In growing signs of worry with Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said "The problem of narcotics trafficking has intensified in last one year" in the "light of developments in Afghanistan" which is "evident in growing number of seizers in the past year". Taliban took over Afghanistan in August of last year as the previous Ghani regime collapsed.

Speaking at the Colombo Security conclave in the Maldives on Wednesday, NSA Doval said, "We remain vulnerable to the threats of trafficking, organised crime and maritime terrorism".&nbsp;

He pointed out how Indian and Sri Lankan authorities had busted narcotics being transported at the high seas.&nbsp;

He said, "Based on specific intelligence, a joint operation of India's narcotic Bureau, Indian navy along with our Sri Lankan counterparts recently seized over 800 kg of high-quality drug over the high seas that valued over $267 million."

He further added, "Our agencies and services have been continuously working for various such intelligence inputs and will carry out more operations. Close cooperation on such issues will be in our mutual interest."

India's NSA is in the Maldives for the 5th National Security Adviser level meeting of the Colombo Security conclave which includes India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Mauritius has been added as the fourth member of the group, making it a quad grouping.&nbsp; 
Bangladesh and Seychelles participated as observers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-ganga-sheikh-hasina-thanks-pm-modi-for-rescuing-bangladeshis-from-war-hit-ukraine-460432">Also read |&nbsp;Operation Ganga: Sheikh Hasina thanks PM Modi for rescuing Bangladeshis from war-hit Ukraine</a>

At the meet, ​he called for "Institutionalisation of our cooperation with a concrete roadmap and defined charters of objectives", pointing out that "as ​maritime neighbours, we face common security challenges, our national security is deeply intertwined with our collective security aspirations in the region."

The 4th meeting of the NSAs happened in Colombo on November 28, 2020, where India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives agreed to expand the scope and membership of the group and renamed it the Colombo Security Conclave.&nbsp;

The next meeting of the conclave is scheduled to be held in India at the deputy NSA level. The next NSA level dialogue will also be held in India.

At the meet in the Maldives on Wednesday, NSAs discussed the significance of close cooperation between Member and observer countries in maritime safety and security, countering terrorism and radicalisation.&nbsp;

NSA Doval said, "As maritime national, our security at very basic level depends on the security of our coast. Our coasts are vulnerable and numerous threats such as maritime terrorism, smuggling, trafficking. Numerous strategic installations on our coasts that are vital for our security and development and prosperity of our nation and our people."

In growing signs of worry with Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said "The problem of narcotics trafficking has intensified in last one year" in the "light of developments in Afghanistan" which is "evident in growing number of seizers in the past year".

In growing signs of worry with Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said "The problem of narcotics trafficking has intensified in last one year" in the "light of developments in Afghanistan" which is "evident in growing number of seizers in the past year". Taliban took over Afghanistan in August of last year as the previous Ghani regime collapsed. Speaking at the Colombo Security conclave in the Maldives on Wednesday, NSA Doval said, "We remain vulnerable to the threats of trafficking, organised crime and maritime terrorism". He pointed out how Indian and Sri Lankan authorities had busted narcotics being transported at the high seas. He said, "Based on specific intelligence, a joint operation of India's narcotic Bureau, Indian navy along with our Sri Lankan counterparts recently seized over 800 kg of high-quality drug over the high seas that valued over $267 million." He further added, "Our agencies and services have been continuously working for various such intelligence inputs and will carry out more operations. Close cooperation on such issues will be in our mutual interest." India's NSA is in the Maldives for the 5th National Security Adviser level meeting of the Colombo Security conclave which includes India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Mauritius has been added as the fourth member of the group, making it a quad grouping. Bangladesh and Seychelles participated as observers. Also read | Operation Ganga: Sheikh Hasina thanks PM Modi for rescuing Bangladeshis from war-hit Ukraine At the meet, he called for "Institutionalisation of our cooperation with a concrete roadmap and defined charters of objectives", pointing out that "as maritime neighbours, we face common security challenges, our national security is deeply intertwined with our collective security aspirations in the region." The 4th meeting of the NSAs happened in Colombo on November 28, 2020, where India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives agreed to expand the scope and membership of the group and renamed it the Colombo Security Conclave. The next meeting of the conclave is scheduled to be held in India at the deputy NSA level. The next NSA level dialogue will also be held in India. At the meet in the Maldives on Wednesday, NSAs discussed the significance of close cooperation between Member and observer countries in maritime safety and security, countering terrorism and radicalisation. NSA Doval said, "As maritime national, our security at very basic level depends on the security of our coast. Our coasts are vulnerable and numerous threats such as maritime terrorism, smuggling, trafficking. Numerous strategic installations on our coasts that are vital for our security and development and prosperity of our nation and our people."

Narcotics trafficking has intensified since Afghanistan 'developments': NSA Doval

Gujarat Titans have signed Afghanistan batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

Rahmanullah will be serving as a replacement for the England batter Jason Roy, who had earlier pulled out of the tournament.

"Whilst it is disappointing that Jason will not be a part of our campaign this year, we are mindful of the health and well-being of players in these times. We wish Jason well and look forward to his return to the field. Rahmanullah Gurbaz is one of the promising young batters to emerge from Afghanistan and we believe he is an ideal replacement for Jason," Vikram Solanki, Director of Cricket, Gujarat Titans said in a statement.

"Gurbaz is an attacking batter and fits into our plans for the Gujarat Titans. He has given a good account of his talent in international cricket and a few tournaments around the globe," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-sent-a-bouquet-handwritten-note-ravichandran-ashwin-thanks-kapil-dev-for-sweet-gesture-460615">He sent a bouquet, handwritten note: Ravichandran Ashwin thanks Kapil Dev for 'sweet' gesture</a>

A right-handed batter and a wicketkeeper, Gurbaz had represented Afghanistan in 2018 under-19 World Cup.

Since making his senior international debut in 2019, he has played nine One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 20 T20 Internationals so far.

In 2021, Gurbaz became the first Afghan batter to score a century on ODI debut - a feat he achieved against Ireland at Abu Dhabi.

The 20-year-old joins his countrymen Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmed in the Gujarat Titans team.

Gujarat Titans have signed Afghanistan batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Rahmanullah will be serving as a replacement for the England batter Jason Roy, who had earlier pulled out of the tournament.

Gujarat Titans have signed Afghanistan batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Rahmanullah will be serving as a replacement for the England batter Jason Roy, who had earlier pulled out of the tournament. "Whilst it is disappointing that Jason will not be a part of our campaign this year, we are mindful of the health and well-being of players in these times. We wish Jason well and look forward to his return to the field. Rahmanullah Gurbaz is one of the promising young batters to emerge from Afghanistan and we believe he is an ideal replacement for Jason," Vikram Solanki, Director of Cricket, Gujarat Titans said in a statement. "Gurbaz is an attacking batter and fits into our plans for the Gujarat Titans. He has given a good account of his talent in international cricket and a few tournaments around the globe," he added. ALSO READ: He sent a bouquet, handwritten note: Ravichandran Ashwin thanks Kapil Dev for 'sweet' gesture A right-handed batter and a wicketkeeper, Gurbaz had represented Afghanistan in 2018 under-19 World Cup. Since making his senior international debut in 2019, he has played nine One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 20 T20 Internationals so far. In 2021, Gurbaz became the first Afghan batter to score a century on ODI debut - a feat he achieved against Ireland at Abu Dhabi. The 20-year-old joins his countrymen Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmed in the Gujarat Titans team.

IPL 2022: Gujarat Titans rope in Afghanistan batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz as replacement for Jason Roy

Afghanistan has witnessed more than four decades of instability with the Taliban back in power after two decades what should be the framework of engagement with Afghanistan for other central and south Asian nations? The council for strategic affairs Indian Institute of Management Rohtak is hosting an international conference on this theme and Dr Subhash Chandra, member of Parliament, Chairperson of the Essel Group emphasized on the need to tackle radicalization and extremism.

Conference on Afghanistan: How can extremism be countered?

The recent devastating suicide bombing, targeted at a Shia Muslim mosque in Peshawar has marked the re-emergence of the dreaded Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) terror group in Pakistan. 
 
The IS-K claimed responsibility for the attack in which a suicide bomber blew himself up after entering into the mosque during Friday prayers, claiming lives of at least 63 and injuring over 200. 
 
It also claimed the terror attack just outside Kabul airport during the evacuation process of foreign forces was underway after the Taliban takeover, as well as many others on mosques and other places in Afghanistan, becoming the biggest opposition to the incumbent regime.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-peshawar-mosque-suicide-blast-that-killed-57-459183" hreflang="en">Islamic State claims responsibility for Peshawar mosque suicide blast</a>

Pakistan had been on consultation with the Afghan Taliban and working towards a joint strategy to counter terror threats from organisations operating along the two countries'&nbsp;border. 
 
The attack in Peshawar comes at a time when the country's Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) killed an IS-K commander named Bilal Khan, during a police encounter on January 19 this year. 
 
It is believed that the commander's killing activated many sleeper cells, associated with the terror group, who planned to respond with a major suicide attacks. 
 
It is believed that Bilal Khan, who was a member of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), joined the IS in 2015, pledging allegiance to Abu Bakar Al-Baghdadi, the group's slain leader. 
 
Experts believe that intelligence-based operations by Pakistani security agencies against terror elements, including the IS-K, have not only increased targeted attacks, but supporters of the Afghan Taliban have also come under deadly attacks in Peshawar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-release-its-most-secretive-leader-sirajuddin-haqqanis-photos-for-the-first-time-459582">Taliban release its most secretive leader Sirajuddin Haqqani's photos for the first time</a> 
 
The emergence of the IS-K in the heart of Peshawar raises major concerns and a new set of challenges for the Pakistani authorities, as neighbouring Afghanistan conducts search operations in various parts, looking to neutralise the militants. 
 
Some reports also indicate that many IS-K militants have already fled Afghanistan and entered Pakistan, while sleeper cells of the group have also been activated. 
 
It is because of this reason that a major surge of terror attacks is being witnessed in Pakistan. 
 
According to data from Pakistan Institute of Peace Studies (PIPS), there were at least 207 incidents of terrorism in Pakistan in 2021, a 45 per cent increase over 2020. 
 
The TTP has also been carrying out targeted attacks in various parts of the country, adding on to the challenges Pakistani security forces are confronted with. 
 
Pakistan's Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed said that a fresh wave of terrorism has hit the country where the TTP is targeting policemen in major cities with an aim to breach and break the first line of defense.

Watch |&nbsp;Conference on Afghanistan: How can extremism be countered?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/conference-on-afghanistan-how-can-extremism-be-countered-459703/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While the threat of terrorism looms, many believe that the IS-K can be a much bigger problem than the TTP. 
 
While negotiations with the TTP remains on the agenda of the Pakistani government, it is feared that disagreements among the TTP militants, as well as a deal with Islamabad, may push them towards joining the IS-K.

&nbsp;

The recent devastating suicide bombing, targeted at a Shia Muslim mosque in Peshawar has marked the re-emergence of the dreaded Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) terror group in Pakistan.

The recent devastating suicide bombing, targeted at a Shia Muslim mosque in Peshawar has marked the re-emergence of the dreaded Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) terror group in Pakistan. The IS-K claimed responsibility for the attack in which a suicide bomber blew himself up after entering into the mosque during Friday prayers, claiming lives of at least 63 and injuring over 200. It also claimed the terror attack just outside Kabul airport during the evacuation process of foreign forces was underway after the Taliban takeover, as well as many others on mosques and other places in Afghanistan, becoming the biggest opposition to the incumbent regime. Also read | Islamic State claims responsibility for Peshawar mosque suicide blast Pakistan had been on consultation with the Afghan Taliban and working towards a joint strategy to counter terror threats from organisations operating along the two countries' border. The attack in Peshawar comes at a time when the country's Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) killed an IS-K commander named Bilal Khan, during a police encounter on January 19 this year. It is believed that the commander's killing activated many sleeper cells, associated with the terror group, who planned to respond with a major suicide attacks. It is believed that Bilal Khan, who was a member of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), joined the IS in 2015, pledging allegiance to Abu Bakar Al-Baghdadi, the group's slain leader. Experts believe that intelligence-based operations by Pakistani security agencies against terror elements, including the IS-K, have not only increased targeted attacks, but supporters of the Afghan Taliban have also come under deadly attacks in Peshawar. Also read | Taliban release its most secretive leader Sirajuddin Haqqani's photos for the first time The emergence of the IS-K in the heart of Peshawar raises major concerns and a new set of challenges for the Pakistani authorities, as neighbouring Afghanistan conducts search operations in various parts, looking to neutralise the militants. Some reports also indicate that many IS-K militants have already fled Afghanistan and entered Pakistan, while sleeper cells of the group have also been activated. It is because of this reason that a major surge of terror attacks is being witnessed in Pakistan. According to data from Pakistan Institute of Peace Studies (PIPS), there were at least 207 incidents of terrorism in Pakistan in 2021, a 45 per cent increase over 2020. The TTP has also been carrying out targeted attacks in various parts of the country, adding on to the challenges Pakistani security forces are confronted with. Pakistan's Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed said that a fresh wave of terrorism has hit the country where the TTP is targeting policemen in major cities with an aim to breach and break the first line of defense. Watch | Conference on Afghanistan: How can extremism be countered? While the threat of terrorism looms, many believe that the IS-K can be a much bigger problem than the TTP. While negotiations with the TTP remains on the agenda of the Pakistani government, it is feared that disagreements among the TTP militants, as well as a deal with Islamabad, may push them towards joining the IS-K.

After Afghanistan, Islamic State-Khorasan set foot in Pakistan

Taliban's interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, for the first time, was photographed openly at a passing-out parade for new Afghan police recruits. He is considered to be the Taliban's most secretive leader and his only picture on the US "most wanted" lists is a grainy semi-covered profile.

Haqqani also happens to be a UN-designated terrorist.

The image was tweeted by Zabihulla Mujahid, spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan with the caption, "The minister of interior of The Islamic Emirate, Khalifa Sahib Sirajuddin Haqqani Hafizullah inaugurated the graduation ceremony of the National Police."

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د اسلامي امارت د کورنیو چارو محترم وزیر خلیفه صاحب سراج الدین حقاني حفظه الله د د ملي پولیسو د فراغت مراسم پرانستل. <a href="https://t.co/JDQahcrQZQ">pic.twitter.com/JDQahcrQZQ</a>
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Haqqani also heads the feared Haqqani network. Earlier, he had been photographed from behind.

"For your satisfaction and for building your trust... I am appearing in the media in a public meeting with you," he said during his speech.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-journalist-features-in-times-women-of-the-year-for-reporting-womens-lives-in-afghanistan-459325">Also read |&nbsp;Afghan journalist features in Time’s women of the year for reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan</a>

The Haqqani network has been categorised as a terrorist group by the US.&nbsp;

Haqqani is one of the FBI's most wanted men due to his links in suicide attacks and Al Qaeda ties. He was wanted by the US in connection with a deadly 2008 attack on a Kabul hotel.

Earlier, he praised suicide bombers at a meeting with families of the 'martyrs' in Kabul.&nbsp;

"Haqqani praised the jihad and sacrifice of the martyrs and mujahideen" calling them the "heroes of Islam and the country", Afghan state broadcaster RTA reported.

It said Sirajuddin "stressed that we must refrain from any betrayal of the aspirations of the martyrs", and promised $125 and a plot of land for each family.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban's interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, for the first time, was photographed openly at a passing-out parade for new Afghan police recruits. He is considered to be the Taliban's most secretive leader and his only picture on the US "most wanted" lists is a grainy semi-covered profile.

Taliban's interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, for the first time, was photographed openly at a passing-out parade for new Afghan police recruits. He is considered to be the Taliban's most secretive leader and his only picture on the US "most wanted" lists is a grainy semi-covered profile. Haqqani also happens to be a UN-designated terrorist. The image was tweeted by Zabihulla Mujahid, spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan with the caption, "The minister of interior of The Islamic Emirate, Khalifa Sahib Sirajuddin Haqqani Hafizullah inaugurated the graduation ceremony of the National Police." د اسلامي امارت د کورنیو چارو محترم وزیر خلیفه صاحب سراج الدین حقاني حفظه الله د د ملي پولیسو د فراغت مراسم پرانستل. pic.twitter.com/JDQahcrQZQ — Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) March 5, 2022 × Haqqani also heads the feared Haqqani network. Earlier, he had been photographed from behind. "For your satisfaction and for building your trust... I am appearing in the media in a public meeting with you," he said during his speech. Also read | Afghan journalist features in Time’s women of the year for reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan The Haqqani network has been categorised as a terrorist group by the US. Haqqani is one of the FBI's most wanted men due to his links in suicide attacks and Al Qaeda ties. He was wanted by the US in connection with a deadly 2008 attack on a Kabul hotel. Earlier, he praised suicide bombers at a meeting with families of the 'martyrs' in Kabul. "Haqqani praised the jihad and sacrifice of the martyrs and mujahideen" calling them the "heroes of Islam and the country", Afghan state broadcaster RTA reported. It said Sirajuddin "stressed that we must refrain from any betrayal of the aspirations of the martyrs", and promised $125 and a plot of land for each family. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban release its most secretive leader Sirajuddin Haqqani's photos for the first time

Experts deliberated on how Central and South Asian countries should engage with Afghanistan post the Taliban takeover during a conference jointly organised by the Tajik National University and the Council for Strategic Affairs, Indian Institute of Management.

Speaking at the event organised in Tajikistan, Indian parliamentarian and former minister of state for external affairs MJ Akbar said, "We think of 9/11 and imagine it began with the attack on the&nbsp;tower but it started when the Taliban armed forces took over Afghanistan."

"After the US forces left Afghanistan the message that&nbsp;went out to the world was that America was not ready to stand with anyone and then the Ukraine issue started. NATO&nbsp;and the&nbsp;US won't stand for them as well - now it's a firm message," he said.

"The new world order is going to demand equality towards all nations. India and Tajikistan can cooperate to make the world safe and peaceful," the former minister added.

"I have seen Afghan women come from the backward section to the mainstream. Afghanistan's story is not over, you will see the bright future of the country once again," he said.

"Independence is important both for Ukraine and Afghanistan. Dushanbe was a village in 1985 when I went there for the first time but now it is&nbsp;a developed city of a developed nation," he said, adding," it highlights the effect of independence."

Akbar said World War-I was the reason for World War-II and after that came the Cold War which gave birth to terrorism.

"The problems connected with World War-I should have been resolved at that time itself. We are facing problems&nbsp;due to past unresolved issues," MJ Akbar said.

"In India,&nbsp;there is balance of power today. What we need is balance not just balance of power. Balance in each and every field," he said.

Experts deliberated on how Central and South Asian countries should engage with Afghanistan post the Taliban takeover during a conference jointly organised by the Tajik National University and the Council for Strategic Affairs, Indian Institute of Management.

Experts deliberated on how Central and South Asian countries should engage with Afghanistan post the Taliban takeover during a conference jointly organised by the Tajik National University and the Council for Strategic Affairs, Indian Institute of Management. Speaking at the event organised in Tajikistan, Indian parliamentarian and former minister of state for external affairs MJ Akbar said, "We think of 9/11 and imagine it began with the attack on the tower but it started when the Taliban armed forces took over Afghanistan." "After the US forces left Afghanistan the message that went out to the world was that America was not ready to stand with anyone and then the Ukraine issue started. NATO and the US won't stand for them as well - now it's a firm message," he said. "The new world order is going to demand equality towards all nations. India and Tajikistan can cooperate to make the world safe and peaceful," the former minister added. "I have seen Afghan women come from the backward section to the mainstream. Afghanistan's story is not over, you will see the bright future of the country once again," he said. "Independence is important both for Ukraine and Afghanistan. Dushanbe was a village in 1985 when I went there for the first time but now it is a developed city of a developed nation," he said, adding," it highlights the effect of independence." Akbar said World War-I was the reason for World War-II and after that came the Cold War which gave birth to terrorism. "The problems connected with World War-I should have been resolved at that time itself. We are facing problems due to past unresolved issues," MJ Akbar said. "In India, there is balance of power today. What we need is balance not just balance of power. Balance in each and every field," he said.

Experts deliberate on how Central and South Asian countries should engage with Afghanistan

Afghan journalist Zahra Joya has been named as one of Time’s women of the year 2022. The journalist has been consistently reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan through her news agency, Rukhshana Media.

Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, journalists have been concerned for their safety. There have also been reports of journalists being beaten up.&nbsp;

She launched Rukhshana Media in December 2020 with her own money. Her agency is Afghanistan’s first feminist news agency. The agency aims to become the first national news source where an Afghan woman could see her own life reflected in the stories published every day.

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— Ali Hussaini (@Ali_Hussaini86) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ali_Hussaini86/status/1499420803129094146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Joya is currently living in the UK as a refugee. However, she still manages to run Rukhshana Media from exile. She has been publishing the reporting of her team of female journalists on life for women under Taliban rule.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-official-slams-pak-for-sending-inedible-wheat-says-indias-far-better-reports-459159">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban official slams Pak for sending inedible wheat, says India’s far better: Reports</a>

Joya, in a report by The Guardian said, "Although it has never been easy to be a woman and a journalist in Afghanistan, now our reporting has been almost eradicated. The Taliban have forced female journalists to wear the hijab, banning them from appearing on screen or in public, or from broadcasting their voices on radio in some provinces, but this makes it even more important that our stories continue to be told.”

Joya was interviewed by Angelina Jolie for Time’s women of the year issue. "The first time the Taliban regime were in Afghanistan, I was a child. I wasn’t allowed to go to school. But I loved learning," the journalist said while speaking to Jolie.&nbsp;

Joya was just 5 years old when the Taliban took power in Afghanistan. The regime, at that time, also banned girls’ education.&nbsp;

Determine to learn, the five-year-old dressed in boys’ clothing and walked two hours to and from school every day.&nbsp; 
It was only after the US invasion in 2001, that she dropped her disguise and enrolled as a law student.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghan journalist Zahra Joya has been named as one of Time’s women of the year 2022. The journalist has been consistently reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan through her news agency, Rukhshana Media.

Afghan journalist Zahra Joya has been named as one of Time’s women of the year 2022. The journalist has been consistently reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan through her news agency, Rukhshana Media. Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, journalists have been concerned for their safety. There have also been reports of journalists being beaten up. She launched Rukhshana Media in December 2020 with her own money. Her agency is Afghanistan’s first feminist news agency. The agency aims to become the first national news source where an Afghan woman could see her own life reflected in the stories published every day. Angelina Jolie to Zahra Joya (Afghan journalist): It’s an honor to meet you. I really admire your work. pic.twitter.com/L24B2c6o4F — Ali Hussaini (@Ali_Hussaini86) March 3, 2022 × Joya is currently living in the UK as a refugee. However, she still manages to run Rukhshana Media from exile. She has been publishing the reporting of her team of female journalists on life for women under Taliban rule. Also read | Taliban official slams Pak for sending inedible wheat, says India’s far better: Reports Joya, in a report by The Guardian said, "Although it has never been easy to be a woman and a journalist in Afghanistan, now our reporting has been almost eradicated. The Taliban have forced female journalists to wear the hijab, banning them from appearing on screen or in public, or from broadcasting their voices on radio in some provinces, but this makes it even more important that our stories continue to be told.” Joya was interviewed by Angelina Jolie for Time’s women of the year issue. "The first time the Taliban regime were in Afghanistan, I was a child. I wasn’t allowed to go to school. But I loved learning," the journalist said while speaking to Jolie. Joya was just 5 years old when the Taliban took power in Afghanistan. The regime, at that time, also banned girls’ education. Determine to learn, the five-year-old dressed in boys’ clothing and walked two hours to and from school every day. It was only after the US invasion in 2001, that she dropped her disguise and enrolled as a law student. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan journalist features in Time’s women of the year for reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan

A plan to use more than $1 billion from a frozen Afghanistan trust fund to finance education, agriculture, health, and family programmes was approved by the World Bank's executive board on Tuesday, the bank announced.

By bypassing sanctioned Taliban authorities and disbursing money through UN agencies and international aid groups, the plan will provide a significant boost to efforts to ease the country's worsening humanitarian and economic crises.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-ban-afghans-from-evacuating-amid-massive-security-sweep-457508">Taliban ban Afghans from evacuating amid massive security sweep</a>

The approach "aims to support the delivery of essential basic services, protect vulnerable Afghans, help preserve human capital and key economic and social services, and reduce the need for humanitarian assistance in the future," the bank said in a statement.

Last year, when the Taliban overran Kabul as the last international troops departed after 20 years of war, the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF) was frozen.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-pakistan-to-hold-discussion-over-durand-line-457033">&nbsp;Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line</a>

While foreign governments ended financial aid, which accounted for more than 70 per cent of Afghan government expenditures, the United States spearheaded the freezing of about $9 billion of Afghan central bank assets.

The cuts accelerated an economic collapse, leading to a cash crunch and a humanitarian crisis that the United Nations says has put more than half of Afghanistan's 39 million people at risk of starvation.

Watch: Afghanistan and now Ukraine...Is US about to lose its hegemony?

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In a statement, the World Bank said donors would decide, as a first step, on four projects valued at about $600 million that would address "urgent needs in education, health and agricultural sectors, as well as community livelihoods."

The statement said "strong&nbsp;focus on ensuring that girls and women participate and benefit from the support."&nbsp;

Since the Taliban took to power 20 years ago, women's rights have been eroded. They've lost&nbsp;many of the rights gained during the last two decades,&nbsp;such as the right to work and to travel without close male relatives.

Since the Taliban took over, most girls are not allowed to attend school past seventh grade. Islamist extremists claim that all girls will be allowed to return to class later this month.

(With inputs from agencies)
</div>

A plan to use more than $1 billion from a frozen Afghanistan trust fund to finance education, agriculture, health, and family programmes was approved by the World Bank's executive board on Tuesday, the bank announced.

A plan to use more than $1 billion from a frozen Afghanistan trust fund to finance education, agriculture, health, and family programmes was approved by the World Bank's executive board on Tuesday, the bank announced. By bypassing sanctioned Taliban authorities and disbursing money through UN agencies and international aid groups, the plan will provide a significant boost to efforts to ease the country's worsening humanitarian and economic crises. Also read | Taliban ban Afghans from evacuating amid massive security sweep The approach "aims to support the delivery of essential basic services, protect vulnerable Afghans, help preserve human capital and key economic and social services, and reduce the need for humanitarian assistance in the future," the bank said in a statement. Last year, when the Taliban overran Kabul as the last international troops departed after 20 years of war, the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF) was frozen. Also read | Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line While foreign governments ended financial aid, which accounted for more than 70 per cent of Afghan government expenditures, the United States spearheaded the freezing of about $9 billion of Afghan central bank assets. The cuts accelerated an economic collapse, leading to a cash crunch and a humanitarian crisis that the United Nations says has put more than half of Afghanistan's 39 million people at risk of starvation. Watch: Afghanistan and now Ukraine...Is US about to lose its hegemony? In a statement, the World Bank said donors would decide, as a first step, on four projects valued at about $600 million that would address "urgent needs in education, health and agricultural sectors, as well as community livelihoods." The statement said "strong focus on ensuring that girls and women participate and benefit from the support." Since the Taliban took to power 20 years ago, women's rights have been eroded. They've lost many of the rights gained during the last two decades, such as the right to work and to travel without close male relatives. Since the Taliban took over, most girls are not allowed to attend school past seventh grade. Islamist extremists claim that all girls will be allowed to return to class later this month. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan to receive more than $1 billion in aid from the World Bank; funds to bypass Taliban

In response to mounting western sanctions Russian president Vladimir Putin has now raised threats of nuclear war. Russia strike has not just changed Ukraine, it will change the world as the offensives have upended post-cold war security and renewed foreign policy debates.

Afghanistan and now Ukraine...Is US about to lose its hegemony?

After leaving Afghanistan a year ago, Ajmal Rahmani believed he had found a haven of peace in Ukraine.

This week, he and his family had to flee again -- this time to Poland to the sounds of Russian bombs.

"I run from one war, come to another country and another war starts. Very bad luck," Rahmani told AFP shortly after crossing into Poland.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-biggest-plane-mriya-destroyed-by-russia-near-kyiv-457293">World's biggest plane 'Mriya' destroyed by Russia near Kyiv</a>

His seven-year-old daughter Marwa clutched a beige-coloured soft toy dog as Rahmani spoke.

Together with Marwa, his wife Mina and son Omar, 11, the family walked the last 30 kilometres (19 miles) to the crossing on foot because of the gridlock on the Ukrainian side of the border.

After arriving at the Medyka on the Polish side, the family waited with other refugees for a bus that will take them to the nearby city of Przemysl.

Hundreds of thousands of people have fled during the four days of conflict into neighbouring countries, mainly Poland, Hungary and Romania.

While most of the refugees are Ukrainian, among them are also students and migrant workers from further afield, including Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India and Nepal.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-ukraines-refugees-europe-opens-doors-that-were-shut-to-others-456918">&nbsp;For Ukraine’s refugees, Europe opens doors that were shut to others</a>

I lost everything

Rahmani, who is in his 40s, said he worked for NATO in Afghanistan for 18 years at Kabul airport.

He decided to leave the country four months before the US withdrawal because he received threats and was so scared he kept his children out of school.

Before that "I had a good life in Afghanistan, I had a private house, I had a private car, I had a good salary," said Rahmani.

"I sold my car, my house, my everything. I lost everything," he said.&nbsp;

But he added: "nothing is better than my love, than my family life".

Rahmani said he struggled to get a visa to leave Afghanistan and decided to go to Ukraine because it was the only country that would take him in.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-new-refugee-crisis-as-russia-attacks-ukraine-thousands-flee-the-chaos-456411">A new 'refugee crisis': As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos</a>

They set up home in Odessa -- a Black Sea port city.

Four days ago, when Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, they had to leave everything again and travelled the 1,110 kilometres to the border.

Polish authorities said nearly 213,000 people have crossed into Poland from Ukraine since Thursday.

Rahmani and his family, like others without a Polish visa, now have 15 days to get registered, said Tomasz Pietrzak, a lawyer with the Ocalenie (Salvation) Foundation, a charity for migrants.

The timeline is unlikely given the numbers.

"Poland will have to very quickly amend its legislation on this issue," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;UN Refugee Agency: At least 150,000 people flee Ukraine to neighboring countries

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-refugee-agency-at-least-150000-people-flee-ukraine-to-neighboring-countries-457003/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Rahmani said he was concerned about the future but was encouraged by the warm welcome he received from volunteers and officials assisting the stream of refugees on the Polish side of the border.

"They gave us energy," he said

After leaving Afghanistan a year ago, Ajmal Rahmani believed he had found a haven of peace in Ukraine. This week, he and his family had to flee again -- this time to Poland to the sounds of Russian bombs.

After leaving Afghanistan a year ago, Ajmal Rahmani believed he had found a haven of peace in Ukraine. This week, he and his family had to flee again -- this time to Poland to the sounds of Russian bombs. "I run from one war, come to another country and another war starts. Very bad luck," Rahmani told AFP shortly after crossing into Poland. Also read | World's biggest plane 'Mriya' destroyed by Russia near Kyiv His seven-year-old daughter Marwa clutched a beige-coloured soft toy dog as Rahmani spoke. Together with Marwa, his wife Mina and son Omar, 11, the family walked the last 30 kilometres (19 miles) to the crossing on foot because of the gridlock on the Ukrainian side of the border. After arriving at the Medyka on the Polish side, the family waited with other refugees for a bus that will take them to the nearby city of Przemysl. Hundreds of thousands of people have fled during the four days of conflict into neighbouring countries, mainly Poland, Hungary and Romania. While most of the refugees are Ukrainian, among them are also students and migrant workers from further afield, including Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India and Nepal. Also read | For Ukraine’s refugees, Europe opens doors that were shut to others I lost everything Rahmani, who is in his 40s, said he worked for NATO in Afghanistan for 18 years at Kabul airport. He decided to leave the country four months before the US withdrawal because he received threats and was so scared he kept his children out of school. Before that "I had a good life in Afghanistan, I had a private house, I had a private car, I had a good salary," said Rahmani. "I sold my car, my house, my everything. I lost everything," he said. But he added: "nothing is better than my love, than my family life". Rahmani said he struggled to get a visa to leave Afghanistan and decided to go to Ukraine because it was the only country that would take him in. Also read | A new 'refugee crisis': As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos They set up home in Odessa -- a Black Sea port city. Four days ago, when Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, they had to leave everything again and travelled the 1,110 kilometres to the border. Polish authorities said nearly 213,000 people have crossed into Poland from Ukraine since Thursday. Rahmani and his family, like others without a Polish visa, now have 15 days to get registered, said Tomasz Pietrzak, a lawyer with the Ocalenie (Salvation) Foundation, a charity for migrants. The timeline is unlikely given the numbers. "Poland will have to very quickly amend its legislation on this issue," he said. Watch | UN Refugee Agency: At least 150,000 people flee Ukraine to neighboring countries Rahmani said he was concerned about the future but was encouraged by the warm welcome he received from volunteers and officials assisting the stream of refugees on the Polish side of the border. "They gave us energy," he said

'Another war': Afghan forced to flee again

A key&nbsp;border&nbsp;crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has reopened, officials said Sunday,&nbsp;days&nbsp;after&nbsp;fighting between security forces left at least three dead.

Since the Taliban returned to power last year&nbsp;border&nbsp;tensions between the neighbours have risen, with Pakistan alleging militant groups were planning attacks from Afghan soil.

The Taliban deny harbouring Pakistani militants, but are also infuriated by a fence Islamabad is erecting along their 2,700-kilometre (1,600-mile)&nbsp;border, drawn up in colonial times and known as the Durand Line.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-pakistan-to-hold-discussion-over-durand-line-457033">Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line</a>

"The&nbsp;border&nbsp;has reopened for all sort of activities," a spokesman for Pakistan’s paramilitary&nbsp;border&nbsp;force told AFP.

A security source said it came&nbsp;after&nbsp;"successful talks" between Pakistani officials and the governor of Afghanistan's Kandahar province.

Mahmood Azaam, spokesman for the governor, confirmed it had reopened.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-to-address-pakistan-on-the-countrys-current-economic-crisis-457023">&nbsp;Imran Khan to address Pakistan on the country's current economic crisis</a>

Each side blamed the other for Thursday's clashes at the Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing, which locals said involved light and heavy weapons.

Thousands usually cross every day, including traders, Afghans seeking medical treatment in Pakistan, and people visiting relatives.

&nbsp;

A key border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has reopened, officials said Sunday, days after fighting between security forces left at least three dead.

A key border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has reopened, officials said Sunday, days after fighting between security forces left at least three dead. Since the Taliban returned to power last year border tensions between the neighbours have risen, with Pakistan alleging militant groups were planning attacks from Afghan soil. The Taliban deny harbouring Pakistani militants, but are also infuriated by a fence Islamabad is erecting along their 2,700-kilometre (1,600-mile) border, drawn up in colonial times and known as the Durand Line. Also read | Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line "The border has reopened for all sort of activities," a spokesman for Pakistan’s paramilitary border force told AFP. A security source said it came after "successful talks" between Pakistani officials and the governor of Afghanistan's Kandahar province. Mahmood Azaam, spokesman for the governor, confirmed it had reopened. Also read | Imran Khan to address Pakistan on the country's current economic crisis Each side blamed the other for Thursday's clashes at the Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing, which locals said involved light and heavy weapons. Thousands usually cross every day, including traders, Afghans seeking medical treatment in Pakistan, and people visiting relatives.

Pakistan-Afghan border reopens days after deadly clash

Taliban members and Pakistan officials will hold a meeting on Monday at Torkham over trade flows and people's movement across the Durand Line, according to local media.

Heading a high-level delegation, Commerce Adviser Razak Dawood will hold talks with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan's commerce minister, Pajhwok Afghan News reported on Sunday.

Pakistan's Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq and National Security Advisor Dr Moeed Yusuf will also accompany Dawood.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-main-universities-reopen-after-six-months-few-women-return-456880">&nbsp;Afghanistan's main universities reopen after six months, few women return</a>

This information was shared at a meeting of the Afghanistan Inter-Ministerial Coordination Cell (AICC), Pajhwok Afghan News said citing an official statement.

Recently, Durand Line in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar has witnessed a fight between Talibani and Pakistani forces, leaving 20 injured and 3 killed during the scuffle.So far, 20 civilians have been injured and three killed in the incident.

Taking to Twitter Asvaka News said, "Fighting has been raging in the Spin Boldak district of #Kandahar between #Taliban &amp; #Paki forces on the #Durand Line since this afternoon. 20 civilians injured &amp; three killed so far. Civilians have fled their homes near the Durand Line."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/putin-and-an-excited-imran-khan-discuss-cooperation-and-exchange-views-on-regional-issues-456140">Putin and an 'excited' Imran Khan discuss cooperation and exchange views on regional issues</a>

According to the sources in Kandahar, Pakistani border guards beat an Afghan child at the Spin Boldak Gate and Afghan security forces opened fire on Pakistani border guards in the area. The incident took place afternoon on Thursday, after which the gate was closed to traffic.

It added that after the incident, the army forces from the Al-Badr corps arrived at the scene and are preparing to respond to the Pakistani border guards.

Differences between the Taliban and Pakistan continue to persist over the issue of the Durand Line.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eight-polio-vaccinators-killed-in-series-of-afghan-attacks-un-456107">Eight polio vaccinators killed in series of Afghan attacks: UN</a>

However, bilateral relations between Pakistan and the Taliban are turning hostile over the issue of Durand Line and cross-border "terror activities" of groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) against Islamabad. Pakistan intends to bring the tribal areas near the Durand Line under its control and complete its Durand barbed wire fencing.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Pak govt eyes citizen's gold to escape financial woes

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pak-govt-eyes-citizens-gold-to-escape-financial-woes-455185/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Following deadly attacks on Pakistani troops, the Pakistani military has launched an operation along the Durand Line near Afghanistan.

According to the Military analysts, Pakistan has not changed its bilateral policy and the country wants to get rid of international criticism, which has been accused of training and financing terrorism for years.&nbsp;

Taliban members and Pakistan officials will hold a meeting on Monday at Torkham over trade flows and people's movement across the Durand Line, according to local media.

Taliban members and Pakistan officials will hold a meeting on Monday at Torkham over trade flows and people's movement across the Durand Line, according to local media. Heading a high-level delegation, Commerce Adviser Razak Dawood will hold talks with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan's commerce minister, Pajhwok Afghan News reported on Sunday. Pakistan's Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq and National Security Advisor Dr Moeed Yusuf will also accompany Dawood. Also read | Afghanistan's main universities reopen after six months, few women return This information was shared at a meeting of the Afghanistan Inter-Ministerial Coordination Cell (AICC), Pajhwok Afghan News said citing an official statement. Recently, Durand Line in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar has witnessed a fight between Talibani and Pakistani forces, leaving 20 injured and 3 killed during the scuffle.So far, 20 civilians have been injured and three killed in the incident. Taking to Twitter Asvaka News said, "Fighting has been raging in the Spin Boldak district of #Kandahar between #Taliban & #Paki forces on the #Durand Line since this afternoon. 20 civilians injured & three killed so far. Civilians have fled their homes near the Durand Line." Also read | Putin and an 'excited' Imran Khan discuss cooperation and exchange views on regional issues According to the sources in Kandahar, Pakistani border guards beat an Afghan child at the Spin Boldak Gate and Afghan security forces opened fire on Pakistani border guards in the area. The incident took place afternoon on Thursday, after which the gate was closed to traffic. It added that after the incident, the army forces from the Al-Badr corps arrived at the scene and are preparing to respond to the Pakistani border guards. Differences between the Taliban and Pakistan continue to persist over the issue of the Durand Line. Also read | Eight polio vaccinators killed in series of Afghan attacks: UN However, bilateral relations between Pakistan and the Taliban are turning hostile over the issue of Durand Line and cross-border "terror activities" of groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) against Islamabad. Pakistan intends to bring the tribal areas near the Durand Line under its control and complete its Durand barbed wire fencing. Watch | Gravitas: Pak govt eyes citizen's gold to escape financial woes Following deadly attacks on Pakistani troops, the Pakistani military has launched an operation along the Durand Line near Afghanistan. According to the Military analysts, Pakistan has not changed its bilateral policy and the country wants to get rid of international criticism, which has been accused of training and financing terrorism for years.

Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line

Afghanistan's main universities reopened Saturday six months after the Taliban returned to power, but only a trickle of women went back to now-segregated classes.

Most secondary schools for girls and all public universities were shuttered following the Taliban's August 15 takeover, sparking fears women would be barred from education -- as happened during the first rule of the hardline Islamists, from 1996-2001.

The Taliban insist they will allow girls and women to be educated this time around -- but only in segregated classes and according to an Islamic curriculum.

Some public tertiary institutions in the south of the country resumed last month, but on Saturday Kabul University, the oldest and biggest with a student body of around 25,000 last year, re-opened without fanfare -- and few students in attendance.

Taliban guards refused journalists access to the sprawling campus and chased away media teams lingering near the entrance.

AFP, however, spoke to some students away from the gates, who expressed mixed feelings after their first day back.

"I am happy that the university resumed... we want to continue our studies," said an English major who asked to be identified only as Basira.

But she said there were "some difficulties" -- including students being scolded by Taliban guards for bringing their mobile phones to class.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-a-first-hindu-army-officer-kelash-kumar-promoted-to-the-rank-of-lieutenant-colonel-in-pakistan-army-456455">Also read |&nbsp;In a first, Hindu army officer Kelash Kumar promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Pakistan army</a>

"They did not behave well with us... they were rude," she said.&nbsp;

Another English student, Maryam, said only seven women attended her class.

"Before we were 56 students, boys and girls," she said.

No students in Panjshir

There was also a shortage of lecturers, she said, adding: "Maybe because some have left the country."

A similar picture emerged from campuses across the country, although no students returned to class at Panjshir University, in the heartland of a nascent resistance to the Taliban's rule.

"I do not know if they will come tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow, or not," said Professor Noor-ur-Rehman Afzali.

Panjshir was the last province to fall to the Taliban last year, and Jaber Jibran, a faculty head, said several classrooms destroyed in that fighting had still not been repaired.

Some students said they thought many stayed away out of fear of the new authorities, or because they could not afford the fees.

Long dependent on foreign aid for survival, Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis and the country's overseas assets have been seized by the United States.

"Most of the students might not be able to afford it," said one named Haseenat, while another said her friends had asked her to "report back" on what conditions were like before they decided on attending.

The Taliban have said previously that women students must wear a black abaya over their bodies and hijab on their heads, but stopped short of insisting on the all-covering burqa that was compulsory during their previous rule.

Several students, however, appeared dressed no differently Saturday than they would have before the Taliban takeover, with a simple shawl covering their heads.

"I have never worn any hijab before... it's new for me," said Sohaila Rostami, a biology student in her last semester at Bamiyam University.

"I used to wear jeans and other normal clothes. It will be difficult for me to observe hijab," she told AFP.

In Herat, the ancient Silk Road city near the Iranian border and once one of the Islamic world's most important intellectual centres, students also complained about a lack of tutors.

"Some of our professors have also left the country, but we are happy that the university gates are open," said Parisa Narwan, studying arts.

Tens of thousands of Afghans fled the country as the Taliban stormed back to power -- among them teachers and lecturers who had been vociferously critical of the hardline Islamist group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/12-militants-killed-in-encounter-with-security-forces-in-paks-balochistan-kp-455983">Also read |&nbsp;12 militants killed in encounter with security forces in Pak's Balochistan, KP</a>

No country has yet recognised the new regime, which has imposed several restrictions on women -- including banning them from many government jobs.

In Kabul, student Haseenat said campus life for women was now very different to before.

"We are told not to go out of our classes," she told AFP.

"There is no cafeteria anymore... we are not allowed to go to the university's courtyard."

Afghanistan's main universities reopened Saturday six months after the Taliban returned to power, but only a trickle of women went back to now-segregated classes.

Afghanistan's main universities reopened Saturday six months after the Taliban returned to power, but only a trickle of women went back to now-segregated classes. Most secondary schools for girls and all public universities were shuttered following the Taliban's August 15 takeover, sparking fears women would be barred from education -- as happened during the first rule of the hardline Islamists, from 1996-2001. The Taliban insist they will allow girls and women to be educated this time around -- but only in segregated classes and according to an Islamic curriculum. Some public tertiary institutions in the south of the country resumed last month, but on Saturday Kabul University, the oldest and biggest with a student body of around 25,000 last year, re-opened without fanfare -- and few students in attendance. Taliban guards refused journalists access to the sprawling campus and chased away media teams lingering near the entrance. AFP, however, spoke to some students away from the gates, who expressed mixed feelings after their first day back. "I am happy that the university resumed... we want to continue our studies," said an English major who asked to be identified only as Basira. But she said there were "some difficulties" -- including students being scolded by Taliban guards for bringing their mobile phones to class. Also read | In a first, Hindu army officer Kelash Kumar promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Pakistan army "They did not behave well with us... they were rude," she said. Another English student, Maryam, said only seven women attended her class. "Before we were 56 students, boys and girls," she said. No students in Panjshir There was also a shortage of lecturers, she said, adding: "Maybe because some have left the country." A similar picture emerged from campuses across the country, although no students returned to class at Panjshir University, in the heartland of a nascent resistance to the Taliban's rule. "I do not know if they will come tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow, or not," said Professor Noor-ur-Rehman Afzali. Panjshir was the last province to fall to the Taliban last year, and Jaber Jibran, a faculty head, said several classrooms destroyed in that fighting had still not been repaired. Some students said they thought many stayed away out of fear of the new authorities, or because they could not afford the fees. Long dependent on foreign aid for survival, Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis and the country's overseas assets have been seized by the United States. "Most of the students might not be able to afford it," said one named Haseenat, while another said her friends had asked her to "report back" on what conditions were like before they decided on attending. The Taliban have said previously that women students must wear a black abaya over their bodies and hijab on their heads, but stopped short of insisting on the all-covering burqa that was compulsory during their previous rule. Several students, however, appeared dressed no differently Saturday than they would have before the Taliban takeover, with a simple shawl covering their heads. "I have never worn any hijab before... it's new for me," said Sohaila Rostami, a biology student in her last semester at Bamiyam University. "I used to wear jeans and other normal clothes. It will be difficult for me to observe hijab," she told AFP. In Herat, the ancient Silk Road city near the Iranian border and once one of the Islamic world's most important intellectual centres, students also complained about a lack of tutors. "Some of our professors have also left the country, but we are happy that the university gates are open," said Parisa Narwan, studying arts. Tens of thousands of Afghans fled the country as the Taliban stormed back to power -- among them teachers and lecturers who had been vociferously critical of the hardline Islamist group. Also read | 12 militants killed in encounter with security forces in Pak's Balochistan, KP No country has yet recognised the new regime, which has imposed several restrictions on women -- including banning them from many government jobs. In Kabul, student Haseenat said campus life for women was now very different to before. "We are told not to go out of our classes," she told AFP. "There is no cafeteria anymore... we are not allowed to go to the university's courtyard."

Afghanistan's main universities reopen after six months, few women return

The Indian men`s football team will have to contend with Hong Kong, Afghanistan and Cambodia in its bid to qualify for next year`s AFC Asian Cup in China. 
 
India, who are ranked 104th in FIFA Rankings, have drawn lower-ranked opponents in Hong Kong (148), Afghanistan (150) and Cambodia (171) in the draw for the final qualifying round conducted virtually in the Malaysian capital on Thursday. 
 
In the final round qualifiers, 24 teams have been divided into six groups of four each. India will host the Group D matches at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) in Kolkata with matches being played on June 8, 11 and 14, 2022. 
 
The six group winners and five best second-placed teams will join hosts China PR, Australia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Japan, Korea Republic, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria and the United Arab Emirates and Vietnam in the Finals, which will start in China on June 16, 2023, the Asian Football Confederation informed in a release on Thursday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-calls-extraordinary-meeting-to-discuss-situation-in-the-wake-of-russia-ukraine-crisis-456057">UEFA calls extraordinary meeting to discuss situation in the wake of Russia-Ukraine crisis</a>

The groupings: 
 
Group A: Jordan, Kuwait (H), Indonesia, Nepal 
 
Group B: Palestine, Philippines, Yemen, Mongolia (H) 
 
Group C: Uzbekistan (H), Thailand, Maldives, Sri Lanka 
 
Group D: India (H), Hong Kong, Afghanistan, Cambodia 
 
Group E: Bahrain, Turkmenistan, Malaysia (H), Bangladesh 
 
Group F: Kyrgyz Republic (H), Tajikistan, Myanmar, Singapore

The Indian men`s football team will have to contend with Hong Kong, Afghanistan and Cambodia in its bid to qualify for next year`s AFC Asian Cup in China. India, who are ranked 104th in FIFA Rankings, have drawn lower-ranked opponents in Hong Kong (148), Afghanistan (150) and Cambodia (171) in the draw for the final qualifying round conducted virtually in the Malaysian capital on Thursday.

The Indian men`s football team will have to contend with Hong Kong, Afghanistan and Cambodia in its bid to qualify for next year`s AFC Asian Cup in China. India, who are ranked 104th in FIFA Rankings, have drawn lower-ranked opponents in Hong Kong (148), Afghanistan (150) and Cambodia (171) in the draw for the final qualifying round conducted virtually in the Malaysian capital on Thursday. In the final round qualifiers, 24 teams have been divided into six groups of four each. India will host the Group D matches at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) in Kolkata with matches being played on June 8, 11 and 14, 2022. The six group winners and five best second-placed teams will join hosts China PR, Australia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Japan, Korea Republic, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria and the United Arab Emirates and Vietnam in the Finals, which will start in China on June 16, 2023, the Asian Football Confederation informed in a release on Thursday. ALSO READ | UEFA calls extraordinary meeting to discuss situation in the wake of Russia-Ukraine crisis The groupings: Group A: Jordan, Kuwait (H), Indonesia, Nepal Group B: Palestine, Philippines, Yemen, Mongolia (H) Group C: Uzbekistan (H), Thailand, Maldives, Sri Lanka Group D: India (H), Hong Kong, Afghanistan, Cambodia Group E: Bahrain, Turkmenistan, Malaysia (H), Bangladesh Group F: Kyrgyz Republic (H), Tajikistan, Myanmar, Singapore

AFC Asian Cup: Sunil Chhetri-led India to face Hong Kong, Afghanistan, Cambodia in final qualifiers

In a humanitarian gesture, India sent a convoy of 50 trucks carrying wheat to war-torn Afghanistan via Pakistan. It is said to be the first consignment of aids India has planned for the Afghan nation.

India sends a convoy of 50 trucks carrying wheat to war-torn Afghanistan via Pakistan

US State Department said on Tuesday that the US had restricted import of cultural and historical items from Afghanistan with an aim to prevent "terrorists" from profiting. Experts have reportedly voiced fears about unintended consequences of such a measure.

The decree, which was implemented on an "emergency" basis and took effect on Friday, includes restrictions on bringing ceramics, paintings, glass, ivory, ancient textiles, tiles and wood pieces, among others into the country, according to a government list.&nbsp;

The restrictions "are intended to prevent illicitly trafficked materials from entering the US art market, thus reducing the incentive for pillage of Afghanistan's cultural heritage and combatting profit from the sale of these cultural objects by terrorists and criminal organizations," the State Department said.&nbsp;

But they come after an April 2021 request from the US-backed Afghan government -- which fell to the Taliban in August.

"Can the State Department act based on a 'request' of a government that no longer exists?" ancient coin collector and advocate Peter Tompa asked in a post on his blog the Cultural Property Observer.

"The real question is how these restrictions are going to be enforced and if any material that may be seized will be repatriated to the Taliban once diplomatic relations (with the United States) are restored," he wrote.&nbsp;

Taliban 'investigating' looting

Restricted archaeological material dates from the year 50,000 BC through 1747, and restricted cultural material includes items from the ninth century through 1920, the government said.

The new regulations could create logistics issues for collectors or curators who already have items on their way to the United States as auction houses prepare to sell pieces during Asia Week New York next month, art publication The Art Newspaper pointed out.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US State Department said on Tuesday that the US had restricted import of cultural and historical items from Afghanistan with an aim to prevent "terrorists" from profiting.

US State Department said on Tuesday that the US had restricted import of cultural and historical items from Afghanistan with an aim to prevent "terrorists" from profiting. Experts have reportedly voiced fears about unintended consequences of such a measure. The decree, which was implemented on an "emergency" basis and took effect on Friday, includes restrictions on bringing ceramics, paintings, glass, ivory, ancient textiles, tiles and wood pieces, among others into the country, according to a government list. The restrictions "are intended to prevent illicitly trafficked materials from entering the US art market, thus reducing the incentive for pillage of Afghanistan's cultural heritage and combatting profit from the sale of these cultural objects by terrorists and criminal organizations," the State Department said. But they come after an April 2021 request from the US-backed Afghan government -- which fell to the Taliban in August. "Can the State Department act based on a 'request' of a government that no longer exists?" ancient coin collector and advocate Peter Tompa asked in a post on his blog the Cultural Property Observer. "The real question is how these restrictions are going to be enforced and if any material that may be seized will be repatriated to the Taliban once diplomatic relations (with the United States) are restored," he wrote. Taliban 'investigating' looting Restricted archaeological material dates from the year 50,000 BC through 1747, and restricted cultural material includes items from the ninth century through 1920, the government said. The new regulations could create logistics issues for collectors or curators who already have items on their way to the United States as auction houses prepare to sell pieces during Asia Week New York next month, art publication The Art Newspaper pointed out.

US imposes restriction on importing Afghan cultural items

Women&nbsp;working in&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;government departments&nbsp;must&nbsp;cover&nbsp;up&nbsp;--&nbsp;even&nbsp;with a&nbsp;blanket&nbsp;if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the&nbsp;Taliban's religious police said Tuesday.

Most&nbsp;women&nbsp;have been barred from their government jobs, since the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;retook power in August, though Afghanistan's new rulers claim they will be allowed to return once some conditions are in place -- such as segregated offices.

On Tuesday, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice issued a statement saying&nbsp;women&nbsp;should not go to work unless they were properly covered, and they could be fired if they did not follow guidelines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/protesters-demand-release-of-afghanistans-frozen-assets-455272">Protesters demand release of Afghanistan's frozen assets</a>

The ministry earned notoriety during the&nbsp;Taliban's first stint in power from 1996 to 2001 for policing the leadership's strict interpretation of Islam.

It was unclear why they issued Tuesday's statement, as most&nbsp;women&nbsp;in Afghanistan have always covered their heads in public -- with a loose shawl at least.

"They can follow the hijab the way they want," ministry spokesman Mohammad Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP when reached for clarification.

Women&nbsp;working in&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;government departments&nbsp;must&nbsp;cover&nbsp;up&nbsp;--&nbsp;even&nbsp;with a&nbsp;blanket&nbsp;if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the&nbsp;Taliban's religious police said Tuesday.

Most&nbsp;women&nbsp;have been barred from their government jobs, since the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;retook power in August, though Afghanistan's new rulers claim they will be allowed to return once some conditions are in place -- such as segregated offices.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/since-taliban-takeover-86-afghan-radio-stations-have-closed-453210">Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed</a>

On Tuesday, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice issued a statement saying&nbsp;women&nbsp;should not go to work unless they were properly covered, and they could be fired if they did not follow guidelines.

The ministry earned notoriety during the&nbsp;Taliban's first stint in power from 1996 to 2001 for policing the leadership's strict interpretation of Islam.

It was unclear why they issued Tuesday's statement, as most&nbsp;women&nbsp;in Afghanistan have always covered their heads in public -- with a loose shawl at least.

"They can follow the hijab the way they want," ministry spokesman Mohammad Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP when reached for clarification.

Women working in Afghan government departments must cover up -- even with a blanket if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the Taliban's religious police said Tuesday.

Women working in Afghan government departments must cover up -- even with a blanket if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the Taliban's religious police said Tuesday. Most women have been barred from their government jobs, since the Taliban retook power in August, though Afghanistan's new rulers claim they will be allowed to return once some conditions are in place -- such as segregated offices. On Tuesday, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice issued a statement saying women should not go to work unless they were properly covered, and they could be fired if they did not follow guidelines. Also read | Protesters demand release of Afghanistan's frozen assets The ministry earned notoriety during the Taliban's first stint in power from 1996 to 2001 for policing the leadership's strict interpretation of Islam. It was unclear why they issued Tuesday's statement, as most women in Afghanistan have always covered their heads in public -- with a loose shawl at least. "They can follow the hijab the way they want," ministry spokesman Mohammad Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP when reached for clarification. Women working in Afghan government departments must cover up -- even with a blanket if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the Taliban's religious police said Tuesday. Most women have been barred from their government jobs, since the Taliban retook power in August, though Afghanistan's new rulers claim they will be allowed to return once some conditions are in place -- such as segregated offices. Also read | Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed On Tuesday, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice issued a statement saying women should not go to work unless they were properly covered, and they could be fired if they did not follow guidelines. The ministry earned notoriety during the Taliban's first stint in power from 1996 to 2001 for policing the leadership's strict interpretation of Islam. It was unclear why they issued Tuesday's statement, as most women in Afghanistan have always covered their heads in public -- with a loose shawl at least. "They can follow the hijab the way they want," ministry spokesman Mohammad Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP when reached for clarification.

Women workers must cover up 'even with a blanket', say Afghan Taliban

A number of Afghan men and women staged protests demanding the release of the frozen assets that have led to the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in the war-torn nation.

In Kabul on Monday, a group of Afghan women held a gathering near the UN office and called for the return of the assets to Afghanistan, reports TOLO News. 
 
"This money is Afghans'&nbsp;money, not money to pay as compensation by (US President) Joe Biden. The money should be surrendered to Afghanistan," said Arzo, a protestor. 
 
"Our people are struggling with poverty and this money can change the situation inside Afghanistan," said Shogofa Nejta, another protestor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-members-of-jogi-minority-demand-basic-necessities-rights-454739">Afghanistan: Members of Jogi minority demand basic necessities, rights</a> 
 
Also on Monday, several teachers at the Shaikh Zayed University in Khost province launched a demonstration against Biden's decision to split the frozen assets, calling it unfair. 
 
"This is a cruelty, they do not have the right to hold Afghanistan's money as compensation," said Rabani Wahdat, a teacher.- 
 
Residents of Bamyan province also took to the streets to urge the release of the assets belonging to the Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB) held in the US and other countries. 
 
The protests come in the wake of Biden signing an Executive Order on February 11, under which some of the frozen assets will be distributed as assistance to Afghanistan and to victims of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/six-year-old-haider-trapped-in-well-in-afghanistan-for-three-days-dies-454343">&nbsp;Six-year-old Haider, trapped in well in Afghanistan for three days, dies</a> 
 
According to the White House, while "the administration will seek to facilitate access to $3.5 billion of those assets for the benefit of the Afghan people", "more than $3.5 billion in DAB assets would remain in the US and are subject to ongoing litigation by American victims of terrorism". 
 
When Kabul fell to the Taliban in August 2021, Afghanistan had over $9 billion in reserves held in the name of DAB outside of the country. 
 
This included $7 billion in reserves held in the US, with the rest of the reserves largely being in Germany, the UAE, Switzerland, and a couple of other states.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/41-truck-afghan-convoy-reaches-wagah-border-to-collect-indian-wheats-first-consignment-455254">41-truck Afghan convoy reaches Wagah border to collect Indian wheat’s first consignment</a> 
 
Economic experts believe that Afghan currency will dramatically lose value if the frozen assets are spent for any purpose and not returned to Afghanistan, TOLO News reported. 
 
"These assets are to keep Afghanis stable, therefore, they should not be spent in any other way," said an analyst.

A number of Afghan men and women staged protests demanding the release of the frozen assets that have led to the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in the war-torn nation.

A number of Afghan men and women staged protests demanding the release of the frozen assets that have led to the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in the war-torn nation. In Kabul on Monday, a group of Afghan women held a gathering near the UN office and called for the return of the assets to Afghanistan, reports TOLO News. "This money is Afghans' money, not money to pay as compensation by (US President) Joe Biden. The money should be surrendered to Afghanistan," said Arzo, a protestor. "Our people are struggling with poverty and this money can change the situation inside Afghanistan," said Shogofa Nejta, another protestor. Also read | Afghanistan: Members of Jogi minority demand basic necessities, rights Also on Monday, several teachers at the Shaikh Zayed University in Khost province launched a demonstration against Biden's decision to split the frozen assets, calling it unfair. "This is a cruelty, they do not have the right to hold Afghanistan's money as compensation," said Rabani Wahdat, a teacher.- Residents of Bamyan province also took to the streets to urge the release of the assets belonging to the Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB) held in the US and other countries. The protests come in the wake of Biden signing an Executive Order on February 11, under which some of the frozen assets will be distributed as assistance to Afghanistan and to victims of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks. Also read | Six-year-old Haider, trapped in well in Afghanistan for three days, dies According to the White House, while "the administration will seek to facilitate access to $3.5 billion of those assets for the benefit of the Afghan people", "more than $3.5 billion in DAB assets would remain in the US and are subject to ongoing litigation by American victims of terrorism". When Kabul fell to the Taliban in August 2021, Afghanistan had over $9 billion in reserves held in the name of DAB outside of the country. This included $7 billion in reserves held in the US, with the rest of the reserves largely being in Germany, the UAE, Switzerland, and a couple of other states. Also read | 41-truck Afghan convoy reaches Wagah border to collect Indian wheat’s first consignment Economic experts believe that Afghan currency will dramatically lose value if the frozen assets are spent for any purpose and not returned to Afghanistan, TOLO News reported. "These assets are to keep Afghanis stable, therefore, they should not be spent in any other way," said an analyst.

Protesters demand release of Afghanistan's frozen assets

The members of the Jogi ethnic minority group living in Kabul have complained of the dearth of basic living necessities amid deprivation of national identity, local media reported.

The Jogi are an ethnic minority group whose roots are from the Central Asian states. They do not have national identity cards and are deprived of access to education and other basic rights, including property, Tolo News reported citing the members of the group. Mohammad Sabir, who was working as the representative of the Jogi ethnic group in Kabul before the Taliban takeover of the government, said that he was dismissed after the Islamic Emirate came into power.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-your-home-pm-modi-tells-afghan-minority-community-members-454546">&nbsp;'India is your home', PM Modi tells Afghan minority community members</a>

"I was appointed as representative of the people (Jogi). This is my ID. My documents are legal. I started working as representative of Jogi. If they want me to share my documents, I will. I was active in the former government, but I was dismissed after the Islamic Emirate swept into power," he said, according to the Afghan news agency.

However, Nimatullah Barakzai, a spokesman of Kabul municipality, claimed that Sabir was fired because he was not qualified for the position." The person that you have asked about was disqualified as a local representative. This person has no property, which is one of the conditions to be a representative. He is not educated," the media outlet quoted him as saying. Taliban said that there is no exact information about the number of people with Jogi ethnicity living in Afghanistan."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/six-year-old-haider-trapped-in-well-in-afghanistan-for-three-days-dies-454343">Six-year-old Haider, trapped in well in Afghanistan for three days, dies</a>

Due to lack of national identity cards, the Jogi lack access to education," Tolo News quoted the group as saying.In Afghanistan, the Taliban's swift ascension to power occurred in mid-August, triggering an economic disarray and food shortages that push the country to the brink of a humanitarian crisis, reported Sputnik.&nbsp;

The members of the Jogi ethnic minority group living in Kabul have complained of the dearth of basic living necessities amid deprivation of national identity, local media reported.

The members of the Jogi ethnic minority group living in Kabul have complained of the dearth of basic living necessities amid deprivation of national identity, local media reported. The Jogi are an ethnic minority group whose roots are from the Central Asian states. They do not have national identity cards and are deprived of access to education and other basic rights, including property, Tolo News reported citing the members of the group. Mohammad Sabir, who was working as the representative of the Jogi ethnic group in Kabul before the Taliban takeover of the government, said that he was dismissed after the Islamic Emirate came into power. Also read | 'India is your home', PM Modi tells Afghan minority community members "I was appointed as representative of the people (Jogi). This is my ID. My documents are legal. I started working as representative of Jogi. If they want me to share my documents, I will. I was active in the former government, but I was dismissed after the Islamic Emirate swept into power," he said, according to the Afghan news agency. However, Nimatullah Barakzai, a spokesman of Kabul municipality, claimed that Sabir was fired because he was not qualified for the position." The person that you have asked about was disqualified as a local representative. This person has no property, which is one of the conditions to be a representative. He is not educated," the media outlet quoted him as saying. Taliban said that there is no exact information about the number of people with Jogi ethnicity living in Afghanistan." Also read | Six-year-old Haider, trapped in well in Afghanistan for three days, dies Due to lack of national identity cards, the Jogi lack access to education," Tolo News quoted the group as saying.In Afghanistan, the Taliban's swift ascension to power occurred in mid-August, triggering an economic disarray and food shortages that push the country to the brink of a humanitarian crisis, reported Sputnik.

Afghanistan: Members of Jogi minority demand basic necessities, rights

Six-year-old Haider, trapped in well in Afghanistan for three days, dies

Despite economic hardships under the Taliban regime, Afghans keep ancient equestrian sport Buzkashi alive. The word Buzkashi literally translates to 'pulling the goat'. WION tells you more in this report.

Afghanistan kick-starts a new season of Buzkashi games

The ongoing conflict on the Durand line between Afghanistan and Pakistan border escalates. Taliban said that Pakistan is not allowed to fence the border.

Durand line conflict continues: Taliban says Pakistan not allowed to fence the border

The Taliban have called on the United States President Joe Biden to reverse the move where he fractionalized frozen Afghan funds. The United States had announced freezing part of Afghanistan's assets as compensation for victims of the 911 attacks, the Taliban now want to reconsider their policy towards the United States if Biden does not reverse what they called the unjustified decision.

'Frozen funds belong to the people of Afghanistan,' Taliban call on Biden to reverse move

US hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan and Taliban's eventual power grab has sparked concern regarding the future of the conflict-ridden country. International Community has time and again expressed fear of the region turning into a breeding ground for extremists; in the latest, the chair of the United Nations counterterrorism committee has now warned links between the Taliban Al-Qaeda and Pakistan-based terror groups.

Afghanistan may become safe haven for Taliban, Al Qaeda warns TS Tirumurti

A senior US diplomat has claimed that the Taliban have detained 29 women and their families in Kabul. Rina Amiri, US special envoy for Afghan Women, Girls and Human Rights, said that these women were among 40 people seized on Friday.&nbsp;

Taking to her Twitter handle, she wrote, “These unjust detentions must stop."

The tweet has been deleted. However, other sources confirmed that multiple women had been detained in Kabul.&nbsp;

The revelation raises concerns about the rising numbers of people seized and held in Afghanistan ever since the Taliban took over.&nbsp;

UN secretary-general on his Twitter, wrote, "I am increasingly concerned about the wellbeing of missing women activists in Afghanistan. Several have ‘disappeared’, some not heard from in weeks."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-warn-against-womens-rights-activism-after-two-activists-were-seized-from-their-homes-446896">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban warn against women's rights activism after two activists were seized from their homes</a>

He further added, "I strongly urge the Taliban to ensure their safety so that they can return home.”

Earlier in January, Taliban authorities warned that they have all the rights to crack down on dissent and jailed protestors.&nbsp;

The warning came after two women activists noted that two of their comrades were seized from their homes after they took part in a few demonstrations. According to reports by AFP, Tamana Zaryabi Paryani and Parwana Ibrahimkhel were abducted from their homes in Kabul.&nbsp;

Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has denied that any women were being held. However, he said that the authorities had the right "to arrest and detain dissidents or those who break the law".

"Nobody should create turmoil, because it disrupts peace and order," he said while speaking to AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

A senior US diplomat has claimed that the Taliban have detained 29 women and their families in Kabul. Rina Amiri, US special envoy for Afghan Women, Girls and Human Rights, said that these women were among 40 people seized on Friday.

A senior US diplomat has claimed that the Taliban have detained 29 women and their families in Kabul. Rina Amiri, US special envoy for Afghan Women, Girls and Human Rights, said that these women were among 40 people seized on Friday. Taking to her Twitter handle, she wrote, “These unjust detentions must stop." The tweet has been deleted. However, other sources confirmed that multiple women had been detained in Kabul. The revelation raises concerns about the rising numbers of people seized and held in Afghanistan ever since the Taliban took over. UN secretary-general on his Twitter, wrote, "I am increasingly concerned about the wellbeing of missing women activists in Afghanistan. Several have ‘disappeared’, some not heard from in weeks." Also read | Taliban warn against women's rights activism after two activists were seized from their homes He further added, "I strongly urge the Taliban to ensure their safety so that they can return home.” Earlier in January, Taliban authorities warned that they have all the rights to crack down on dissent and jailed protestors. The warning came after two women activists noted that two of their comrades were seized from their homes after they took part in a few demonstrations. According to reports by AFP, Tamana Zaryabi Paryani and Parwana Ibrahimkhel were abducted from their homes in Kabul. Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has denied that any women were being held. However, he said that the authorities had the right "to arrest and detain dissidents or those who break the law". "Nobody should create turmoil, because it disrupts peace and order," he said while speaking to AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban detain 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat

More than 20 years after fleeing the war in Afghanistan, this refugee confronts his traumatic past in an animated documentary. Mariam Wardak brings you the behind-the-scenes story of how this Oscar-tipped piece was made.

South Asia Diary: Afghan refugee's tale gets Oscar nod

Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, a total of 86 radio stations have halted operations. According to TOLO News, the collapse of Afghan media can be attributed to the financial and political issues that the country is currently facing.&nbsp; 
Mosawar Rasikh, head of Radio Jahan said, "Radio Jahan has halted broadcasting for more than six months due to severe economic challenges."

Head of the Zamzama radio stations, Shafiullah Azizi, in a report by ANI said, "Around 70 per cent of radio stations are closed in the country. The reasons are economic challenges and broadcasting programs–in the current situation. On the other hand, the government insists on collecting taxes from radio stations."

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If statistics are to be believed, over 300 different kinds of media organisations have been in Afghanistan since August.&nbsp;

A survey report in December revealed a drastic change in the Afghan media landscape since the Taliban took over. Carried out by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA), the survey talked about how 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover.

The head of the International Federation of Journalists earlier said that journalism in Afghanistan is in danger of disappearing. He further said that reporters trying to continue working under the Taliban have been subjected to beatings and imprisonment.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, a total of 86 radio stations have halted operations. According to TOLO News, the collapse of Afghan media can be attributed to the financial and political issues that the country is currently facing.

Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, a total of 86 radio stations have halted operations. According to TOLO News, the collapse of Afghan media can be attributed to the financial and political issues that the country is currently facing. Mosawar Rasikh, head of Radio Jahan said, "Radio Jahan has halted broadcasting for more than six months due to severe economic challenges." Head of the Zamzama radio stations, Shafiullah Azizi, in a report by ANI said, "Around 70 per cent of radio stations are closed in the country. The reasons are economic challenges and broadcasting programs–in the current situation. On the other hand, the government insists on collecting taxes from radio stations." Also read | Unpaid and potentially stateless, Afghan diplomats seek permission to remain in US If statistics are to be believed, over 300 different kinds of media organisations have been in Afghanistan since August. A survey report in December revealed a drastic change in the Afghan media landscape since the Taliban took over. Carried out by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA), the survey talked about how 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover. The head of the International Federation of Journalists earlier said that journalism in Afghanistan is in danger of disappearing. He further said that reporters trying to continue working under the Taliban have been subjected to beatings and imprisonment. (With inputs from agencies)

Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed

Afghanistan`s central bank on Saturday criticised Washington`s plan to use half the bank`s $7 billion in frozen assets on U.S. soil for humanitarian aid and set aside the rest to possibly satisfy lawsuits over the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.

US&nbsp;administration officials said on Friday they would work to ensure access to $3.5 billion of the assets would benefit the Afghan people, amid calls for the money to be used to address a deepening economic crisis since the Taliban seized power last year.

The other half of the funds would remain in the United States, subject to ongoing litigation targeting the Taliban, including by relatives of those who died in the Sept. 11 attacks, the officials said.

Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB) criticised the decision, saying its assets had been invested in the United States in line with international practices, and belonged to the people of Afghanistan.

"DAB considers the latest decision of USA on blocking FX (foreign exchange) reserves and allocating them to irrelevant purposes, injustice to the people of Afghanistan," the central bank said in a statement.

"(DAB) will never accept if the FX reserves of Afghanistan is paid under the name of compensation or humanitarian assistance to others and wants the reversal of the decision and release of all FX reserves of Afghanistan," it added.

The central bank funds have been frozen since the Taliban took over the country as foreign forces withdrew in August.

The frozen funding combined with sanctions and a drop off in development funding have sent the country`s economy into freefall, unleashing a humanitarian crisis.

Afghanistan`s central bank on Saturday criticised Washington`s plan to use half the bank`s $7 billion in frozen assets on U.S. soil for humanitarian aid and set aside the rest to possibly satisfy lawsuits over the Sept.

Afghanistan`s central bank on Saturday criticised Washington`s plan to use half the bank`s $7 billion in frozen assets on U.S. soil for humanitarian aid and set aside the rest to possibly satisfy lawsuits over the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. US administration officials said on Friday they would work to ensure access to $3.5 billion of the assets would benefit the Afghan people, amid calls for the money to be used to address a deepening economic crisis since the Taliban seized power last year. The other half of the funds would remain in the United States, subject to ongoing litigation targeting the Taliban, including by relatives of those who died in the Sept. 11 attacks, the officials said. Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB) criticised the decision, saying its assets had been invested in the United States in line with international practices, and belonged to the people of Afghanistan. "DAB considers the latest decision of USA on blocking FX (foreign exchange) reserves and allocating them to irrelevant purposes, injustice to the people of Afghanistan," the central bank said in a statement. "(DAB) will never accept if the FX reserves of Afghanistan is paid under the name of compensation or humanitarian assistance to others and wants the reversal of the decision and release of all FX reserves of Afghanistan," it added. The central bank funds have been frozen since the Taliban took over the country as foreign forces withdrew in August. The frozen funding combined with sanctions and a drop off in development funding have sent the country`s economy into freefall, unleashing a humanitarian crisis.

Afghan central bank says U.S. plan for frozen funds an 'injustice'

The UN refugee agency has claimed that two detained journalists in Afghanistan who had been working with the UN have been released.&nbsp;

"We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them," the agency said in a statement.&nbsp;

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We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them. 
 
We are grateful to all who expressed concern and offered help. 
 
We remain committed to the people of Afghanistan.
— UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency (@Refugees) <a href="https://twitter.com/Refugees/status/1492221366933852162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It further added, "We are grateful to all who expressed concern and offered help. We remain committed to the people of Afghanistan."

Several UN agencies employ journalists to report on their work all around the globe.&nbsp;

The Committee to protect journalists had earlier identified one of the missing journalists&nbsp;as former BBC journalist Andrew North.&nbsp;

Steve Butler, the Committee to protect journalists Asia program coordinator, in a statement said, "The Taliban’s detention of two journalists on assignment with the UN refugee agency is a sad reflection of the overall decline of press freedom and increasing attacks on journalists under Taliban rule."

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Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, the situation of journalist have not been so good. There have been protests in the Afghan country and many journalists have also been detained.&nbsp;

In December, a survey revealed a drastic change in the Afghan media landscape. Carried out by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA), the survey highlighted that 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover.

Four out of five women journalists are no longer working.

The head of the International Federation of Journalists earlier said that journalism in Afghanistan is in danger of disappearing. He further said that reporters trying to continue working under the Taliban have been subjected to beatings and imprisonment.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The UN refugee agency has claimed that two detained journalists in Afghanistan who had been working with the UN have been released. "We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them," the agency said in a statement.

The UN refugee agency has claimed that two detained journalists in Afghanistan who had been working with the UN have been released. "We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them," the agency said in a statement. We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them. We are grateful to all who expressed concern and offered help. We remain committed to the people of Afghanistan. — UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency (@Refugees) February 11, 2022 × It further added, "We are grateful to all who expressed concern and offered help. We remain committed to the people of Afghanistan." Several UN agencies employ journalists to report on their work all around the globe. The Committee to protect journalists had earlier identified one of the missing journalists as former BBC journalist Andrew North. Steve Butler, the Committee to protect journalists Asia program coordinator, in a statement said, "The Taliban’s detention of two journalists on assignment with the UN refugee agency is a sad reflection of the overall decline of press freedom and increasing attacks on journalists under Taliban rule." Also read | ‘Wanted to bring revolutionary changes’: Pak PM admits govt’s failure Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, the situation of journalist have not been so good. There have been protests in the Afghan country and many journalists have also been detained. In December, a survey revealed a drastic change in the Afghan media landscape. Carried out by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA), the survey highlighted that 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover. Four out of five women journalists are no longer working. The head of the International Federation of Journalists earlier said that journalism in Afghanistan is in danger of disappearing. He further said that reporters trying to continue working under the Taliban have been subjected to beatings and imprisonment. (With inputs from agencies)

Two journalists working for the UN have been freed by Taliban

A raging&nbsp;measles&nbsp;outbreak in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;infected tens of thousands and killed more than 150 people last month alone, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Friday, warning of more&nbsp;deaths.

The UN health agency said the outbreak was particularly concerning since&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is facing massive food insecurity and malnutrition, leaving children far more vulnerable to the highly contagious disease.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-6-womens-rights-activists-still-missing-un-human-rights-office-expresses-concern-451313">Afghanistan: 6 women’s rights activists still missing; UN human rights office expresses concern</a>

"Measles&nbsp;cases&nbsp;have been increasing in all provinces since the end of July 2021,"&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;spokesman Christian Lindmeier told reporters in Geneva.

He said&nbsp;cases&nbsp;had surged recently, ballooning by 18 per cent in the week of January 24 and by 40 per cent in the last week of the month.

In all, 35,319 suspected&nbsp;measles&nbsp;cases&nbsp;were reported in January, including 3,000 that were laboratory confirmed, and 156&nbsp;deaths.&nbsp;Ninety-one per cent of the&nbsp;cases&nbsp;and 97 per cent of the&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;were children under the age of five.

Lindmeier stressed that the&nbsp;measles-related&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;were likely underreported and the numbers were expected to swell.

"The rapid rise in&nbsp;cases&nbsp;in January suggests that the number of&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;due to&nbsp;measles&nbsp;is likely to increase sharply in the coming weeks," Lindmeier said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prolonged-humanitarian-crisis-forces-starving-afghans-to-sell-kidneys-says-report-448781">Prolonged humanitarian crisis forces starving Afghans to sell kidneys, says report</a>

Measles&nbsp;is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that attacks mainly children. The most serious complications include blindness, brain swelling, diarrhoea, and severe respiratory infections.

The latest surge in&nbsp;cases&nbsp;comes as&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is in the grip of a humanitarian disaster, worsened by the Taliban takeover in August -- when Western countries froze international aid and access to assets held abroad.

The United Nations has warned that half the country is threatened with food shortages.

"Malnutrition weakens immunity, making people more vulnerable to illness and&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;diseases like&nbsp;measles, especially children," Lindmeier said.

The best protection against&nbsp;measles&nbsp;is broad vaccination, with the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;recommending that countries ensure at least 95-per cent vaccination coverage -- a difficult goal in the Afghan context.

Watch |&nbsp;Women's activism grows in Afghanistan with Taliban in power

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/womens-activism-grows-in-afghanistan-with-taliban-in-power-451919/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Lindmeier said the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;and its partners had been working to scale up their&nbsp;measles&nbsp;surveillance capacities and provide support for things like lab testing and immunisation campaigns.

Last December, a vaccination campaign in the hardest-hit areas reached 1.5 million children, he said.

They have also been providing Vitamin A supplements, which are important to help reduce sickness and death from&nbsp;measles, reaching 8.5 million children in a nationwide campaign last November.

The&nbsp;WHO, Lindmeier said, was now working towards a larger&nbsp;measles&nbsp;vaccination drive starting in May, aimed at reaching more than three million children.

A raging measles outbreak in Afghanistan infected tens of thousands and killed more than 150 people last month alone, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Friday, warning of more deaths.

A raging measles outbreak in Afghanistan infected tens of thousands and killed more than 150 people last month alone, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Friday, warning of more deaths. The UN health agency said the outbreak was particularly concerning since Afghanistan is facing massive food insecurity and malnutrition, leaving children far more vulnerable to the highly contagious disease. Also read | Afghanistan: 6 women’s rights activists still missing; UN human rights office expresses concern "Measles cases have been increasing in all provinces since the end of July 2021," WHO spokesman Christian Lindmeier told reporters in Geneva. He said cases had surged recently, ballooning by 18 per cent in the week of January 24 and by 40 per cent in the last week of the month. In all, 35,319 suspected measles cases were reported in January, including 3,000 that were laboratory confirmed, and 156 deaths. Ninety-one per cent of the cases and 97 per cent of the deaths were children under the age of five. Lindmeier stressed that the measles-related deaths were likely underreported and the numbers were expected to swell. "The rapid rise in cases in January suggests that the number of deaths due to measles is likely to increase sharply in the coming weeks," Lindmeier said. Also read | Prolonged humanitarian crisis forces starving Afghans to sell kidneys, says report Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that attacks mainly children. The most serious complications include blindness, brain swelling, diarrhoea, and severe respiratory infections. The latest surge in cases comes as Afghanistan is in the grip of a humanitarian disaster, worsened by the Taliban takeover in August -- when Western countries froze international aid and access to assets held abroad. The United Nations has warned that half the country is threatened with food shortages. "Malnutrition weakens immunity, making people more vulnerable to illness and deaths diseases like measles, especially children," Lindmeier said. The best protection against measles is broad vaccination, with the WHO recommending that countries ensure at least 95-per cent vaccination coverage -- a difficult goal in the Afghan context. Watch | Women's activism grows in Afghanistan with Taliban in power Lindmeier said the WHO and its partners had been working to scale up their measles surveillance capacities and provide support for things like lab testing and immunisation campaigns. Last December, a vaccination campaign in the hardest-hit areas reached 1.5 million children, he said. They have also been providing Vitamin A supplements, which are important to help reduce sickness and death from measles, reaching 8.5 million children in a nationwide campaign last November. The WHO, Lindmeier said, was now working towards a larger measles vaccination drive starting in May, aimed at reaching more than three million children.

Measles cases, deaths surging in Afghanistan, tens of thousands infected: WHO

The U.S. government will take steps on Friday to free half of the $7 billion in frozen Afghan reserves held in the United States to aid the Afghan people without providing the Taliban access to the funds, sources familiar with the plan said.

A multi-step plan calls for the other half of the funds to remain in the United States, subject to ongoing litigation by U.S. victims of terrorism, including relatives of those who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, hijacking attacks, the sources said.

The moves come amid mounting pressure in Congress for the Biden administration to use the frozen Afghan reserves to address the dire economic crisis facing Afghanistan, which is suffering from severe recession and liquidity crisis.

To move forward, President Joe Biden will sign an executive order on Friday that will block property of the Afghan central bank held in the United States by U.S. financial institutions, requiring the transfer of the funds into a consolidated account held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the sources said.

The U.S. government will work to ensure access to $3.5 billion of those assets for "the benefit of the Afghan people and for Afghanistan’s future," said one of the sources, without providing details.

Decisions about the remaining funds need to be made by federal courts since some of the 9/11 families have writs of execution against the frozen assets, the sources said, adding that the plaintiffs would have a full opportunity to have their claims heard in court.

The U.S. government will take steps on Friday to free half of the $7 billion in frozen Afghan reserves held in the United States to aid the Afghan people without providing the Taliban access to the funds, sources familiar with the plan said.

The U.S. government will take steps on Friday to free half of the $7 billion in frozen Afghan reserves held in the United States to aid the Afghan people without providing the Taliban access to the funds, sources familiar with the plan said. A multi-step plan calls for the other half of the funds to remain in the United States, subject to ongoing litigation by U.S. victims of terrorism, including relatives of those who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, hijacking attacks, the sources said. The moves come amid mounting pressure in Congress for the Biden administration to use the frozen Afghan reserves to address the dire economic crisis facing Afghanistan, which is suffering from severe recession and liquidity crisis. To move forward, President Joe Biden will sign an executive order on Friday that will block property of the Afghan central bank held in the United States by U.S. financial institutions, requiring the transfer of the funds into a consolidated account held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the sources said. The U.S. government will work to ensure access to $3.5 billion of those assets for "the benefit of the Afghan people and for Afghanistan’s future," said one of the sources, without providing details. Decisions about the remaining funds need to be made by federal courts since some of the 9/11 families have writs of execution against the frozen assets, the sources said, adding that the plaintiffs would have a full opportunity to have their claims heard in court.

US moves to free $7 billion in Afghan assets to aid Afghan people, 9/11 victims: Officials

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