Two days after the Taliban banned female students from university, dozens of women are now raising their voices against the administration and are demanding their right to education. A group of women marched near Kabul University chanting 'either everyone or no one' and 'one for all'.

Afghanistan: Women continue to protest, cry against Taliban ban grows louder

A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females.

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The heroic women of Afghanistan out on the streets of Herat today to protest against the Taliban’s BAN on female students going to university. They scream “cowards” at the Taliban. 
 
The Taliban fire water canons at the protesters. <a href="https://t.co/9O34xFFbf6">pic.twitter.com/9O34xFFbf6</a>
— Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) <a href="https://twitter.com/NasimiShabnam/status/1606626868567937024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Hundreds of Afghan women have taken to the streets to protest against the Taliban's decision. Protest marches in Afghanistan echoed with slogans like 'education is our right' and 'The Taliban are cowards.'&nbsp;

A few days after the Taliban banned women from pursuing higher education, they have recently also shut the doors for them to work in non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-male-students-walk-out-of-exam-halls-as-taliban-bans-university-education-for-afghan-women-546234">Male students walk out of exam halls as Taliban ban university education for Afghan women</a>

Abdel Rahman Habib, ministry of economy spokesperson, declared that women are no more allowed to work for any international or national NGO. He mentioned that the Taliban sent a letter to the NGOs assessing a prohibition 'until further notice.' According to him, women not wearing a hijab and disobeying the Sharia law are&nbsp;the prime reason behind the action.&nbsp;

Taliban's decision to ban female students from universities triggered a global uproar. The Taliban&nbsp;however reason&nbsp;that women conversate with male peers in colleges and do not follow the appropriate Islamic dress code. Higher education minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem implemented the ban with 'immediate effect' on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Nadeem said, "they dress like they were going to a wedding."

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Suicide Blast: 1 policeman dead, 4 injured in attack; TTP claims responsibility

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Amid the protests, the Taliban has arrested five women in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital. They have also arrested three journalists. A day after the ban, guards barred hundreds of women from entering educational institutions.&nbsp;

Taliban has already banned women from most secondary schools. United Nations and many&nbsp;countries have condemned the Taliban's decision to deprive women of their educational rights.&nbsp;

Male students in Afghanistan universities have also protested in solidarity with their female counterparts. Many professors resigned after the decision, and male students walked out of exam halls as a sign of protest.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females.

A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females. The heroic women of Afghanistan out on the streets of Herat today to protest against the Taliban’s BAN on female students going to university. They scream “cowards” at the Taliban. The Taliban fire water canons at the protesters. pic.twitter.com/9O34xFFbf6 — Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) December 24, 2022 × Hundreds of Afghan women have taken to the streets to protest against the Taliban's decision. Protest marches in Afghanistan echoed with slogans like 'education is our right' and 'The Taliban are cowards.' A few days after the Taliban banned women from pursuing higher education, they have recently also shut the doors for them to work in non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Also read | Male students walk out of exam halls as Taliban ban university education for Afghan women Abdel Rahman Habib, ministry of economy spokesperson, declared that women are no more allowed to work for any international or national NGO. He mentioned that the Taliban sent a letter to the NGOs assessing a prohibition 'until further notice.' According to him, women not wearing a hijab and disobeying the Sharia law are the prime reason behind the action. Taliban's decision to ban female students from universities triggered a global uproar. The Taliban however reason that women conversate with male peers in colleges and do not follow the appropriate Islamic dress code. Higher education minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem implemented the ban with 'immediate effect' on Tuesday. Nadeem said, "they dress like they were going to a wedding." Watch | Pakistan Suicide Blast: 1 policeman dead, 4 injured in attack; TTP claims responsibility Amid the protests, the Taliban has arrested five women in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital. They have also arrested three journalists. A day after the ban, guards barred hundreds of women from entering educational institutions. Taliban has already banned women from most secondary schools. United Nations and many countries have condemned the Taliban's decision to deprive women of their educational rights. Male students in Afghanistan universities have also protested in solidarity with their female counterparts. Many professors resigned after the decision, and male students walked out of exam halls as a sign of protest. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Taliban use water cannon on Afghan women opposing prohibition on university education

Just days after the Taliban banned women from accessing University education, women in large numbers took to the streets and staged protests against the decision. To disperse the protesting women, Taliban security forces used water canon on them.

Afghanistan: Women not banned from working in NGOs, continue to protest

Top United Nations officials and dozens of NGOs working in Afghanistan are set to hold a meeting in Kabul on Sunday (December 25) to decide the way ahead after Taliban imposed a ban on women working in NGOs. The latest order issued by the Taliban has resulted in global outcry. Governments and organisations have warned that Taliban's latest stance may impact humanitarian services in the country. Millions in Afghanistan are dependent on such aid.

The latest restriction comes less than a week after the hardline Islamists banned women from attending universities, prompting global outrage and protests in some Afghan cities.

Taliban's ministry of economy on Saturday threatened that operating licences of NGOs will be suspended if they did not follow the order of not employing women.

The ministry, which issues these licences, said it had received "serious complaints" that women working in NGOs were not observing a proper Islamic dress code.

"A meeting of Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) is scheduled later today to consult and discuss how to tackle this issue," Tapiwa Gomo, public information officer for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, told AFP.

Top UN officials and representatives of dozens of Afghan and international NGOs are part of the HCT.

The United Nations, which said it would seek an explanation from the Taliban about the order, condemned the ministry's directive.

It said the order excluding women "systematically from all aspects of public and political life takes the country backward, jeopardising efforts for any meaningful peace or stability in the country".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Top United Nations officials and dozens of NGOs working in Afghanistan are set to hold a meeting in Kabul on Sunday (December 25) to decide the way ahead after Taliban imposed a ban on women working in NGOs.

Top United Nations officials and dozens of NGOs working in Afghanistan are set to hold a meeting in Kabul on Sunday (December 25) to decide the way ahead after Taliban imposed a ban on women working in NGOs. The latest order issued by the Taliban has resulted in global outcry. Governments and organisations have warned that Taliban's latest stance may impact humanitarian services in the country. Millions in Afghanistan are dependent on such aid. The latest restriction comes less than a week after the hardline Islamists banned women from attending universities, prompting global outrage and protests in some Afghan cities. Taliban's ministry of economy on Saturday threatened that operating licences of NGOs will be suspended if they did not follow the order of not employing women. The ministry, which issues these licences, said it had received "serious complaints" that women working in NGOs were not observing a proper Islamic dress code. "A meeting of Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) is scheduled later today to consult and discuss how to tackle this issue," Tapiwa Gomo, public information officer for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, told AFP. Top UN officials and representatives of dozens of Afghan and international NGOs are part of the HCT. The United Nations, which said it would seek an explanation from the Taliban about the order, condemned the ministry's directive. It said the order excluding women "systematically from all aspects of public and political life takes the country backward, jeopardising efforts for any meaningful peace or stability in the country". (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 ×

Top UN officials, NGO representatives to meet after Taliban ban on women staff

WION Fineprint: Afghan women protest against the University Ban by Taliban

Afghanistan: Taliban divided over ban on women's education; US calls on Taliban to reverse ban

Afghanistan's men have also joined the protest against the Taliban's decision to ban women from pursuing higher education. Male students at Afghanistan's Nangarhar University walked out of their exams in solidarity with their female peers. Videos of universities stopping female students from entering classrooms have taken over the internet.

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Male university students have walked out of their exam in protest against Taliban’s decision to BAN female students from university education. 
 
Several male professors have also resigned so far. 
 
This must happen across the country NOW!<a href="https://t.co/kvvsQdchSu">pic.twitter.com/kvvsQdchSu</a>
— Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) <a href="https://twitter.com/NasimiShabnam/status/1605484208276717569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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To join the protest, the university's male professors have also resigned. Obaidullah Wardak, a professor who served at Kabul University for 10 years, has resigned from his post.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the Taliban's higher education ministry declared that Afghanistan's women would not be allowed to pursue education with immediate effect. The decision enraged students from universities across Afghanistan.

Women across Afghanistan are protesting on the streets against the decision. A group of female students from Kabul University marched outside the institution, chanting 'either everyone or no one.'&nbsp;

In Kandahar, a university denied their female students to sit for their final examinations.&nbsp;Furthermore, universities in Afghanistan have forcefully dismissed female students from their dormitories. Footages also show women being escorted out of the classroom while male students write their examinations.

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In Kandahar, girls are devastated as they are not allowed to participate in university exams while boys sit in the classroom. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetHerLearn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetHerLearn</a> <a href="https://t.co/KWWSzF54Jv">pic.twitter.com/KWWSzF54Jv</a>
— Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) <a href="https://twitter.com/HabibKhanT/status/1605465329269972992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Taliban has banned women from travelling without a male relative or entering gyms and parks.&nbsp;

Taliban's barbaric and backward policies have drawn global attention. Afghans have launched a Twitter campaign with the hashtag #letherlearn. People across the world have made thousands of tweets in support of Afghanistan's women.&nbsp;

Habib Khan, the founder of Afghan Peace Watch, shared a video and tweeted, "Extremely sad and distressing to see these girls cry as they hear that they will no longer be able to continue their studies at the university. Stand with these women and girls of Afghanistan against the Taliban."

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In Kandahar, girls are devastated as they are not allowed to participate in university exams while boys sit in the classroom. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetHerLearn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetHerLearn</a> <a href="https://t.co/KWWSzF54Jv">pic.twitter.com/KWWSzF54Jv</a>
— Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) <a href="https://twitter.com/HabibKhanT/status/1605465329269972992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Rashid Khan, former captain of Afghanistan's cricket team, tweeted, "Acquiring knowledge is a must. There is no doubt that women make up half of society."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Afghanistan's men have also joined the protest against the Taliban's decision to ban women from pursuing higher education. Male students at Afghanistan's Nangarhar University walked out of their exams in solidarity with their female peers.

Afghanistan's men have also joined the protest against the Taliban's decision to ban women from pursuing higher education. Male students at Afghanistan's Nangarhar University walked out of their exams in solidarity with their female peers. Videos of universities stopping female students from entering classrooms have taken over the internet. Male university students have walked out of their exam in protest against Taliban’s decision to BAN female students from university education. Several male professors have also resigned so far. This must happen across the country NOW!pic.twitter.com/kvvsQdchSu — Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) December 21, 2022 × To join the protest, the university's male professors have also resigned. Obaidullah Wardak, a professor who served at Kabul University for 10 years, has resigned from his post. On Tuesday, the Taliban's higher education ministry declared that Afghanistan's women would not be allowed to pursue education with immediate effect. The decision enraged students from universities across Afghanistan. Women across Afghanistan are protesting on the streets against the decision. A group of female students from Kabul University marched outside the institution, chanting 'either everyone or no one.' In Kandahar, a university denied their female students to sit for their final examinations. Furthermore, universities in Afghanistan have forcefully dismissed female students from their dormitories. Footages also show women being escorted out of the classroom while male students write their examinations. In Kandahar, girls are devastated as they are not allowed to participate in university exams while boys sit in the classroom. #LetHerLearn pic.twitter.com/KWWSzF54Jv — Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) December 21, 2022 × Taliban has banned women from travelling without a male relative or entering gyms and parks. Taliban's barbaric and backward policies have drawn global attention. Afghans have launched a Twitter campaign with the hashtag #letherlearn. People across the world have made thousands of tweets in support of Afghanistan's women. Habib Khan, the founder of Afghan Peace Watch, shared a video and tweeted, "Extremely sad and distressing to see these girls cry as they hear that they will no longer be able to continue their studies at the university. Stand with these women and girls of Afghanistan against the Taliban." In Kandahar, girls are devastated as they are not allowed to participate in university exams while boys sit in the classroom. #LetHerLearn pic.twitter.com/KWWSzF54Jv — Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) December 21, 2022 × Rashid Khan, former captain of Afghanistan's cricket team, tweeted, "Acquiring knowledge is a must. There is no doubt that women make up half of society." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH| Male students walk out of exam halls as Taliban ban university education for Afghan women

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan is increasingly drawing global criticism after their recent stance of not allowing women to attend universities. In response to this, Nida Mohammad Nadim, the Taliban's minister of higher education, broke his silence on Thursday and stated that the ban on women attending universities was put in place to prevent the mixing of the genders as well as because he thought some subjects being taught went against the teachings of Islam.

UK PM Rishi Sunak said on Wednesday (December 21) that Taliban's latest decision was a "grave step backwards" and that &nbsp;"the world is watching".

"The women of Afghanistan have so much to offer. Denying them access to university is a grave step backwards," the UK leader tweeted, adding: "We will judge the Taliban by their actions".

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As a father to daughters, I cannot imagine a world in which they’re denied an education. 
 
The women of Afghanistan have so much to offer. Denying them access to university is a grave step backwards. 
 
The world is watching. We will judge the Taliban by their actions.
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak/status/1605572798075871232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Taliban regime grabbed power immediately after US-led coalition forces left Afghanistan last year. Initially, the Taliban sought to assure the world that it will not revert to its radical ways as seen during their previous rule in late 1990s. They even said publicly that women would be allowed to attend universities.&nbsp;

However, the regime slowly began to roll back social progress that had been achieved in two decades under US-supported regime. Primary schools for girls were shut and unreasonable social restrictions on women made return.

The latest in the backward journey was Taliban's decision to prohibit women from going to universities.

The decision has already drawn sharp reactions from the United States and the United Nations

"It's another very troubling move and it's difficult to imagine how the country can develop, deal with all of the challenges that it has, without active participation of women and the education of women," said Stephen Dujarric, United Nations spokesperson.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/armed-guards-stop-women-from-entering-universities-following-taliban-ban-on-higher-education-for-females-545067">Armed guards stop women from entering Afghan universities after Taliban ban on higher education for females</a>

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he was "deeply dismayed" due to the development.

"Deeply dismayed by the announcement from the Taliban denying women the right to a university education. Afghan women deserve better. Afghanistan deserves better," he said.

"The Taliban have just definitively set back their objective of being accepted by the international community."

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan is increasingly drawing global criticism after their recent stance of not allowing women to attend universities. In response to this, Nida Mohammad Nadim, the Taliban's minister of higher education, broke his silence on Thursday and stated that the ban on women attending universities was put in place to prevent the mixing of the genders as well as because he thought some subjects being taught went against the teachings of Islam.

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan is increasingly drawing global criticism after their recent stance of not allowing women to attend universities. In response to this, Nida Mohammad Nadim, the Taliban's minister of higher education, broke his silence on Thursday and stated that the ban on women attending universities was put in place to prevent the mixing of the genders as well as because he thought some subjects being taught went against the teachings of Islam. UK PM Rishi Sunak said on Wednesday (December 21) that Taliban's latest decision was a "grave step backwards" and that "the world is watching". "The women of Afghanistan have so much to offer. Denying them access to university is a grave step backwards," the UK leader tweeted, adding: "We will judge the Taliban by their actions". As a father to daughters, I cannot imagine a world in which they’re denied an education. The women of Afghanistan have so much to offer. Denying them access to university is a grave step backwards. The world is watching. We will judge the Taliban by their actions. — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) December 21, 2022 × The Taliban regime grabbed power immediately after US-led coalition forces left Afghanistan last year. Initially, the Taliban sought to assure the world that it will not revert to its radical ways as seen during their previous rule in late 1990s. They even said publicly that women would be allowed to attend universities. However, the regime slowly began to roll back social progress that had been achieved in two decades under US-supported regime. Primary schools for girls were shut and unreasonable social restrictions on women made return. The latest in the backward journey was Taliban's decision to prohibit women from going to universities. The decision has already drawn sharp reactions from the United States and the United Nations "It's another very troubling move and it's difficult to imagine how the country can develop, deal with all of the challenges that it has, without active participation of women and the education of women," said Stephen Dujarric, United Nations spokesperson. Also Read | Armed guards stop women from entering Afghan universities after Taliban ban on higher education for females US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he was "deeply dismayed" due to the development. "Deeply dismayed by the announcement from the Taliban denying women the right to a university education. Afghan women deserve better. Afghanistan deserves better," he said. "The Taliban have just definitively set back their objective of being accepted by the international community." (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 ×

As #LetHerLearn protests grow, Afghan minister defends education ban on girls

About 95 miles east of Kabul, at a university in Jalalabad, a senior University official with a reputation of always speaking up without a piece of paper came with "his notes" on December 21. Over 100 female students sat in the university auditorium awaiting the words that were to be uttered. The university official first recited a verse from The Quran, which says that the first word Allah revealed to Prophet Mohammed was 'Iqra', literally meaning 'read'.

The downcast announcement followed. That the girls are no more to be educated.

“We are in touch with high-ranking profiles in the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. We will do our best to ensure your final exams are conducted. But until further orders, we have been told that you cannot attend university,” the official announced.

Among the attendants was Sana Siddiqui (21). In the eighth semester of her Law and Political Science undergraduate course.

Until December 21, Sana was just three exams short of earning herself a coveted university degree. 
 
Not anymore.

Despite having known from the news hours ago about the Taliban government's ban on women's university education, Sana and her batchmates from the eighth semester had a glimmer of hope.

"We thought that at least we will be allowed to appear in our remaining final exams," Sana told WION in a phone conversation from Jalalabad.

The announcement from the top university official shattered what was left of Sana and her batchmates' collective hopes.

"One of the girls lost consciousness. Everybody else began to cry. It was a wave of emotions in the auditorium knowing that this was the last chance we were seeing our university and classmates," Sana told WION.

"But we knew this was coming. When the school education was taken away from young Afghan girls, we knew we were next," Sana added, referring to the ban on secondary education for girls in Afghanistan that the Taliban imposed in September 2021, a month after taking over Kabul's power corridors.

Sana's story resonated with Nargis (34), a former teacher who taught History and Geography to female students in grades 7 and 8 in a Jalalabad school until September last year.&nbsp;<img alt="File image of Afghan girls studying a middle school | AFP" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3fd22b8b-7182-4145-a161-88bc3fdbf0f2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Afghan%20girls.jpg" />

Nargis told WION it was the "worst day of my life" when three Taliban officials paid a visit to the school where she taught.

The hardliners ordered teachers to inform students inside classrooms to not attend school "until further orders".

"One of my Class 7 girls raised her hand and asked, 'Ma'am, is it closed for boys as well'?," Nargis told WION in Persian.

"She looked at me and I had no answer. She realised that it was closed just for the girls. She was inconsolably crying," added Nargis.<img alt="File image of Afghan women protesting in front of the Ministry of Education in Kabul" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ebd5a26-8059-4725-8398-ca71e0ca682e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Afghan_girls.jpg" />

Despite WION offering Sana and Nargis anonymity, they insisted to be named, perhaps as a show of protest and defiance against the repressive regime.

"We can only request the international community and our higher education minister to allow our girls to be back in the schools and colleges. There was never a time as helpless as this," Nargis said.

Questions on Taliban's double standards on education

Zareena, 24, (name withheld to protect identity) graduated to become a lawyer in 2020 from a state university.

"When Taliban came to power, they removed virtually everything that was to do with law," Zareena told WION from a Kabul suburb, pointing out to Taliban's deliberate dismantling of the law and advocacy sector that existed in Afghanistan prior to August 2021.

Zareena said she enrolled herself in a diploma course at Kabul Center Institute months before the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan.

On December 21, when the ban on women's higher education was announced, Zareena was due to appear in an exam at Silo Road in Kabul.

"I cannot pursue my goals and ambitions because of the Taliban," Zareena said, adding that she once dreamt of studying outside Afghanistan. “I wanted to come back and serve my country with my knowledge of law,” she said.

In Afghanistan, the December-January period is usually known as the 'winter of exams' among students.

"For girls, winter is all that is left in this period," Zareena said. &nbsp;

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About 95 miles east of Kabul, at a university in Jalalabad, a senior University official with a reputation of always speaking up without a piece of paper came with "his notes" on December 21.

About 95 miles east of Kabul, at a university in Jalalabad, a senior University official with a reputation of always speaking up without a piece of paper came with "his notes" on December 21. Over 100 female students sat in the university auditorium awaiting the words that were to be uttered. The university official first recited a verse from The Quran, which says that the first word Allah revealed to Prophet Mohammed was 'Iqra', literally meaning 'read'. The downcast announcement followed. That the girls are no more to be educated. “We are in touch with high-ranking profiles in the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. We will do our best to ensure your final exams are conducted. But until further orders, we have been told that you cannot attend university,” the official announced. Among the attendants was Sana Siddiqui (21). In the eighth semester of her Law and Political Science undergraduate course. Until December 21, Sana was just three exams short of earning herself a coveted university degree. Not anymore. Despite having known from the news hours ago about the Taliban government's ban on women's university education, Sana and her batchmates from the eighth semester had a glimmer of hope. "We thought that at least we will be allowed to appear in our remaining final exams," Sana told WION in a phone conversation from Jalalabad. The announcement from the top university official shattered what was left of Sana and her batchmates' collective hopes. "One of the girls lost consciousness. Everybody else began to cry. It was a wave of emotions in the auditorium knowing that this was the last chance we were seeing our university and classmates," Sana told WION. "But we knew this was coming. When the school education was taken away from young Afghan girls, we knew we were next," Sana added, referring to the ban on secondary education for girls in Afghanistan that the Taliban imposed in September 2021, a month after taking over Kabul's power corridors. Sana's story resonated with Nargis (34), a former teacher who taught History and Geography to female students in grades 7 and 8 in a Jalalabad school until September last year. Nargis told WION it was the "worst day of my life" when three Taliban officials paid a visit to the school where she taught. The hardliners ordered teachers to inform students inside classrooms to not attend school "until further orders". "One of my Class 7 girls raised her hand and asked, 'Ma'am, is it closed for boys as well'?," Nargis told WION in Persian. "She looked at me and I had no answer. She realised that it was closed just for the girls. She was inconsolably crying," added Nargis. Despite WION offering Sana and Nargis anonymity, they insisted to be named, perhaps as a show of protest and defiance against the repressive regime. "We can only request the international community and our higher education minister to allow our girls to be back in the schools and colleges. There was never a time as helpless as this," Nargis said. Questions on Taliban's double standards on education Zareena, 24, (name withheld to protect identity) graduated to become a lawyer in 2020 from a state university. "When Taliban came to power, they removed virtually everything that was to do with law," Zareena told WION from a Kabul suburb, pointing out to Taliban's deliberate dismantling of the law and advocacy sector that existed in Afghanistan prior to August 2021. Zareena said she enrolled herself in a diploma course at Kabul Center Institute months before the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan. On December 21, when the ban on women's higher education was announced, Zareena was due to appear in an exam at Silo Road in Kabul. "I cannot pursue my goals and ambitions because of the Taliban," Zareena said, adding that she once dreamt of studying outside Afghanistan. “I wanted to come back and serve my country with my knowledge of law,” she said. In Afghanistan, the December-January period is usually known as the 'winter of exams' among students. "For girls, winter is all that is left in this period," Zareena said. 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.

Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus

Afghanistan: Taliban's move of ban over women's education unites rest of Muslim world

A group of Afghan women staged a defiant protest in Kabul against a Taliban order banning them from universities. A protester at the rally said "some of the girls" had been arrested by women police officers.

Afghanistan: Group of women hold protest over ban on university education

After announcing its decision of banning women students from studying at universities, Afghanistan's Taliban-run administration has doubled down on its stance. Nida Mohammad Nadim, Afghanistan's acting higher education minister in his first comments since the announcement of the blanket ban, said women were not adhering to the Taliban's interpretation of the Islamic dress code which prompted the decision.

After announcing its decision of banning women students from studying at universities, Afghanistan's Taliban-run administration has doubled down on its stance. Nida Mohammad Nadim, Afghanistan's acting higher education minister in his first comments since the announcement of the blanket ban, said women were not adhering to the Taliban's interpretation of the Islamic dress code which prompted the decision. "They didn't observe hijab (Islamic female dress code), they were coming with the clothes that mostly women wear to go to a wedding," said Nadim in an interview. Nadim also refused to accept any international criticism and said the ban order was Afghanistan's internal matter and that foreign nations should stop interfering. Taliban's statement comes on the same day when 50 women dressed in hijabs gathered in the capital city of Kabul for a peaceful protest. However, the Taliban security forces attacked the protest and managed to disperse the demonstrators. WATCH | Afghanistan: Group of women hold protest over ban on university education × According to local news agencies, several women were beaten up and journalists covering the protest were also detained. Read more: Armed guards stop women from entering Afghan universities after Taliban ban on higher education for females US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking at an end-of-the-year news conference, took a gloomy look at the recent developments in Afghanistan. Blinked said the Taliban was sentencing the Afghan women 'to a dark future without opportunity' after announcing the ban. “Taliban have tried to sentence Afghan women to a dark future without opportunities. No country will be able to succeed, much less thrive if half of its population doesn't have the opportunity to contribute," said Blinken. “There are going to be costs if this is not reversed." After Taliban took over Afghanistan by scurrying the US security forces away, it promised to take a softer stance regarding women's education in the country. However, after accumulating good PR, the Taliban resorted to its default setting. The recent ban on university education for women is a gradual escalation by the terror outfit after it set up gender-segregated classrooms and entrances and only allowed women students to be taught by professors of the same sex or old men. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Taliban double down on women education ban, attack peaceful protesters, invite US condemnation

Things have come a long way for the world since 1954 when India and China agreed on the so-called Panchsheel agreement. Newly minted cooperation between developing countries was then fashionable in the shadow of colonialism. Sovereignty of countries with the clause of "mutual non-interference" was in vogue as various nations and half-made countries progressed gingerly towards a dignified world order.

It is now time to re-open the "non-interference" clause because it is pertinent to ask if naked aggression (Russia in Ukraine), terrorism (Pakistan as a base for Islamist radicals), suppression of women (Iran and Afghanistan) and denial of basic human freedoms (China) should be bracketed in the 'non-interference' clause that seems rather absurd in the 21st century when there seems to be a broader, deeper global consensus on human welfare. We already have a track record of a stuttering but successful fight against racism in South Africa, which should serve as a pointer to what things can be.

Things have reached a new point of absurdity with the latest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-heartbreaking-video-of-wailing-afghan-girls-goes-viral-after-ban-on-female-education-545516">ban&nbsp;on university education for women</a> in Afghanistan ostensibly on the ground that the students do not follow an austere Islamic dress code prescribed by the Taliban regime.

Also Read | <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 dismantles their Right to Education campus after campus</a>

There is good and bad news here.&nbsp;

While the bad news is that the United States is now a pale shadow of its superpower self and the European economy is in deep crisis following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the good news (sort of) comes from Saudi Arabia and Turkey, whose governments have stood up to condemn the Taliban. There are, of course, nuances here. Both Riyadh and Ankara have Islamist governments and Saudi Arabia has had its own dismal track record on women's rights.

Saudi Arabia has only recently allowed women to have passports, travel abroad, and live independently without a male guardian. A male relative is still required to give permission for a woman to marry or start certain types of business enterprises.&nbsp;

Turkey is not doing much better. A UN-appointed special rapporteur said this year that officially, around one in four women in Turkey has suffered physical or sexual abuse by their partners and there are hundreds of femicides reported every year.

In such a context, it is interesting to see Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu describing the Afghan ban on university education for women as “neither Islamic nor humane". You could partially attribute this to diplomatic hypocrisy, but equally to the fact that Turkey and Saudi Arabia have strong links with the West in some way or the other -- links that they cannot afford to ruin. Turkey used to be a regular secular republic before President Recep Tayyip Erdogan decided to take the Islamist route. The Saudis have been long-time allies of the West, especially the US, thanks to crude oil exports -- much as that shows warts in Washington's foreign policy that talks of human rights everywhere but not in the places that serve its domineering geopolitical goals or business interests.

Now let us look at the US, weakened by its increasing focus on helping Ukraine and limitations of domestic politics in which President Joe Biden faces carping by right-wing activists even as the fear of a return of Trumpism with its brash, inward-looking approach looms large.

The relatively progressive signals from Riyadh and Ankara are best viewed as silver linings in the cloud. Widespread anti-hijab protests in Iran are also a pointer to how the Islamic thought process is undergoing a sea change. Personally I am sure the Afghan protests against the Taliban's education ban have been inspired or emboldened by events in Iran.

Fissures within the Muslim world as a whole suggest that women's rights is an idea whose time has come. Pakistan, with its hiccupping yet surviving democracy, is also relatively progressive if one looks at the emergence of a new middle class that values the emancipation of women.

This is precisely an opportunity for India and the West to co-engage on the issue. The term "constructive engagement" was once used by US President Ronald Reagan's administration to deal with the apartheid regime in South Africa, but his intentions and actions were both suspect. He used the term more to delay the end of racist rule. We don't quite want that in Afghanistan. What India, with its newfound role in the presidency of the Group of 20 elite nations of the world, needs to do is to offer its diplomatic services as a progressive country with its own track record of helping women's rights and equality.

Admittedly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's track record and philosophy may be criticised when it comes to religious minorities, but his role in women's rights (whatever the political motives) has been credible.&nbsp;

If India aspires to be not just a voice of the "Global South" at the G-20 Presidency but look beyond to seek a higher role in the United Nations, it can craft an engagement matrix on women's rights. The way to do it is to push its own Muslim scholars, intellectuals and thought leaders in the forefront for a new kind of soft diplomacy.

This might enhance Modi's credibility at many levels while giving India a toehold to raise its profile in world affairs. What is clear to me is that the old-world Panchsheel approach of non-interference is passe. Democracy, human freedoms, women's rights, and sustainability must be part of a new order.&nbsp;

This means putting one's domestic politics in order so as to not invite accusations of doublespeak or hypocrisy. But there is little doubt that India has an opportunity to engage as a new, credible interlocutor on the world stage. The flip side of this is that Turkey and Pakistan may oppose or frown at India's new role. However, if the cards are played well, at home and abroad, this can dramatically raise India's stature. A perk would be that India would stand out in contrast to China as well.&nbsp;

Picture it like an Argentina moment for Indian diplomacy, now that we seem to have had big surprises in World Cup football.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Things have come a long way for the world since 1954 when India and China agreed on the so-called Panchsheel agreement. Newly minted cooperation between developing countries was then fashionable in the shadow of colonialism.

Things have come a long way for the world since 1954 when India and China agreed on the so-called Panchsheel agreement. Newly minted cooperation between developing countries was then fashionable in the shadow of colonialism. Sovereignty of countries with the clause of "mutual non-interference" was in vogue as various nations and half-made countries progressed gingerly towards a dignified world order. It is now time to re-open the "non-interference" clause because it is pertinent to ask if naked aggression (Russia in Ukraine), terrorism (Pakistan as a base for Islamist radicals), suppression of women (Iran and Afghanistan) and denial of basic human freedoms (China) should be bracketed in the 'non-interference' clause that seems rather absurd in the 21st century when there seems to be a broader, deeper global consensus on human welfare. We already have a track record of a stuttering but successful fight against racism in South Africa, which should serve as a pointer to what things can be. Things have reached a new point of absurdity with the latest ban on university education for women in Afghanistan ostensibly on the ground that the students do not follow an austere Islamic dress code prescribed by the Taliban regime. Also Read | Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantles their Right to Education campus after campus There is good and bad news here. While the bad news is that the United States is now a pale shadow of its superpower self and the European economy is in deep crisis following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the good news (sort of) comes from Saudi Arabia and Turkey, whose governments have stood up to condemn the Taliban. There are, of course, nuances here. Both Riyadh and Ankara have Islamist governments and Saudi Arabia has had its own dismal track record on women's rights. Saudi Arabia has only recently allowed women to have passports, travel abroad, and live independently without a male guardian. A male relative is still required to give permission for a woman to marry or start certain types of business enterprises. Turkey is not doing much better. A UN-appointed special rapporteur said this year that officially, around one in four women in Turkey has suffered physical or sexual abuse by their partners and there are hundreds of femicides reported every year. In such a context, it is interesting to see Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu describing the Afghan ban on university education for women as “neither Islamic nor humane". You could partially attribute this to diplomatic hypocrisy, but equally to the fact that Turkey and Saudi Arabia have strong links with the West in some way or the other -- links that they cannot afford to ruin. Turkey used to be a regular secular republic before President Recep Tayyip Erdogan decided to take the Islamist route. The Saudis have been long-time allies of the West, especially the US, thanks to crude oil exports -- much as that shows warts in Washington's foreign policy that talks of human rights everywhere but not in the places that serve its domineering geopolitical goals or business interests. Now let us look at the US, weakened by its increasing focus on helping Ukraine and limitations of domestic politics in which President Joe Biden faces carping by right-wing activists even as the fear of a return of Trumpism with its brash, inward-looking approach looms large. The relatively progressive signals from Riyadh and Ankara are best viewed as silver linings in the cloud. Widespread anti-hijab protests in Iran are also a pointer to how the Islamic thought process is undergoing a sea change. Personally I am sure the Afghan protests against the Taliban's education ban have been inspired or emboldened by events in Iran. Fissures within the Muslim world as a whole suggest that women's rights is an idea whose time has come. Pakistan, with its hiccupping yet surviving democracy, is also relatively progressive if one looks at the emergence of a new middle class that values the emancipation of women. This is precisely an opportunity for India and the West to co-engage on the issue. The term "constructive engagement" was once used by US President Ronald Reagan's administration to deal with the apartheid regime in South Africa, but his intentions and actions were both suspect. He used the term more to delay the end of racist rule. We don't quite want that in Afghanistan. What India, with its newfound role in the presidency of the Group of 20 elite nations of the world, needs to do is to offer its diplomatic services as a progressive country with its own track record of helping women's rights and equality. Admittedly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's track record and philosophy may be criticised when it comes to religious minorities, but his role in women's rights (whatever the political motives) has been credible. If India aspires to be not just a voice of the "Global South" at the G-20 Presidency but look beyond to seek a higher role in the United Nations, it can craft an engagement matrix on women's rights. The way to do it is to push its own Muslim scholars, intellectuals and thought leaders in the forefront for a new kind of soft diplomacy. This might enhance Modi's credibility at many levels while giving India a toehold to raise its profile in world affairs. What is clear to me is that the old-world Panchsheel approach of non-interference is passe. Democracy, human freedoms, women's rights, and sustainability must be part of a new order. This means putting one's domestic politics in order so as to not invite accusations of doublespeak or hypocrisy. But there is little doubt that India has an opportunity to engage as a new, credible interlocutor on the world stage. The flip side of this is that Turkey and Pakistan may oppose or frown at India's new role. However, if the cards are played well, at home and abroad, this can dramatically raise India's stature. A perk would be that India would stand out in contrast to China as well. Picture it like an Argentina moment for Indian diplomacy, now that we seem to have had big surprises in World Cup football. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 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 ×

Talking Turkey with regressive Afghanistan: India can emerge as new-age interlocutor

The US, UK and UN have criticised the Taliban's ban on Afghanistan women from universities. The Taliban have banned female students from private and public universities in Afghanistan. Girls are already banned from secondary school education in the country.

Afghanistan: Taliban fighters enforce university ban; Afghan women deprived of basic human rights

Germany on Thursday will put the issue of the Taliban banning university education for women in Afghanistan on the agenda of the G7. Germany has held the presidency of the G7 since January this year.&nbsp;Taking to Twitter on Wednesday, German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock hit out at the Taliban's decision and said its rulers decided to destroy Afghanistan's future by banning women from university education nationwide.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-led-ministry-suspends-university-education-for-afghan-girls-and-women-544909">Taliban-led ministry bans university education for Afghan girls and women</a>

"By destroying the future of girls and women in Afghanistan, the Taliban decided to destroy their own country’s future. I will put the issue on the agenda of the G7 tomorrow."

The Taliban may try to make women invisible but won’t succeed - the world is watching," Baerbock tweeted.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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By destroying the future of girls and women in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> decided to destroy their own country’s future. I will put the issue on the agenda of the G7 tomorrow. The Taliban may try to make women invisible, but won’t succeed - the world is watching.
— Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock (@ABaerbock) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABaerbock/status/1605514700782854145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Several other countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Pakistan have condemned the Taliban's decision to suspend university education for Afghanistan's women.&nbsp;

"Deeply dismayed by the announcement from the Taliban denying women the right to university education. Afghan women deserve better. Afghanistan deserves better," US secretary of state Antony Blinken said on Thursday.

On Wednesday, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the ban was a "grave step backwards".

"The Taliban announced that they are suspending female students from attending universities, denying them the prospect of a better life. Equal access to all levels of education is a right to which every woman and every girl is entitled. We condemn this outrageous violation," Canadian foreign minister Melanie Joly said, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Pakistan, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-disappointed-by-ban-on-university-education-for-afghan-women-urges-kabul-to-revisit-decision-545093">while condemning the ban, urged the Taliban government</a> to revisit its decision.&nbsp;

The ban by the Taliban was announced on Tuesday by higher education minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem. "You all are informed to immediately implement the mentioned order of suspending education of females until further notice," Nadeem said in a letter issued to all government and private universities in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Women university students were anguished with the ban on access to education. On Wednesday, hundreds of women students were stopped by armed guards from entering universities. "We are doomed. We have lost everything," a student told AFP on the condition of anonymity.

"We all felt like caged birds, we hugged each other, screamed, and cried 'why is this happening to us?" &nbsp;another student who was pursuing nursing in Kunduz, told the news agency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Germany on Thursday will put the issue of the Taliban banning university education for women in Afghanistan on the agenda of the G7. Germany has held the presidency of the G7 since January this year.

Germany on Thursday will put the issue of the Taliban banning university education for women in Afghanistan on the agenda of the G7. Germany has held the presidency of the G7 since January this year. Taking to Twitter on Wednesday, German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock hit out at the Taliban's decision and said its rulers decided to destroy Afghanistan's future by banning women from university education nationwide. ALSO READ | Taliban-led ministry bans university education for Afghan girls and women "By destroying the future of girls and women in Afghanistan, the Taliban decided to destroy their own country’s future. I will put the issue on the agenda of the G7 tomorrow." The Taliban may try to make women invisible but won’t succeed - the world is watching," Baerbock tweeted. By destroying the future of girls and women in #Afghanistan, the #Taliban decided to destroy their own country’s future. I will put the issue on the agenda of the G7 tomorrow. The Taliban may try to make women invisible, but won’t succeed - the world is watching. — Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock (@ABaerbock) December 21, 2022 × Several other countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Pakistan have condemned the Taliban's decision to suspend university education for Afghanistan's women. "Deeply dismayed by the announcement from the Taliban denying women the right to university education. Afghan women deserve better. Afghanistan deserves better," US secretary of state Antony Blinken said on Thursday. On Wednesday, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the ban was a "grave step backwards". "The Taliban announced that they are suspending female students from attending universities, denying them the prospect of a better life. Equal access to all levels of education is a right to which every woman and every girl is entitled. We condemn this outrageous violation," Canadian foreign minister Melanie Joly said, news agency Reuters reported. Pakistan, while condemning the ban, urged the Taliban government to revisit its decision. The ban by the Taliban was announced on Tuesday by higher education minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem. "You all are informed to immediately implement the mentioned order of suspending education of females until further notice," Nadeem said in a letter issued to all government and private universities in Afghanistan. Women university students were anguished with the ban on access to education. On Wednesday, hundreds of women students were stopped by armed guards from entering universities. "We are doomed. We have lost everything," a student told AFP on the condition of anonymity. "We all felt like caged birds, we hugged each other, screamed, and cried 'why is this happening to us?" another student who was pursuing nursing in Kunduz, told the news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Germany to put university education ban for Afghan women on G7 meeting agenda

The clock is turning back to the 1990s for the Afghan women as Taliban is back with yet another oppressive diktat. This time it has barred women from university education. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Taliban bans University Education for Women

A day after the higher education ministry of the Taliban government banned female students from schools and universities in Afghanistan, a video purportedly showing girl students crying their hearts out in a classroom went viral on various social networking sites.&nbsp;

On December 21, the 23-second viral video was posted on Twitter. In a video, girls filled in a classroom can be seen crying after they are informed about the ban imposed on female education by the Taliban.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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Girls crying in agony as they’re told that they will have to leave the university &amp; go home as the Taliban have BANNED female university education in Afghanistan. 
 
Painful to hear. How can we sit idly by as millions of girls are denied their human rights.<a href="https://t.co/lCANKZ1Kgq">pic.twitter.com/lCANKZ1Kgq</a>
— Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) <a href="https://twitter.com/NasimiShabnam/status/1605509755677687809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Tuesday, the Taliban announced the decision to ban female education in a letter sent by the higher education ministry to the universities, which was widely condemned by the United Nations and foreign governments.

According to the reports, armed forces were deployed in huge numbers outside the educational institutes across the nation and the girl students were asked to leave.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/armed-guards-stop-women-from-entering-universities-following-taliban-ban-on-higher-education-for-females-545067">Armed guards stop women from entering Afghan universities after Taliban ban on higher education for females</a>

Afghan women protest against Taliban's ban&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a small group of women in Afghanistan staged a protest against the ban imposed by the Taliban on female education in Kabul, said an activist, adding that few women were arrested.&nbsp; 
"They expelled women from universities. Oh, the respected people, support, support. Rights for everyone or no one!," the protesters chanted as they protested in Kabul.

In the rally, a protester said that few girls were arrested, however, two were released and few remain in custody. Almost two dozen women veiled in hijabs were seen raising hands and shouting slogans as they protested through the streets.

People were in disbelief after the ban was announced as it came less than three months after many female students were permitted to appear for university entrance exams.

WATCH| Afghanistan: Taliban fighters enforce university ban; Afghan women deprived of basic human rights

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University of Herat's journalism student Wahida Wahid Durani said, “Afghan girls are a dead people... they are crying blood. They are using all their force against us. I'm afraid that soon they will announce that women are not allowed to breathe."

After coming to power, the Taliban government has imposed various restrictions on Afghan women.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A day after the higher education ministry of the Taliban government banned female students from schools and universities in Afghanistan, a video purportedly showing girl students crying their hearts out in a classroom went viral on various social networking sites.

A day after the higher education ministry of the Taliban government banned female students from schools and universities in Afghanistan, a video purportedly showing girl students crying their hearts out in a classroom went viral on various social networking sites. On December 21, the 23-second viral video was posted on Twitter. In a video, girls filled in a classroom can be seen crying after they are informed about the ban imposed on female education by the Taliban. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Girls crying in agony as they’re told that they will have to leave the university & go home as the Taliban have BANNED female university education in Afghanistan. Painful to hear. How can we sit idly by as millions of girls are denied their human rights.pic.twitter.com/lCANKZ1Kgq — Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) December 21, 2022 × On Tuesday, the Taliban announced the decision to ban female education in a letter sent by the higher education ministry to the universities, which was widely condemned by the United Nations and foreign governments. According to the reports, armed forces were deployed in huge numbers outside the educational institutes across the nation and the girl students were asked to leave. ALSO READ| Armed guards stop women from entering Afghan universities after Taliban ban on higher education for females Afghan women protest against Taliban's ban Meanwhile, a small group of women in Afghanistan staged a protest against the ban imposed by the Taliban on female education in Kabul, said an activist, adding that few women were arrested. "They expelled women from universities. Oh, the respected people, support, support. Rights for everyone or no one!," the protesters chanted as they protested in Kabul. In the rally, a protester said that few girls were arrested, however, two were released and few remain in custody. Almost two dozen women veiled in hijabs were seen raising hands and shouting slogans as they protested through the streets. People were in disbelief after the ban was announced as it came less than three months after many female students were permitted to appear for university entrance exams. WATCH| Afghanistan: Taliban fighters enforce university ban; Afghan women deprived of basic human rights University of Herat's journalism student Wahida Wahid Durani said, “Afghan girls are a dead people... they are crying blood. They are using all their force against us. I'm afraid that soon they will announce that women are not allowed to breathe." After coming to power, the Taliban government has imposed various restrictions on Afghan women. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Heartbreaking video of wailing Afghan girls goes viral after ban on female education

Pakistan has expressed disappointment with the ban on university education for women in Afghanistan and has urged the Taliban government to revisit this decision.&nbsp;On Tuesday, Pakistan's foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto said that he was disappointed by the Taliban's decision but said the best approach remained engagement with the ruling government in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"I'm disappointed by the decision that was taken today. I still think the easiest path to our goal -- despite having a lot of setbacks when it comes to women's education and other things -- is through Kabul and through the interim government," Bhutto told news agency AFP on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Pakistan foreign minister also pointed out there were no alternatives to the Taliban and warned of further instability in Afghanistan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-led-ministry-suspends-university-education-for-afghan-girls-and-women-544909">Taliban-led ministry suspends university education for Afghan girls and women&nbsp;</a>

Apart from Bilawal Bhutto, Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch also voiced disappointment over the ban and urged the Afghan authorities to revisit this decision, according to a report by the Dawn on Wednesday. Baloch said "We strongly believe that every man and woman has the inherent right to education in accordance with the injunctions of Islam.''

On Tuesday, the Taliban banned university education for women in Afghanistan despite promising a softer approach when they took over the war-torn country last year. The decision has been strongly condemned by the United States and the United Nations.&nbsp;

"You all are informed to immediately implement the mentioned order of suspending education of females until further notice," Afghanistan's higher education minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem said in a letter to all government and private universities on Tuesday.

And on Wednesday, hundreds of Afghan women were stopped by armed guards from entering universities. "We are doomed. We have lost everything," a student told AFP on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-clerics-delegation-to-visit-afghanistan-to-talk-on-border-clashes-report-544292">Pak clerics' delegation to visit Afghanistan to talk on border clashes: Report</a>

Tuesday's ban comes less than three months after thousands of girls and women sat for university entrance exams across Afghanistan, with many choosing to be teachers and doctors in future.&nbsp;

Following the Taliban's takeover of the country, universities had been forced to implement new regulations including gender-segregated classrooms and entrances. Women students were only permitted to be taught by women professors or old men.&nbsp;

Not just in education, the Taliban has ratcheted restrictions on all aspects of women's lives.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan has expressed disappointment with the ban on university education for women in Afghanistan and has urged the Taliban government to revisit this decision.

Pakistan has expressed disappointment with the ban on university education for women in Afghanistan and has urged the Taliban government to revisit this decision. On Tuesday, Pakistan's foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto said that he was disappointed by the Taliban's decision but said the best approach remained engagement with the ruling government in Afghanistan. "I'm disappointed by the decision that was taken today. I still think the easiest path to our goal -- despite having a lot of setbacks when it comes to women's education and other things -- is through Kabul and through the interim government," Bhutto told news agency AFP on Tuesday. The Pakistan foreign minister also pointed out there were no alternatives to the Taliban and warned of further instability in Afghanistan. ALSO READ | Taliban-led ministry suspends university education for Afghan girls and women Apart from Bilawal Bhutto, Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch also voiced disappointment over the ban and urged the Afghan authorities to revisit this decision, according to a report by the Dawn on Wednesday. Baloch said "We strongly believe that every man and woman has the inherent right to education in accordance with the injunctions of Islam.'' On Tuesday, the Taliban banned university education for women in Afghanistan despite promising a softer approach when they took over the war-torn country last year. The decision has been strongly condemned by the United States and the United Nations. "You all are informed to immediately implement the mentioned order of suspending education of females until further notice," Afghanistan's higher education minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem said in a letter to all government and private universities on Tuesday. And on Wednesday, hundreds of Afghan women were stopped by armed guards from entering universities. "We are doomed. We have lost everything," a student told AFP on the condition of anonymity. ALSO READ | Pak clerics' delegation to visit Afghanistan to talk on border clashes: Report Tuesday's ban comes less than three months after thousands of girls and women sat for university entrance exams across Afghanistan, with many choosing to be teachers and doctors in future. Following the Taliban's takeover of the country, universities had been forced to implement new regulations including gender-segregated classrooms and entrances. Women students were only permitted to be taught by women professors or old men. Not just in education, the Taliban has ratcheted restrictions on all aspects of women's lives. (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.

Pakistan 'disappointed' by ban on university education for Afghan women, urges Kabul to revisit decision

Taliban-led Afghanistan announced another rule for girls and women in the country, restricting their access to education for many who aspired to be a doctors or engineers.

The Taliban authorities on Tuesday in a letter sent to all public and private colleges announced that the ministry put an indefinite ban on Afghan girls attending educational institutions.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-at-least-12-die-after-oil-tanker-overturns-catches-fire-in-salang-pass-544231">Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan: At least 19 killed as oil tanker overturns in Salang tunnel, catches fire, traps travellers</a>

Signed by Neda Mohammad Nadeem, the letter read, "You all are informed to implement the mentioned order of suspending the education of females until further notice."

The announcement was confirmed by the ministry's spokesperson Ziaullah Hashimi to AFP.&nbsp;

The ban comes&nbsp;after thousands of female students took university entrance exams across the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-states-claims-responsibility-for-kabul-hotel-attack-542558">Also read |&nbsp;Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul hotel attack, China says condems 'all forms of terrorism'</a>

Universities have been compelled to adopt the new regulations following the takeover by the Islamist group&nbsp;in August last year.&nbsp;

Many such regulations have been imposed on women. These include gender-segregated classrooms and entrances, and women are allowed to attend classes only when taught by female or old male professors.&nbsp;

The majority of female students in the South Asian country have been prohibited from attending secondary schools restricting their access to further education.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taliban-led Afghanistan announced another rule for girls and women in the country, restricting their access to education for many who aspired to be a doctors or engineers.

Taliban-led Afghanistan announced another rule for girls and women in the country, restricting their access to education for many who aspired to be a doctors or engineers. The Taliban authorities on Tuesday in a letter sent to all public and private colleges announced that the ministry put an indefinite ban on Afghan girls attending educational institutions. Also read | Afghanistan: At least 19 killed as oil tanker overturns in Salang tunnel, catches fire, traps travellers Signed by Neda Mohammad Nadeem, the letter read, "You all are informed to implement the mentioned order of suspending the education of females until further notice." The announcement was confirmed by the ministry's spokesperson Ziaullah Hashimi to AFP. The ban comes after thousands of female students took university entrance exams across the country. Also read | Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul hotel attack, China says condems 'all forms of terrorism' Universities have been compelled to adopt the new regulations following the takeover by the Islamist group in August last year. Many such regulations have been imposed on women. These include gender-segregated classrooms and entrances, and women are allowed to attend classes only when taught by female or old male professors. The majority of female students in the South Asian country have been prohibited from attending secondary schools restricting their access to further education. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taliban-led education ministry bans Afghan girls and women from universities

Afghanistan: Taliban backtracks on women's education, further restricts women's schooling

US, UK and UN criticise the Taliban's ban on Afghan women from universities

Afghanistan’s Taliban government banned women from attending university, disregarding warnings from the US and inflicting yet another blow to half its population’s educational rights.

Taliban bans women from universities in Afghanistan

A four-member delegation of Pakistani clerics will visit Afghanistan this week to hold talks to end the cross-border clashes in the Chaman border region. The Chaman district administration said the delegation of the Pakistani Ulema will hold meetings with officials from Afghanistan's defence ministry and key Taliban leaders in Kandahar and Kabul, according to a report by The News International on Sunday.&nbsp;

The administration added that the Pakistan-Afghanistan border security forces’ flag meeting has been postponed upon the departure of the Ulema delegation. However, routine operations in civilian areas were restored on both sides of the border, the report added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-summons-senior-afghan-diplomat-over-repeated-cross-border-clashes-543801">Pakistan summons senior Afghan diplomat over repeated cross-border clashes</a>

The news of the upcoming dialogue this week comes two days after Pakistan summoned a senior Afghan diplomat over the repeated cross-border clashes.&nbsp;

"Afghan Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad was called into the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Pakistan’s strong condemnation over recent incidents of unprovoked cross-border shelling by Afghan Border Security Forces in the Chaman-Spin Boldak area, resulting in loss of life, injuries and damage to property, was conveyed," Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement on Friday.&nbsp;

''It was reiterated that protection of civilians remained the responsibility of both sides and that recurrence of these incidents must be prevented,'' the ministry said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-4-cops-killed-after-attack-on-police-station-in-lakki-marwat-district-544193">Pakistan: Four cops killed after attack on police station in Lakki Marwat district</a>

The ministry added that Pakistan remains committed to maintaining fraternal relations with Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan and Afghanistan have had territorial disputes for decades and the recent cross-border clashes and other attacks have strained the relations between the two countries.&nbsp;

Eight Pakistani civilians and one Afghan soldier were killed in cross-border shelling and gunfire near the Chaman border crossing on December 11. And on Thursday (December 15), clashes erupted again near the same crossing killing one person and injuring more than a dozen people.&nbsp; 
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A four-member delegation of Pakistani clerics will visit Afghanistan this week to hold talks to end the cross-border clashes in the Chaman border region. The Chaman district administration said the delegation of the Pakistani Ulema will hold meetings with officials from Afghanistan's defence ministry and key Taliban leaders in Kandahar and Kabul, according to a report by The News International on Sunday.

A four-member delegation of Pakistani clerics will visit Afghanistan this week to hold talks to end the cross-border clashes in the Chaman border region. The Chaman district administration said the delegation of the Pakistani Ulema will hold meetings with officials from Afghanistan's defence ministry and key Taliban leaders in Kandahar and Kabul, according to a report by The News International on Sunday. The administration added that the Pakistan-Afghanistan border security forces’ flag meeting has been postponed upon the departure of the Ulema delegation. However, routine operations in civilian areas were restored on both sides of the border, the report added. ALSO READ | Pakistan summons senior Afghan diplomat over repeated cross-border clashes The news of the upcoming dialogue this week comes two days after Pakistan summoned a senior Afghan diplomat over the repeated cross-border clashes. "Afghan Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad was called into the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Pakistan’s strong condemnation over recent incidents of unprovoked cross-border shelling by Afghan Border Security Forces in the Chaman-Spin Boldak area, resulting in loss of life, injuries and damage to property, was conveyed," Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement on Friday. ''It was reiterated that protection of civilians remained the responsibility of both sides and that recurrence of these incidents must be prevented,'' the ministry said. ALSO READ | Pakistan: Four cops killed after attack on police station in Lakki Marwat district The ministry added that Pakistan remains committed to maintaining fraternal relations with Afghanistan. Pakistan and Afghanistan have had territorial disputes for decades and the recent cross-border clashes and other attacks have strained the relations between the two countries. Eight Pakistani civilians and one Afghan soldier were killed in cross-border shelling and gunfire near the Chaman border crossing on December 11. And on Thursday (December 15), clashes erupted again near the same crossing killing one person and injuring more than a dozen people. 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.

Pak clerics' delegation to visit Afghanistan to talk on border clashes: Report

In Afghanistan's high-altitude Salang pass, an oil tanker overturned and caught fire, killing 19 people and wounding dozens, according to authorities on Sunday. The accident&nbsp; occurred late on Saturday in the Parwan province, which is north of Kabul, and trapped travellers on both sides of the mountain pass. According to Hamidullah Misbah, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, at least 19 individuals were killed and 37 others were injured in the accident. He also noted that the number of casualties was likely to climb.

"An oil tanker overturned and caught fire in the Salang tunnel, which then set several other vehicles on fire," Misbah told AFP.

Abdullah Afghan Mal, a senior health official in Parwan, said many casualties comprised of women and children who suffered major&nbsp;burns.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-4-cops-killed-after-attack-on-police-station-in-lakki-marwat-district-544193">Pakistan: 4 cops killed after attack on police station in Lakki Marwat district</a>

"Among the dead it was very hard to identify who was a male and who was a female," he said.

According to authorities, the pass has been closed down for traffic while rescue teams in helicopters arrive at the scene.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Pak-Afghan border tensions escalate with heavy exchange of fire at Chaman border

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Around 3,650 metres (12,000 feet) high, the Salang pass is one of the world's highest mountain passes. It was constructed in the 1950s by Soviet engineers and features a 2.6-kilometre tunnel.

The pass connects the northern part of Afghanistan's capital Kabul to the Hindu Kush mountain range.

The Salang pass, hailed as an engineering marvel upon completion, is frequently closed for days at a stretch&nbsp;due to mishaps, significant snowfalls, and avalanches in the winter.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Afghanistan's high-altitude Salang pass, an oil tanker overturned and caught fire, killing 19 people and wounding dozens, according to authorities on Sunday. The accident occurred late on Saturday in the Parwan province, which is north of Kabul, and trapped travellers on both sides of the mountain pass.

In Afghanistan's high-altitude Salang pass, an oil tanker overturned and caught fire, killing 19 people and wounding dozens, according to authorities on Sunday. The accident occurred late on Saturday in the Parwan province, which is north of Kabul, and trapped travellers on both sides of the mountain pass. According to Hamidullah Misbah, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, at least 19 individuals were killed and 37 others were injured in the accident. He also noted that the number of casualties was likely to climb. "An oil tanker overturned and caught fire in the Salang tunnel, which then set several other vehicles on fire," Misbah told AFP. Abdullah Afghan Mal, a senior health official in Parwan, said many casualties comprised of women and children who suffered major burns. Also read | Pakistan: 4 cops killed after attack on police station in Lakki Marwat district "Among the dead it was very hard to identify who was a male and who was a female," he said. According to authorities, the pass has been closed down for traffic while rescue teams in helicopters arrive at the scene. Also watch | WION Dispatch: Pak-Afghan border tensions escalate with heavy exchange of fire at Chaman border Around 3,650 metres (12,000 feet) high, the Salang pass is one of the world's highest mountain passes. It was constructed in the 1950s by Soviet engineers and features a 2.6-kilometre tunnel. The pass connects the northern part of Afghanistan's capital Kabul to the Hindu Kush mountain range. The Salang pass, hailed as an engineering marvel upon completion, is frequently closed for days at a stretch due to mishaps, significant snowfalls, and avalanches in the winter. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Afghanistan: At least 19 killed as oil tanker overturns in Salang tunnel, catches fire, traps travellers

Fresh clashes erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan after Afghan troops opened "indiscriminate firing" that resulted in the death of one and injured nearly 12, a defence source said on Thursday (Dec 15), Reuters reported.&nbsp;The latest firing shows mistrust between the two neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-sharif-warns-taliban-ensure-such-incidents-arent-repeated-after-firing-along-afghan-border-kills-6-542206">Also read |&nbsp;Pak PM warns Taliban 'ensure such incidents aren’t repeated', after firing along Afghan border kills six</a>

According to the source, the firing took place in Balochistan's Chaman area, where children and women were also among the injured.&nbsp;

This is the second such incident reported of firing by the Afghan troops. A similar instance occurred on December 10, which claimed the lives of eight Pakistanis and one Afghan soldier along with 16 injured. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;6 Pak civilians, 1 Taliban soldier killed at Spin Boldak in fresh series of mortar attack

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Both governments blamed each other for the attack. Taliban-led Afghanistan government took to Twitter and claimed that Pakistani forces had opened fire first.&nbsp;

Also known as Friendship Gate, Balochistan's border was closed after an armed Afghan crossed the border and opened fire which killed one soldier and injured two individuals, PTI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-sharif-says-willing-to-set-aside-all-differences-with-imran-khan-542631">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan PM Sharif says willing to set aside all differences with Imran Khan</a>

Similarly, last month eight people, including two kids and three paramilitary soldiers, were injured in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province when some Afghans opened fire over a dispute.&nbsp;

Pakistan and Afghanistan share a 2,600 km border. Despite being neighbours, both countries have been in a territorial dispute.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Fresh clashes erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan after Afghan troops opened "indiscriminate firing" that resulted in the death of one and injured nearly 12, a defence source said on Thursday (Dec 15), Reuters reported.

Fresh clashes erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan after Afghan troops opened "indiscriminate firing" that resulted in the death of one and injured nearly 12, a defence source said on Thursday (Dec 15), Reuters reported. The latest firing shows mistrust between the two neighbouring countries. Also read | Pak PM warns Taliban 'ensure such incidents aren’t repeated', after firing along Afghan border kills six According to the source, the firing took place in Balochistan's Chaman area, where children and women were also among the injured. This is the second such incident reported of firing by the Afghan troops. A similar instance occurred on December 10, which claimed the lives of eight Pakistanis and one Afghan soldier along with 16 injured. Watch | 6 Pak civilians, 1 Taliban soldier killed at Spin Boldak in fresh series of mortar attack Both governments blamed each other for the attack. Taliban-led Afghanistan government took to Twitter and claimed that Pakistani forces had opened fire first. Also known as Friendship Gate, Balochistan's border was closed after an armed Afghan crossed the border and opened fire which killed one soldier and injured two individuals, PTI reported. Also read | Pakistan PM Sharif says willing to set aside all differences with Imran Khan Similarly, last month eight people, including two kids and three paramilitary soldiers, were injured in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province when some Afghans opened fire over a dispute. Pakistan and Afghanistan share a 2,600 km border. Despite being neighbours, both countries have been in a territorial dispute. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

One dead, 12 injured in fresh clash between Afghanistan and Pakistan on Balochistan border

Pakistan on Friday summoned a senior Afghanistan diplomat over repeated cross-border clashes. According to an official statement, the Afghan Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad was called to the foreign ministry and Pakistan's ''strong condemnation'' was conveyed over the recent incidents of unprovoked cross-border shelling that resulted in the loss of lives, injuries and damage to property.&nbsp;

"It was reiterated that protection of civilians remained the responsibility of both sides and that recurrence of these incidents must be prevented," Pakistan's foreign ministry added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/one-dead-12-injured-as-fresh-clash-erupt-between-afghanistan-and-pakistan-at-balochistan-border-543437">One dead, 12 injured in fresh clash between Afghanistan and Pakistan on Balochistan border</a>

Pakistan and Afghanistan have had territorial disputes for decades and border tensions between the two countries have been on the rise after the Taliban took over Afghanistan last year.&nbsp;

Last Sunday, eight Pakistani civilians and one Afghan soldier were killed in cross-border shelling and gunfire near the Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing, which is a key trade route and the second busiest crossing between the two countries, a report by news agency Reuters said.&nbsp;

And on Thursday, clashes erupted again near the same crossing resulting in one death and over a dozen injuries. The fighting started when Pakistani forces repairing a portion of the border fence damaged on Sunday came under attack from the Afghan side, according to a provincial official.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan on Friday summoned a senior Afghanistan diplomat over repeated cross-border clashes. According to an official statement, the Afghan Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad was called to the foreign ministry and Pakistan's ''strong condemnation'' was conveyed over the recent incidents of unprovoked cross-border shelling that resulted in the loss of lives, injuries and damage to property.

Pakistan on Friday summoned a senior Afghanistan diplomat over repeated cross-border clashes. According to an official statement, the Afghan Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad was called to the foreign ministry and Pakistan's ''strong condemnation'' was conveyed over the recent incidents of unprovoked cross-border shelling that resulted in the loss of lives, injuries and damage to property. "It was reiterated that protection of civilians remained the responsibility of both sides and that recurrence of these incidents must be prevented," Pakistan's foreign ministry added. ALSO READ | One dead, 12 injured in fresh clash between Afghanistan and Pakistan on Balochistan border Pakistan and Afghanistan have had territorial disputes for decades and border tensions between the two countries have been on the rise after the Taliban took over Afghanistan last year. Last Sunday, eight Pakistani civilians and one Afghan soldier were killed in cross-border shelling and gunfire near the Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing, which is a key trade route and the second busiest crossing between the two countries, a report by news agency Reuters said. And on Thursday, clashes erupted again near the same crossing resulting in one death and over a dozen injuries. The fighting started when Pakistani forces repairing a portion of the border fence damaged on Sunday came under attack from the Afghan side, according to a provincial official. (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.

Pakistan summons senior Afghan diplomat over repeated cross-border clashes

At least one person has been killed in 15 others were injured including two children in Pakistan after firing by Afghan forces at the Chaman border. Watch this report.

WION Dispatch: Pak-Afghan border tensions escalate with heavy exchange of fire at Chaman border

Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the deadly attack on an Afghanistan hotel frequented by Chinese businessmen.

The group in a statement posted on its Telegram channel said two of its personnel "attacked a big hotel frequented by Chinese diplomats and businessmen in Kabul, where they detonated two explosive devices hidden inside two bags."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;South Asia Diary | A throwback to the Taliban's dark past

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As per the group, the two explosives targeted two separate locations, one of them targeted a party for Chinese guests and the other targeted the reception hall.&nbsp;

IS has identified the two fighters as Abu Umar and Abdul Jabbar, reported AFP.

The statement further disclosed that while one of the two fighters started detonating explosive devices he had taped on hotel room doors and shot at guests the other fighter tossed hand grenades at Taliban officers who were attempting to stop them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-loud-blast-gunfire-heard-near-building-housing-chinese-nationals-542327">Kabul: Attackers killed after blast and gunfire near building housing Chinese nationals</a>

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Tuesday disclosed that five Chinese nationals were wounded in the attack. The nation demanded that the Taliban take strict action.

"This terror attack is abominable and China is deeply shocked. We firmly oppose all forms of terrorism... We express our grief for the Afghan military police who died, and express sympathies for the injured," said the foreign ministry spokesman.

"China demands the Afghan side spare no efforts in searching for and rescuing Chinese individuals, and at the same time open a comprehensive investigation, severely punish the attackers, and earnestly strengthen the protection of Chinese citizens and organisations in Afghanistan," Wang said.

The nation has also advised its citizens, and organisations to leave Afghanistan as soon as possible.

Witnesses as per AFP reported multiple blasts and several bursts of blasts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-sharif-warns-taliban-ensure-such-incidents-arent-repeated-after-firing-along-afghan-border-kills-6-542206">Pak PM warns Taliban 'ensure such incidents aren’t repeated', after firing along Afghan border kills six</a>

The group claims that 30 people were killed or wounded at Kabul's Longan Hotel.&nbsp;

However, Italian non-governmental organisation Emergency NGO, which operates a hospital just one kilometre from the blast site said that the Monday attack resulted in 21 casualties. Three of the people were dead on arrival, it is still not known whether the dead were civilians or attackers.

As per a Twitter statement by Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid, no foreigners were killed in the attack.

"All the guests of the hotel have been rescued and no foreigner was killed. Only two foreign guests were injured when they threw themselves from an upper storey."

The hotel is popular among Chinese businessmen who flocked to Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the deadly attack on an Afghanistan hotel frequented by Chinese businessmen. The group in a statement posted on its Telegram channel said two of its personnel "attacked a big hotel frequented by Chinese diplomats and businessmen in Kabul, where they detonated two explosive devices hidden inside two bags.

Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the deadly attack on an Afghanistan hotel frequented by Chinese businessmen. The group in a statement posted on its Telegram channel said two of its personnel "attacked a big hotel frequented by Chinese diplomats and businessmen in Kabul, where they detonated two explosive devices hidden inside two bags." Watch | South Asia Diary | A throwback to the Taliban's dark past As per the group, the two explosives targeted two separate locations, one of them targeted a party for Chinese guests and the other targeted the reception hall. IS has identified the two fighters as Abu Umar and Abdul Jabbar, reported AFP. The statement further disclosed that while one of the two fighters started detonating explosive devices he had taped on hotel room doors and shot at guests the other fighter tossed hand grenades at Taliban officers who were attempting to stop them. Also read | Kabul: Attackers killed after blast and gunfire near building housing Chinese nationals Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Tuesday disclosed that five Chinese nationals were wounded in the attack. The nation demanded that the Taliban take strict action. "This terror attack is abominable and China is deeply shocked. We firmly oppose all forms of terrorism... We express our grief for the Afghan military police who died, and express sympathies for the injured," said the foreign ministry spokesman. "China demands the Afghan side spare no efforts in searching for and rescuing Chinese individuals, and at the same time open a comprehensive investigation, severely punish the attackers, and earnestly strengthen the protection of Chinese citizens and organisations in Afghanistan," Wang said. The nation has also advised its citizens, and organisations to leave Afghanistan as soon as possible. Witnesses as per AFP reported multiple blasts and several bursts of blasts. Also read | Pak PM warns Taliban 'ensure such incidents aren’t repeated', after firing along Afghan border kills six The group claims that 30 people were killed or wounded at Kabul's Longan Hotel. However, Italian non-governmental organisation Emergency NGO, which operates a hospital just one kilometre from the blast site said that the Monday attack resulted in 21 casualties. Three of the people were dead on arrival, it is still not known whether the dead were civilians or attackers. As per a Twitter statement by Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid, no foreigners were killed in the attack. "All the guests of the hotel have been rescued and no foreigner was killed. Only two foreign guests were injured when they threw themselves from an upper storey." The hotel is popular among Chinese businessmen who flocked to Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover. (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.

Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul hotel attack, China says condems 'all forms of terrorism'

At least six Pakistani civilians and one Talibani soldier were killed in fresh clashes between the Taliban and the Pakistan Army in the town of Spin Boldak, located on the common border.

Hamid Almashriqi, Strategic and International Affairs Expert reacts on Pakistan-Taliban border clash

6 Pak civilians, 1 Taliban soldier killed at Spin Boldak in fresh series of mortar attack

Gunmen opened fire on Monday (December 12) near a guest house popular with Chinese business visitors in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul, an eye witness told the news agency AFP and also stated that a loud explosion was heard.&nbsp;

The media reports mentioned that the guest house is situated in the Shahr-e-Naw area, which is in the centre of Kabul.&nbsp;

The Taliban have confirmed that the attack has ended and that all three&nbsp;attackers were killed. The authorities also said that at least&nbsp;two people were injured as a result of jumping out of the window.&nbsp;

The witness told AFP: "It was a very loud explosion and then there was a lot of gunfire."&nbsp;

As per the reports, residents of the area said the attack was carried out at the building where Chinese and other foreigners usually stay.&nbsp;

A Taliban source based in Pakistan told AFP that an unknown number of attackers had entered the hotel. he said, "An operation has been launched against the attackers. Firing continues."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Iran carries out second execution for attacking on security forces: Report&nbsp;

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The reported attack comes as the latest violence to hit the nation that is trying to rebrand itself after the Taliban regained control of Kabul from the Western-backed government last year on August 15.&nbsp;

The Taliban had promised to work on stabilising the economic and political situation of the nation and have better foreign ties, but so far their attempts have appeared to fail.&nbsp;

Although, the Taliban have claimed that they have improved national security. But several parts of the country have been marred by attacks, bomb blasts, etc.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Gunmen opened fire on Monday (December 12) near a guest house popular with Chinese business visitors in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul, an eye witness told the news agency AFP and also stated that a loud explosion was heard.

Gunmen opened fire on Monday (December 12) near a guest house popular with Chinese business visitors in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul, an eye witness told the news agency AFP and also stated that a loud explosion was heard. The media reports mentioned that the guest house is situated in the Shahr-e-Naw area, which is in the centre of Kabul. The Taliban have confirmed that the attack has ended and that all three attackers were killed. The authorities also said that at least two people were injured as a result of jumping out of the window. The witness told AFP: "It was a very loud explosion and then there was a lot of gunfire." As per the reports, residents of the area said the attack was carried out at the building where Chinese and other foreigners usually stay. A Taliban source based in Pakistan told AFP that an unknown number of attackers had entered the hotel. he said, "An operation has been launched against the attackers. Firing continues." WATCH | Iran carries out second execution for attacking on security forces: Report × The reported attack comes as the latest violence to hit the nation that is trying to rebrand itself after the Taliban regained control of Kabul from the Western-backed government last year on August 15. The Taliban had promised to work on stabilising the economic and political situation of the nation and have better foreign ties, but so far their attempts have appeared to fail. Although, the Taliban have claimed that they have improved national security. But several parts of the country have been marred by attacks, bomb blasts, etc. (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.

Kabul: Attackers killed after blast and gunfire near building housing Chinese nationals

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