US Special representative for Afghanistan Thomas West met with Foreign Minister of the Afghan Government Amir Khan Muttaqi and highlighted the international community's unified opposition to the Taliban which is growing as a result of recent restrictions on Afghan women and girls.

US envoy Thomas West meets Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi

As Afghanistan looks forward to resuming international transit, a contract has been signed between the Taliban authorities and a United Arab Emirates (UAE) company, to provide ground handling services at three airports in the country, officials said.&nbsp;

As reported by TOLO News, the country's first deputy PM Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said in an address that security is good in the country. He added that the Islamic Emirate is ready to cooperate with investing countries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/freeherface-afghan-male-journalists-stand-in-solidarity-with-their-female-colleagues-481708">#FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists stand in solidarity with their female colleagues</a>

Baradar spoke at the signing of a contract with UAE company GAAC to run ground operations at three Afghan airports. He also told reporters in Kabul that his administration was renewing an airport ground handling agreement with the UAE.&nbsp;

"Afghanistan has been affected by wars and extreme poverty, and now we are rebuilding it. We seek good relations with all countries and urge them to invest in Afghanistan to help its strife-torn people," Baradar said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1/3: In the presence of Mullah Abdul Ghani Beradar Akhund, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation and a UAE-based company (GAAC/G42), signed a contract to provide ground handling services for <a href="https://t.co/kYhoAVdhZ1">pic.twitter.com/kYhoAVdhZ1</a>
— د ریاست الوزراء لومړی معاونیت (@FDPM_AFG) <a href="https://twitter.com/FDPM_AFG/status/1529091206541713408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

During the troops' withdrawal by the US from Afghanistan last year in August, the airport in the capital Kabul was trashed. At that time, tens of thousands of people also evacuated. Some domestic and international flights are still operating out of the facility.&nbsp;

UAE firm GAAC signed a new 18-month contract covering three airports: Kabul, Kandahar and Herat. GAAC has provided these services at Kabul airport since November 2020.&nbsp;

Ibrahim Morafi, regional director of GAAC, told AFP that we "are not a new face here". He added, "But GAAC signing the new contract will give confidence to international airlines to resume flights to Afghanistan."&nbsp;

Although, he didn't reveal when such flights were expected to resume.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

As Afghanistan looks forward to resuming international transit, a contract has been signed between the Taliban authorities and a United Arab Emirates (UAE) company, to provide ground handling services at three airports in the country, officials said.

As Afghanistan looks forward to resuming international transit, a contract has been signed between the Taliban authorities and a United Arab Emirates (UAE) company, to provide ground handling services at three airports in the country, officials said. As reported by TOLO News, the country's first deputy PM Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said in an address that security is good in the country. He added that the Islamic Emirate is ready to cooperate with investing countries. ALSO READ | #FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists stand in solidarity with their female colleagues Baradar spoke at the signing of a contract with UAE company GAAC to run ground operations at three Afghan airports. He also told reporters in Kabul that his administration was renewing an airport ground handling agreement with the UAE. "Afghanistan has been affected by wars and extreme poverty, and now we are rebuilding it. We seek good relations with all countries and urge them to invest in Afghanistan to help its strife-torn people," Baradar said. 1/3: In the presence of Mullah Abdul Ghani Beradar Akhund, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation and a UAE-based company (GAAC/G42), signed a contract to provide ground handling services for pic.twitter.com/kYhoAVdhZ1 — د ریاست الوزراء لومړی معاونیت (@FDPM_AFG) May 24, 2022 × During the troops' withdrawal by the US from Afghanistan last year in August, the airport in the capital Kabul was trashed. At that time, tens of thousands of people also evacuated. Some domestic and international flights are still operating out of the facility. UAE firm GAAC signed a new 18-month contract covering three airports: Kabul, Kandahar and Herat. GAAC has provided these services at Kabul airport since November 2020. Ibrahim Morafi, regional director of GAAC, told AFP that we "are not a new face here". He added, "But GAAC signing the new contract will give confidence to international airlines to resume flights to Afghanistan." Although, he didn't reveal when such flights were expected to resume. 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.

As Afghanistan eyes international flights, Taliban and UAE firm inks airport deal

Just a few days after Afghanistan's Taliban leaders issued a decree ordering women journalists to cover their faces on-air, their male colleagues have donned masks in solidarity.

On May 21, the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue ordered female presenters on all TV channels to cover their faces while presenting on-screen. The ministry called this a "final and non-negotiable verdict".

This follows a similar diktat that was issued on May 9, ordering women and older girls to cover themselves from head to toe, including their faces while in public. As per the decree, punishment for violation of this order will be inflicted on male family members.

Watch |&nbsp;Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-brings-back-blue-burkha-in-afghanistan-new-decree-sparks-concerns-477244/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per Human Rights Watch, the rule blatantly ignores women's right to freedom of expression, personal autonomy and religious beliefs.

Not only that, but this step also poses a problem for the audience. For those who are hard of hearing or suffer from other hearing impediments, visual cues and lip-reading were one way of gaining information which will now be curtailed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-female-tv-presenters-cover-faces-after-new-taliban-rule-481456">Afghan female TV presenters cover faces after new Taliban rule</a>

In response to this order, a social media campaign #FreeHerFace has also gained traction. It features not only male presenters, but also people from all walks of life submitting selfies/photos with the hashtag to show solidarity.

As one Twitter user wrote "Afghan men showing up for Afghan women is not just a gesture. It’s a turn in the story that will change everything. Brave brothers."

<img alt="As per Human Rights Watch, the rule blatantly ignores women's right to freedom of expression, personal autonomy and religious beliefs." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c686a5-503c-433e-9f0c-d962f7a3d6be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_130.jpg" />

When it took over the country in August of last year, the Taliban appeared to have softened its restrictions, establishing no clothing code for women.

However, in recent weeks, they have made a sudden, hard-line pivot, confirming rights groups' worst worries.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-want-to-erase-women-from-public-life-in-afghanistan-malala-yousafzai-477746">Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai</a>

During the Taliban's first term in office, from 1996 to 2001, they imposed severe restrictions on women, including making them wear the burqa, which even covered their eyes with a mesh. They also prohibited them from participating in public life and receiving an education.

Take a look at some tweets from #FreeHerFace campaign:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In solidarity with Afghan women journalists, our male colleagues wore masks <a href="https://twitter.com/dwnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dwnews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Freeherface?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Freeherface</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UN_Women?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN_Women</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hrw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hrw</a> <a href="https://t.co/51FZvypOBf">pic.twitter.com/51FZvypOBf</a>
— Shabnam Alokozay (@dwalokozai) <a href="https://twitter.com/dwalokozai/status/1528727475815079937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A solidarity with Afghan journalist <a href="https://t.co/kYtL32Qu53">pic.twitter.com/kYtL32Qu53</a>
— Shahid Jan (@shahidjan612) <a href="https://twitter.com/shahidjan612/status/1528833156492967936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> is at war and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghan</a> women are on the frontline. Ordering <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghan</a> female journalists to cover their faces on-air is yet another step towards making women invisible and unheard. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/freeherface?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#freeherface</a> <a href="https://t.co/CIFuoH7eeN">pic.twitter.com/CIFuoH7eeN</a>
— Nazifa Alizada (@AlizadaNazifa) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlizadaNazifa/status/1528825478508838912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Since the Taliban have ordered female Afghan TV presenters to cover their faces while on air, members of DW Dari/Pashto service gathered today for a group photo in a show of solidarity, with male colleagues wearing masks as a statement. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeHerFace?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeHerFace</a> <a href="https://t.co/B0lneRpnyZ">pic.twitter.com/B0lneRpnyZ</a>
— DW Deutsche Welle (@DeutscheWelle) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeutscheWelle/status/1528748837728309252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A small gesture of solidarity with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/afghanwomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#afghanwomen</a> and the brave Afghan journalists standing up for their rights <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/freeherface?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#freeherface</a> <a href="https://t.co/nOJer7x3Ms">https://t.co/nOJer7x3Ms</a> <a href="https://t.co/pEJHAv6TfF">pic.twitter.com/pEJHAv6TfF</a>
— Andrew North (@NorthAndrew) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthAndrew/status/1528681790650601475?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

Just a few days after Afghanistan's Taliban leaders issued a decree ordering women journalists to cover their faces on-air, their male colleagues have donned masks in solidarity.

Just a few days after Afghanistan's Taliban leaders issued a decree ordering women journalists to cover their faces on-air, their male colleagues have donned masks in solidarity. On May 21, the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue ordered female presenters on all TV channels to cover their faces while presenting on-screen. The ministry called this a "final and non-negotiable verdict". This follows a similar diktat that was issued on May 9, ordering women and older girls to cover themselves from head to toe, including their faces while in public. As per the decree, punishment for violation of this order will be inflicted on male family members. Watch | Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns As per Human Rights Watch, the rule blatantly ignores women's right to freedom of expression, personal autonomy and religious beliefs. Not only that, but this step also poses a problem for the audience. For those who are hard of hearing or suffer from other hearing impediments, visual cues and lip-reading were one way of gaining information which will now be curtailed. Also read | Afghan female TV presenters cover faces after new Taliban rule In response to this order, a social media campaign #FreeHerFace has also gained traction. It features not only male presenters, but also people from all walks of life submitting selfies/photos with the hashtag to show solidarity. As one Twitter user wrote "Afghan men showing up for Afghan women is not just a gesture. It’s a turn in the story that will change everything. Brave brothers." When it took over the country in August of last year, the Taliban appeared to have softened its restrictions, establishing no clothing code for women. However, in recent weeks, they have made a sudden, hard-line pivot, confirming rights groups' worst worries. Also read | Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai During the Taliban's first term in office, from 1996 to 2001, they imposed severe restrictions on women, including making them wear the burqa, which even covered their eyes with a mesh. They also prohibited them from participating in public life and receiving an education. Take a look at some tweets from #FreeHerFace campaign: In solidarity with Afghan women journalists, our male colleagues wore masks @dwnews #Afghanistan #Freeherface @UN_Women @hrw pic.twitter.com/51FZvypOBf — Shabnam Alokozay (@dwalokozai) May 23, 2022 × A solidarity with Afghan journalist pic.twitter.com/kYtL32Qu53 — Shahid Jan (@shahidjan612) May 23, 2022 × #Afghanistan is at war and #Afghan women are on the frontline. Ordering #Afghan female journalists to cover their faces on-air is yet another step towards making women invisible and unheard. #freeherface pic.twitter.com/CIFuoH7eeN — Nazifa Alizada (@AlizadaNazifa) May 23, 2022 × Since the Taliban have ordered female Afghan TV presenters to cover their faces while on air, members of DW Dari/Pashto service gathered today for a group photo in a show of solidarity, with male colleagues wearing masks as a statement. #FreeHerFace pic.twitter.com/B0lneRpnyZ — DW Deutsche Welle (@DeutscheWelle) May 23, 2022 × A small gesture of solidarity with #afghanwomen and the brave Afghan journalists standing up for their rights #freeherface https://t.co/nOJer7x3Ms pic.twitter.com/pEJHAv6TfF — Andrew North (@NorthAndrew) May 23, 2022 × (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.

#FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists stand in solidarity with their female colleagues

Female TV presenters in Afghanistan appeared with a cover on their faces on-air while reading news on Sunday (May 22) after a recent Taliban ruling ordered them to do so.&nbsp;

As per a report by Reuters, the Taliban authorities on Thursday ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air.

Akif Muajer, the spokesman for the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue, said: "Yesterday we met with media officials... they accepted our advice very happily."&nbsp;

However, the female TV presenters were apparently frustrated as one of them said that she "wasn't feeling good at all." As quoted by Reuters, TOLO TV presenter Sonia Niazi said, "A presenter must feel totally calm and relaxed during the (news) presentation to convey the truth to the people."

"...(but) today for the first time I experienced a moment where I had to present my program wearing a mask and I wasn’t feeling good at all," Niazi added.&nbsp;

Muajer had also said that the move would be received well by Afghans. He added: "The last date for face covering for TV presenters is May 21," referring to when compliance with the new requirement should begin.&nbsp;

He apparently said that the female presenters could wear a medical face mask, which was been widely used during the coronavirus pandemic. &nbsp;

Several times, the Taliban claimed that it has changed since its last rule, especially regarding women's rights.

However, the recent policy changes show otherwise. Taliban have limited women's movement without a male chaperone and also older girls are also yet to be allowed back to schools and colleges.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

Female TV presenters in Afghanistan appeared with a cover on their faces on-air while reading news on Sunday (May 22) after a recent Taliban ruling ordered them to do so.

Female TV presenters in Afghanistan appeared with a cover on their faces on-air while reading news on Sunday (May 22) after a recent Taliban ruling ordered them to do so. As per a report by Reuters, the Taliban authorities on Thursday ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air. Akif Muajer, the spokesman for the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue, said: "Yesterday we met with media officials... they accepted our advice very happily." However, the female TV presenters were apparently frustrated as one of them said that she "wasn't feeling good at all." As quoted by Reuters, TOLO TV presenter Sonia Niazi said, "A presenter must feel totally calm and relaxed during the (news) presentation to convey the truth to the people." "...(but) today for the first time I experienced a moment where I had to present my program wearing a mask and I wasn’t feeling good at all," Niazi added. Muajer had also said that the move would be received well by Afghans. He added: "The last date for face covering for TV presenters is May 21," referring to when compliance with the new requirement should begin. He apparently said that the female presenters could wear a medical face mask, which was been widely used during the coronavirus pandemic. Several times, the Taliban claimed that it has changed since its last rule, especially regarding women's rights. However, the recent policy changes show otherwise. Taliban have limited women's movement without a male chaperone and also older girls are also yet to be allowed back to schools and colleges. 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 female TV presenters cover faces after new Taliban rule

In Afghanistan, the Taliban authorities have ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (May 19) quoting an official.&nbsp;

Akif Mahajar, who is the spokesman for the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue, told Reuters: "Yesterday we met with media officials... they accepted our advice very happily."&nbsp;

As per the report, Mahajar also said that the move would be received well by Afghans which appeared to be conflicting as the Taliban's apparent return to past hardline rule has caused anger at home and abroad.&nbsp;

Mahajar added: "The last date for face covering for TV presenters is May 21," referring to when compliance with the new requirement should begin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-girls-school-education-linked-to-hijab-taliban-promises-good-news-soon-480424">Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon</a>

To comply with the Taliban's "advice", Mahajar said that the female presenters could wear a medical face mask, which was been widely used during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

"Today (Thursday) the production department wore masks but the news office continued as usual," a local television channel's female employee told Reuters. The employee, who wished to remain anonymous also said that the Taliban official had visited the office a day before.&nbsp;

As reported by the Guardian, a local media official said that his station had received the order and was told it was "not up for discussion".&nbsp;

It has been understood that some channels have already begun implementing the new rule.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

In Afghanistan, the Taliban authorities have ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (May 19) quoting an official.

In Afghanistan, the Taliban authorities have ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (May 19) quoting an official. Akif Mahajar, who is the spokesman for the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue, told Reuters: "Yesterday we met with media officials... they accepted our advice very happily." As per the report, Mahajar also said that the move would be received well by Afghans which appeared to be conflicting as the Taliban's apparent return to past hardline rule has caused anger at home and abroad. Mahajar added: "The last date for face covering for TV presenters is May 21," referring to when compliance with the new requirement should begin. ALSO READ | Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon To comply with the Taliban's "advice", Mahajar said that the female presenters could wear a medical face mask, which was been widely used during the coronavirus pandemic. "Today (Thursday) the production department wore masks but the news office continued as usual," a local television channel's female employee told Reuters. The employee, who wished to remain anonymous also said that the Taliban official had visited the office a day before. As reported by the Guardian, a local media official said that his station had received the order and was told it was "not up for discussion". It has been understood that some channels have already begun implementing the new rule. (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.

Afghanistan: Taliban order female TV presenters to cover their faces when on air

Taliban in Afghanistan has come up with a new draconian decree for women. It has made it mandatory for female news anchors to cover their faces.

Taliban's new draconian decree for women: Face cover must for female news anchors

In 2021, about 60 million people were internally displaced around the world

Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country.

However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls.

Now, in an interview with CNN, senior Taliban official, Sirajuddin Haqqani who is also Afghanistan's acting interior minister and Taliban co-deputy leader has reiterated the group's unfulfilled promise to allow girls back into high schools.

Watch |&nbsp;Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-brings-back-blue-burkha-in-afghanistan-new-decree-sparks-concerns-477244/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Afghan rulers postponed girls' return to high school indefinitely in March in spite of their many promises.&nbsp;

Without specifying a timeframe the Taliban leader said that work is ongoing to set a mechanism for allowing girls an education above 6th grade.&nbsp;

In his words, "very soon, you will hear good news about this issue, God willing".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-dissolves-five-major-departments-including-afghanistans-human-rights-commission-479696">Taliban dissolve five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission</a>

According to an AFP report, Haqqani implied that the "mechanism" was tied to school dress standards, adding that education should be based on Afghan "culture" and "Islamic rules and principles," and referred "more broadly" to the issue of women wearing the hijab.

During the interview, CNN anchor Christiane Amanpour questioned Haqqani about the reports of women being afraid to leave their homes, to which the Taliban leader said laughing, "we keep naughty women at home."

Upon further questioning, he clarified that the comment was a joke and he was referring to women controlled by "other sides to bring the current government into question".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-want-to-erase-women-from-public-life-in-afghanistan-malala-yousafzai-477746">Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai</a>

As is the norm with the group, Haqqani said that parameters will be set for women as per the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic law and national, cultural, and traditional principles.

Since August, a number of Diktats have been issued against women. Among these are banning them from travelling alone, preventing them from appearing on television, and forcing them to cover their faces when they are in public.

Going back on its word, the Taliban had in March of this year, shut down secondary schools for females the very day they were opened, a move that had invoked criticism from the world over.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country. However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls.

Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country. However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls. Now, in an interview with CNN, senior Taliban official, Sirajuddin Haqqani who is also Afghanistan's acting interior minister and Taliban co-deputy leader has reiterated the group's unfulfilled promise to allow girls back into high schools. Watch | Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns The Afghan rulers postponed girls' return to high school indefinitely in March in spite of their many promises. Without specifying a timeframe the Taliban leader said that work is ongoing to set a mechanism for allowing girls an education above 6th grade. In his words, "very soon, you will hear good news about this issue, God willing". Also read | Taliban dissolve five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission According to an AFP report, Haqqani implied that the "mechanism" was tied to school dress standards, adding that education should be based on Afghan "culture" and "Islamic rules and principles," and referred "more broadly" to the issue of women wearing the hijab. During the interview, CNN anchor Christiane Amanpour questioned Haqqani about the reports of women being afraid to leave their homes, to which the Taliban leader said laughing, "we keep naughty women at home." Upon further questioning, he clarified that the comment was a joke and he was referring to women controlled by "other sides to bring the current government into question". Also read | Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai As is the norm with the group, Haqqani said that parameters will be set for women as per the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic law and national, cultural, and traditional principles. Since August, a number of Diktats have been issued against women. Among these are banning them from travelling alone, preventing them from appearing on television, and forcing them to cover their faces when they are in public. Going back on its word, the Taliban had in March of this year, shut down secondary schools for females the very day they were opened, a move that had invoked criticism from the world over. (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.

Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon

In his first-ever interview with an Indian media organisation, Taliban foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi has said that the Taliban have "open communication channels with India'.

Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Balkhi said India can "at least open consular section of the embassy in line with the international practices" in Kabul because "we live in an inter-connected world where world citizens, especially Afghans who have suffered from four-decade war need to address their education, medical, business and other needs."

Notably, India closed its embassy after the Taliban took over Afghanistan in August&nbsp;last year. But despite that, India has sent wheat&nbsp;and vaccines to Afghan people in the past few months.

New Delhi had committed to provide 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan, which was sent overland via Pakistan.

On Afghan students keen to go back to India to complete education, the Taliban foreign ministry spokesman said that they have requested “India to provide them with necessary facilities to help them return to complete their courses.”

Few excerpts

WION: How do you see the ties with India?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We seek positive relations with all countries, including India, based on mutual respect and interests.

&nbsp;

WION: Have you been in touch with the Indian side? If yes, then how many times. Both India and the Taliban have had two meetings publicly, which is known

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;We have open communication channels with India and have met with their representatives on multiple occasions.

&nbsp;

WION: India supplied wheat&nbsp;and vaccines to the Afghan people, how do you see this gesture?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;We appreciate the humanitarian assistance provided to the Afghan people by India and see it as a goodwill gesture towards Afghanistan.

&nbsp;

WION: How were the modalities of wheat discussed? Did you request India?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;India offered to provide wheat as Afghanistan faced a challenging winter due to international sanctions. We will always remember those who helped Afghanistan in times of our need.

&nbsp;

WION: What is your view on the Chabahar port, whose one of the key aims is to connect India with Afghanistan?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;We support all regional connectivity projects and believe that the potential for regional and in turn international prosperity cannot materialise unless Afghanistan serves as a hub for regional connectivity and economic activity.

&nbsp;

WION: How are the Indian projects in Afghanistan, like the India-Afghanistan friendship dam, or other community projects faring.&nbsp;

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;All projects whether by India or otherwise that serve the interests of the Afghan people are being maintained and those that are left half-done, we urge all countries, including India, to complete them to enhance friendship between our nations and prevent investments from going to waste.

&nbsp;

WION: Are you looking forward to the day India opens its mission in Kabul? Have you requested New Delhi in this regard during any of the conversations that have taken place?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;Yes, the Government of Afghanistan has urged all countries to reopen their embassies in order to address mutual interests and concerns via direct channels in a timely manner. But if they have reservations about complete re-openings, they can at least consider opening the consular section of the embassy in line with international practices, because we live in an inter-connected world where world citizens, especially Afghans who have suffered from the four-decade war need to address their education, medical, business and other needs.

&nbsp;

WION: How are the people-to-people relations? A number of Afghan students are keen to come back to India.

Abdul Qahar Balkhi: For the better part of history, both nations and peoples have had good relations, and the current Government of Afghanistan continues to believe in maintaining positive relations with India. There are thousands of Afghan students who are either at the beginning of their academic year or in the last semester who have been unable to finish their studies. We have requested India to provide them with the necessary facilities to return to complete their courses.

&nbsp;

WION: Many believe that since the Taliban enjoy close ties with Pakistan, it would be extremely difficult to have as good ties with India

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;This concept is not based on real-world practices. Having good relations with two countries that themselves have troubled relations among themselves does not mean a third country cannot maintain positive relations with both at the same time, especially in a country like Afghanistan where the foreign policy of the new government follows the principle of balance and neutrality.

 
&nbsp;

WION: The safety of Afghan Sikhs and Hindus has been a pressing issue. Many see India as their second home. Are the minorities safe in Afghanistan?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;&nbsp;The Sikh and Hindu community in Afghanistan are safer now than they have ever been during the last two decades. The new Government of Afghanistan has guaranteed and protected the rights of all minorities, and has even returned land and property to Sikh and Hindu Afghan nationals who were usurped by the warlords in the last 20-years. To that end, we call on all Afghans irrespective of beliefs and political affiliation that have left the country to return and contribute to the rebuilding of their own homeland.

&nbsp;

In his first-ever interview with an Indian media organisation, Taliban foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi has said that the Taliban have "open communication channels with India'.

In his first-ever interview with an Indian media organisation, Taliban foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi has said that the Taliban have "open communication channels with India'. Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Balkhi said India can "at least open consular section of the embassy in line with the international practices" in Kabul because "we live in an inter-connected world where world citizens, especially Afghans who have suffered from four-decade war need to address their education, medical, business and other needs." Notably, India closed its embassy after the Taliban took over Afghanistan in August last year. But despite that, India has sent wheat and vaccines to Afghan people in the past few months. New Delhi had committed to provide 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan, which was sent overland via Pakistan. On Afghan students keen to go back to India to complete education, the Taliban foreign ministry spokesman said that they have requested “India to provide them with necessary facilities to help them return to complete their courses.” Few excerpts WION: How do you see the ties with India? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We seek positive relations with all countries, including India, based on mutual respect and interests. WION: Have you been in touch with the Indian side? If yes, then how many times. Both India and the Taliban have had two meetings publicly, which is known Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We have open communication channels with India and have met with their representatives on multiple occasions. WION: India supplied wheat and vaccines to the Afghan people, how do you see this gesture? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We appreciate the humanitarian assistance provided to the Afghan people by India and see it as a goodwill gesture towards Afghanistan. WION: How were the modalities of wheat discussed? Did you request India? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: India offered to provide wheat as Afghanistan faced a challenging winter due to international sanctions. We will always remember those who helped Afghanistan in times of our need. WION: What is your view on the Chabahar port, whose one of the key aims is to connect India with Afghanistan? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We support all regional connectivity projects and believe that the potential for regional and in turn international prosperity cannot materialise unless Afghanistan serves as a hub for regional connectivity and economic activity. WION: How are the Indian projects in Afghanistan, like the India-Afghanistan friendship dam, or other community projects faring. Abdul Qahar Balkhi: All projects whether by India or otherwise that serve the interests of the Afghan people are being maintained and those that are left half-done, we urge all countries, including India, to complete them to enhance friendship between our nations and prevent investments from going to waste. WION: Are you looking forward to the day India opens its mission in Kabul? Have you requested New Delhi in this regard during any of the conversations that have taken place? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: Yes, the Government of Afghanistan has urged all countries to reopen their embassies in order to address mutual interests and concerns via direct channels in a timely manner. But if they have reservations about complete re-openings, they can at least consider opening the consular section of the embassy in line with international practices, because we live in an inter-connected world where world citizens, especially Afghans who have suffered from the four-decade war need to address their education, medical, business and other needs. WION: How are the people-to-people relations? A number of Afghan students are keen to come back to India. Abdul Qahar Balkhi: For the better part of history, both nations and peoples have had good relations, and the current Government of Afghanistan continues to believe in maintaining positive relations with India. There are thousands of Afghan students who are either at the beginning of their academic year or in the last semester who have been unable to finish their studies. We have requested India to provide them with the necessary facilities to return to complete their courses. WION: Many believe that since the Taliban enjoy close ties with Pakistan, it would be extremely difficult to have as good ties with India Abdul Qahar Balkhi: This concept is not based on real-world practices. Having good relations with two countries that themselves have troubled relations among themselves does not mean a third country cannot maintain positive relations with both at the same time, especially in a country like Afghanistan where the foreign policy of the new government follows the principle of balance and neutrality. WION: The safety of Afghan Sikhs and Hindus has been a pressing issue. Many see India as their second home. Are the minorities safe in Afghanistan? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: The Sikh and Hindu community in Afghanistan are safer now than they have ever been during the last two decades. The new Government of Afghanistan has guaranteed and protected the rights of all minorities, and has even returned land and property to Sikh and Hindu Afghan nationals who were usurped by the warlords in the last 20-years. To that end, we call on all Afghans irrespective of beliefs and political affiliation that have left the country to return and contribute to the rebuilding of their own homeland.

We have open communication channels with India, says Taliban's Abdul Qahar Balkhi

Taliban has dissolved five key departments which includes- human rights commission, election commission, ministry of women's affairs, high council for national reconciliation which was once a key security council that protected the afghan constitution and lastly ministries for peace and parliamentarian affairs.

Taliban shuts down Afghanistan's ministry of women affairs, other key departments

The Taliban have made a number of changes to the administrative system in Afghanistan since taking over the country and in a new wave of reforms, they have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government. One of the major departments which faced the axe was the human rights commission – a key feature of the US-backed government.

The main reason behind the decision was shown to the shortage of funds as the maintenance of the departments was deemed ‘unnecessary’ as the country faces a budget deficit of around $501million.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-260-ukrainian-soldiers-evacuated-from-mariupol-steel-plant-479688" hreflang="en">More than 260 Ukrainian soldiers evacuated from Mariupol steel plant</a>

“Because these departments were not deemed necessary and were not included in the budget, they have been dissolved,” said Innamullah Samangani, the Taliban government’s deputy spokesperson said according to Reuters.

The other major department to lose support was the commission for overseeing the implementation of the Afghan constitution. After taking over the country in 2021, the Taliban promised that they will be taking a moderate approach in governance. However, the dissolving of these two crucial departments have once again caused major concern regarding their governance of the nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-names-elisabeth-borne-as-frances-new-prime-minister-479690">French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new PM</a>

The high council for national reconciliation (HCNR) and the national security council was also included in the list of departments which were dissolved following the proposed budget.

This was the first national budget presented by the Taliban government since taking over the country in August 2021 and Samangani said that the decisions were made “based on objective facts”. The spokesperson also made it clear that departments can be restarted “if needed”.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban have made a number of changes to the administrative system in Afghanistan since taking over the country and in a new wave of reforms, they have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government.

The Taliban have made a number of changes to the administrative system in Afghanistan since taking over the country and in a new wave of reforms, they have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government. One of the major departments which faced the axe was the human rights commission – a key feature of the US-backed government. The main reason behind the decision was shown to the shortage of funds as the maintenance of the departments was deemed ‘unnecessary’ as the country faces a budget deficit of around $501million. Also read | More than 260 Ukrainian soldiers evacuated from Mariupol steel plant “Because these departments were not deemed necessary and were not included in the budget, they have been dissolved,” said Innamullah Samangani, the Taliban government’s deputy spokesperson said according to Reuters. The other major department to lose support was the commission for overseeing the implementation of the Afghan constitution. After taking over the country in 2021, the Taliban promised that they will be taking a moderate approach in governance. However, the dissolving of these two crucial departments have once again caused major concern regarding their governance of the nation. Also read | French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new PM The high council for national reconciliation (HCNR) and the national security council was also included in the list of departments which were dissolved following the proposed budget. This was the first national budget presented by the Taliban government since taking over the country in August 2021 and Samangani said that the decisions were made “based on objective facts”. The spokesperson also made it clear that departments can be restarted “if needed”. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban dissolve five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission

Shahmahmood Miakhel, the former deputy minister of interior of Afghanistan, said during WION Global Summit in Dubai that the money spent on war should be spent on the peace process instead.

Speaking in the first session of the summit titled 'Waving the White Flag on Armed Conflict', Miakhel said: ''We don't focus on peacebuilding, we are only limited to peacemaking.''

Highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, Miakhel said that the country has seen all types of war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/now-men-and-women-cant-dine-out-visit-park-together-in-afghanistans-herat-courtesy-taliban-478520" hreflang="en">Now, men and women can’t dine out, visit park together in Afghanistan’s Herat, courtesy Taliban</a>

"Once the war has happened, you violate all kinds of laws, human rights, and the average people, women, and children, will suffer," he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"You cannot wash blood with blood"<a href="https://twitter.com/S_MIAKHEL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@S_MIAKHEL</a>, Afghanistan's former deputy minister of interior, highlights why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars 
 
LIVE TV: <a href="https://t.co/iSR65rMKwj">https://t.co/iSR65rMKwj</a> <a href="https://t.co/TkA56PfO6u">pic.twitter.com/TkA56PfO6u</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1526099969928794112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Shedding light on why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars, he added that "You cannot wash blood with blood."

According to Miakhel, the former governor of Nangarhar in Afghanistan, ''We have seen the Soviet occupation in Afghanistan, the intervention of the US, but the actual problem was not tackled there...They cured the symptoms, but not the real problem."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONGlobalSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONGlobalSummit</a> | We don't focus on peace building, we are only limited to peace making: Shahmahmood Miakhel (<a href="https://twitter.com/S_MIAKHEL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@S_MIAKHEL</a>), Former Deputy Minister of Interior, Afghanistan<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MissionPeace?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MissionPeace</a> 
 
LIVE TV: <a href="https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN">https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN</a> <a href="https://t.co/fjdKV4gm71">pic.twitter.com/fjdKV4gm71</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1526104001770496000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Miakhel's statements come as the Taliban, who swept back to power as the Afghan government collapsed last year, on Saturday ordered women to cover their faces in public, in another step towards their past hardline rule.

The consequences of disobedience are aimed at a woman's closest male family member, ranging from a warning to imprisonment.

The UN Security Council will meet on Thursday to discuss the order and the United States said it would increase pressure on the Taliban administration.

Watch WION's live TV here:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Shahmahmood Miakhel, the former deputy minister of interior of Afghanistan, said during WION Global Summit in Dubai that the money spent on war should be spent on the peace process instead.

Shahmahmood Miakhel, the former deputy minister of interior of Afghanistan, said during WION Global Summit in Dubai that the money spent on war should be spent on the peace process instead. Speaking in the first session of the summit titled 'Waving the White Flag on Armed Conflict', Miakhel said: ''We don't focus on peacebuilding, we are only limited to peacemaking.'' Highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, Miakhel said that the country has seen all types of war. Also read | Now, men and women can’t dine out, visit park together in Afghanistan’s Herat, courtesy Taliban "Once the war has happened, you violate all kinds of laws, human rights, and the average people, women, and children, will suffer," he said. "You cannot wash blood with blood"@S_MIAKHEL, Afghanistan's former deputy minister of interior, highlights why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars LIVE TV: https://t.co/iSR65rMKwj pic.twitter.com/TkA56PfO6u — WION (@WIONews) May 16, 2022 × Shedding light on why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars, he added that "You cannot wash blood with blood." According to Miakhel, the former governor of Nangarhar in Afghanistan, ''We have seen the Soviet occupation in Afghanistan, the intervention of the US, but the actual problem was not tackled there...They cured the symptoms, but not the real problem." #WIONGlobalSummit | We don't focus on peace building, we are only limited to peace making: Shahmahmood Miakhel (@S_MIAKHEL), Former Deputy Minister of Interior, Afghanistan#MissionPeace LIVE TV: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN pic.twitter.com/fjdKV4gm71 — WION (@WIONews) May 16, 2022 × Miakhel's statements come as the Taliban, who swept back to power as the Afghan government collapsed last year, on Saturday ordered women to cover their faces in public, in another step towards their past hardline rule. The consequences of disobedience are aimed at a woman's closest male family member, ranging from a warning to imprisonment. The UN Security Council will meet on Thursday to discuss the order and the United States said it would increase pressure on the Taliban administration. Watch WION's live TV here:

WION Global Summit 2022: Money spent on war should be spent on peace instead, says Afghan ex-minister

According to reports, ousted Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's brother Hashmat Ghani has allegedly pledged his support to the Taliban. In a video doing the rounds, Khalil Haqqani and other Taliban leaders welcomed Ghani's brother in the fold.

Reports: Ashraf Ghani's brother supports Taliban

Eight months after fleeing Kabul as the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan, Farida trains at a suburban Melbourne pitch, dreaming of one day playing soccer for her country while lamenting the fate of fellow women players back home.

The 20-year-old striker was one of 77 Afghan athletes, family members and officials evacuated from Afghanistan last year by the Australian government after lobbying by prominent figures in the sporting world.

Some of the evacuees have left Australia and found asylum in other countries, but more than 30 women footballers remain in Melbourne, rebuilding their lives with the support of one of the country`s top professional clubs.

"We`re in a secure place and everyone is really nice," Kabul native Farida told Reuters at training with her Afghan teammates on Wednesday.

"But in Afghanistan, after the Taliban took control, everything has been turned upside down."

Girls' and women`s sport has been crushed by the Taliban government`s hardline policies. Men have continued to play sport at community and elite level in the country but women are effectively confined to their homes by a mixture of regulation and intimidation.

The Taliban last week banned women from appearing in public with faces uncovered, having already ordered limits on their movement without a male chaperone. The Afghan footballers in Melbourne enjoy Australia`s freedoms and don`t hesitate to speak out against the Taliban.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wagatha-christie-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-legal-battle-between-coleen-rooney-and-rebekah-vardy-478101">Wagatha Christie: All you need to know about the legal battle between Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy</a>

But Melbourne Victory, who are sponsoring their soccer programme, ask them not to share their surnames for fear of potential reprisals to families back home.

"There are no women`s rights in Afghanistan," said Farida, who is studying at a local university and found work at a local telecommunications firm.

"Women athletes are stuck in their homes. I get text messages from them saying they want to get out of Afghanistan."

Melbourne Victory, four-times champions in Australia`s top-flight A-League, have shown their commitment to the squad by drafting in their successful professional women`s coach Jeff Hopkins to train them while providing support staff and physiotherapists.

The players, of varying age and technical ability, are now competing in a local amateur league while often juggling work, study and English lessons. By offering professional training and pathways, Victory hope the squad might one day be able to play some form of international football as a "team in exile".

"We want to make them the best possible team they can be," Victory`s Director of Football John Didulica told Reuters.

"With that, people will be inspired by their courage, their commitment and their standing up to the ideology of the Taliban as women who are asserting themselves on the sporting field."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-allows-russia-to-take-part-in-its-congress-despite-ban-on-clubs-and-country-478202">UEFA allows Russia to take part in its congress despite ban on clubs and country</a>

Players joked about Australian slang before they started training, and there was plenty of good-natured banter during drills on a foggy night. Some wore head coverings but most just wore standard soccer kit. Players said the training was a welcome distraction from homesickness and worries about family.

There were limited seats available on the plane that flew them out of Kabul, meaning agonising choices and loved ones left behind. Farida was separated from family at the airport and lost her suitcase in the confusion. 
She has no relatives in Melbourne but lives with one of her teammates.

Fellow striker Shamsia, from Afghanistan`s northern province of Baghlan, described herself as "in shock" after arriving in Australia after transit through Dubai. "Everything was hard for me," the 21-year-old told Reuters.

"Then we started football training and I saw the girls two or three times a week, it got easier every time."

Once training with a national youth squad, Shamsia was on the brink of an international debut in Tajikistan but it was scuppered by the Taliban takeover. She said her little sister back home was probably a more talented footballer than her but had little hope of playing.

That made representing Afghanistan as a team in Melbourne all the more important. "We want to show to the world that women of Afghanistan are strong, and that we won`t stop," she said.

"We will keep fighting."

Eight months after fleeing Kabul as the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan, Farida trains at a suburban Melbourne pitch, dreaming of one day playing soccer for her country while lamenting the fate of fellow women players back home.

Eight months after fleeing Kabul as the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan, Farida trains at a suburban Melbourne pitch, dreaming of one day playing soccer for her country while lamenting the fate of fellow women players back home. The 20-year-old striker was one of 77 Afghan athletes, family members and officials evacuated from Afghanistan last year by the Australian government after lobbying by prominent figures in the sporting world. Some of the evacuees have left Australia and found asylum in other countries, but more than 30 women footballers remain in Melbourne, rebuilding their lives with the support of one of the country`s top professional clubs. "We`re in a secure place and everyone is really nice," Kabul native Farida told Reuters at training with her Afghan teammates on Wednesday. "But in Afghanistan, after the Taliban took control, everything has been turned upside down." Girls' and women`s sport has been crushed by the Taliban government`s hardline policies. Men have continued to play sport at community and elite level in the country but women are effectively confined to their homes by a mixture of regulation and intimidation. The Taliban last week banned women from appearing in public with faces uncovered, having already ordered limits on their movement without a male chaperone. The Afghan footballers in Melbourne enjoy Australia`s freedoms and don`t hesitate to speak out against the Taliban. Also Read: Wagatha Christie: All you need to know about the legal battle between Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy But Melbourne Victory, who are sponsoring their soccer programme, ask them not to share their surnames for fear of potential reprisals to families back home. "There are no women`s rights in Afghanistan," said Farida, who is studying at a local university and found work at a local telecommunications firm. "Women athletes are stuck in their homes. I get text messages from them saying they want to get out of Afghanistan." Melbourne Victory, four-times champions in Australia`s top-flight A-League, have shown their commitment to the squad by drafting in their successful professional women`s coach Jeff Hopkins to train them while providing support staff and physiotherapists. The players, of varying age and technical ability, are now competing in a local amateur league while often juggling work, study and English lessons. By offering professional training and pathways, Victory hope the squad might one day be able to play some form of international football as a "team in exile". "We want to make them the best possible team they can be," Victory`s Director of Football John Didulica told Reuters. "With that, people will be inspired by their courage, their commitment and their standing up to the ideology of the Taliban as women who are asserting themselves on the sporting field." Also Read: UEFA allows Russia to take part in its congress despite ban on clubs and country Players joked about Australian slang before they started training, and there was plenty of good-natured banter during drills on a foggy night. Some wore head coverings but most just wore standard soccer kit. Players said the training was a welcome distraction from homesickness and worries about family. There were limited seats available on the plane that flew them out of Kabul, meaning agonising choices and loved ones left behind. Farida was separated from family at the airport and lost her suitcase in the confusion. She has no relatives in Melbourne but lives with one of her teammates. Fellow striker Shamsia, from Afghanistan`s northern province of Baghlan, described herself as "in shock" after arriving in Australia after transit through Dubai. "Everything was hard for me," the 21-year-old told Reuters. "Then we started football training and I saw the girls two or three times a week, it got easier every time." Once training with a national youth squad, Shamsia was on the brink of an international debut in Tajikistan but it was scuppered by the Taliban takeover. She said her little sister back home was probably a more talented footballer than her but had little hope of playing. That made representing Afghanistan as a team in Melbourne all the more important. "We want to show to the world that women of Afghanistan are strong, and that we won`t stop," she said. "We will keep fighting."

'We will keep fighting': Afghanistan women footballers train in Australia after fleeing Taliban rule

Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Laureate, has raised concern for Afghan women and girls after the Taliban issued an edict requiring women to wear the hijab.

"The Taliban want to erase girls and women from all public life in Afghanistan—to keep girls out of school and women out of work, to deny them the ability to travel without a male family member, and to force them to cover their faces and bodies completely. We must not lose our sense of alarm for Afghan women as the Taliban continue to break their promises. Even now, women are taking to the streets to fight for their human rights and dignity-all of us, and especially those from Muslim countries, must stand with them. I am asking leaders around the world to take collective action to hold the Taliban accountable for violating the human rights of millions of women and girls," tweeted Malala.

She called on world leaders to work together to hold the Taliban accountable for violating the human rights of millions of women and girls.

Watch | Malala Yousafzai fears for future of Afghan girls

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/malala-yousafzai-fears-for-future-of-afghan-girls-415876/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Sunday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concern about the Taliban's recent decision to require Afghan women to cover themselves from head to toe, a move that has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups.

The Taliban is gradually obliterating Afghan women's human rights, according to UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett, who spoke a day after the Taliban issued a new edict requiring full-body veiling as well as limits on education, movement, employment, and public life.

The Taliban-led administration has pledged to uphold human rights and women's rights, despite the fact that most of the outside community is unaware of this.

The UN mission in Afghanistan has raised an alarm about the statement, claiming that it goes against numerous guarantees that all Afghans' human rights, including women's and girls', will be respected and protected.

Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Laureate, has raised concern for Afghan women and girls after the Taliban issued an edict requiring women to wear the hijab. "The Taliban want to erase girls and women from all public life in Afghanistan—to keep girls out of school and women out of work, to deny them the ability to travel without a male family member, and to force them to cover their faces and bodies completely.

Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Laureate, has raised concern for Afghan women and girls after the Taliban issued an edict requiring women to wear the hijab. "The Taliban want to erase girls and women from all public life in Afghanistan—to keep girls out of school and women out of work, to deny them the ability to travel without a male family member, and to force them to cover their faces and bodies completely. We must not lose our sense of alarm for Afghan women as the Taliban continue to break their promises. Even now, women are taking to the streets to fight for their human rights and dignity-all of us, and especially those from Muslim countries, must stand with them. I am asking leaders around the world to take collective action to hold the Taliban accountable for violating the human rights of millions of women and girls," tweeted Malala. She called on world leaders to work together to hold the Taliban accountable for violating the human rights of millions of women and girls. Watch | Malala Yousafzai fears for future of Afghan girls On Sunday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concern about the Taliban's recent decision to require Afghan women to cover themselves from head to toe, a move that has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups. The Taliban is gradually obliterating Afghan women's human rights, according to UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett, who spoke a day after the Taliban issued a new edict requiring full-body veiling as well as limits on education, movement, employment, and public life. The Taliban-led administration has pledged to uphold human rights and women's rights, despite the fact that most of the outside community is unaware of this. The UN mission in Afghanistan has raised an alarm about the statement, claiming that it goes against numerous guarantees that all Afghans' human rights, including women's and girls', will be respected and protected.

Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai

The Taliban are denying driving licenses to Afghan women. Their supreme leader is calling for mandatory face veils. How will the world respond to the Taliban's broken promises? Mariam Wardak tells you.

South Asia Diary: Taliban deny driving license to women

About a dozen&nbsp;women&nbsp;protested in the&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;capital on Tuesday against the&nbsp;Taliban's new edict that females must fully cover their faces&nbsp;and bodies when in public.

Afghanistan's supreme leader and&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;chief Hibatullah Akhundzada issued a mandate over the weekend ordering women to cover&nbsp;up fully, ideally with the traditional all-covering burqa.

The diktat was the latest in a series of creeping restrictions in Afghanistan, where the Islamists have rolled back the marginal gains made by&nbsp;women&nbsp;after a US-led invasion toppled the first&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;regime in 2001.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-angry-as-taliban-makes-face-covering-mandatory-477656">Afghan women angry as Taliban makes face covering mandatory</a>

"Justice, justice!" chanted the protestors, many with uncovered&nbsp;faces, in central Kabul.

The demonstrators also chanted "Burqa is not our hijab!"&nbsp;indicating their objection to trading the less restrictive hijab headscarf for the totally concealing burqa.

Watch |&nbsp;South Asia Diary: Taliban deny driving license to women

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-asia-diary-taliban-deny-driving-license-to-women-477728/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After a short procession, the march was halted by&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;fighters, who also obstructed journalists from reporting on the event.

Akhundzada's&nbsp;decree, which also orders&nbsp;women&nbsp;to "stay at home" if they have no important work outside, has triggered international condemnation.

"We want to live as human beings, not as some animal held captive in a corner of a house," protester Saira Sama Alimyar said at the rally.

Akhundzada also ordered authorities to fire female government employees who do not follow the new dress code, and to suspend male workers if their wives and daughters fail to comply.

In the 20 years between the&nbsp;Taliban's two stints in power,&nbsp;women&nbsp;made some gains in education, the workplace and public life but deeply conservative and patriarchal attitudes still prevailed.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In the&nbsp;countryside, many&nbsp;women&nbsp;continued to wear the burqa in those two decades.

But several religious scholars and activists say the attire has no basis in Islam and is rather a&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;dress code designed to repress&nbsp;women.

After seizing power last year, the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;had promised a softer version of the harsh Islamist rule that characterised their first stint in power from 1996 to 2001, but many restrictions have already been imposed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-want-to-erase-women-from-public-life-in-afghanistan-malala-yousafzai-477746">Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai</a>

Some&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;women&nbsp;initially pushed back against the curbs, holding small protests where they demanded the right to education and work.

But the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;soon rounded up the ringleaders, holding them incommunicado while denying that they had been detained.

Since their release, most have gone silent.

About a dozen women protested in the Afghan capital on Tuesday against the Taliban's new edict that females must fully cover their faces and bodies when in public.

About a dozen women protested in the Afghan capital on Tuesday against the Taliban's new edict that females must fully cover their faces and bodies when in public. Afghanistan's supreme leader and Taliban chief Hibatullah Akhundzada issued a mandate over the weekend ordering women to cover up fully, ideally with the traditional all-covering burqa. The diktat was the latest in a series of creeping restrictions in Afghanistan, where the Islamists have rolled back the marginal gains made by women after a US-led invasion toppled the first Taliban regime in 2001. Also read | Afghan women angry as Taliban makes face covering mandatory "Justice, justice!" chanted the protestors, many with uncovered faces, in central Kabul. The demonstrators also chanted "Burqa is not our hijab!" indicating their objection to trading the less restrictive hijab headscarf for the totally concealing burqa. Watch | South Asia Diary: Taliban deny driving license to women After a short procession, the march was halted by Taliban fighters, who also obstructed journalists from reporting on the event. Akhundzada's decree, which also orders women to "stay at home" if they have no important work outside, has triggered international condemnation. "We want to live as human beings, not as some animal held captive in a corner of a house," protester Saira Sama Alimyar said at the rally. Akhundzada also ordered authorities to fire female government employees who do not follow the new dress code, and to suspend male workers if their wives and daughters fail to comply. In the 20 years between the Taliban's two stints in power, women made some gains in education, the workplace and public life but deeply conservative and patriarchal attitudes still prevailed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: In the countryside, many women continued to wear the burqa in those two decades. But several religious scholars and activists say the attire has no basis in Islam and is rather a Taliban dress code designed to repress women. After seizing power last year, the Taliban had promised a softer version of the harsh Islamist rule that characterised their first stint in power from 1996 to 2001, but many restrictions have already been imposed. Also read | Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai Some Afghan women initially pushed back against the curbs, holding small protests where they demanded the right to education and work. But the Taliban soon rounded up the ringleaders, holding them incommunicado while denying that they had been detained. Since their release, most have gone silent.

Afghan women protest Taliban decree to cover faces

Recently, the&nbsp;Taliban’s leader Hibaitullah Akhunzada passed an order, mandating women to cover themselves from head&nbsp;to toe with&nbsp;just their eyes visible. It doesn’t end here, the Taliban leader, even advised that women should not leave their houses until it is necessary and even outlined punishments for male relatives of women who break the rule.&nbsp;

On Sunday (May 7), women in Kabul, the capital wore the traditional conservative Muslim attire. The majority wore the traditional hijab, which consists of headscarf and a long robe or coat, but a few wore a burqa, which covers their faces and hides the eyes behind netting as ordered by the Taliban a day before.

Watch |&nbsp;Panjshir valley: Taliban faces rebellion, Insurgent group launches offensive

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/panjshir-valley-taliban-faces-rebellion-insurgent-group-launches-offensive-477380/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Women in Afghanistan wear the hijab, and many wear the burqa, but this isn't about hijab, this is about the Taliban wanting to make all women disappear," said Shabana, who wore brilliant gold bangles beneath her long black coat and her hair buried behind a black head scarf with sequins. She further said that the Taliban is making an attempt to make women invisible.&nbsp;

"Afghan women still protesting against Taliban violations of their rights, even after the Taliban has beaten, pepper-sprayed, abducted, detained and abused women protesters,"&nbsp;said Heather Barr, associate director of women's rights.

Hoda Khamosh, a women's rights activist, stated that Afghan women are no longer retreating and are confronting all difficulties.

"..this is the world that has closed its eyes to the crimes, the result of all these worries and all these meetings must be determined,"&nbsp;Khamosh tweeted.

The Taliban rulers are driving Afghans to leave their country. Why should I stay here if they don't want to give us our human rights? We are human," said Arooza, a teacher. Several women stopped to talk. They all challenged the latest edict.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Akhunzada, prefers the harsh parts of the group’s earlier rule during the 1990s, when the females were generally excluded from school, work and public life.

In the meantime, the government is grappling with an economic crisis. The group is trying to get Western recognition but have mostly failed, owing to the Taliban’s failure to build a representative administrative and restrictions on women’s right. However, the movement’s hardliners and pragmatists have avoided direct confrontation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plan-to-ban-women-from-driving-taliban-stop-issuing-driving-licence-to-ladies-476431">Plan to ban women from driving? Taliban stop issuing driving licence to ladies</a>

On the eve of the starting of new sessions in school, divides between males and females were exacerbated when the Taliban made a last-minute decision that girls won’t be allowed to attend school&nbsp;after sixth grade.&nbsp;

This decision is a major setback for Afghan women who relatively enjoyed independence for two decades prior to the Taliban’s takeover last August, when US and other foreign forces departed ending a 20-year conflict.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Recently, the Taliban’s leader Hibaitullah Akhunzada passed an order, mandating women to cover themselves from head to toe with just their eyes visible. It doesn’t end here, the Taliban leader, even advised that women should not leave their houses until it is necessary and even outlined punishments for male relatives of women who break the rule.

Recently, the Taliban’s leader Hibaitullah Akhunzada passed an order, mandating women to cover themselves from head to toe with just their eyes visible. It doesn’t end here, the Taliban leader, even advised that women should not leave their houses until it is necessary and even outlined punishments for male relatives of women who break the rule. On Sunday (May 7), women in Kabul, the capital wore the traditional conservative Muslim attire. The majority wore the traditional hijab, which consists of headscarf and a long robe or coat, but a few wore a burqa, which covers their faces and hides the eyes behind netting as ordered by the Taliban a day before. Watch | Panjshir valley: Taliban faces rebellion, Insurgent group launches offensive Women in Afghanistan wear the hijab, and many wear the burqa, but this isn't about hijab, this is about the Taliban wanting to make all women disappear," said Shabana, who wore brilliant gold bangles beneath her long black coat and her hair buried behind a black head scarf with sequins. She further said that the Taliban is making an attempt to make women invisible. "Afghan women still protesting against Taliban violations of their rights, even after the Taliban has beaten, pepper-sprayed, abducted, detained and abused women protesters," said Heather Barr, associate director of women's rights. Hoda Khamosh, a women's rights activist, stated that Afghan women are no longer retreating and are confronting all difficulties. "..this is the world that has closed its eyes to the crimes, the result of all these worries and all these meetings must be determined," Khamosh tweeted. The Taliban rulers are driving Afghans to leave their country. Why should I stay here if they don't want to give us our human rights? We are human," said Arooza, a teacher. Several women stopped to talk. They all challenged the latest edict. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Akhunzada, prefers the harsh parts of the group’s earlier rule during the 1990s, when the females were generally excluded from school, work and public life. In the meantime, the government is grappling with an economic crisis. The group is trying to get Western recognition but have mostly failed, owing to the Taliban’s failure to build a representative administrative and restrictions on women’s right. However, the movement’s hardliners and pragmatists have avoided direct confrontation. Also read | Plan to ban women from driving? Taliban stop issuing driving licence to ladies On the eve of the starting of new sessions in school, divides between males and females were exacerbated when the Taliban made a last-minute decision that girls won’t be allowed to attend school after sixth grade. This decision is a major setback for Afghan women who relatively enjoyed independence for two decades prior to the Taliban’s takeover last August, when US and other foreign forces departed ending a 20-year conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan women angry as Taliban makes face covering mandatory

Taliban has ruled that all Afghan women must cover their faces with all-encompassing burkha and if any woman violates the order then her father or closest relative male will be either imprisoned or will be fired from their government jobs.

Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns

In a sign that the Taliban regime was increasingly moving towards re-establishing a strict religious regime, women in Afghanistan were ordered to cover their faces in public with traditional burqa.

The decree came from Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. The decree saif that if women had no important work outside then it was "better they stay at home". The decree also outlined punishments for women's male guardians if they didn't comply with the dress code.

It was the latest in a slew of Taliban restrictions on women, including banning them from any government jobs, secondary education and travelling alone outside their cities, and prompted widespread international condemnation.

"So much pain &amp; grief for women of my country, my heart is exploding. So much hatred &amp; anger against Taliban, enemies of women, enforcers of gender apartheid, enemies of Afghanistan &amp; humanity. The world is a bystander to our pain, to an apartheid, to complete tyranny," tweeted Shaharzad Akbar, the former chairperson of Afghanistan's Human Rights Commission.&nbsp;

"Those women who are not too old or young must cover their face, except the eyes, as per sharia directives, in order to avoid provocation when meeting men who are not mahram (adult close male relatives)," said the decree approved by Akhundzada and released by Taliban authorities at a ceremony in Kabul.

The Taliban decree said that the best way for a woman to cover her face was to wear Chadri. It is a traditional, blue Afghan burqa that includes screen over the face.

"They should wear a chadari as it is traditional and respectful," it said.

The Ministry for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, which released the new order, announced a slew of punishments if the dress code is not followed.

It said a woman's father or male guardian would be summoned and could even be imprisoned if the offence was committed repeatedly.

Women working in government institutions who did not follow the order "should be fired", the ministry added.

Government employees whose wives and daughters do not comply will also be suspended from their jobs, the decree said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

In a sign that the Taliban regime was increasingly moving towards re-establishing a strict religious regime, women in Afghanistan were ordered to cover their faces in public with traditional burqa.

In a sign that the Taliban regime was increasingly moving towards re-establishing a strict religious regime, women in Afghanistan were ordered to cover their faces in public with traditional burqa. The decree came from Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. The decree saif that if women had no important work outside then it was "better they stay at home". The decree also outlined punishments for women's male guardians if they didn't comply with the dress code. It was the latest in a slew of Taliban restrictions on women, including banning them from any government jobs, secondary education and travelling alone outside their cities, and prompted widespread international condemnation. "So much pain & grief for women of my country, my heart is exploding. So much hatred & anger against Taliban, enemies of women, enforcers of gender apartheid, enemies of Afghanistan & humanity. The world is a bystander to our pain, to an apartheid, to complete tyranny," tweeted Shaharzad Akbar, the former chairperson of Afghanistan's Human Rights Commission. "Those women who are not too old or young must cover their face, except the eyes, as per sharia directives, in order to avoid provocation when meeting men who are not mahram (adult close male relatives)," said the decree approved by Akhundzada and released by Taliban authorities at a ceremony in Kabul. The Taliban decree said that the best way for a woman to cover her face was to wear Chadri. It is a traditional, blue Afghan burqa that includes screen over the face. "They should wear a chadari as it is traditional and respectful," it said. The Ministry for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, which released the new order, announced a slew of punishments if the dress code is not followed. It said a woman's father or male guardian would be summoned and could even be imprisoned if the offence was committed repeatedly. Women working in government institutions who did not follow the order "should be fired", the ministry added. Government employees whose wives and daughters do not comply will also be suspended from their jobs, the decree said. (With inputs from agencies) Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Cover faces in public, Taliban order Afghan women

Now, Taliban orders Afghan women to fully cover themselves in public

The Taliban has ruled that Afghan women must cover their faces and if any woman violates the order then her father or closest relative male will be either imprisoned or will be fired from their government jobs.

Afghanistan: Taliban makes covering face mandatory for women

The Afghan women’s football team reunited in Melbourne to take on a local league club. How are the Afghan athletes responding to life away from home? What message did they send to the Taliban? Mariam Wardak tells you.

South Asia Diary | Afghan women's football team reunites

Amid a series of blast and economic woes, Afghanistan marked the end of the holy fasting month of Ramzan as they prepared to celebrate Eid, this is the first time in over 20 years that Afghans will celebrate their holy festival under the Taliban rule despite fears of possible explosions.

Afghans celebrate Eid under Taliban-led government

This is the first time in over 20 years that Afghans will celebrate their holy festival under the Taliban rule. Despite fears of possible explosions, hundreds of residents gathered in mosques in and around Kabul to celebrate and participate in Eid prayers.

Kabul: Hundreds of residents participate in Eid prayers to mark end of Ramazan

Attacks in Afghanistan has intensified on Eid and security challenges loom large in the country with three blasts reported in the last 24 hours. Two power transmission towers were blown up during attacks in Parwan province

Two pylons in Parwan province of Afghanistan bombed, 5 teams to restore power immediately

In Afghanistan, twin explosions have killed at least nine people and wounded 13 others in Mazar-i-Sharif the capital of Balkh province. To get more perspective, we're joined by Torek Farhadi, a former Afghan government advisor.

Blasts rock Afghanistan: Taliban faces security challenge from 'Islamic state'

During last Friday prayers of Ramzan, a deadly explosion ripped through Kabul mosque in Afghanistan. At least 10 dead, several injured in the blast.

At least 10 dead, several injured as explosion rips through Kabul mosque in Afghanistan

Bomb explosions aborad two passenger vans in Afghanistan carrying Shi'ite Muslims killed at least nine people on Thursday, said an official. The official was quoted by Reuters. The blasts took place in northern Afghan city of Mazar-e-Sharif.

Just last week, a Shi'ite mosque in the city was target of attack that saw an explosion killing 11 people.

Islamic State has claimed responsibility for blasts inside the vans.

"The bombs were placed inside the vans; due to those blasts nine have been killed and 13 injured," Mohammad Asif Wazeri, spokesman of Mazar-e-Sharif's commander told Reuters.

The public transport vans were operated and used by the local Shi'ite community, he added.

Islamic State often targets Shi'ite community, a minority Muslim sect in Afghanistan. Islamic State has also posed challenges for the Taliban who currently assume power in a country ravaged by war for decades.

Taliban authorities who took over after the Western pullout said earlier this week they had eliminated most of Islamic State's presence in Afghanistan. But despite the assertion, attacks against Shi'ites continue in many parts of the country.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Last week, blasts tore through a high school in a predominantly Shi'ite Hazara area in western Kabul, killing at least six.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bomb explosions aborad two passenger vans in Afghanistan carrying Shi'ite Muslims killed at least nine people on Thursday, said an official. The official was quoted by Reuters.

Bomb explosions aborad two passenger vans in Afghanistan carrying Shi'ite Muslims killed at least nine people on Thursday, said an official. The official was quoted by Reuters. The blasts took place in northern Afghan city of Mazar-e-Sharif. Just last week, a Shi'ite mosque in the city was target of attack that saw an explosion killing 11 people. Islamic State has claimed responsibility for blasts inside the vans. "The bombs were placed inside the vans; due to those blasts nine have been killed and 13 injured," Mohammad Asif Wazeri, spokesman of Mazar-e-Sharif's commander told Reuters. The public transport vans were operated and used by the local Shi'ite community, he added. Islamic State often targets Shi'ite community, a minority Muslim sect in Afghanistan. Islamic State has also posed challenges for the Taliban who currently assume power in a country ravaged by war for decades. Taliban authorities who took over after the Western pullout said earlier this week they had eliminated most of Islamic State's presence in Afghanistan. But despite the assertion, attacks against Shi'ites continue in many parts of the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Last week, blasts tore through a high school in a predominantly Shi'ite Hazara area in western Kabul, killing at least six. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Blasts inside vans take 9 lives, IS claims responsibility 

In Afghanistan twin explosions have killed at least nine people and wounded 13 others in Mazar-i-Sharif the capital of Balkh province. The blasts are the latest in a series of deadly bombings to rattle Afghanistan.

Twin explosions in Afghanistan claims 9 lives, wounds 13

The US evacuation from Afghanistan is still fresh in everyone's minds. People hanging from planes, children being passed across fences and thousands scrambling to leave the country- it was a mission that failed miserably but a new Pentagon report has highlighted the catastrophic nature of this failure- nearly seven billion dollars of military equipment have been left behind in Afghanistan.

Report: US left $7 billion of military gear in Afghanistan

afghanistan-0

Afghanistan, News on Afghanistan, stories on Afghanistan, articles on Afghanistan, Afghanistan stories at Wion, Afghanistan news, Afghanistan latest news

afghanistan 0