After the lid was blown over a visa scandal, Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday ordered its European embassies to not issue visas to Afghan citizens until further notice.

After the lid was blown over a visa scandal, Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday ordered its European embassies to not issue visas to Afghan citizens until further notice. The FO has ordered embassies in the UK, Portugal, Greece, Spain, Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, Belgium, Ireland and the Netherlands to not issue the visas, according to Pakistani media reports. Notably, the decision was prompted after 1,600 visas were issued to Afghan nationals by the Pakistan embassy in Sweden based on fake residence cards. WATCH | Afghanistan: Taliban underscores its resistance against women's education × After the news of the visa scandal broke on Pakistani news channels, the foreign ministry swung into action and launched an inquiry into how the visas were issued so carelessly by the Pakistan mission. This is not the first instance where Afghan nationals have entered Pakistan using bogus documents. Last year, it was reported that people attempting to flee the clutches of the Taliban were paying as much as $700 for a yearlong visa to Pakistan. Read more: Taliban 'unable or unwilling’ to fulfil commitments, Pakistan has the right to defend itself: US The tensions between the two countries have been running high, especially after the Peshawar bomb blast. Islamabad is of the view that the Taliban regime in Kabul is pulling the strings of TTP in Pakistan. TTP, a rogue terrorist outfit, fashioned on the lines of the Afghan Taliban is miffed with the current Shehbaz Sharif administration for not meeting its demands. The talks between the government and TTP collapsed in August last year. During the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Since then, TTP has gone on a rampage, conducting fatal bomb blasts one after another. Islamabad is wary that the influx of Afghan nationals on bogus visas could exacerbate the current situation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan orders its European embassies to NOT issue visas to Afghan nationals

Putting a bleak picture of Afghanistan, European Union's special envoy Tomas Niklasson has said that "situation will only get worse" in the country even as he called on "Taliban to think carefully about the consequences their decision is having on the people of Afghanistan". His comments come even as reports emerged of foreign embassies in Kabul removing its diplomats from the country amid security concerns. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi, Niklasson explained, "already harbor quite a number of Jihadis or militant organizations. That is also clear from my conversations here in India, that remains the primary concern of India and many of its Neighbours". He acknowledged India's positive impact on the country over the decades and the strong links between the two nations. The also spoke on going Taliban-Islamabad issues over terror attacks in Pakistan, role of Russia, China etc.

In Delhi, EU Special Envoy says, Afghanistan situation will only get worse

A damning report made by Members of Parliament in UK has revealed that the British government was not able to help all Afghans who helped it during when Afghanistan was under the control of international coalition led by the US. These Afghans are now at the mercy of the Taliban regime. They remain stranded in Afghanistan. These Afghans helped the UK forces by working as interpreters, contractors. It is estimated that at least 4600 such Afghans are stranded inside the country.&nbsp;

The previous Taliban regime was toppled by the US-led coalition after 9/11 terror attacks. The coalition forces were in control of Afghanistan for two decades. However, the Taliban rapidly gained control of the country in the run-up to the total withdrawal of foreign forces in August 2021. As the foreign troops were withdrawn, thousands of Afghans who had helped the coalition were also evacuated to western countries as there was a danger of Taliban reprisal against them for having helped the foreign troops. However, thousands still remain inside Afghanistan.

“The withdrawal from Afghanistan was a dark chapter in UK military history. For the Afghans who cooperated with the UK, and the British troops who served in the country, the nightmare is far from over," said Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood, chairman of defence select committee. He was quoted by The Guardian.

“They are at risk of harm as a direct result of assisting the UK mission. We can’t change the events that unfolded in August 2021, but we owe it to those Afghans, who placed their lives in danger to help us, to get them and their families to safety.”

Britain's Ministry of Defence told the committee that at least 4600 Afghans who helped British forces were stranded in Afghanistan. The ministry also said that 6600 people had been relocated by last November.

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A damning report made by Members of Parliament in UK has revealed that the British government was not able to help all Afghans who helped it during when Afghanistan was under the control of international coalition led by the US.

A damning report made by Members of Parliament in UK has revealed that the British government was not able to help all Afghans who helped it during when Afghanistan was under the control of international coalition led by the US. These Afghans are now at the mercy of the Taliban regime. They remain stranded in Afghanistan. These Afghans helped the UK forces by working as interpreters, contractors. It is estimated that at least 4600 such Afghans are stranded inside the country. The previous Taliban regime was toppled by the US-led coalition after 9/11 terror attacks. The coalition forces were in control of Afghanistan for two decades. However, the Taliban rapidly gained control of the country in the run-up to the total withdrawal of foreign forces in August 2021. As the foreign troops were withdrawn, thousands of Afghans who had helped the coalition were also evacuated to western countries as there was a danger of Taliban reprisal against them for having helped the foreign troops. However, thousands still remain inside Afghanistan. “The withdrawal from Afghanistan was a dark chapter in UK military history. For the Afghans who cooperated with the UK, and the British troops who served in the country, the nightmare is far from over," said Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood, chairman of defence select committee. He was quoted by The Guardian. “They are at risk of harm as a direct result of assisting the UK mission. We can’t change the events that unfolded in August 2021, but we owe it to those Afghans, who placed their lives in danger to help us, to get them and their families to safety.” Britain's Ministry of Defence told the committee that at least 4600 Afghans who helped British forces were stranded in Afghanistan. The ministry also said that 6600 people had been relocated by last November. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Thousands of Afghans who helped UK forces still stuck in Afghanistan: Report

Since August 2021, thousands of Afghans who helped the British forces against the Taliban, remain stranded and at a potential risk from the Taliban. According to a new reports by the MPs, this is because of the failures of the UK government in their settlement schemes.

Afghans who helped UK forces remain stranded by UK, Defence Ministry says 6,600 people relocated

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval participated in the 5th National Security Advisers meet on Afghanistan in Moscow on Wednesday, where he highlighted India's commitment to the people of Afghanistan. In his address, NSA pointed to the historic and special relationship India and Afghanistan have, and the well-being and humanitarian needs of the Afghan people is New Delhi's foremost priority.

The meeting was attended by security chiefs of India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan in which they discussed various issues related to Afghanistan, including the security situation and humanitarian challenges facing the country.

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Doval emphasized India's efforts to support Afghanistan, including the delivery of 40,000 metric tons of wheat, 60 tons of medicines, 500,000 Covid-19 vaccines, winter clothing, and 28 tons of disaster relief. He also mentioned the scholarships granted to 2,260 Afghan students, including 300 girls, in the past two years as a testament to India's commitment to education in Afghanistan.

On the issue of terrorism, Doval reaffirmed the importance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2593 (2021), which calls for denying sanctuary to terror outfits, including those designated by UNSCR 1267. &nbsp;The resolution was passed under the Indian presidency of the security council in August 2021. &nbsp;

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On issues related to terror groups like Daesh and Pakistan based LeT and JeM he called for intensification of intelligence and security cooperation between countries of the region. He stated that no country should be allowed to use Afghan territory to export terrorism and radicalization, and that natural resources of Afghanistan should be utilized first for the welfare of the Afghan people. Worries have mounted that in Taliban controlled Afghanistan, Terror groups, including many anti India groups might find space.

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National Security Advisor Ajit Doval explained that India will continue to be a significant stakeholder in Afghanistan and will always support the Afghan people in their quest to rebuild their nation. India has been a major development partner of the country, especially before the fall of Afghanistan to Taliban building the Parliament house in Kabul, India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat and other community projects.

He stressed the importance of an inclusive and representative dispensation for the overall well-being of Afghan society. New Delhi, since Taliban takeover has been calling for formation of an inclusive govt in Kabul that also has representatives from the minority ethnic group.

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National Security Advisor Ajit Doval participated in the 5th National Security Advisers meet on Afghanistan in Moscow on Wednesday, where he highlighted India's commitment to the people of Afghanistan.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval participated in the 5th National Security Advisers meet on Afghanistan in Moscow on Wednesday, where he highlighted India's commitment to the people of Afghanistan. In his address, NSA pointed to the historic and special relationship India and Afghanistan have, and the well-being and humanitarian needs of the Afghan people is New Delhi's foremost priority. The meeting was attended by security chiefs of India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan in which they discussed various issues related to Afghanistan, including the security situation and humanitarian challenges facing the country. Also Read | Twitter bird 'caged' in Turkey after anger swamped social media over Erdogan's quake response Doval emphasized India's efforts to support Afghanistan, including the delivery of 40,000 metric tons of wheat, 60 tons of medicines, 500,000 Covid-19 vaccines, winter clothing, and 28 tons of disaster relief. He also mentioned the scholarships granted to 2,260 Afghan students, including 300 girls, in the past two years as a testament to India's commitment to education in Afghanistan. On the issue of terrorism, Doval reaffirmed the importance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2593 (2021), which calls for denying sanctuary to terror outfits, including those designated by UNSCR 1267. The resolution was passed under the Indian presidency of the security council in August 2021. Also Read | Russia warns of 'bloody harvest' in war escalation if UK sends fighter jets to Ukraine On issues related to terror groups like Daesh and Pakistan based LeT and JeM he called for intensification of intelligence and security cooperation between countries of the region. He stated that no country should be allowed to use Afghan territory to export terrorism and radicalization, and that natural resources of Afghanistan should be utilized first for the welfare of the Afghan people. Worries have mounted that in Taliban controlled Afghanistan, Terror groups, including many anti India groups might find space. Watch | Turkiye earthquake survivors recall horror National Security Advisor Ajit Doval explained that India will continue to be a significant stakeholder in Afghanistan and will always support the Afghan people in their quest to rebuild their nation. India has been a major development partner of the country, especially before the fall of Afghanistan to Taliban building the Parliament house in Kabul, India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat and other community projects. He stressed the importance of an inclusive and representative dispensation for the overall well-being of Afghan society. New Delhi, since Taliban takeover has been calling for formation of an inclusive govt in Kabul that also has representatives from the minority ethnic group. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India stands with Afghanistan in time of need, says NSA Ajit Doval at Moscow talks

When the Taliban took over Afghanistan in August 2021, the US and Europe blocked more than nine billion dollars in Afghan Central Bank reserves, but now reports suggest that millions of dollars are being smuggled into Afghanistan from Pakistan.

Pakistan's pain is Taliban's gain? Taliban smuggles dollars through Pakistan

Did Qatar Bribe Ashraf Ghani to not resist the Taliban? An Italian Media network says Ghani allegedly received $110 million to do so. Meanwhile, a host of countries are downsizing their presence in Afghanistan. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Islamic nations are removing diplomats from Afghanistan

Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have shut their embassies in Afghanistan which is seen as a considerable setback for Kabul’s diplomatic relations with other nations, reported ANI citing Tolo News. Additionally, reports also suggest that one of the major reasons for Saudi Arabia to do so is the Taliban’s ban on women in workplaces across Afghanistan. While another report says it is security concerns which contributed to their decision to leave.&nbsp;

A report by CNN-News18 citing diplomatic sources said that it was the ban on women in workspaces which forced Saudi Arabia to shut its embassy in Kabul as some female employees were working there. However, a spokesperson for the Taliban administration, Zabiullah Mujahid, on Monday (February 5) asserted that some Saudi diplomats left for “a kind of training” and will return.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a report by Reuters citing a diplomatic source and two others familiar with the matter said that Saudi Arabia's diplomats had left by air and relocated to Pakistan, last week amid warnings of heightened risks of attacks in the Afghan capital Kabul. Since the Taliban took over in 2021 only a few countries have maintained a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan including, China, Russia, Turkiye, Pakistan, and Iran, as per media reports.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Czech government also announced that it has closed its embassy in Kabul, while other countries run their offices from Pakistan and Qatar. It was also not immediately made clear how many Saudi diplomats have left Afghanistan or how long they were meant to be outside Kabul. This comes a year after two Russian embassy staff members and four others were killed in a suicide bombing at the consulate’s front gate, the attack was later claimed by the Islamic State militant group.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have shut their embassies in Afghanistan which is seen as a considerable setback for Kabul’s diplomatic relations with other nations, reported ANI citing Tolo News.

Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have shut their embassies in Afghanistan which is seen as a considerable setback for Kabul’s diplomatic relations with other nations, reported ANI citing Tolo News. Additionally, reports also suggest that one of the major reasons for Saudi Arabia to do so is the Taliban’s ban on women in workplaces across Afghanistan. While another report says it is security concerns which contributed to their decision to leave. A report by CNN-News18 citing diplomatic sources said that it was the ban on women in workspaces which forced Saudi Arabia to shut its embassy in Kabul as some female employees were working there. However, a spokesperson for the Taliban administration, Zabiullah Mujahid, on Monday (February 5) asserted that some Saudi diplomats left for “a kind of training” and will return. Meanwhile, a report by Reuters citing a diplomatic source and two others familiar with the matter said that Saudi Arabia's diplomats had left by air and relocated to Pakistan, last week amid warnings of heightened risks of attacks in the Afghan capital Kabul. Since the Taliban took over in 2021 only a few countries have maintained a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan including, China, Russia, Turkiye, Pakistan, and Iran, as per media reports. Earlier, the Czech government also announced that it has closed its embassy in Kabul, while other countries run their offices from Pakistan and Qatar. It was also not immediately made clear how many Saudi diplomats have left Afghanistan or how long they were meant to be outside Kabul. This comes a year after two Russian embassy staff members and four others were killed in a suicide bombing at the consulate’s front gate, the attack was later claimed by the Islamic State militant group. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Arabia shuts embassy in Kabul, diplomats may relocate to Pakistani capital: Reports

Days after the suicide bombing in Pakistan left over a hundred dead in Peshawar city, Islamabad is set to ask the Supreme leader of Afghanistan's Taliban to rein-in terrorists in Pakistan.

Pakistan to send delegation to Afghanistan for asking Taliban to rein-in TTP

The un food agency says malnutrition rates in Afghanistan are at record highs. scores of families can't afford to feed their children. millions have been pushed into extreme poverty and hunger since the Taliban takeover in 2021. why are western powers that left the afghan people at the mercy of the Taliban, now acting as mute spectators?

Inside South Asia | Poverty, hunger, malnutrition: The story of Afghanistan

Afghanistan's ambassador to India Farid Mamundzay has welcomed India's Rs 200 crores development assistance for his country announced during Budget 2023-23. Speaking to WION, the Ambassador said, "We appreciate the allocated development assistance of Rs 200 crore to Afghanistan by the Indian government at a difficult time."

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India had last year as well announced a support of Rs 200 crores for Afghanistan in its budget, which increased to Rs 350 crores in the revised budget. Calling it, "India’s generous and unwavering support to ease the current humanitarian crisis", the ambassador pointed out it will "contribute to the stalled development projects" which is "the need of the hour."

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This is for the second time in a row India has announced development assistance for Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover in August 2021. It is important to know that India does not recognise the Taliban regime. Despite not recognising the regime in Kabul, New Delhi continues to provide humanitarian support to the Afghan people.&nbsp;

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Ambassador Farid said, "over the past two years, there has been little development assistance provided to the Afghan people due to political challenges in Kabul", adding, "in order to manage these crises, the Taliban require to make the right political choices to put an end to the suffering of ordinary Afghans."

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Afghanistan's ambassador to India Farid Mamundzay has welcomed India's Rs 200 crores development assistance for his country announced during Budget 2023-23. Speaking to WION, the Ambassador said, "We appreciate the allocated development assistance of Rs 200 crore to Afghanistan by the Indian government at a difficult time.

Afghanistan's ambassador to India Farid Mamundzay has welcomed India's Rs 200 crores development assistance for his country announced during Budget 2023-23. Speaking to WION, the Ambassador said, "We appreciate the allocated development assistance of Rs 200 crore to Afghanistan by the Indian government at a difficult time." Also Read | Netanyahu meets Macron amid fresh flareup in Middle-East conflict India had last year as well announced a support of Rs 200 crores for Afghanistan in its budget, which increased to Rs 350 crores in the revised budget. Calling it, "India’s generous and unwavering support to ease the current humanitarian crisis", the ambassador pointed out it will "contribute to the stalled development projects" which is "the need of the hour." Also Read | Bolsonaro aide claims former president attended meeting about plot to keep him in power This is for the second time in a row India has announced development assistance for Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover in August 2021. It is important to know that India does not recognise the Taliban regime. Despite not recognising the regime in Kabul, New Delhi continues to provide humanitarian support to the Afghan people. Watch | Inside South Asia: Nepal's gift to India: Precious stones for Ram Temple Ambassador Farid said, "over the past two years, there has been little development assistance provided to the Afghan people due to political challenges in Kabul", adding, "in order to manage these crises, the Taliban require to make the right political choices to put an end to the suffering of ordinary Afghans." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Generous and unwavering support..': Afghan Ambassador Farid welcomes India's budget announcement

As a goodwill gesture, Nepal has shared with India, some of its ancient rocks, unique gems and precious stones known as the Shaligram. Believed to be more precious than gold and silver, the Shaligram will be used for the construction of a majestic idol of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. The faithful celebrated the occasion with rituals and song & dance.

Inside South Asia: Nepal's gift to India: Precious stones for Ram Temple

The UN Food Agency says malnutrition rates in Afghanistan are at record highs. Scores of families can't afford to feed their children. Millions have been pushed into extreme poverty and hunger since the Taliban takeover in 2021. Why are western powers that left the afghan people at the mercy of the Taliban, now acting as mute spectators?

Inside South Asia: Poverty, Hunger, Malnutrition: The story of Afghanistan

The Taliban Administration has banned most female aid workers and last year stopped women and girls from attending high schools and universities. Many female working as judges, prosecutors were threatened as well as they became the target of revenge attacks as they tried and convicted men accused of gender crimes including rape and murder.

Afghanistan: Taliban administration has banned most female aid workers

Afghanistan is facing its coldest winter in 15 years. Afghans are also facing food shortages, with four million children being malnourished. At least 170 people have died due to the cold wave, including nearly 80,000 livestock. The poverty-stricken citizens don't have enough money to heat their homes and hospitals are overwhelmed with the sick.

Afghanistan faces another humanitarian crisis

The United Nations on Monday pleaded with Afghanistan rulers and Taliban to provide more exemptions to its ban on female aid workers. Martin Griffiths talked of the vital role women play in the massive effort to support struggling Afghans.

Speaking of the "savage" winter plaguing Afghans, the UN Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief said, "last winter, we managed to survive. I don't know if we can do this indefinitely, not with these bans."

Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Taliban underscores its resistance against women's education

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Addressing the press after a visit to Kabul, Griffiths said "We were told that guidelines are being developed by the Taliban authorities, which would allegedly provide the role of functioning of women in humanitarian operations".

However, he sceptically added, "let's see if these guidelines do come through. Let's see if they are beneficial. Let's see what space there is for the essential and central role of women in our humanitarian operations."

Since January 1, Afghanistan has been frozen by cold weather, with temperatures plunging to as low as -33 degrees Celsius (-27 degrees Fahrenheit).&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-ban-women-from-taking-university-entrance-exams-556912">Now, Taliban ban Afghan girls from appearing in university entrance exams</a>

The low temperatures come with widespread snowfall, icy gales and regular electricity outages.&nbsp;

In the poverty-stricken nation, at least 166 people have died due to the bitterly cold weather.

As per AFP, nearly 80,000 livestock, an important commodity for the struggling nation, have also perished in the cold.

Last month, the Taliban banned most female aid workers and also imposed a ban on female students attending universities. An earlier ban had stopped girls from attending high school.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-to-draw-guidelines-on-womens-aid-work-in-afghanistan-says-un-556043">Taliban to draw fresh guidelines for allowing Afghan women in aid work, says UN official</a>

According to&nbsp;Griffiths, some exemptions to the female aid worker ban had been granted in health and education and there could be a possible exemption in agriculture. However, he added that much more was needed.

"I don't want any of us to have any illusions about the huge gravity of this situation," he said. "It's a potential death blow to many, many very important humanitarian programs in what we have described as one of the most difficult and priority areas for humanitarian assistance protection. If we don't get those exceptions and if they're not reinforced locally, then those activities won't happen, and this would be catastrophic. So the case has been made and we're waiting for the judge to come out with a verdict."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations on Monday pleaded with Afghanistan rulers and Taliban to provide more exemptions to its ban on female aid workers. Martin Griffiths talked of the vital role women play in the massive effort to support struggling Afghans.

The United Nations on Monday pleaded with Afghanistan rulers and Taliban to provide more exemptions to its ban on female aid workers. Martin Griffiths talked of the vital role women play in the massive effort to support struggling Afghans. Speaking of the "savage" winter plaguing Afghans, the UN Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief said, "last winter, we managed to survive. I don't know if we can do this indefinitely, not with these bans." Watch | Afghanistan: Taliban underscores its resistance against women's education Addressing the press after a visit to Kabul, Griffiths said "We were told that guidelines are being developed by the Taliban authorities, which would allegedly provide the role of functioning of women in humanitarian operations". However, he sceptically added, "let's see if these guidelines do come through. Let's see if they are beneficial. Let's see what space there is for the essential and central role of women in our humanitarian operations." Since January 1, Afghanistan has been frozen by cold weather, with temperatures plunging to as low as -33 degrees Celsius (-27 degrees Fahrenheit). Also read | Now, Taliban ban Afghan girls from appearing in university entrance exams The low temperatures come with widespread snowfall, icy gales and regular electricity outages. In the poverty-stricken nation, at least 166 people have died due to the bitterly cold weather. As per AFP, nearly 80,000 livestock, an important commodity for the struggling nation, have also perished in the cold. Last month, the Taliban banned most female aid workers and also imposed a ban on female students attending universities. An earlier ban had stopped girls from attending high school. Also read | Taliban to draw fresh guidelines for allowing Afghan women in aid work, says UN official According to Griffiths, some exemptions to the female aid worker ban had been granted in health and education and there could be a possible exemption in agriculture. However, he added that much more was needed. "I don't want any of us to have any illusions about the huge gravity of this situation," he said. "It's a potential death blow to many, many very important humanitarian programs in what we have described as one of the most difficult and priority areas for humanitarian assistance protection. If we don't get those exceptions and if they're not reinforced locally, then those activities won't happen, and this would be catastrophic. So the case has been made and we're waiting for the judge to come out with a verdict." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In the face of a 'savage' winter, UN pleads with Taliban for exemptions to female aid workers

The Taliban Ministry of higher education has now ordered private universities to not allow its female students to take University level entrance examinations. Highlighting its policy of restricting women from attaining higher education, a letter from the ministry addressing institutions in the northern provinces of Afghanistan including Kabul say that institutions which will not observe the rules would face legal action.

Afghanistan: Taliban underscores its resistance against women's education

Taliban on Saturday banned female students from taking university entrance exams this year in all public and private universities in Afghanistan. With this, Afgan girls won't be able to take the Kankor test, a test which thousands of high school graduates take this exam each year to continue their education. A bus carrying 60 passengers plunged off a cliff in northwestern Peru, killing at least 24 people on the spot.&nbsp;

Among other news, Memphis police chief announced, on Saturday (January 28) that they will “permanently deactivate” its controversial SCORPION unit, a day after the release of the body camera footage of Tyre Nichols who died after a traffic check descended into a police assault.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/taliban-ban-women-from-taking-university-entrance-exams-556912">Taliban ban Afghan girls from taking university entrance exams</a>

<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/29/328761-fdgfgfg.png" />

Taliban on Saturday banned female students from taking university entrance exams this year in all public and private universities in Afghanistan reported the country's local media outlet. Afghanistan's universities need applicants to take the Kankor test. Thousands of high school graduates take this exam each year to continue their education at public, state-run, or private colleges.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/24-killed-after-bus-carrying-60-passengers-plunges-off-devils-curve-in-peru-556915">24 killed after bus carrying 60 passengers plunges off ‘Devil’s Curve’ in Peru</a>

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A bus carrying 60 passengers plunged off a cliff in northwestern Peru, killing at least 24 people on the spot, local media reported. The incident took place on Saturday after it departed from Lima and was en route to Tumbes, on the border with Ecuador.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/memphis-police-to-permanently-deactivate-its-infamous-scorpion-unit-whose-officers-fatally-beat-tyre-nichols-556909">Memphis police to ‘permanently deactivate’ its SCORPION unit whose officers fatally beat Tyre Nichols</a>

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The police chief in the United States’ city of Memphis announced, on Saturday (January 28) that they will “permanently deactivate” its controversial SCORPION unit. This comes a day after the release of the body camera footage of Tyre Nichols who died after a traffic check descended into a police assault on January 7 which has since led to widespread protests across several cities in the country.

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Kanye West is again in the headlines, and for the wrong reasons. The rapper, who goes by the name Ye, always manages to be in the news for all the controversial things he does. And now, after a few months of silence, the 'Donda' is again the talk of the internet, this time for his rude behaviour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iranian-journalist-maroufian-who-interviewed-mahasa-aminis-father-gets-prison-term-556913">Iranian journalist Maroufian who interviewed Mahasa Amini's father gets prison term&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

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Iran is continuing with the crackdown on its protesters, the regime has put hundreds under the arbitrary detention, while other people who are the victim of the crackdown is an Iranian journalist who interviewed Mahasa Amini's father last year - Nazila Maroufian.

Taliban on Saturday banned female students from taking university entrance exams this year in all public and private universities in Afghanistan. With this, Afgan girls won't be able to take the Kankor test, a test which thousands of high school graduates take this exam each year to continue their education.

Taliban on Saturday banned female students from taking university entrance exams this year in all public and private universities in Afghanistan. With this, Afgan girls won't be able to take the Kankor test, a test which thousands of high school graduates take this exam each year to continue their education. A bus carrying 60 passengers plunged off a cliff in northwestern Peru, killing at least 24 people on the spot. Among other news, Memphis police chief announced, on Saturday (January 28) that they will “permanently deactivate” its controversial SCORPION unit, a day after the release of the body camera footage of Tyre Nichols who died after a traffic check descended into a police assault. Click on the headlines to read more: Taliban ban Afghan girls from taking university entrance exams Taliban on Saturday banned female students from taking university entrance exams this year in all public and private universities in Afghanistan reported the country's local media outlet. Afghanistan's universities need applicants to take the Kankor test. Thousands of high school graduates take this exam each year to continue their education at public, state-run, or private colleges. 24 killed after bus carrying 60 passengers plunges off ‘Devil’s Curve’ in Peru A bus carrying 60 passengers plunged off a cliff in northwestern Peru, killing at least 24 people on the spot, local media reported. The incident took place on Saturday after it departed from Lima and was en route to Tumbes, on the border with Ecuador. Memphis police to ‘permanently deactivate’ its SCORPION unit whose officers fatally beat Tyre Nichols The police chief in the United States’ city of Memphis announced, on Saturday (January 28) that they will “permanently deactivate” its controversial SCORPION unit. This comes a day after the release of the body camera footage of Tyre Nichols who died after a traffic check descended into a police assault on January 7 which has since led to widespread protests across several cities in the country. Viral video | Kanye West snatches photographer’s phone and throws it away, here's what happened Kanye West is again in the headlines, and for the wrong reasons. The rapper, who goes by the name Ye, always manages to be in the news for all the controversial things he does. And now, after a few months of silence, the 'Donda' is again the talk of the internet, this time for his rude behaviour. Iranian journalist Maroufian who interviewed Mahasa Amini's father gets prison term × Iran is continuing with the crackdown on its protesters, the regime has put hundreds under the arbitrary detention, while other people who are the victim of the crackdown is an Iranian journalist who interviewed Mahasa Amini's father last year - Nazila Maroufian.

Morning news brief: Taliban ban girls from university entrance exams, bus plunges off cliff in Peru and more

Taliban on Saturday banned female students from taking university entrance exams this year in all public and private universities in Afghanistan, reported the country's local media outlets. Afghanistan's universities need applicants to take the Kankor test. Thousands of high school graduates take this exam each year to continue their education at public, state-run, or private colleges.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/memphis-police-to-permanently-deactivate-its-infamous-scorpion-unit-whose-officers-fatally-beat-tyre-nichols-556909">Memphis police to ‘permanently deactivate’ its SCORPION unit whose officers fatally beat Tyre Nichols</a>

In the latest decree, Afghanistan’s Ministry of Higher Education announced a complete ban on female students’ enrollment in educational institutions effective from Saturday, 28 January 2023. &nbsp;

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According to the statement, private institutions must abide by the Taliban's rules and regulations and refrain from violating the most recent decree that limits the entrance of female students to private universities; otherwise, they risk facing penalties.

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This comes as the international community and humanitarian groups continue to pressure the Taliban regime to ease restrictions on Afghan women and girls' access to education. Recently, in a bid to reverse the ban on women aid workers, UN aid chief Martin Griffiths met several Taliban officials.&nbsp;

The Taliban’s ban on women working in NGOs has prompted major international aid agencies to suspend operations in Afghanistan. It also raised fears that millions will be deprived of critical services.

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Notably, the de facto authorities in Afghanistan have limited women's freedom of movement since 15 August, 2021. They prevented women from attending secondary education, excluding them from the majority of the workforce, and forbade them from visiting parks, gyms, and public bathrooms. Afghan women and girls are ultimately confined within the four walls of their houses as a result of these restrictions.

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Taliban on Saturday banned female students from taking university entrance exams this year in all public and private universities in Afghanistan, reported the country's local media outlets.

Taliban on Saturday banned female students from taking university entrance exams this year in all public and private universities in Afghanistan, reported the country's local media outlets. Afghanistan's universities need applicants to take the Kankor test. Thousands of high school graduates take this exam each year to continue their education at public, state-run, or private colleges. Also Read | Memphis police to ‘permanently deactivate’ its SCORPION unit whose officers fatally beat Tyre Nichols In the latest decree, Afghanistan’s Ministry of Higher Education announced a complete ban on female students’ enrollment in educational institutions effective from Saturday, 28 January 2023. × According to the statement, private institutions must abide by the Taliban's rules and regulations and refrain from violating the most recent decree that limits the entrance of female students to private universities; otherwise, they risk facing penalties. Also Read | Real-life Squid Game: Three people get treatment during filming of Netflix show This comes as the international community and humanitarian groups continue to pressure the Taliban regime to ease restrictions on Afghan women and girls' access to education. Recently, in a bid to reverse the ban on women aid workers, UN aid chief Martin Griffiths met several Taliban officials. The Taliban’s ban on women working in NGOs has prompted major international aid agencies to suspend operations in Afghanistan. It also raised fears that millions will be deprived of critical services. Watch | Zombie Fungus: Fungal pandemic can turn humans into zombies? Notably, the de facto authorities in Afghanistan have limited women's freedom of movement since 15 August, 2021. They prevented women from attending secondary education, excluding them from the majority of the workforce, and forbade them from visiting parks, gyms, and public bathrooms. Afghan women and girls are ultimately confined within the four walls of their houses as a result of these restrictions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Now, Taliban ban Afghan girls from appearing in university entrance exams

As the status of women in Afghanistan continues to become worse in the absence of basic rights, the highest-ranking woman at the United Nations urged the Muslim countries on Wednesday (January 26) to help the Taliban to move from the 13th century to the 21st.&nbsp;Amina Mohammed, the deputy secretary-general said at a news conference that she used everything in her "toolbox" during meetings with Taliban ministers to try to reverse their crackdown on Afghan women and girls.&nbsp;

Amina, who is a former Nigerian Cabinet minister, also said that the foreign minister and a deputy prime minister were among four Taliban ministers, who spoke "off one script" during meetings with her delegation last week.&nbsp;

As reported by the news agency The Associated Press, she said that the officials tried to underline what they claim they have done. They call it their effort to create a safe environment for women. She said, "Their definition of protection would be, I would say, ours of oppression."

Ahead of her visit, Amina raised concerns to Taliban officials in Kabul and the southern city of Kandahar over the administration's orders restricting women from work and education.&nbsp;

During the press conference, Mohammed said her delegation, including the head of UN Women, pushed back against the Taliban.&nbsp;

She said, "We reminded them that in humanitarian principles, non-discrimination was a key part … and that they were wiping out women from the workplace."&nbsp;

Mohammed weighed in on a range of issues such as lawlessness, Taliban's attempt to get global recognition, etc. She said it is important for the UN and its partners to work more in some 20 Afghan provinces that are more forward-leaning.&nbsp;

"A lot of what we have to deal with is how we travel the Taliban from the 13th century to the 21st. That's a journey. So it’s not just overnight," she said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the status of women in Afghanistan continues to become worse in the absence of basic rights, the highest-ranking woman at the United Nations urged the Muslim countries on Wednesday (January 26) to help the Taliban to move from the 13th century to the 21st.

As the status of women in Afghanistan continues to become worse in the absence of basic rights, the highest-ranking woman at the United Nations urged the Muslim countries on Wednesday (January 26) to help the Taliban to move from the 13th century to the 21st. Amina Mohammed, the deputy secretary-general said at a news conference that she used everything in her "toolbox" during meetings with Taliban ministers to try to reverse their crackdown on Afghan women and girls. Amina, who is a former Nigerian Cabinet minister, also said that the foreign minister and a deputy prime minister were among four Taliban ministers, who spoke "off one script" during meetings with her delegation last week. As reported by the news agency The Associated Press, she said that the officials tried to underline what they claim they have done. They call it their effort to create a safe environment for women. She said, "Their definition of protection would be, I would say, ours of oppression." Ahead of her visit, Amina raised concerns to Taliban officials in Kabul and the southern city of Kandahar over the administration's orders restricting women from work and education. During the press conference, Mohammed said her delegation, including the head of UN Women, pushed back against the Taliban. She said, "We reminded them that in humanitarian principles, non-discrimination was a key part … and that they were wiping out women from the workplace." Mohammed weighed in on a range of issues such as lawlessness, Taliban's attempt to get global recognition, etc. She said it is important for the UN and its partners to work more in some 20 Afghan provinces that are more forward-leaning. "A lot of what we have to deal with is how we travel the Taliban from the 13th century to the 21st. That's a journey. So it’s not just overnight," she said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Highest-ranking woman at UN urges Muslims to help Taliban move from ‘13th century to 21st’

Bilal al-Sudani, a significant regional commander for the Islamic State group, was killed in a US military raid in Somalia that was ordered by President Joe Biden, according to US authorities on Thursday (January 26).&nbsp;As per US sources, Sudani was killed during a gunfight when US forces entered a hilly labyrinth of caves in northern Somalia in an effort to arrest him, as reported by AFP.

There were about 10&nbsp;IS supporters from Sudan present at the location who were killed, but no Americans were hurt&nbsp;the firing, according to the officials.

"On January 25, on orders from the president, the US military conducted an assault operation in northern Somalia that resulted in the death of a number of ISIS members, including Bilal al-Sudani," Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement.

"Al-Sudani was responsible for fostering the growing presence of ISIS in Africa and for funding the group's operations worldwide, including in Afghanistan," Austin said.

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al-Sudani&nbsp;handled the financing for IS branches not only in Africa but also for Islamic State Khorasan, the branch that controls Afghanistan, a US official stated under the condition of anonymity. He did this from his mountain base in northern Somalia.

"Sudani had a key operational and financial role with specialized skills which made him an important target for US counterterrorism action," the official said.

Also watch |&nbsp;ChatGPT bot clears US law school exam, but struggles in most courses

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The US soldiers had been practising at a location created to mimic the terrain where Sudani was hiding throughout the months-long preparation for the operation.

After speaking with senior defence, intelligence, and security officials earlier this week, Biden authorised the strike, the individual claimed, as reported by AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bilal al-Sudani, a significant regional commander for the Islamic State group, was killed in a US military raid in Somalia that was ordered by President Joe Biden, according to US authorities on Thursday (January 26).

Bilal al-Sudani, a significant regional commander for the Islamic State group, was killed in a US military raid in Somalia that was ordered by President Joe Biden, according to US authorities on Thursday (January 26). As per US sources, Sudani was killed during a gunfight when US forces entered a hilly labyrinth of caves in northern Somalia in an effort to arrest him, as reported by AFP. There were about 10 IS supporters from Sudan present at the location who were killed, but no Americans were hurt the firing, according to the officials. "On January 25, on orders from the president, the US military conducted an assault operation in northern Somalia that resulted in the death of a number of ISIS members, including Bilal al-Sudani," Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement. "Al-Sudani was responsible for fostering the growing presence of ISIS in Africa and for funding the group's operations worldwide, including in Afghanistan," Austin said. Also read | US shuts down major ransomware network Hive, helping almost 300 victims al-Sudani handled the financing for IS branches not only in Africa but also for Islamic State Khorasan, the branch that controls Afghanistan, a US official stated under the condition of anonymity. He did this from his mountain base in northern Somalia. "Sudani had a key operational and financial role with specialized skills which made him an important target for US counterterrorism action," the official said. Also watch | ChatGPT bot clears US law school exam, but struggles in most courses The US soldiers had been practising at a location created to mimic the terrain where Sudani was hiding throughout the months-long preparation for the operation. After speaking with senior defence, intelligence, and security officials earlier this week, Biden authorised the strike, the individual claimed, as reported by AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US military kills senior Islamic State figure in US raid in Somalia

Afghanistan is suffering one of its coldest winters, with temperatures plummeting to as low as minus 35 degrees Celsius. The impact has been made worse by the limited amount of humanitarian aid being distributed in the country.

WION Climate Tracker: Extreme cold plunges Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis to a new low

One of the most common questions while reporting on conflicts or a threat-posing circumstance&nbsp;consists of&nbsp;asking the interviewee, 'Can I name you in the story?' Over the past few weeks, as Afghanistan's Taliban government dismantled women's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-speak-to-wion-as-taliban-dismantles-their-right-to-education-campus-after-campus-545841">right to education</a> campus after campus, WION reached out to a number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-afghan-women-fear-for-life-as-taliban-ban-male-doctors-from-treating-them-551218">Afghan women</a> living under Taliban's anti-women tyranny.

Every interview began with one common question, 'Can I name you in the story?'

Almost all Afghan women insisted to be named despite WION offering them anonymity for their safety under Taliban's rule; a formidable sign of resistance against&nbsp; Afghanistan's repressive regime.

Dr Sona, a doctor from Kabul who was denied a job shortly before&nbsp;Taliban's ruling that women could no more be treated by male doctors, insisted to be named. So did&nbsp;Nargis, a school teacher from Jalalabad; and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-speak-to-wion-as-taliban-dismantles-their-right-to-education-campus-after-campus-545841">Sana Siddiqui</a>, a law student from Jalalabad— all voiced themselves out to WION with their real identities.

WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-new-diktat-for-afghan-women-552087">Gravitas: New diktat for Afghan women</a>

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About 3800 miles northwest of Kabul, in Austria's Vienna — the city that lends its name to the most important of all international relations documents in the form of 'Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations' — the sentiment of voicing out identifiable resistance against Taliban-led government found&nbsp;resonance among hundreds of Afghan demonstrators who were gathered near State Opera House on Saturday.&nbsp;

When the same question was posed to Stoorai Khan, 27, an Afghan national facing threat to his life back home, he immediately said with a remarkable gleam of defiance: "We cannot ask for change in hiding. Whatever we have to say against the Taliban, we must say it out in the open."&nbsp;

Khan was among scores of Afghan nationals demonstrating against Taliban's&nbsp;anti-women rulings in Vienna on Saturday.

Message for Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)&nbsp;delegation

On January 13,&nbsp;Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the 57-member states group of Islamic countries, said that Afghanistan's&nbsp;ban on women from pursuing education or working in the aid agencies is "in violation of the purposes of Islamic law and the methodology of the messenger of Allah".&nbsp; A day later, the OIC announced that it will soon send a delegation to Afghanistan to discuss women's rights to education and employment with the country's current rulers.&nbsp;

The protesters in Vienna expected the OIC to assuredly voice out that Afghan women should be able to resume the pursuit of their education.&nbsp;

"We expect the OIC to tell them (the Taliban) that the world is a global village. The rights to pursue education and work that empower women in any Islamic country should be given to Afghan women as well," Stoorai Khan told WION in a video call from the site of&nbsp;Vienna's anti-Taliban demonstration on January 14.&nbsp;

"There will be no one left in Afghanistan to run the system if this continues. You will just see the turban-clad, beard-stroking men," Khan added, while referring to the Taliban's way of repression of rights, which has pushed many youngsters in recent months to flee the country, often by desperate means.

'We will not leave Afghan women alone'

For Fauzia Ahmadzay, 27, like millions of Afghans away from Afghanistan at the current moment of repression, saying that ongoing events in Afghanistan&nbsp;are 'devastating' would be&nbsp;an understatement.&nbsp;

"It's heartbreaking to see the girls crying in front of schools and helplessly saying 'we want to have education, we want to have our right for education to build our lives'," Fauzia told WION from the protest site in a video call.&nbsp;

"Why is the world neglecting this?," she asked.

"Why is the world just standing by and looking at us and doing nothing?"

Fauzia mentioned that in Austria, many organisations are coming together to express solidarity with Afghan people. But this is not the case elsewhere, in the rest of the world.

“The western powers and America who started these conflicts in Afghanistan, they are not saying now that Afghan women are just like European women. That they also have their choices,” Fauzia said.

"It's heartbreaking that Afghans are always alone. Nobody is standing behind us to say that we are standing with you, and we can raise our voice together,” she added.&nbsp;

"But I want to tell Afghan women that they are not alone. Every revolution starts with raised&nbsp;voices and by being aware about what is happening around us. It will get better. We won't give up."

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One of the most common questions while reporting on conflicts or a threat-posing circumstance consists of asking the interviewee, 'Can I name you in the story?' Over the past few weeks, as Afghanistan's Taliban government dismantled women's right to education campus after campus, WION reached out to a number of Afghan women living under Taliban's anti-women tyranny.

One of the most common questions while reporting on conflicts or a threat-posing circumstance consists of asking the interviewee, 'Can I name you in the story?' Over the past few weeks, as Afghanistan's Taliban government dismantled women's right to education campus after campus, WION reached out to a number of Afghan women living under Taliban's anti-women tyranny. Every interview began with one common question, 'Can I name you in the story?' Almost all Afghan women insisted to be named despite WION offering them anonymity for their safety under Taliban's rule; a formidable sign of resistance against Afghanistan's repressive regime. Dr Sona, a doctor from Kabul who was denied a job shortly before Taliban's ruling that women could no more be treated by male doctors, insisted to be named. So did Nargis, a school teacher from Jalalabad; and Sana Siddiqui, a law student from Jalalabad— all voiced themselves out to WION with their real identities. WATCH | Gravitas: New diktat for Afghan women × About 3800 miles northwest of Kabul, in Austria's Vienna — the city that lends its name to the most important of all international relations documents in the form of 'Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations' — the sentiment of voicing out identifiable resistance against Taliban-led government found resonance among hundreds of Afghan demonstrators who were gathered near State Opera House on Saturday. When the same question was posed to Stoorai Khan, 27, an Afghan national facing threat to his life back home, he immediately said with a remarkable gleam of defiance: "We cannot ask for change in hiding. Whatever we have to say against the Taliban, we must say it out in the open." Khan was among scores of Afghan nationals demonstrating against Taliban's anti-women rulings in Vienna on Saturday. Message for Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) delegation On January 13, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the 57-member states group of Islamic countries, said that Afghanistan's ban on women from pursuing education or working in the aid agencies is "in violation of the purposes of Islamic law and the methodology of the messenger of Allah". A day later, the OIC announced that it will soon send a delegation to Afghanistan to discuss women's rights to education and employment with the country's current rulers. The protesters in Vienna expected the OIC to assuredly voice out that Afghan women should be able to resume the pursuit of their education. "We expect the OIC to tell them (the Taliban) that the world is a global village. The rights to pursue education and work that empower women in any Islamic country should be given to Afghan women as well," Stoorai Khan told WION in a video call from the site of Vienna's anti-Taliban demonstration on January 14. "There will be no one left in Afghanistan to run the system if this continues. You will just see the turban-clad, beard-stroking men," Khan added, while referring to the Taliban's way of repression of rights, which has pushed many youngsters in recent months to flee the country, often by desperate means. 'We will not leave Afghan women alone' For Fauzia Ahmadzay, 27, like millions of Afghans away from Afghanistan at the current moment of repression, saying that ongoing events in Afghanistan are 'devastating' would be an understatement. "It's heartbreaking to see the girls crying in front of schools and helplessly saying 'we want to have education, we want to have our right for education to build our lives'," Fauzia told WION from the protest site in a video call. "Why is the world neglecting this?," she asked. "Why is the world just standing by and looking at us and doing nothing?" Fauzia mentioned that in Austria, many organisations are coming together to express solidarity with Afghan people. But this is not the case elsewhere, in the rest of the world. “The western powers and America who started these conflicts in Afghanistan, they are not saying now that Afghan women are just like European women. That they also have their choices,” Fauzia said. "It's heartbreaking that Afghans are always alone. Nobody is standing behind us to say that we are standing with you, and we can raise our voice together,” she added. "But I want to tell Afghan women that they are not alone. Every revolution starts with raised voices and by being aware about what is happening around us. It will get better. We won't give up." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive: 'Why is the world neglecting Afghan women?'

In a nondescript Kabul locality, Dr Sona (last name withheld) is fighting depression. She is among millions of Afghan women who can no longer work in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. In December last year, Dr Sona had secured a job at a Kabul clinic.&nbsp;

"You cannot join because of the new rules," Dr Sona was told recently when she called the clinic for final confirmation of her employment status. This was right before the Taliban government's new ruling that directed hospitals to ensure that male doctors are no longer allowed to treat female patients.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-speak-to-wion-as-taliban-dismantles-their-right-to-education-campus-after-campus-545841">Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus</a>

"I desperately needed that job," Dr Sona told WION in a phone conversation.&nbsp;

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In a fresh diktat, the Taliban have told women in Afghanistan's Balkh province to only go to female doctors. 
 
But, where will Afghan women go if there are no female doctors left?<a href="https://twitter.com/nehakhanna_07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nehakhanna_07</a> speaks with human rights lawyer Jas Uppal for more perspective <a href="https://t.co/MGdfcFhYKk">pic.twitter.com/MGdfcFhYKk</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1612872430879657985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Asked by WION what she expects from the rest of the world for the fate of women's rights in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, Dr Sona's voice turned&nbsp;heavy as she struggled&nbsp;to fight back her tears. The sea of emotions waved their way into the conversation. "I want to tell the world that please support us. We want to be out of this misery," Dr Sona said.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-uk-and-un-criticises-the-talibans-ban-on-afghan-women-from-universities-544975">US, UK and UN criticise the Taliban's ban on Afghan women from universities</a>

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Taliban's rulings targeting education and employment rights of women and young girls have resulted in widespread international outcry but no impact in reversing the extremist rulings. The UN Security Council expressed last week that it is "deeply alarmed" at erosion of women's rights in the country. It urged the Taliban "to reopen schools and swiftly reverse these policies and practices, which represents an increasing erosion for the respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms."

The Group of Seven (G-7) countries, too, have called upon the Taliban to 'urgently reverse' ban on women aid workers.

But in Kabul's rearranged power corridors, women have been pushed to the margin, almost as a means of assertion of administrative authority of Afghanistan's new hardline rulers.

"God willing, I pray that things become as they were before them (Taliban). But I don't know if I should hope that much or not," Dr Sona said.&nbsp;

'I dream of going to University every night'

For Saba (name changed), 21, becoming a doctor was a dream that she lived each day when she went to a Kabul university to study medicine. "Ever since the university has closed, every night I dream of going to university," Saba told WION in a phone conversation from Kabul.&nbsp;

Born in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban movement, Saba&nbsp;moved to Kabul with her family 12 years ago. "I had so many dreams, I wanted to appear for USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination). My family did not have the financial means to make me study abroad. But I knew that if I worked hard, I would be able to live my dreams," Saba said. &nbsp;

Last month, the Taliban operatives literally shut the door of the University on Saba's face.&nbsp;

Saba said that she made it a point to enter the university premises early in the morning. "I was the first one to enter the gates. I started studying whatever I could for the exam that was scheduled," she said.&nbsp;

A couple of hours later, amid huge commotion by Saba's fellow university mates also attempting to enter the university, she was the only student inside.&nbsp;

"They (Taliban operatives) were shocked when they realised I was inside. They didn't know I had come early on," Saba said.&nbsp;

"Get out. From today on, the university is closed for you forever," Saba was told by Taliban operatives as she was pushed out of the university gates.

"The Taliban surrounded our University to ensure that not one girl could enter. It was as if we were the terrorists and they were present there to apprehend us. The Talibs were all over the police jeeps," Saba said.&nbsp;

In the visuals seen by WION, men mounted on a police jeep surround the bus of the university in which Saba studied. The men could be seen holding barricades and weapons, exactly the way Saba explained.&nbsp;

"They took away everything from us. Our freedom, our happiness. It was just the education that we were left with. They took that away as well," Saba said.&nbsp;

In a critically-acclaimed biographical account of late Afghan politician and military commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, Scottish journalist Sandy Gall – in a chapter titled ‘Marriage and War’ – quotes a close aide of Massoud as saying: "When you respect people's dignity, they join your side."

Afghanistan’s female medical professionals and students expect that erosion of their dignity under Taliban will result in the downfall of the country's current rulers.&nbsp;

“If women are sick now, they can no longer visit the male doctors. Like that the women will die for the lack of medical supervision,” Saba said.&nbsp;

“Women can no longer be the sick ones;&nbsp;the patients in Afghanistan. Let alone doctors.”

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In a nondescript Kabul locality, Dr Sona (last name withheld) is fighting depression. She is among millions of Afghan women who can no longer work in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.

In a nondescript Kabul locality, Dr Sona (last name withheld) is fighting depression. She is among millions of Afghan women who can no longer work in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. In December last year, Dr Sona had secured a job at a Kabul clinic. "You cannot join because of the new rules," Dr Sona was told recently when she called the clinic for final confirmation of her employment status. This was right before the Taliban government's new ruling that directed hospitals to ensure that male doctors are no longer allowed to treat female patients. ALSO READ | Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus "I desperately needed that job," Dr Sona told WION in a phone conversation. In a fresh diktat, the Taliban have told women in Afghanistan's Balkh province to only go to female doctors. But, where will Afghan women go if there are no female doctors left?@nehakhanna_07 speaks with human rights lawyer Jas Uppal for more perspective pic.twitter.com/MGdfcFhYKk — WION (@WIONews) January 10, 2023 × Asked by WION what she expects from the rest of the world for the fate of women's rights in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, Dr Sona's voice turned heavy as she struggled to fight back her tears. The sea of emotions waved their way into the conversation. "I want to tell the world that please support us. We want to be out of this misery," Dr Sona said. ALSO WATCH | US, UK and UN criticise the Taliban's ban on Afghan women from universities × Taliban's rulings targeting education and employment rights of women and young girls have resulted in widespread international outcry but no impact in reversing the extremist rulings. The UN Security Council expressed last week that it is "deeply alarmed" at erosion of women's rights in the country. It urged the Taliban "to reopen schools and swiftly reverse these policies and practices, which represents an increasing erosion for the respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms." The Group of Seven (G-7) countries, too, have called upon the Taliban to 'urgently reverse' ban on women aid workers. But in Kabul's rearranged power corridors, women have been pushed to the margin, almost as a means of assertion of administrative authority of Afghanistan's new hardline rulers. "God willing, I pray that things become as they were before them (Taliban). But I don't know if I should hope that much or not," Dr Sona said. 'I dream of going to University every night' For Saba (name changed), 21, becoming a doctor was a dream that she lived each day when she went to a Kabul university to study medicine. "Ever since the university has closed, every night I dream of going to university," Saba told WION in a phone conversation from Kabul. Born in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban movement, Saba moved to Kabul with her family 12 years ago. "I had so many dreams, I wanted to appear for USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination). My family did not have the financial means to make me study abroad. But I knew that if I worked hard, I would be able to live my dreams," Saba said. Last month, the Taliban operatives literally shut the door of the University on Saba's face. Saba said that she made it a point to enter the university premises early in the morning. "I was the first one to enter the gates. I started studying whatever I could for the exam that was scheduled," she said. A couple of hours later, amid huge commotion by Saba's fellow university mates also attempting to enter the university, she was the only student inside. "They (Taliban operatives) were shocked when they realised I was inside. They didn't know I had come early on," Saba said. "Get out. From today on, the university is closed for you forever," Saba was told by Taliban operatives as she was pushed out of the university gates. "The Taliban surrounded our University to ensure that not one girl could enter. It was as if we were the terrorists and they were present there to apprehend us. The Talibs were all over the police jeeps," Saba said. In the visuals seen by WION, men mounted on a police jeep surround the bus of the university in which Saba studied. The men could be seen holding barricades and weapons, exactly the way Saba explained. "They took away everything from us. Our freedom, our happiness. It was just the education that we were left with. They took that away as well," Saba said. In a critically-acclaimed biographical account of late Afghan politician and military commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, Scottish journalist Sandy Gall – in a chapter titled ‘Marriage and War’ – quotes a close aide of Massoud as saying: "When you respect people's dignity, they join your side." Afghanistan’s female medical professionals and students expect that erosion of their dignity under Taliban will result in the downfall of the country's current rulers. “If women are sick now, they can no longer visit the male doctors. Like that the women will die for the lack of medical supervision,” Saba said. “Women can no longer be the sick ones; the patients in Afghanistan. Let alone doctors.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive | Afghan women fear for life as Taliban ban male doctors from treating them

A senior UN official was informed by the Taliban ministers that they will probably sketch new guidelines to permit women in Afghanistan to work in a few humanitarian operations.&nbsp;While speaking to the BBC, Martin Griffiths said that he had received "encouraging responses" from various Taliban ministers while holding talks with them in Kabul, even though the government has not yet reversed the ban imposed on Afghan women working in NGOs.&nbsp;

Since the women in Afghanistan play an important role in delivering aid, concerns have&nbsp; been raised that the ban is endangering the country's life-saving humanitarian operations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-freezing-cold-temperatures-kills-at-least-124-people-taliban-confirms-555824">Afghanistan: Freezing cold has killed at least 124 people, confirm Taliban</a>

"It's worth remembering that, this year, Afghanistan is the biggest humanitarian aid programme in the world ever," said UN's Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Griffiths in Kabul.

Griffiths held back-to-back meetings with senior leaders of the Taliban government in Kabul and discussed the recent ban imposed on women in Afghanistan from working with NGOs.

"If women do not work in humanitarian operations, we do not reach, we do not count, the women and girls we need to listen to. In all humanitarian operations around the world, women and girls are the most vulnerable,” Griffiths said.&nbsp;

Hinting at positive development in future, he said that it looked like the Taliban ministers are “listening” and that “they told me they will be issuing new guidelines in due course which I hope will help us reinforce the role of women".

He also highlighted "a consistent pattern of Taliban leaders presenting us with exceptions, exemptions, and authorisations for women to work".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Dog honoured for sniffing out Taliban bombs

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The Taliban government, which came to power in August 2021, had last month imposed a ban on women aid workers after banning girls from studying in university and high school in March.&nbsp;

Griffiths said that the operations of the United Nations would continue in Afghanistan, however, they are facing the concern of international donors not willing to commit big financial cost of aid which is approximately $4.6 billion a year.

"I lose sleep about this, I really do," he said, adding that, in the coming weeks, he would hold talks with donors to make them understand why Afghanistan requires help during the humanitarian crisis as 28 million people require aid and around 6 million are on the verge of famine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A senior UN official was informed by the Taliban ministers that they will probably sketch new guidelines to permit women in Afghanistan to work in a few humanitarian operations.

A senior UN official was informed by the Taliban ministers that they will probably sketch new guidelines to permit women in Afghanistan to work in a few humanitarian operations. While speaking to the BBC, Martin Griffiths said that he had received "encouraging responses" from various Taliban ministers while holding talks with them in Kabul, even though the government has not yet reversed the ban imposed on Afghan women working in NGOs. Since the women in Afghanistan play an important role in delivering aid, concerns have been raised that the ban is endangering the country's life-saving humanitarian operations. ALSO READ | Afghanistan: Freezing cold has killed at least 124 people, confirm Taliban "It's worth remembering that, this year, Afghanistan is the biggest humanitarian aid programme in the world ever," said UN's Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Griffiths in Kabul. Griffiths held back-to-back meetings with senior leaders of the Taliban government in Kabul and discussed the recent ban imposed on women in Afghanistan from working with NGOs. "If women do not work in humanitarian operations, we do not reach, we do not count, the women and girls we need to listen to. In all humanitarian operations around the world, women and girls are the most vulnerable,” Griffiths said. Hinting at positive development in future, he said that it looked like the Taliban ministers are “listening” and that “they told me they will be issuing new guidelines in due course which I hope will help us reinforce the role of women". He also highlighted "a consistent pattern of Taliban leaders presenting us with exceptions, exemptions, and authorisations for women to work". WATCH | Gravitas: Dog honoured for sniffing out Taliban bombs The Taliban government, which came to power in August 2021, had last month imposed a ban on women aid workers after banning girls from studying in university and high school in March. Griffiths said that the operations of the United Nations would continue in Afghanistan, however, they are facing the concern of international donors not willing to commit big financial cost of aid which is approximately $4.6 billion a year. "I lose sleep about this, I really do," he said, adding that, in the coming weeks, he would hold talks with donors to make them understand why Afghanistan requires help during the humanitarian crisis as 28 million people require aid and around 6 million are on the verge of famine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taliban to draw fresh guidelines for allowing Afghan women in aid work, says UN official

At least 158 people have died in Afghanistan's harsh winter, as millions face bitter temperatures with minimal humanitarian aid. Watch this report to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: Extreme cold kills at least 158 people in Afghanistan

The International backlash for its crackdown on women's rights, the Taliban reportedly is planning to giving some concessions. The reports have emerged that the Taliban ministers have told the senior United Nations officials that they plan to draw up new guidelines to allow Afghan women to work in some humanitarian operations.

Taliban may allow women to work in NGOs, says report

Aid workers and volunteers unload a humanitarian train carrying around 500 tonnes of food, clothes, and hygiene products, which arrived from Turkey via Iran. More than half of the country's 38 million people are facing hunger this winter, and nearly four million children are suffering from malnutrition, according to aid agencies.

Watch: Turkish train carrying humanitarian aid arrives in Afghanistan

The United Nations' aid chief visited Kabul on Monday and raised concerns over women's education and work with the Taliban administration's acting minister of foreign affairs, an Afghan ministry statement said.

The Taliban-run administration last month ordered NGOs not to allow most female employees to work, prompting many aid agencies to partially suspend operations in the midst of a humanitarian crisis unfolding during a bitterly cold winter.

UN&nbsp;Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths raised the issue of women's education and work and how this affected the U.N.'s operations, according to a ministry of foreign affairs statement.

The UN&nbsp;Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Afghanistan did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the meeting.

It follows a visit to Afghanistan last week by U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, who expressed alarm to Taliban officials in Kabul and the southern city of Kandahar over the administration's orders restricting women from work and education.

Acting Afghan Minister of Foreign Affairs Amir Khan Muttaqi said he asked Griffiths to share with the international community the Taliban administration's "achievements and opportunities" like a general amnesty for former opponents, "instead of complaints and shortcomings."

The foreign ministry statement said Griffiths had acknowledged security had improved in the country, which had seen decades of fighting before the Taliban took over as foreign troops withdrew in 2021.

No foreign government has formally recognised the Taliban administration since it seized power, with some diplomats saying it must change course on women's rights. Many countries have expressed major concerns over most girls and women over the age of 12 being stopped from attending school or university.

Enforcement of sanctions and a cut in development aid have contributed to the country falling into an economic crisis which has left more than half the population dependent on humanitarian aid, aimed at meeting urgent needs.

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The United Nations' aid chief visited Kabul on Monday and raised concerns over women's education and work with the Taliban administration's acting minister of foreign affairs, an Afghan ministry statement said.

The United Nations' aid chief visited Kabul on Monday and raised concerns over women's education and work with the Taliban administration's acting minister of foreign affairs, an Afghan ministry statement said. The Taliban-run administration last month ordered NGOs not to allow most female employees to work, prompting many aid agencies to partially suspend operations in the midst of a humanitarian crisis unfolding during a bitterly cold winter. UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths raised the issue of women's education and work and how this affected the U.N.'s operations, according to a ministry of foreign affairs statement. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Afghanistan did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the meeting. It follows a visit to Afghanistan last week by U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, who expressed alarm to Taliban officials in Kabul and the southern city of Kandahar over the administration's orders restricting women from work and education. Acting Afghan Minister of Foreign Affairs Amir Khan Muttaqi said he asked Griffiths to share with the international community the Taliban administration's "achievements and opportunities" like a general amnesty for former opponents, "instead of complaints and shortcomings." The foreign ministry statement said Griffiths had acknowledged security had improved in the country, which had seen decades of fighting before the Taliban took over as foreign troops withdrew in 2021. No foreign government has formally recognised the Taliban administration since it seized power, with some diplomats saying it must change course on women's rights. Many countries have expressed major concerns over most girls and women over the age of 12 being stopped from attending school or university. Enforcement of sanctions and a cut in development aid have contributed to the country falling into an economic crisis which has left more than half the population dependent on humanitarian aid, aimed at meeting urgent needs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN aid chief raises women's rights concerns with Taliban in Afghan capital

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Afghanistan's first indigenously built Supercar | Tech It Out

The Cranfield University in the United Kingdom said on Monday that their researchers are helping the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) powered programme that would monitor the crops used for illicit opium production in Afghanistan. According to the university, the&nbsp;AI programme would interpret data from satellites to track where the poppy cultivation, used for drug production, takes place.&nbsp;

The university shared the news months after the UN agency conducted a survey which showed that opium cultivation in Afghanistan was up by 32 per cent, it was also the first report since the Taliban had banned the cultivation of opium poppy and all narcotics in April 2022, after they took over the year before. At least 80 per cent of all illicit opium is produced in Kabul, the UNODC said and this increase in cultivation made&nbsp;last year's&nbsp;crop the third largest area under cultivation since monitoring began.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-running-campaign-to-eradicate-poppy-cultivation-in-afghanistan-484674">Taliban running campaign to eradicate poppy cultivation in Afghanistan</a>

“This is a hugely significant project to be involved with. In terms of Afghanistan, we’re talking about opium production on a grand scale – something like the combined size of 500,000 rugby pitches – so a huge amount of cultivation,” said Dr Daniel Simms, a professor in Remote Sensing at Cranfield University. He also noted how automating the monitoring process would save many hours. The partnership between the UN and the university will last until July 2023.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-taliban-chops-off-the-hands-of-four-men-flogs-couple-for-pre-marital-sex-553618">Gravitas: Taliban chops off the hands of four men, flogs couple for pre-marital sex</a>

According to the UNODC findings, since the Taliban imposed the ban, opium prices have soared while the income of farmers from opium sales grew three-fold from 2021 to 2022. 
 
“The international community must work to address the acute needs of the Afghan people, and to step up responses to stop the criminal groups trafficking heroin and harming people in countries around the world,” the UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly had said when the findings were published, in November.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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The Cranfield University in the United Kingdom said on Monday that their researchers are helping the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) powered programme that would monitor the crops used for illicit opium production in Afghanistan.

The Cranfield University in the United Kingdom said on Monday that their researchers are helping the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) powered programme that would monitor the crops used for illicit opium production in Afghanistan. According to the university, the AI programme would interpret data from satellites to track where the poppy cultivation, used for drug production, takes place. The university shared the news months after the UN agency conducted a survey which showed that opium cultivation in Afghanistan was up by 32 per cent, it was also the first report since the Taliban had banned the cultivation of opium poppy and all narcotics in April 2022, after they took over the year before. At least 80 per cent of all illicit opium is produced in Kabul, the UNODC said and this increase in cultivation made last year's crop the third largest area under cultivation since monitoring began. ALSO READ | Taliban running campaign to eradicate poppy cultivation in Afghanistan “This is a hugely significant project to be involved with. In terms of Afghanistan, we’re talking about opium production on a grand scale – something like the combined size of 500,000 rugby pitches – so a huge amount of cultivation,” said Dr Daniel Simms, a professor in Remote Sensing at Cranfield University. He also noted how automating the monitoring process would save many hours. The partnership between the UN and the university will last until July 2023. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Taliban chops off the hands of four men, flogs couple for pre-marital sex According to the UNODC findings, since the Taliban imposed the ban, opium prices have soared while the income of farmers from opium sales grew three-fold from 2021 to 2022. “The international community must work to address the acute needs of the Afghan people, and to step up responses to stop the criminal groups trafficking heroin and harming people in countries around the world,” the UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly had said when the findings were published, in November. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK university helps UN develop AI programme to monitor Afghanistan’s opium cultivation

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