building-kills-11-in-kabul-212189">Afghanistan's capital Kabul on Saturday</a>, news agency AFP reported.

The attack on the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) started at around mid-day and ended after a five-hour exchange of gunfire and explosions on Saturday, news agency Reuters reported. &nbsp;

Four IS jihadists detonated explosives near the ministry, then entered and "battled Afghan security forces with machine guns and hand grenades for numerous hours", the group said in a statement on its social media channels.

Seven civilians and three members of the security forces died in the attack, the interior ministry said.

Around 2,000 people were rescued from inside the communications ministry.

The Afghan affiliate of Islamic State, sometimes known as Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K) after an old name for the region that includes Afghanistan, has been active in the country since 2015, fighting the Taliban as well as Afghan and US forces.

The Islamic State (IS) group on Sunday claimed responsibility for the attack that killed at least 10 people in Afghanistan's capital Kabul on Saturday, news agency AFP reported.

The Islamic State (IS) group on Sunday claimed responsibility for the attack that killed at least 10 people in Afghanistan's capital Kabul on Saturday, news agency AFP reported. The attack on the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) started at around mid-day and ended after a five-hour exchange of gunfire and explosions on Saturday, news agency Reuters reported. Four IS jihadists detonated explosives near the ministry, then entered and "battled Afghan security forces with machine guns and hand grenades for numerous hours", the group said in a statement on its social media channels. Seven civilians and three members of the security forces died in the attack, the interior ministry said. Around 2,000 people were rescued from inside the communications ministry. The Afghan affiliate of Islamic State, sometimes known as Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K) after an old name for the region that includes Afghanistan, has been active in the country since 2015, fighting the Taliban as well as Afghan and US forces.

Islamic State claims responsibility for attack on Afghan ministry

Eleven people were killed and eight civilians wounded after assailants armed with guns, grenades and suicide bomb jackets stormed an 18-story <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blast-followed-by-gunfire-reported-in-afghanistan-capital-police-211996">government office building in Afghanistan's capital</a> of Kabul on Saturday.

The attack on the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) started at around mid-day and ended after a five-hour exchange of gunfire and explosions.

Among the eight people killed were four civilians, three members of the Afghan security forces and all the four attackers, according to the Afghan Ministry of Interior Affairs.

A MCIT staff member described how the explosions and the gunfire unfolded.

"We were at our offices when the blast happened. It was so powerful that we were forced to hide in the safe rooms on each floor. I could still hear constant explosions and gunfire while in the safe room," said Hasibullah Noorzada, an employee of MCIT.

The Afghan Special Forces evacuated around 2,000 people from the MCIT building.

No group has claimed responsibility for the incident yet. The Taliban militant group has denied involvement.

Eleven people were killed and eight civilians wounded after assailants armed with guns, grenades and suicide bomb jackets stormed an 18-story government office building in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Saturday.

Eleven people were killed and eight civilians wounded after assailants armed with guns, grenades and suicide bomb jackets stormed an 18-story government office building in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Saturday. The attack on the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) started at around mid-day and ended after a five-hour exchange of gunfire and explosions. Among the eight people killed were four civilians, three members of the Afghan security forces and all the four attackers, according to the Afghan Ministry of Interior Affairs. A MCIT staff member described how the explosions and the gunfire unfolded. "We were at our offices when the blast happened. It was so powerful that we were forced to hide in the safe rooms on each floor. I could still hear constant explosions and gunfire while in the safe room," said Hasibullah Noorzada, an employee of MCIT. The Afghan Special Forces evacuated around 2,000 people from the MCIT building. No group has claimed responsibility for the incident yet. The Taliban militant group has denied involvement.

Attack at government office building kills 11 in Kabul

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-multiple-blasts-seven-arrested-death-toll-passes-200-212339">Sri Lanka multiple blasts: Seven arrested, death toll passes 200</a> 
 
Seven people were arrested and three police officers were killed during a raid on a house in Sri Lankan capital Colombo on Sunday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trumps-solidarity-message-on-sri-lanka-blasts-goes-wrong-tweets-out-heartfelt-condolences-on-death-of-138-million-people-212299">Trump accidentally tweets condolences on death of '138 million people' in Sri Lanka</a> 
 
US President Donald Trump on Sunday offered "heartfelt condolences" to the people of Sri Lanka after a series of deadly explosions at churches and hotels in the island nation killed more than 160 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-contest-from-varanasi-if-rahul-gandhi-asks-me-says-priyanka-gandhi-212313">Will contest from Varanasi if Rahul Gandhi asks me, says Priyanka Gandhi</a>

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said that she will contest the Lok Sabha election from Varanasi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi if the party president Rahul Gandhi asks her to do so.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/these-blasts-are-grim-reminder-of-most-serious-challenge-to-humanity-pm-modi-to-sri-lankan-president-pm-212293">Sri Lanka blasts grim reminder of serious challenge to humanity: PM Modi</a> 
 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on series of blasts that hit the neighbour island today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-supreme-court-extends-president-ashraf-ghanis-term-until-delayed-elections-212297">Afghan supreme court extends President Ashraf Ghani's term until delayed elections</a> 
 
Afghanistan's supreme court on Sunday said it had extended the term of President Ashraf Ghani until delayed elections take place - resolving, for now, the question of what would happen after his term expires on May 22. 
&nbsp;

Sri Lanka multiple blasts: Seven arrested, death toll passes 200 Seven people were arrested and three police officers were killed during a raid on a house in Sri Lankan capital Colombo on Sunday.

Sri Lanka multiple blasts: Seven arrested, death toll passes 200 Seven people were arrested and three police officers were killed during a raid on a house in Sri Lankan capital Colombo on Sunday. Trump accidentally tweets condolences on death of '138 million people' in Sri Lanka US President Donald Trump on Sunday offered "heartfelt condolences" to the people of Sri Lanka after a series of deadly explosions at churches and hotels in the island nation killed more than 160 people. Will contest from Varanasi if Rahul Gandhi asks me, says Priyanka Gandhi Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday said that she will contest the Lok Sabha election from Varanasi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi if the party president Rahul Gandhi asks her to do so. Sri Lanka blasts grim reminder of serious challenge to humanity: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on series of blasts that hit the neighbour island today. Afghan supreme court extends President Ashraf Ghani's term until delayed elections Afghanistan's supreme court on Sunday said it had extended the term of President Ashraf Ghani until delayed elections take place - resolving, for now, the question of what would happen after his term expires on May 22.

Afghanistan's supreme court on Sunday said it had extended the term of President Ashraf Ghani until delayed elections take place - resolving, for now, the question of what would happen after his term expires on May 22.

Presidential elections were initially slated for April 20, but Afghan election officials were unprepared for a new nationwide poll so soon after October parliamentary elections.

With some final results from that election still pending, the presidential poll was delayed until July 20, then pushed back again until September 28.

"The Afghan supreme court has extended the service term of President Ghani until the re-election of a new president," the court said in a statement.

"The supreme court understands the financial, security and logistical challenges faced by the election commission."

The delayed elections come as the US tries to negotiate a peace deal with the Taliban, and some had speculated the polls were being deliberately stalled to create more space for those talks.

Opposition politicians and presidential contenders had called for an interim government to fill the gap between Ghani's mandate expiring and the presidential elections.

The supreme court said it was asking "presidential candidates to respect the delay in the presidential elections."

Ghani was elected in 2014 in a closely contested poll that was mired by allegations of fraud and that saw him lead a power-sharing government.

Afghanistan's supreme court on Sunday said it had extended the term of President Ashraf Ghani until delayed elections take place - resolving, for now, the question of what would happen after his term expires on May 22.

Afghanistan's supreme court on Sunday said it had extended the term of President Ashraf Ghani until delayed elections take place - resolving, for now, the question of what would happen after his term expires on May 22. Presidential elections were initially slated for April 20, but Afghan election officials were unprepared for a new nationwide poll so soon after October parliamentary elections. With some final results from that election still pending, the presidential poll was delayed until July 20, then pushed back again until September 28. "The Afghan supreme court has extended the service term of President Ghani until the re-election of a new president," the court said in a statement. "The supreme court understands the financial, security and logistical challenges faced by the election commission." The delayed elections come as the US tries to negotiate a peace deal with the Taliban, and some had speculated the polls were being deliberately stalled to create more space for those talks. Opposition politicians and presidential contenders had called for an interim government to fill the gap between Ghani's mandate expiring and the presidential elections. The supreme court said it was asking "presidential candidates to respect the delay in the presidential elections." Ghani was elected in 2014 in a closely contested poll that was mired by allegations of fraud and that saw him lead a power-sharing government.

Afghan supreme court extends President Ashraf Ghani's term until delayed elections

Kobra Samim, who rides for Afghanistan's national cycling team, wrote on Facebook that women's participation in sport is her "red line" as the US tries to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

Former politician Farkhunda Zahra Naderi tweeted that the protection of female leadership roles should be non-negotiable. And activist Samira Hamidi is demanding that women be included in the peace talks.

Across Afghanistan, women have taken to social media to join a campaign dubbed #MyRedLine that aims to pressure the government, the Taliban and the United States into ensuring women's hard-won advancements are not tossed aside in a rush for a peace accord.

"If the Taliban come back, we won't have the right to education, sports, and we will even be banned from coming out of houses," Samim, 23, told AFP as she adjusted the saddle on her mountain bike before setting off along a run-down Kabul street.&nbsp;

"We want peace, but also we want to continue our sports and cycling."

Farahnaz Forotan, a journalist and activist who started the #MyRedLine campaign with support from UN Women Afghanistan, said her own red line was "my pen and my freedom of expression".&nbsp;

"If peace doesn't bring social justice to all victims of war in every corner of the country, then it won't be a stable peace," Forotan told AFP.

She said the #MyRedLine hashtag had been shared or retweeted thousands of times since the social media campaign was launched last month, with even President Ashraf Ghani tweeting that women's rights were the government's "red line" in the peace process.

The campaign is also being shared on Facebook, in English, Pashto and Dari.&nbsp;

'More vulnerable than anyone'

Before being toppled by the US invasion of 2001, the Taliban governed Afghanistan for nearly five years with a strict interpretation of sharia law.

Women were confined to their homes, forced to wear burqas and forbidden from going to school. Some were publicly stoned to death on flimsy allegations of adultery.

"Women were more vulnerable than anyone during the Taliban regime," Forotan said.

The United States is holding direct talks with Taliban leaders -- all men --- in a bid to forge a peace deal.&nbsp;

Two Afghan women were invited to informal talks in Moscow in February between the Taliban and Afghan representatives, but their presence was very peripheral.&nbsp;

A second, similar summit between Afghan delegates and the insurgents that was to take place in Doha this weekend and had been set to include more women has been postponed indefinitely.

International observers have blasted the talks, led on the US side by peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, for their lack of female inclusion.

Other social media hashtags such as #afghanwomenwillnotgoback have also gained traction, and Khalilzad appears to have taken note.

On a trip to Afghanistan this month, the Afghan-born American envoy met with locals from all walks of life and with women's groups.

The Taliban, however, appear unmoved. Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid recently tweeted to deny reports that women were being included in the Taliban negotiating team and "neither do we believe it is necessary".

'Tough odds'

Heather Barr, the acting co-director of the Women's Rights Division at Human Rights Watch, said the online campaign was encouraging.&nbsp;

"They're up against tough odds at the moment, but their efforts are a sign that Afghan society is changing in fundamental ways, regardless of the outcome of these talks," Barr told AFP.

In the United States, powerful women are lending their voices to the Afghan campaign.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen, who sits on the influential Senate Armed Services Committee that oversees the US military, said such a move is key.

"Women's interests, as well as the interests of a broad segment of Afghan society need to be included as part of any negotiation," Shaheen told a group of journalists on a visit to Kabul this week.&nbsp;

"It is vital for women to be included in talks with the Taliban."

American actor and United Nations special envoy Angelina Jolie brought some celebrity power to the campaign last week, penning an opinion piece in TIME magazine calling for women to be included in "significant" numbers.&nbsp;

"Afghan women must be able to speak for themselves," Jolie wrote.&nbsp;

Kobra Samim, who rides for Afghanistan's national cycling team, wrote on Facebook that women's participation in sport is her "red line" as the US tries to forge a peace deal with the Taliban.

Kobra Samim, who rides for Afghanistan's national cycling team, wrote on Facebook that women's participation in sport is her "red line" as the US tries to forge a peace deal with the Taliban. Former politician Farkhunda Zahra Naderi tweeted that the protection of female leadership roles should be non-negotiable. And activist Samira Hamidi is demanding that women be included in the peace talks. Across Afghanistan, women have taken to social media to join a campaign dubbed #MyRedLine that aims to pressure the government, the Taliban and the United States into ensuring women's hard-won advancements are not tossed aside in a rush for a peace accord. "If the Taliban come back, we won't have the right to education, sports, and we will even be banned from coming out of houses," Samim, 23, told AFP as she adjusted the saddle on her mountain bike before setting off along a run-down Kabul street. "We want peace, but also we want to continue our sports and cycling." Farahnaz Forotan, a journalist and activist who started the #MyRedLine campaign with support from UN Women Afghanistan, said her own red line was "my pen and my freedom of expression". "If peace doesn't bring social justice to all victims of war in every corner of the country, then it won't be a stable peace," Forotan told AFP. She said the #MyRedLine hashtag had been shared or retweeted thousands of times since the social media campaign was launched last month, with even President Ashraf Ghani tweeting that women's rights were the government's "red line" in the peace process. The campaign is also being shared on Facebook, in English, Pashto and Dari. 'More vulnerable than anyone' Before being toppled by the US invasion of 2001, the Taliban governed Afghanistan for nearly five years with a strict interpretation of sharia law. Women were confined to their homes, forced to wear burqas and forbidden from going to school. Some were publicly stoned to death on flimsy allegations of adultery. "Women were more vulnerable than anyone during the Taliban regime," Forotan said. The United States is holding direct talks with Taliban leaders -- all men --- in a bid to forge a peace deal. Two Afghan women were invited to informal talks in Moscow in February between the Taliban and Afghan representatives, but their presence was very peripheral. A second, similar summit between Afghan delegates and the insurgents that was to take place in Doha this weekend and had been set to include more women has been postponed indefinitely. International observers have blasted the talks, led on the US side by peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, for their lack of female inclusion. Other social media hashtags such as #afghanwomenwillnotgoback have also gained traction, and Khalilzad appears to have taken note. On a trip to Afghanistan this month, the Afghan-born American envoy met with locals from all walks of life and with women's groups. The Taliban, however, appear unmoved. Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid recently tweeted to deny reports that women were being included in the Taliban negotiating team and "neither do we believe it is necessary". 'Tough odds' Heather Barr, the acting co-director of the Women's Rights Division at Human Rights Watch, said the online campaign was encouraging. "They're up against tough odds at the moment, but their efforts are a sign that Afghan society is changing in fundamental ways, regardless of the outcome of these talks," Barr told AFP. In the United States, powerful women are lending their voices to the Afghan campaign. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, who sits on the influential Senate Armed Services Committee that oversees the US military, said such a move is key. "Women's interests, as well as the interests of a broad segment of Afghan society need to be included as part of any negotiation," Shaheen told a group of journalists on a visit to Kabul this week. "It is vital for women to be included in talks with the Taliban." American actor and United Nations special envoy Angelina Jolie brought some celebrity power to the campaign last week, penning an opinion piece in TIME magazine calling for women to be included in "significant" numbers. "Afghan women must be able to speak for themselves," Jolie wrote.

Afghan women go online to set #myredline for peace

A 200-bed hospital built with Pakistan's assistance to boost the health sector of Afghanistan was inaugurated in Kabul on Saturday.

Muhammad Ali Jinnah Hospital is a state of the art hospital constructed at the cost of $24 million and a flagship project of Pakistan's $1 billion development assistance to Afghanistan in pursuance of its policy objective of deepening and broadening people to people connections between the two countries.

The facility was jointly inaugurated by Pakistan Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Ali Muhammad Khan, Afghanistan's Vice-President, Mohammad Sarwar Danish and Minister of Public Health, Dr Ferozuddin Feroz.

The 200-bed state-of-art Jinnah Hospital, completed at a cost of $24 million, was officially handed over by Pakistan to the government of Afghanistan, the Foreign Office said.

Khan said on the occasion that the hospital would be a substantial contribution to the health sector of Afghanistan.

He also conveyed the message of Prime Minister Imran Khan that Pakistan would continue to take all possible measures for the welfare of the people of Afghanistan.

Dr Feroz expressed his deep thanks for the hospital and appreciated Pakistan's immense assistance in the health sector which also included under construction 100-bed Naeb Aminullah Khan Hospital in Logar costing $19 million and other completed projects including Nishtar Kidney Center in Jalalabad.

A 200-bed hospital built with Pakistan's assistance to boost the health sector of Afghanistan was inaugurated in Kabul on Saturday. Muhammad Ali Jinnah Hospital is a state of the art hospital constructed at the cost of $24 million and a flagship project of Pakistan's $1 billion development assistance to Afghanistan in pursuance of its policy objective of deepening and broadening people to people connections between the two countries.

A 200-bed hospital built with Pakistan's assistance to boost the health sector of Afghanistan was inaugurated in Kabul on Saturday. Muhammad Ali Jinnah Hospital is a state of the art hospital constructed at the cost of $24 million and a flagship project of Pakistan's $1 billion development assistance to Afghanistan in pursuance of its policy objective of deepening and broadening people to people connections between the two countries. The facility was jointly inaugurated by Pakistan Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Ali Muhammad Khan, Afghanistan's Vice-President, Mohammad Sarwar Danish and Minister of Public Health, Dr Ferozuddin Feroz. The 200-bed state-of-art Jinnah Hospital, completed at a cost of $24 million, was officially handed over by Pakistan to the government of Afghanistan, the Foreign Office said. Khan said on the occasion that the hospital would be a substantial contribution to the health sector of Afghanistan. He also conveyed the message of Prime Minister Imran Khan that Pakistan would continue to take all possible measures for the welfare of the people of Afghanistan. Dr Feroz expressed his deep thanks for the hospital and appreciated Pakistan's immense assistance in the health sector which also included under construction 100-bed Naeb Aminullah Khan Hospital in Logar costing $19 million and other completed projects including Nishtar Kidney Center in Jalalabad.

Afghanistan: Constructed with Pakistan's assistance, hospital with 200-bed inaugurated in Kabul

Afghan authorities on Saturday announced that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blast-followed-by-gunfire-reported-in-afghanistan-capital-police-211996">hour-long attack in Kabul</a> was over. They also mentioned that all suicide bombers were killed.

"Operations finished. All suicide bombers killed &amp; more than 2000 civilians staff rescued," the Ministry of Interior said on Twitter.

Earlier today, Afghan central was hit by an explosion followed by gunfire.&nbsp;

The incident took place close to the communications ministry and one of the city's main hotels.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility.

The blast followed several months of relative calm in Kabul, which coincided with talks between US and Taliban officials aimed at opening the way for formal peace negotiations to end more than 17 years of war in Afghanistan.

Afghan authorities on Saturday announced that hour-long attack in Kabul was over. They also mentioned that all suicide bombers were killed. "Operations finished.

Afghan authorities on Saturday announced that hour-long attack in Kabul was over. They also mentioned that all suicide bombers were killed. "Operations finished. All suicide bombers killed & more than 2000 civilians staff rescued," the Ministry of Interior said on Twitter. Earlier today, Afghan central was hit by an explosion followed by gunfire. The incident took place close to the communications ministry and one of the city's main hotels. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. The blast followed several months of relative calm in Kabul, which coincided with talks between US and Taliban officials aimed at opening the way for formal peace negotiations to end more than 17 years of war in Afghanistan.

Kabul attack over, suicide bombers killed: Afghan ministry

An explosion followed by gunfire hit the centre of the Afghan capital Kabul on Saturday, close to the communications ministry and one of the city`s main hotels, officials said.

The blast followed several months of relative calm in Kabul, which coincided with talks between US and Taliban officials aimed at opening the way for formal peace negotiations to end more than 17 years of war in Afghanistan.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility.

Interior Ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi confirmed gunfire around the ministry of communications and information technology but had no further details.

The explosion was also close to the heavily fortified Serena Hotel, one of the very few hotels still used by foreign visitors, in one of the main commercial areas of the city.

While heavy fighting has carried on across Afghanistan and Taliban militants have announced their now customary spring offensive, there have been no large scale attacks on civilian targets in Kabul in recent weeks.&nbsp;

An explosion followed by gunfire hit the centre of the Afghan capital Kabul on Saturday, close to the communications ministry and one of the city`s main hotels, officials said.

An explosion followed by gunfire hit the centre of the Afghan capital Kabul on Saturday, close to the communications ministry and one of the city`s main hotels, officials said. The blast followed several months of relative calm in Kabul, which coincided with talks between US and Taliban officials aimed at opening the way for formal peace negotiations to end more than 17 years of war in Afghanistan. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Interior Ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi confirmed gunfire around the ministry of communications and information technology but had no further details. The explosion was also close to the heavily fortified Serena Hotel, one of the very few hotels still used by foreign visitors, in one of the main commercial areas of the city. While heavy fighting has carried on across Afghanistan and Taliban militants have announced their now customary spring offensive, there have been no large scale attacks on civilian targets in Kabul in recent weeks.

Blast followed by gunfire reported in Afghanistan capital: Police

The Afghanistan government's policies to prevent ill-treatment of detainees, linked to ongoing conflict, in the war-torn country's prisons were having an effect, but they were far from sufficient as torture of prisoners is likely still widespread in these jails, the United Nations&nbsp;has said.&nbsp;

Based on interviews with more than 600 detainees and published jointly by the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), their latest report on the treatment of prisoners in 77 facilities in 28 out of 34 provinces indicates that an average of nearly one in three, provided "credible and reliable" accounts of suffering.

In the previous reporting period, covering 2015 and 2016, the ratio was closer to four in 10, it said noting that an "encouraging reduction" in the level of abuse since 2016 have been witnessed.

Beatings was the most common form of torture and ill-treatment, according to the report, which also noted that "the vast majority" of detainees held for alleged links to extremist group ISIS (also known as Daesh) or other opposition forces, said they had been tortured or ill-treated to force them to confess - and that the treatment stopped once they did so.

Significant differences in the treatment of detainees were found depending on the jail where they are held, with one Afghan National Police (ANP) facility in Kandahar, linked to a 77 per cent torture rate - well above the 31 per cent ANP average.&nbsp;

The Kandahar findings included allegations of "brutal" forms of torture such as "suffocation, electric shocks, pulling of genitals and suspension from ceilings", the UNAMA and the OHCHR said, while underlining that abuse allegations in ANP detention centres had fallen - from a 45 per cent average since 2016.&nbsp;

The report, which finds that youngsters are at higher risk of suffering mistreatment, discusses how detainees' rights are violated in other areas.&nbsp;

These include a lack of legal safeguards to prevent torture, difficulties in gaining access to lawyers and the continued absence of accountability for perpetrators, with very limited referrals to prosecution.&nbsp;

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Michelle Bachelet, said the report's findings demonstrated that the embattled Government's policies put in place to combat torture and ill-treatment were having an effect, but they were far from sufficient.

"A year ago, on this day, the Government of Afghanistan committed itself to the prevention of torture by acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture," Bachelet said.&nbsp;

"I urge the Government to work swiftly to create a National Preventive Mechanism to ensure independent, impartial scrutiny of the treatment of detainees. A well-resourced watchdog of this sort, which is able to make unannounced visits to places of detention and raise awareness of what constitutes torture and ill-treatment according to international human rights law, can go a long way towards the ultimate goal of fully eradicating torture."

Also highlighted in the report are concerns over an Afghan National Army-run detention facility in Parwan, in the north-east of the country.&nbsp;

These include overcrowding and the use of solitary confinement as the sole disciplinary measure, despite progress and "tangible results" made by the Government in implementing a national plan to eliminate torture.

"We welcome the steps taken by the Government to prevent and investigate cases of torture and ill-treatment over the past two years," said Tadamichi Yamamoto, the UN Special Representative for Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"However... There is still a long way to go to eradicate this horrendous practice among conflict-related detainees, he added. "Respect for the rule of law and human rights is the best way to create the conditions for sustainable peace."

The Afghanistan government's policies to prevent ill-treatment of detainees, linked to ongoing conflict, in the war-torn country's prisons were having an effect, but they were far from sufficient as torture of prisoners is likely still widespread in these jails, the United Nations has said.

The Afghanistan government's policies to prevent ill-treatment of detainees, linked to ongoing conflict, in the war-torn country's prisons were having an effect, but they were far from sufficient as torture of prisoners is likely still widespread in these jails, the United Nations has said. Based on interviews with more than 600 detainees and published jointly by the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), their latest report on the treatment of prisoners in 77 facilities in 28 out of 34 provinces indicates that an average of nearly one in three, provided "credible and reliable" accounts of suffering. In the previous reporting period, covering 2015 and 2016, the ratio was closer to four in 10, it said noting that an "encouraging reduction" in the level of abuse since 2016 have been witnessed. Beatings was the most common form of torture and ill-treatment, according to the report, which also noted that "the vast majority" of detainees held for alleged links to extremist group ISIS (also known as Daesh) or other opposition forces, said they had been tortured or ill-treated to force them to confess - and that the treatment stopped once they did so. Significant differences in the treatment of detainees were found depending on the jail where they are held, with one Afghan National Police (ANP) facility in Kandahar, linked to a 77 per cent torture rate - well above the 31 per cent ANP average. The Kandahar findings included allegations of "brutal" forms of torture such as "suffocation, electric shocks, pulling of genitals and suspension from ceilings", the UNAMA and the OHCHR said, while underlining that abuse allegations in ANP detention centres had fallen - from a 45 per cent average since 2016. The report, which finds that youngsters are at higher risk of suffering mistreatment, discusses how detainees' rights are violated in other areas. These include a lack of legal safeguards to prevent torture, difficulties in gaining access to lawyers and the continued absence of accountability for perpetrators, with very limited referrals to prosecution. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Michelle Bachelet, said the report's findings demonstrated that the embattled Government's policies put in place to combat torture and ill-treatment were having an effect, but they were far from sufficient. "A year ago, on this day, the Government of Afghanistan committed itself to the prevention of torture by acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture," Bachelet said. "I urge the Government to work swiftly to create a National Preventive Mechanism to ensure independent, impartial scrutiny of the treatment of detainees. A well-resourced watchdog of this sort, which is able to make unannounced visits to places of detention and raise awareness of what constitutes torture and ill-treatment according to international human rights law, can go a long way towards the ultimate goal of fully eradicating torture." Also highlighted in the report are concerns over an Afghan National Army-run detention facility in Parwan, in the north-east of the country. These include overcrowding and the use of solitary confinement as the sole disciplinary measure, despite progress and "tangible results" made by the Government in implementing a national plan to eliminate torture. "We welcome the steps taken by the Government to prevent and investigate cases of torture and ill-treatment over the past two years," said Tadamichi Yamamoto, the UN Special Representative for Afghanistan. "However... There is still a long way to go to eradicate this horrendous practice among conflict-related detainees, he added. "Respect for the rule of law and human rights is the best way to create the conditions for sustainable peace."

Afghanistan made progress against torture in detention centres, but needs to do more: UN report

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talks-in-trouble-as-taliban-slam-afghan-guest-list-211426">meeting between the Taliban and Afghan politicians</a> and civil society aimed at ending more than 17 years of war in Afghanistan has been postponed, officials and diplomats said on Thursday, citing Taliban objections to the size of the Afghan delegation.

The talks were set to begin on Friday in Doha, but a senior government official in Kabul said, "the gathering has been called off for now and details were being reworked."

Afghan delegates scheduled to fly to the Qatari capital on Thursday were told the trip was postponed and new dates were being discussed, a western diplomat in Kabul said.

"The government will have to change the composition of the delegation to make this meeting happen," the diplomat said on condition of anonymity.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said leaders of the hardline Islamist group were uncomfortable with the size of the Afghan delegation and its composition.

"Presence of some participants was completely against the list of what was agreed upon," Mujahid told Reuters over phone, adding that the delegation included Afghans working for the government.

The Taliban has repeatedly refused to meet President Ashraf Ghani's government, which they call a puppet regime, but have held several rounds of peace talks with US officials.

Ghani said Wednesday the 250-member Afghan delegation included some government officials attending in a personal capacity. But the group did not include some of the most powerful figures in Afghan politics, who are reluctant to join forces with Ghani ahead of presidential elections due in September.

A meeting between the Taliban and Afghan politicians and civil society aimed at ending more than 17 years of war in Afghanistan has been postponed, officials and diplomats said on Thursday, citing Taliban objections to the size of the Afghan delegation.

A meeting between the Taliban and Afghan politicians and civil society aimed at ending more than 17 years of war in Afghanistan has been postponed, officials and diplomats said on Thursday, citing Taliban objections to the size of the Afghan delegation. The talks were set to begin on Friday in Doha, but a senior government official in Kabul said, "the gathering has been called off for now and details were being reworked." Afghan delegates scheduled to fly to the Qatari capital on Thursday were told the trip was postponed and new dates were being discussed, a western diplomat in Kabul said. "The government will have to change the composition of the delegation to make this meeting happen," the diplomat said on condition of anonymity. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said leaders of the hardline Islamist group were uncomfortable with the size of the Afghan delegation and its composition. "Presence of some participants was completely against the list of what was agreed upon," Mujahid told Reuters over phone, adding that the delegation included Afghans working for the government. The Taliban has repeatedly refused to meet President Ashraf Ghani's government, which they call a puppet regime, but have held several rounds of peace talks with US officials. Ghani said Wednesday the 250-member Afghan delegation included some government officials attending in a personal capacity. But the group did not include some of the most powerful figures in Afghan politics, who are reluctant to join forces with Ghani ahead of presidential elections due in September.

Peace talks postponed as Taliban objects to size of Afghan delegation

As the early morning light breaks over the plain north of Kabul, bird hunter Jan Agha checks his snares as he has done for the past 30 years, hoping to catch a crane, using a tethered bird to lure others down to the nets.

Bird hunting is an ancient sport in Afghanistan, where local and migrating species have flocked for thousands of years and where even amid the chaos of the past 40 years of conflict, the tradition persists.

"I have learned different types of hunting from my ancestors because they were hunters too," said 49-year-old Jan Agha, a farmer in Parwan province.

"Some of my sons have learned hunting from me and I hope to see at least two of my sons become hunters so my name is remembered and people know my sons after my death."

The war has left much of the environment near Kabul devastated with uncleared mines, pollution, uncontrolled building and general neglect. Only in the last few years has there been an effort to restore areas like the former royal hunting grounds at Kol-e-Hashmat Khan in the city's southwest.

Spring is the season of cranes, which the hunters try to catch alive in snares, using a specially trained tethered bird whose cries attract passing flocks.

"I like this crane because it won't be silent when the other big groups of cranes come, and it always forces them to come down. I like it because he is really a hunter bird."

With environmental controls virtually non-existent, there is little check on how many birds are caught or shot and Jan Agha, who started hunting when he was around 12 or 13, reckons he has taken more than 1,000 cranes and an uncountable number of quails, ducks hawks and sparrows.

The birds are usually taken to shops near the town of Bagram or to Kabul itself, where there is a popular bird market in the centre of the old city.

For Jan Agha, hunting is a relief, taking him out of the daily round and into the harshly beautiful countryside, where groups of hunters set out in the night, picnicking at night in the desert before testing their skills at dawn.

"The pleasure of hunting is to be in open space. I like the mountain, desert, shotgun and being awake during the night to hunt," he said. "The pleasure of hunting is to be a success in it. A hunter's hope is hunting. Being a success in every job in the world has a special pleasure."

As the early morning light breaks over the plain north of Kabul, bird hunter Jan Agha checks his snares as he has done for the past 30 years, hoping to catch a crane, using a tethered bird to lure others down to the nets.

As the early morning light breaks over the plain north of Kabul, bird hunter Jan Agha checks his snares as he has done for the past 30 years, hoping to catch a crane, using a tethered bird to lure others down to the nets. Bird hunting is an ancient sport in Afghanistan, where local and migrating species have flocked for thousands of years and where even amid the chaos of the past 40 years of conflict, the tradition persists. "I have learned different types of hunting from my ancestors because they were hunters too," said 49-year-old Jan Agha, a farmer in Parwan province. "Some of my sons have learned hunting from me and I hope to see at least two of my sons become hunters so my name is remembered and people know my sons after my death." The war has left much of the environment near Kabul devastated with uncleared mines, pollution, uncontrolled building and general neglect. Only in the last few years has there been an effort to restore areas like the former royal hunting grounds at Kol-e-Hashmat Khan in the city's southwest. Spring is the season of cranes, which the hunters try to catch alive in snares, using a specially trained tethered bird whose cries attract passing flocks. "I like this crane because it won't be silent when the other big groups of cranes come, and it always forces them to come down. I like it because he is really a hunter bird." With environmental controls virtually non-existent, there is little check on how many birds are caught or shot and Jan Agha, who started hunting when he was around 12 or 13, reckons he has taken more than 1,000 cranes and an uncountable number of quails, ducks hawks and sparrows. The birds are usually taken to shops near the town of Bagram or to Kabul itself, where there is a popular bird market in the centre of the old city. For Jan Agha, hunting is a relief, taking him out of the daily round and into the harshly beautiful countryside, where groups of hunters set out in the night, picnicking at night in the desert before testing their skills at dawn. "The pleasure of hunting is to be in open space. I like the mountain, desert, shotgun and being awake during the night to hunt," he said. "The pleasure of hunting is to be a success in it. A hunter's hope is hunting. Being a success in every job in the world has a special pleasure."

'A hunter's hope': Snaring birds in warring Afghanistan

The Taliban group has mocked the Afghan government over the list of 250 delegates for Qatar talks, saying ‘the creators of the list must realize that this is an orderly and prearranged conference in a far-away Gulf country and not an invitation to some wedding or other party at a hotel in Kabul.’

Taliban mocks government over list of 250 delegates for Qatar talks

Taliban mocks Ghani's government and says 'new Afghan government represents personal views'. watch video to know more.

Taliban: New Afghan government represents personal views

Afghanistan published Tuesday a lengthy list of delegates who will meet with the Taliban in Doha this week, including government officials, in what could become the highest-level dialogue between the sworn enemies in years.

A massive roster published by the presidential palace comprises 250 names, including President Ashraf Ghani's chief of staff, Abdul Salam Rahimi, as well as his election running mate, Amrullah Saleh, the former head of Afghan intelligence.

Other delegates named on the list come from many walks of Afghan life including youth leaders, tribal elders and -- significantly -- 52 women.

The last time the Taliban met with the Afghan government was at secretive talks in Pakistan in 2015, which were quickly derailed by the news that Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Omar had died.

The three days of talks in Qatar, scheduled to start Friday, come amid a months-long push led by Washington for peace nearly 18 years after the US invasion, and as fresh violence rips across Afghanistan.

Any contact between the Kabul government and the Taliban is seen as hugely significant, because the insurgents view Ghani as a US stooge and his government as a puppet regime, and have long refused to speak with them directly.

They have insisted that any government officials attending this week's talks will be doing so only in a "personal capacity".

The US, which has cited significant progress after holding direct talks with the militants in Doha several times since September, is not expected to attend.&nbsp;

The militants have not announced a final list of who is headed to Doha, and distanced themselves from a report that suggested their delegation might also include women.

The peace process thus far has been widely criticised for a lack of female representation, and US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad has pushed for greater inclusivity.

While the Taliban previously met with Afghan representatives and politicians in Moscow in February, those talks did not include members of Ghani's government.

The spokesman for former president Hamid Karzai, who was at the Moscow talks, said Karzai supported the "intra-Afghan" conference in Doha but would not be attending.

Kabul has also been left out of the talks with the Khalilzad and the US delegation, prompting concerns the Afghan government is being sidelined in its own peace process and underscoring the importance of this week's meetings in Doha.

This month, the United Nations said it had lifted travel bans for 11 Taliban delegates so they could attend talks.&nbsp;

That list includes Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a co-founder of the Islamist movement and its top political leader, as well as Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, the Taliban's chief negotiator and former deputy minister of foreign affairs.

The Taliban last week announced the start of Operation Fath, this year's spring offensive, and violence has continued apace across Afghanistan despite Khalilzad calling for a ceasefire.

Afghanistan published Tuesday a lengthy list of delegates who will meet with the Taliban in Doha this week, including government officials, in what could become the highest-level dialogue between the sworn enemies in years.

Afghanistan published Tuesday a lengthy list of delegates who will meet with the Taliban in Doha this week, including government officials, in what could become the highest-level dialogue between the sworn enemies in years. A massive roster published by the presidential palace comprises 250 names, including President Ashraf Ghani's chief of staff, Abdul Salam Rahimi, as well as his election running mate, Amrullah Saleh, the former head of Afghan intelligence. Other delegates named on the list come from many walks of Afghan life including youth leaders, tribal elders and -- significantly -- 52 women. The last time the Taliban met with the Afghan government was at secretive talks in Pakistan in 2015, which were quickly derailed by the news that Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Omar had died. The three days of talks in Qatar, scheduled to start Friday, come amid a months-long push led by Washington for peace nearly 18 years after the US invasion, and as fresh violence rips across Afghanistan. Any contact between the Kabul government and the Taliban is seen as hugely significant, because the insurgents view Ghani as a US stooge and his government as a puppet regime, and have long refused to speak with them directly. They have insisted that any government officials attending this week's talks will be doing so only in a "personal capacity". The US, which has cited significant progress after holding direct talks with the militants in Doha several times since September, is not expected to attend. The militants have not announced a final list of who is headed to Doha, and distanced themselves from a report that suggested their delegation might also include women. The peace process thus far has been widely criticised for a lack of female representation, and US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad has pushed for greater inclusivity. While the Taliban previously met with Afghan representatives and politicians in Moscow in February, those talks did not include members of Ghani's government. The spokesman for former president Hamid Karzai, who was at the Moscow talks, said Karzai supported the "intra-Afghan" conference in Doha but would not be attending. Kabul has also been left out of the talks with the Khalilzad and the US delegation, prompting concerns the Afghan government is being sidelined in its own peace process and underscoring the importance of this week's meetings in Doha. This month, the United Nations said it had lifted travel bans for 11 Taliban delegates so they could attend talks. That list includes Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a co-founder of the Islamist movement and its top political leader, as well as Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, the Taliban's chief negotiator and former deputy minister of foreign affairs. The Taliban last week announced the start of Operation Fath, this year's spring offensive, and violence has continued apace across Afghanistan despite Khalilzad calling for a ceasefire.

Hundreds of Afghan delegates to meet with Taliban in Doha

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