Afghanistan Air Force pilots spills insider details about Kabul's chaotic fall during the Taliban takeover of the nation.

Afghanistan Air Force pilots reveals new details about Kabul's chaotic fall amid Taliban takeover

For the second time in a week, the Taliban and Pakistani forces clashed at the Durand Line border after the latter allegedly tried to extend the barbed wire fences into the Afghanistan territory.

According to local media reports, the clash took place on Thursday in Afghanistan’s southeastern Nimroz province at Charborjak district.

It is being reported that the Pakistani forces tried to extend the border fences 10 kilometres into the Afghanistan territory, prompting the Taliban&nbsp;personnel to tear down the barbed wires.

On December 22, both the forces had clashed in the eastern Nangarhar province over the fencing issue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-tear-down-barbed-wire-fence-put-up-by-pak-forces-as-durand-line-border-tension-brews-438954">Taliban tear down barbed wire fence put up by Pak forces as Durand Line border tension brews</a>

According to the Afghanistan-based Khama Press (KP) news agency, the Taliban forces uprooted barbed wires erected by the Pakistan security forces and brought it to Afghanistan.

A video of the incident had gone viral, showing Afghanistan forces threatening their Pakistani counterparts with harsh repercussions if another attempt was made to erect barbed wires along the border.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-and-taliban-forces-clash-continue-at-the-durand-line-441428/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Durand Line—the 2,600-km international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, often witnesses periodic skirmish between the two forces.

Previous Afghan governments and the new Taliban regime have often objected to Pakistan fencing its border, saying that they have never approved its legitimacy.

In September, this was asserted by the Chief Spokesperson of the Taliban, Zabiullah Mujahid &nbsp;after the formation of the Taliban’s caretaker government.&nbsp;

The border is named after British civil servant Sir Henry Mortimer Durand who signed an agreement with Amir Abdur Rahman, then the Afghan ruler, on November 12, 1893, to establish an international border between British India and Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the second time in a week, the Taliban and Pakistani forces clashed at the Durand Line border after the latter allegedly tried to extend the barbed wire fences into the Afghanistan territory.

For the second time in a week, the Taliban and Pakistani forces clashed at the Durand Line border after the latter allegedly tried to extend the barbed wire fences into the Afghanistan territory. According to local media reports, the clash took place on Thursday in Afghanistan’s southeastern Nimroz province at Charborjak district. It is being reported that the Pakistani forces tried to extend the border fences 10 kilometres into the Afghanistan territory, prompting the Taliban personnel to tear down the barbed wires. On December 22, both the forces had clashed in the eastern Nangarhar province over the fencing issue. Also read | Taliban tear down barbed wire fence put up by Pak forces as Durand Line border tension brews According to the Afghanistan-based Khama Press (KP) news agency, the Taliban forces uprooted barbed wires erected by the Pakistan security forces and brought it to Afghanistan. A video of the incident had gone viral, showing Afghanistan forces threatening their Pakistani counterparts with harsh repercussions if another attempt was made to erect barbed wires along the border. Watch Durand Line—the 2,600-km international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, often witnesses periodic skirmish between the two forces. Previous Afghan governments and the new Taliban regime have often objected to Pakistan fencing its border, saying that they have never approved its legitimacy. In September, this was asserted by the Chief Spokesperson of the Taliban, Zabiullah Mujahid after the formation of the Taliban’s caretaker government. The border is named after British civil servant Sir Henry Mortimer Durand who signed an agreement with Amir Abdur Rahman, then the Afghan ruler, on November 12, 1893, to establish an international border between British India and Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan and Taliban forces clash at Durand Line again over border fencing issue

As the first flakes of snow fall over Kabul, Afghans are bracing for a season of hardship and hunger. Millions of people are living in near-zero temperatures without proper food or clothes. Marriam Wardak tells you more.

South Asia Diary | Afghanistan's first snow brings hunger & misery

Around 90 per cent of terrorists operating in Afghanistan are actively targeting China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, key installations and economic activity, Pakistan’s counter-terrorism department (CTD) has claimed.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) CTD Javed Iqbal Wazir made these remarks while speaking to reporters in Peshawar city on Thursday.

He said that the anti-terrorism wing has busted five major groups of Islamic State – Khorasan Province in Peshawar and Bannu region since last year.

“Three of the major groups were busted by the CTD Peshawar region while two were busted by the CTD Bannu range. The held terrorists were involved in over 40 incidents of target-killing, including attacks on polio vaccination teams,” Pakistani newspaper The News International quoted Wazi as saying.

The CTD chief added the arrested and killed terrorists included a number of most wanted people who were carrying millions of rupees as head money.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-buys-25-chinese-j-10c-fighters-in-response-to-indias-rafale-441092">Pakistan buys 25 Chinese J-10C fighters in response to India's Rafale</a>

The assertions of the top official are in stark contrast to a US report which has claimed that Pakistan failed to take adequate steps to counter-terrorism and prosecute terrorists including masterminds of the 2008 Mumbai attacks such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM) founder Masood Azhar and Lashkar-e-Taiba's (LeT) Sajid Mir.

It also said that Pakistan made “limited progress” in its pledge to dismantle all terrorist organizations without delay or discrimination.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-acquits-6-members-of-hafiz-saeeds-banned-jud-outfit-in-terror-funding-case-427367">Pakistan court acquits 6 members of Hafiz Saeed’s banned JuD outfit in terror funding case</a>

Pakistan made limited progress on the most difficult aspects of its 2015 National Action Plan to counter-terrorism, specifically in its pledge to dismantle all terrorist organizations without delay or discrimination," the US State Department report said in its 2020 ‘Country Reports on Terrorism’.

At the same time, the US report stated that&nbsp;Indian security agencies&nbsp;are effective in disrupting terror threats and respond “in a timely manner” to the requests made by the United States for information related to terrorism investigations.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 90 per cent of terrorists operating in Afghanistan are actively targeting China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, key installations and economic activity, Pakistan’s counter-terrorism department (CTD) has claimed.

Around 90 per cent of terrorists operating in Afghanistan are actively targeting China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, key installations and economic activity, Pakistan’s counter-terrorism department (CTD) has claimed. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) CTD Javed Iqbal Wazir made these remarks while speaking to reporters in Peshawar city on Thursday. He said that the anti-terrorism wing has busted five major groups of Islamic State – Khorasan Province in Peshawar and Bannu region since last year. “Three of the major groups were busted by the CTD Peshawar region while two were busted by the CTD Bannu range. The held terrorists were involved in over 40 incidents of target-killing, including attacks on polio vaccination teams,” Pakistani newspaper The News International quoted Wazi as saying. The CTD chief added the arrested and killed terrorists included a number of most wanted people who were carrying millions of rupees as head money. Also read | Pakistan buys 25 Chinese J-10C fighters in response to India's Rafale The assertions of the top official are in stark contrast to a US report which has claimed that Pakistan failed to take adequate steps to counter-terrorism and prosecute terrorists including masterminds of the 2008 Mumbai attacks such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM) founder Masood Azhar and Lashkar-e-Taiba's (LeT) Sajid Mir. It also said that Pakistan made “limited progress” in its pledge to dismantle all terrorist organizations without delay or discrimination. Also read | Pakistan court acquits 6 members of Hafiz Saeed’s banned JuD outfit in terror funding case Pakistan made limited progress on the most difficult aspects of its 2015 National Action Plan to counter-terrorism, specifically in its pledge to dismantle all terrorist organizations without delay or discrimination," the US State Department report said in its 2020 ‘Country Reports on Terrorism’. At the same time, the US report stated that Indian security agencies are effective in disrupting terror threats and respond “in a timely manner” to the requests made by the United States for information related to terrorism investigations. (With inputs from agencies)

90% of terrorists operating in Afghanistan targeting CPEC projects: Pak’s counter-terrorism wing chief

Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani recalled the events and shared details when he fled the country as soon as the Taliban fighters entered the gates of Kabul on August 15.&nbsp;

The 72-year-old faced strong criticism for fleeing the country and leaving the cirizens behind in dire straits amid a chaotic evacuation of troops by the West.&nbsp;

While speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Thursday (December 30), Ghani defended his decision and also revealed what exactly had happened.&nbsp;

In conversation with Gen Sir Nick Carter, who is UK's former Chief of the Defence Staff, Ghani said that he had no idea that August 15 would be his last day in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

He&nbsp;told Gen Carter, who was guest-editing the Today programme&nbsp;that he left the country to save it from destruction.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dont-punish-former-regime-members-taliban-chief-orders-fighters-441130">Don't 'punish' former regime members: Taliban chief orders fighters</a>

Ghani admitted that mistakes were made during the entire process of troops withdrawal by the NATO allies. He said "assuming that the patience of the international community would last" impacted the country.&nbsp;

Reflecting&nbsp;on the agreement between the&nbsp;hardline Islamist regime and former US President Donald Trump, Ghani said, "Instead of a peace process, we got a withdrawal process," adding that it deal was unfolded, it "erased us".&nbsp;

In the end, it was a "violent coup, not a political agreement, or a political process where the people have been involved". He added, "My life work has been destroyed. My values had been trampled on. And I have been made a scapegoat."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-taliban-member-brutally-tortures-an-afghan-army-official-440891">Watch: Taliban member brutally tortures an Afghan army official</a>

Recalling the day, Ghani stated that the Taliban fighters had agreed not to enter Kabul, however, the opposite happened. "Two different factions of the Taliban were closing in from two different directions," Ghani said.&nbsp;

"And the possibility of a massive conflict between them that would destroy the city of five million and bring havoc to the people was enormous," he added.&nbsp;

Speaking further, he said that he had agreed to let his national security adviser and wife leave Kabul. After that, he was waiting for a car that was supposed to take him to the ministry of defence, but it didn't come.&nbsp;

He also&nbsp;informed that the chief of presidential security, who was terrified, told him that if Ghani took a stand, "they will all be killed".

"He did not give me more than two minutes. My instructions had been to prepare for departure for [the city of] Khost. He told me that Khost had fallen and so had Jalalabad," Ghani said.&nbsp;

"I did not know where we will go. Only when we took off, it became clear that we were leaving [Afghanistan]. So this really was sudden," he added.&nbsp;

'Did not take any money'

On allegations that he left the country with a lot of money, Ghani denied that he did not take any money out of the country. He also welcomed an international probe that he said would clear his name.

He said, "I want to categorically state, I did not take any money out of the country. My style of life is known to everyone. What would I do with money?"

WATCH |&nbsp;Afghan women protest in a closed area in Kabul demanding rights

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-women-protest-in-a-closed-area-in-kabul-demanding-rights-440555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani recalled the events and shared details when he fled the country as soon as the Taliban fighters entered the gates of Kabul on August 15.

Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani recalled the events and shared details when he fled the country as soon as the Taliban fighters entered the gates of Kabul on August 15. The 72-year-old faced strong criticism for fleeing the country and leaving the cirizens behind in dire straits amid a chaotic evacuation of troops by the West. While speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Thursday (December 30), Ghani defended his decision and also revealed what exactly had happened. In conversation with Gen Sir Nick Carter, who is UK's former Chief of the Defence Staff, Ghani said that he had no idea that August 15 would be his last day in Afghanistan. He told Gen Carter, who was guest-editing the Today programme that he left the country to save it from destruction. ALSO READ | Don't 'punish' former regime members: Taliban chief orders fighters Ghani admitted that mistakes were made during the entire process of troops withdrawal by the NATO allies. He said "assuming that the patience of the international community would last" impacted the country. Reflecting on the agreement between the hardline Islamist regime and former US President Donald Trump, Ghani said, "Instead of a peace process, we got a withdrawal process," adding that it deal was unfolded, it "erased us". In the end, it was a "violent coup, not a political agreement, or a political process where the people have been involved". He added, "My life work has been destroyed. My values had been trampled on. And I have been made a scapegoat." ALSO READ | Watch: Taliban member brutally tortures an Afghan army official Recalling the day, Ghani stated that the Taliban fighters had agreed not to enter Kabul, however, the opposite happened. "Two different factions of the Taliban were closing in from two different directions," Ghani said. "And the possibility of a massive conflict between them that would destroy the city of five million and bring havoc to the people was enormous," he added. Speaking further, he said that he had agreed to let his national security adviser and wife leave Kabul. After that, he was waiting for a car that was supposed to take him to the ministry of defence, but it didn't come. He also informed that the chief of presidential security, who was terrified, told him that if Ghani took a stand, "they will all be killed". "He did not give me more than two minutes. My instructions had been to prepare for departure for [the city of] Khost. He told me that Khost had fallen and so had Jalalabad," Ghani said. "I did not know where we will go. Only when we took off, it became clear that we were leaving [Afghanistan]. So this really was sudden," he added. 'Did not take any money' On allegations that he left the country with a lot of money, Ghani denied that he did not take any money out of the country. He also welcomed an international probe that he said would clear his name. He said, "I want to categorically state, I did not take any money out of the country. My style of life is known to everyone. What would I do with money?" WATCH | Afghan women protest in a closed area in Kabul demanding rights ×

'I have been made a scapegoat': Ashraf Ghani recalls the day he fled Afghanistan, denies taking money

The US on Wednesday appointed an envoy to defend women's rights in Afghanistan. The move has come as Taliban appear to put increasing restrictions on women in the country.

Rina Amiri Rina Amiri, an Afghan-born US scholar and mediation expert who served at the State Department under former president Barack Obama, will take the role of special envoy for Afghan women, girls and human rights, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced.

After capturing power in Afghanistan, though Taliban seemed to project a liberal-than-before image, restrictions were gradually put on aspects of women's lives. Just three days ago, Taliban government said that women could not travel long distances without being accompanied by a male relative. On the same day Taliban minister for education said that co-education was against Islamic&nbsp;values.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-education-minister-says-co-education-is-against-islamic-values-440211">Afghan education minister says co-education is against Islamic values</a>

US appointing a special envoy for women's rights assumed importance in this light.

"We desire a peaceful, stable and secure Afghanistan, where all Afghans can live and thrive in political, economic and social inclusivity," Blinken said in a statement.

The Taliban imposed an ultra-austere brand of Islam on Afghanistan during their 1996-2001 regime, including banning women from working and girls from education.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-cant-travel-long-distances-without-male-relative-taliban-440129">Afghan women can't travel long distances without male relative: Taliban</a>

Despite Taliban pledges to act differently after their August takeover, many women remain barred from returning to work and girls are largely cut off from secondary schooling.

On Sunday, the Taliban said that women would not be allowed to travel long distances without a male escort and that vehicle owners should not give rides to women unless they wear headscarves.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US on Wednesday appointed an envoy to defend women's rights in Afghanistan. The move has come as Taliban appear to put increasing restrictions on women in the country.

The US on Wednesday appointed an envoy to defend women's rights in Afghanistan. The move has come as Taliban appear to put increasing restrictions on women in the country. Rina Amiri Rina Amiri, an Afghan-born US scholar and mediation expert who served at the State Department under former president Barack Obama, will take the role of special envoy for Afghan women, girls and human rights, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced. After capturing power in Afghanistan, though Taliban seemed to project a liberal-than-before image, restrictions were gradually put on aspects of women's lives. Just three days ago, Taliban government said that women could not travel long distances without being accompanied by a male relative. On the same day Taliban minister for education said that co-education was against Islamic values. Also Read | Afghan education minister says co-education is against Islamic values US appointing a special envoy for women's rights assumed importance in this light. "We desire a peaceful, stable and secure Afghanistan, where all Afghans can live and thrive in political, economic and social inclusivity," Blinken said in a statement. The Taliban imposed an ultra-austere brand of Islam on Afghanistan during their 1996-2001 regime, including banning women from working and girls from education. Also Read | Afghan women can't travel long distances without male relative: Taliban Despite Taliban pledges to act differently after their August takeover, many women remain barred from returning to work and girls are largely cut off from secondary schooling. On Sunday, the Taliban said that women would not be allowed to travel long distances without a male escort and that vehicle owners should not give rides to women unless they wear headscarves. (With inputs from agencies)

US appoints special envoy for Afghan women's rights

The immigrants in California San Jose are well versed with the horrors of having to start afresh in a foreign land which is why at a clinic meant for screening refugees, the immigrant staffers are now offering guidance and support to the thousands of apprehensive Afghan refugees.

United States: Immigrants at California clinic help Afghan refugees

Members of Afghanistan women's political participation network protested in a closed area in Kabul demanding rights to education, work and political participation.

Afghan women protest in a closed area in Kabul demanding rights

It has been 135 days since the Taliban took over Kabul. With each passing day, the group is now taking Afghanistan back to the 1990s; rights and liberties of women are being snatched away one at a time but the afghan women are not ready to give up just yet. Their jobs education freedoms rights and all that they enjoyed for the last 20 years this time they have taken the fight into their own hands. Women in Afghanistan have been protesting in close spaces and out on the streets especially in Kabul.

Afghanistan: Taliban returns to old ways, uses bullets to silence protesting women

This winter season is said to seal the fate of Afghanistan. A thick blanket of snow has covered the city of Kabul, millions are starving without aid the economy is in free fall and the citizens of Afghanistan are staring at a bleak winter with a new government in charge this year.

Afghanistan: First snowfall brings misery, lack of foreign aid could be worrisome

Afghanistan has signed a new agreement with Tajikistan's "Tajik Electricity"&nbsp;company&nbsp;for the extension of the import of electricity for the next year, Xinhua news agency reported.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has been facing a range of issues under the Taliban regime, which took control of the country after ousting the government in August.&nbsp;

"Hafiz Mohammad Amin, CEO of Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS) and his accompanying delegation have signed a contract of importing electricity with Tajik Electricity company for the year of 2022 during an official visit to Tajikistan," the company said in a statement as quoted by Xinhua.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-education-minister-says-co-education-is-against-islamic-values-440211">Afghan education minister says co-education is against Islamic values</a>

Among humanitarian and other crises, power shortage has been posing challenges to the common people of the country. Reports have mentioned that Afghanistan needs 850 megawatts of electricity per year.&nbsp;

DABS officials stated that Afghanistan imports 620 megawatts from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Iran. Meanwhile, 230 megawatts are supplied from domestic sources.&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dont-politicise-education-and-right-to-work-afghan-women-protest-against-taliban-government-422880" hreflang="en">'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government</a>

The report further mentioned that the agreement was signed as a result of two days of negotiations between the two sides. Also, the suspended agreement from July 2021 to December 2021 due to political developments in Afghanistan was also signed.&nbsp;

Citing a statement by the company, the reports also added that during this visit, comprehensive discussions were held between the two parties on regional connectivity and development projects such as CASA 1000 and construction of 500 kV line in the energy sector.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has signed a new agreement with Tajikistan's "Tajik Electricity" company for the extension of the import of electricity for the next year, Xinhua news agency reported.

Afghanistan has signed a new agreement with Tajikistan's "Tajik Electricity" company for the extension of the import of electricity for the next year, Xinhua news agency reported. Afghanistan has been facing a range of issues under the Taliban regime, which took control of the country after ousting the government in August. "Hafiz Mohammad Amin, CEO of Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS) and his accompanying delegation have signed a contract of importing electricity with Tajik Electricity company for the year of 2022 during an official visit to Tajikistan," the company said in a statement as quoted by Xinhua. ALSO READ | Afghan education minister says co-education is against Islamic values Among humanitarian and other crises, power shortage has been posing challenges to the common people of the country. Reports have mentioned that Afghanistan needs 850 megawatts of electricity per year. DABS officials stated that Afghanistan imports 620 megawatts from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Iran. Meanwhile, 230 megawatts are supplied from domestic sources. ALSO READ | 'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government The report further mentioned that the agreement was signed as a result of two days of negotiations between the two sides. Also, the suspended agreement from July 2021 to December 2021 due to political developments in Afghanistan was also signed. Citing a statement by the company, the reports also added that during this visit, comprehensive discussions were held between the two parties on regional connectivity and development projects such as CASA 1000 and construction of 500 kV line in the energy sector.

Afghanistan signs electricity supply contract with Tajikistan amid power crisis

Acting Afghan Higher Education Minister Abdul Baqi Haqqani on Sunday said ''co-education is against Islamic values.'' He also added that his government does not oppose women's education but rather the concept of men and women studying together.

Co-education is against Islamic values, says Afghan Education Minister

In a recent development, the Taliban has dismissed Afghanistan's election commission. "There is no need for these commissions to exist and operate," Taliban government spokesman Bilal Karimi said. The panel was responsible for supervising polls during the previous administration.&nbsp;

"If we ever feel a need, the Islamic Emirate will revive these commissions," Karimi said speaking about the Independent election commission (IEC) and the Independent electoral complaints commission.

The IEC was established in 2006 with the aim of supervising all types of elections.&nbsp;

Aurangzeb, the head of the panel till the Taliban took over, while speaking to AFP said, "They have taken this decision in a hurry... and dissolving the commission would have huge consequences. If this structure does not exist, I'm 100 percent sure that Afghanistan's problems will never be solved as there won't be any elections."

This is not the first time that an election commission has been dismissed in Taliban. Before Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan, several such commission officials were killed by extremist groups.&nbsp;

Halim Fidai, a senior politician in the previous regime said that the decision shows that the Taliban "do not believe in democracy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-keep-aid-flowing-to-afghanistan-us-authorises-certain-transactions-with-taliban-439164">Also read |&nbsp;To keep aid flowing to Afghanistan, US authorises certain transactions with Taliban</a>

Situation in Afghanistan has been worsening ever since Taliban's takeover. As per reports by the United Nations, nearly 23 million people, which is about 55 per cent of the population, face extreme levels of hunger, and nearly 9 million are at risk of famine this winter.

To ensure a flow of aid in Afghanistan, the United States recently exempted from sanctions, US and UN officials doing permitted business with the Taliban.

As part of efforts to ease humanitarian aid flows into Afghanistan, the Treasury issued three general licenses. UN plans to pay monthly food allowances to Taliban-run personnel guarding UN facilities next year and to subsidise their salaries, a proposal that has raised questions about whether the payments would violate US sanctions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a recent development, the Taliban has dismissed Afghanistan's election commission. "There is no need for these commissions to exist and operate," Taliban government spokesman Bilal Karimi said.

In a recent development, the Taliban has dismissed Afghanistan's election commission. "There is no need for these commissions to exist and operate," Taliban government spokesman Bilal Karimi said. The panel was responsible for supervising polls during the previous administration. "If we ever feel a need, the Islamic Emirate will revive these commissions," Karimi said speaking about the Independent election commission (IEC) and the Independent electoral complaints commission. The IEC was established in 2006 with the aim of supervising all types of elections. Aurangzeb, the head of the panel till the Taliban took over, while speaking to AFP said, "They have taken this decision in a hurry... and dissolving the commission would have huge consequences. If this structure does not exist, I'm 100 percent sure that Afghanistan's problems will never be solved as there won't be any elections." This is not the first time that an election commission has been dismissed in Taliban. Before Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan, several such commission officials were killed by extremist groups. Halim Fidai, a senior politician in the previous regime said that the decision shows that the Taliban "do not believe in democracy". Also read | To keep aid flowing to Afghanistan, US authorises certain transactions with Taliban Situation in Afghanistan has been worsening ever since Taliban's takeover. As per reports by the United Nations, nearly 23 million people, which is about 55 per cent of the population, face extreme levels of hunger, and nearly 9 million are at risk of famine this winter. To ensure a flow of aid in Afghanistan, the United States recently exempted from sanctions, US and UN officials doing permitted business with the Taliban. As part of efforts to ease humanitarian aid flows into Afghanistan, the Treasury issued three general licenses. UN plans to pay monthly food allowances to Taliban-run personnel guarding UN facilities next year and to subsidise their salaries, a proposal that has raised questions about whether the payments would violate US sanctions. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban dismiss Afghan election commission in decision seen as hurried

The two allies Afghan Taliban and the Pakistan government are at loggerheads over the border region known as the Durand line. In the latest, there has been a fresh exchange of fire between the parties, and that comes after the Taliban has uprooted barbed wires erected by Islamabad in east Nangarhar province along the Durand line.

The two allies Pakistan & Taliban spar over the border region known as the Durand line

In yet another measure against women's rights, Afghanistan's Taliban government said on Sunday that trasport should not be offered to women seeking to travel anything other than short distances unless they are accompanied by a close male relative. The 'guidance' was issued by Taliban's Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice.

The ministry also called on all vehicle owners to offer rides to women only if they were dressed in Islamic hijabs.

"Women travelling for more than 45 miles (72 kilometres) should not be offered a ride if they are not accompanied by a close family member," ministry spokesman Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP on Sunday, specifying that it must be a close male relative.

The guidance, circulated on social media networks, comes weeks after the ministry asked Afghanistan's television channels to stop showing dramas and soap operas featuring women actors.

The ministry had also called on women TV journalists to wear hijabs while presenting.

Muhajir said Sunday that the hijab would also be required for women seeking transport. The ministry's directive also asked people to stop playing music in their vehicles.

The Taliban's interpretation of the hijab -- which can range from a hair covering to a face veil or full-body covering -- is unclear, and the majority of Afghan women already wear headscarves.

Since taking power in August, the Taliban have imposed various restrictions on women and girls, despite pledging a softer rule compared with their first stint in power in the 1990s.

The latest announcement by the Taliban goes squarely against their recent attempts to project a liberal image globally. Taliban government and Afghanistan economy are in dire need of funds frozen overseas.

Early this month, the Islamist group issued a decree in the name of their supreme leader instructing the government to enforce women's rights.

The decree did not mention girls' access to education.

Activists hope that the Taliban's battle to gain international recognition and get aid flowing back into one of the poorest countries in the world will lead to them making concessions to women.

Respect for women's rights has repeatedly been cited by key global donors as a condition for restoring aid.

In yet another measure against women's rights, Afghanistan's Taliban government said on Sunday that trasport should not be offered to women seeking to travel anything other than short distances unless they are accompanied by a close male relative.

In yet another measure against women's rights, Afghanistan's Taliban government said on Sunday that trasport should not be offered to women seeking to travel anything other than short distances unless they are accompanied by a close male relative. The 'guidance' was issued by Taliban's Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice. The ministry also called on all vehicle owners to offer rides to women only if they were dressed in Islamic hijabs. "Women travelling for more than 45 miles (72 kilometres) should not be offered a ride if they are not accompanied by a close family member," ministry spokesman Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP on Sunday, specifying that it must be a close male relative. The guidance, circulated on social media networks, comes weeks after the ministry asked Afghanistan's television channels to stop showing dramas and soap operas featuring women actors. The ministry had also called on women TV journalists to wear hijabs while presenting. Muhajir said Sunday that the hijab would also be required for women seeking transport. The ministry's directive also asked people to stop playing music in their vehicles. The Taliban's interpretation of the hijab -- which can range from a hair covering to a face veil or full-body covering -- is unclear, and the majority of Afghan women already wear headscarves. Since taking power in August, the Taliban have imposed various restrictions on women and girls, despite pledging a softer rule compared with their first stint in power in the 1990s. The latest announcement by the Taliban goes squarely against their recent attempts to project a liberal image globally. Taliban government and Afghanistan economy are in dire need of funds frozen overseas. Early this month, the Islamist group issued a decree in the name of their supreme leader instructing the government to enforce women's rights. The decree did not mention girls' access to education. Activists hope that the Taliban's battle to gain international recognition and get aid flowing back into one of the poorest countries in the world will lead to them making concessions to women. Respect for women's rights has repeatedly been cited by key global donors as a condition for restoring aid.

Afghan women can't travel long distances without male relative: Taliban

It has been 133 days since the Taliban's second coming in Afghanistan, and from the last 100 days, the regime has cropped women's rights, plunged the country into an economic and humanitarian crisis and discarded democracy from the country. In the latest, the Taliban has dissolved Afghanistan's election commission which was a panel that supervised polls during the previous Western-backed administration.

Taliban forces plunge Afghanistan into economic & humanitarian crisis

Governor of Afghanistan's Paktika province on Saturday asked shopkeepers to use only Afghan currency in their daily transactions. Governor Maulvi Abdullah Mukhtar visited Sharana, capital of Paktika province on Saturday. As per Pajhwok Afghan News, Mukhtar said that Islamic Emirate had drawn up a plan to control prices and transact in national currency.

He said that the plan would be implemented soon. He claimed that with the implementation of the plan, the prices will be controlled soon. He also said that transactions will be in Afghanis only.

As per the report, the governor urged shopkeepers to co-operate with the government in controlling the pricesl. Haji Akbar, a money changer in Sharana, was quoted that they agreed with the ban on foreign currency transactions and welcomed the government`s move. It is worth mentioning that a demonstration was held in Sharana to promote the afghani. Earlier in September, Afghan businessmen had rejected Pakistan`s demand to conduct bilateral trade in the Pakistani rupee in the future.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-dismiss-afghan-election-commission-in-decision-seen-as-hurried-440002">Taliban dismiss Afghan election commission in decision seen as hurried</a>

Paktika province of Afghanistan borders Pakistan.

Afghan economy has been in dire straits after international forces departed and the Taliban took control. Banking sector has collapsed. Inflation is skt high, and locals are having to part with a lot of money to buy very little of their daily needs.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/what-does-the-issuance-of-additional-general-licenses-mean-for-afghanistan-439885">What does the issuance of additional general licenses mean for Afghanistan?</a>

Taliban government does not have global recognition. Its situation has become more difficult as the US has frozen Afghan funds in US banks. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also severed ties with Taliban government on the issue of recognition.

(With inputs from agencies)

Governor of Afghanistan's Paktika province on Saturday asked shopkeepers to use only Afghan currency in their daily transactions. Governor Maulvi Abdullah Mukhtar visited Sharana, capital of Paktika province on Saturday.

Governor of Afghanistan's Paktika province on Saturday asked shopkeepers to use only Afghan currency in their daily transactions. Governor Maulvi Abdullah Mukhtar visited Sharana, capital of Paktika province on Saturday. As per Pajhwok Afghan News, Mukhtar said that Islamic Emirate had drawn up a plan to control prices and transact in national currency. He said that the plan would be implemented soon. He claimed that with the implementation of the plan, the prices will be controlled soon. He also said that transactions will be in Afghanis only. As per the report, the governor urged shopkeepers to co-operate with the government in controlling the pricesl. Haji Akbar, a money changer in Sharana, was quoted that they agreed with the ban on foreign currency transactions and welcomed the government`s move. It is worth mentioning that a demonstration was held in Sharana to promote the afghani. Earlier in September, Afghan businessmen had rejected Pakistan`s demand to conduct bilateral trade in the Pakistani rupee in the future. Also Read | Taliban dismiss Afghan election commission in decision seen as hurried Paktika province of Afghanistan borders Pakistan. Afghan economy has been in dire straits after international forces departed and the Taliban took control. Banking sector has collapsed. Inflation is skt high, and locals are having to part with a lot of money to buy very little of their daily needs. Also Read | What does the issuance of additional general licenses mean for Afghanistan? Taliban government does not have global recognition. Its situation has become more difficult as the US has frozen Afghan funds in US banks. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also severed ties with Taliban government on the issue of recognition. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Governor of region bordering Pakistan asks people to use Afghan currency

Taliban dissolves Afghanistan's election commission that supervised polls for the previous regime

The United States has issued at least five general licenses which basically enables US citizens, aid organisations, and other organizations to do transfers into Afghanistan for “specified purposes”. But what do these general licenses mean, here is a breakdown.

The first general license, general licenses number 15 was issued on September 24&nbsp;this year, it gave an exemption in fact an authorisation to do transactions related to exportation or re-exportation of agricultural commodities, medicines, medicinal devices, replacement of parts, and/or components and even software upgrades.

The agricultural commodity was further defined and so were the medicines and medicinal devices in the order.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/talibans-show-of-strength-military-parade-with-us-made-weapons-429432" hreflang="en">Taliban's show of strength:&nbsp;Military parade with US-made weapons</a>

The perception US gave through the first license was that it was willing to facilitate the people of Afghanistan who continued to live a miserable life in the war-torn country following the Taliban takeover.

Two and a half months later, the month of December 2021 saw the US showing more leniency, in the first general license issued for the month of December and the second general license on Afghanistan overall, license number 16 authorized the transfer of non-commercial and personal remittances to Afghanistan.

On December 22, the United States issued three more general licenses to facilitate the people of Afghanistan and authorized the US government employees, grantees, or contractors to do transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network-related entities, for official business purposes in the general license number 17.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dont-politicise-education-and-right-to-work-afghan-women-protest-against-taliban-government-422880" hreflang="en">'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government</a>

On the same date, the general licenses number 18 authorised The United Nations, including its programmes, funds, and other entities and bodies, as well as its specialised agencies and related organisations, The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA); The African Development Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group), including any fund entity administered or established by any of the foregoing; The International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies; and The Islamic Development Bank to do transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network as entities for official business purposes.

The last general license issued by US Treasury on Afghanistan taking its tally of general licenses on Afghanistan to five, that is,&nbsp;the general license number 19 which basically took the handcuffs off from aid organizations authorised transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network as entities for; Activities to support humanitarian projects to meet basic human needs in Afghanistan, including drought and flood relief; food, nutrition, and medicine distribution; the provision of health services; assistance for vulnerable or displaced populations, including individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and survivors of sexual- and gender-based violence; and environmental programs; Activities to support the following in Afghanistan: rule of law, citizen participation, government accountability and transparency, human rights and fundamental freedoms, access to information, and civil society development projects; Activities to support education in Afghanistan, including combating illiteracy, increasing access to education, international exchanges, and assisting education reform projects; Activities to support non-commercial development projects directly benefitting the Afghan people, including related to health, food security, and water and sanitation; and Activities to support environmental and natural resource protection in Afghanistan, including the preservation and protection of threatened or endangered species, responsible and transparent management of natural resources, and the remediation of pollution or other environmental damage.

The other more pertinent question is that why a need for the general license was there be issued, the answer to that is that since the Taliban are currently a listed organization, both at the UN and the US, therefore any direct transactions would not be possible as per law, however, these general licenses act as an enabler or exemption for an undefined period.

The United States has pledged a total of $474 million as aid for Afghanistan, the most by any country. Earlier this week, A senior US official told this correspondent that the US had quietly been working behind the scenes with the UN and other international organisations to pump cash into the Afghan system, an example of which was the $200 million&nbsp;pumped into the Afghan system for the use of the UN employees, very recently.

These licenses were mirrored by the United Nations Sanctions Committee through a resolution on the same day as well which means that under the UN charter, this allows UN member countries to do business with the Taliban or Haqqani under the set parameters as defined earlier.

The guidelines to do business with the Taliban are very clearly laid out, that it must be on an entity basis and not on individual basis, so while the entities might be headed by proscribed individuals, business with the office is allowed but not with the individual.

To simply put it, as an example, Sirajuddin Haqqani of the Haqqani Network might be a listed individual by the US and the UN both, the other reality is that Sirajuddin Haqqani is also the Minister of Interior of Taliban ruled Afghanistan, so while the transfer would not be permitted to Sirajuddin Haqqani as an individual, his ministry can very well have funds or transactions under these set of rules, as defined in the general licenses issued.

The Taliban and international community have been long-pressing the United States to release the “frozen Afghan assets it houses” following the Taliban takeover of the country, however, a senior US official clarifying the situation said that the US has no magic button to release these assets as they were being held back due to a court order.

The United States has issued at least five general licenses which basically enables US citizens, aid organisations, and other organizations to do transfers into Afghanistan for “specified purposes”.

The United States has issued at least five general licenses which basically enables US citizens, aid organisations, and other organizations to do transfers into Afghanistan for “specified purposes”. But what do these general licenses mean, here is a breakdown. The first general license, general licenses number 15 was issued on September 24 this year, it gave an exemption in fact an authorisation to do transactions related to exportation or re-exportation of agricultural commodities, medicines, medicinal devices, replacement of parts, and/or components and even software upgrades. The agricultural commodity was further defined and so were the medicines and medicinal devices in the order. Also see | Taliban's show of strength: Military parade with US-made weapons The perception US gave through the first license was that it was willing to facilitate the people of Afghanistan who continued to live a miserable life in the war-torn country following the Taliban takeover. Two and a half months later, the month of December 2021 saw the US showing more leniency, in the first general license issued for the month of December and the second general license on Afghanistan overall, license number 16 authorized the transfer of non-commercial and personal remittances to Afghanistan. On December 22, the United States issued three more general licenses to facilitate the people of Afghanistan and authorized the US government employees, grantees, or contractors to do transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network-related entities, for official business purposes in the general license number 17. Also see | 'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government On the same date, the general licenses number 18 authorised The United Nations, including its programmes, funds, and other entities and bodies, as well as its specialised agencies and related organisations, The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA); The African Development Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group), including any fund entity administered or established by any of the foregoing; The International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies; and The Islamic Development Bank to do transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network as entities for official business purposes. The last general license issued by US Treasury on Afghanistan taking its tally of general licenses on Afghanistan to five, that is, the general license number 19 which basically took the handcuffs off from aid organizations authorised transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network as entities for; Activities to support humanitarian projects to meet basic human needs in Afghanistan, including drought and flood relief; food, nutrition, and medicine distribution; the provision of health services; assistance for vulnerable or displaced populations, including individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and survivors of sexual- and gender-based violence; and environmental programs; Activities to support the following in Afghanistan: rule of law, citizen participation, government accountability and transparency, human rights and fundamental freedoms, access to information, and civil society development projects; Activities to support education in Afghanistan, including combating illiteracy, increasing access to education, international exchanges, and assisting education reform projects; Activities to support non-commercial development projects directly benefitting the Afghan people, including related to health, food security, and water and sanitation; and Activities to support environmental and natural resource protection in Afghanistan, including the preservation and protection of threatened or endangered species, responsible and transparent management of natural resources, and the remediation of pollution or other environmental damage. The other more pertinent question is that why a need for the general license was there be issued, the answer to that is that since the Taliban are currently a listed organization, both at the UN and the US, therefore any direct transactions would not be possible as per law, however, these general licenses act as an enabler or exemption for an undefined period. The United States has pledged a total of $474 million as aid for Afghanistan, the most by any country. Earlier this week, A senior US official told this correspondent that the US had quietly been working behind the scenes with the UN and other international organisations to pump cash into the Afghan system, an example of which was the $200 million pumped into the Afghan system for the use of the UN employees, very recently. These licenses were mirrored by the United Nations Sanctions Committee through a resolution on the same day as well which means that under the UN charter, this allows UN member countries to do business with the Taliban or Haqqani under the set parameters as defined earlier. The guidelines to do business with the Taliban are very clearly laid out, that it must be on an entity basis and not on individual basis, so while the entities might be headed by proscribed individuals, business with the office is allowed but not with the individual. To simply put it, as an example, Sirajuddin Haqqani of the Haqqani Network might be a listed individual by the US and the UN both, the other reality is that Sirajuddin Haqqani is also the Minister of Interior of Taliban ruled Afghanistan, so while the transfer would not be permitted to Sirajuddin Haqqani as an individual, his ministry can very well have funds or transactions under these set of rules, as defined in the general licenses issued. The Taliban and international community have been long-pressing the United States to release the “frozen Afghan assets it houses” following the Taliban takeover of the country, however, a senior US official clarifying the situation said that the US has no magic button to release these assets as they were being held back due to a court order.

What does the issuance of additional general licenses mean for Afghanistan?

British worker, Grant Bailey, is missing in Afghanistan after he was seized by the Taliban. As per a report by Mirror, he was arrested by Taliban police during a security clampdown in Kabul. The man in his 50s is married and had worked in Afghanistan for years. He returned in September after the Taliban seized power.

It is being speculated that the man, who was working for an NGO in Afghanistan, is being held in one of Kabul's prison complexes.

A UK security source told the Daily Mirror that he was last heard on Saturday after which he was arrested at gunpoint.

The source said, “We were quite surprised he went back to Kabul after the western withdrawal as the security situation there is obviously much worse. Added to that the Taliban government is making it very difficult for the few ex-pats working there, making it very difficult to travel."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/since-taliban-takeover-over-6000-afghan-journalists-have-lost-jobs-women-journalists-severely-impacted-439320">Also read |&nbsp;Since Taliban takeover, over 6,000 Afghan journalists have lost jobs; women journalists severely impacted</a>

“A lot of people are trying to get to the bottom of what has happened to him, where he is being held and under what charges," he added.&nbsp;

Amid increasing fears, the Foreign Office has been desperately trying to locate him.

Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, the situation has not been so good.&nbsp;

Recently, a survey by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA) revealed that 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover.

Four months ago, most Afghan provinces had at least 10 privately-owned media outlets. However, now, regions have no local media at all.&nbsp;

A humanitarian crisis is looming in the country amid fears of extreme poverty. Heartbreaking reports of poverty in the nation have been emerging since August 15, the date when the Taliban took over. Afghanistan had already been facing chronic poverty and drought but the situation worsened since the Taliban seized power, along with the disruption of aid.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

British worker, Grant Bailey, is missing in Afghanistan after he was seized by the Taliban. As per a report by Mirror, he was arrested by Taliban police during a security clampdown in Kabul.

British worker, Grant Bailey, is missing in Afghanistan after he was seized by the Taliban. As per a report by Mirror, he was arrested by Taliban police during a security clampdown in Kabul. The man in his 50s is married and had worked in Afghanistan for years. He returned in September after the Taliban seized power. It is being speculated that the man, who was working for an NGO in Afghanistan, is being held in one of Kabul's prison complexes. A UK security source told the Daily Mirror that he was last heard on Saturday after which he was arrested at gunpoint. The source said, “We were quite surprised he went back to Kabul after the western withdrawal as the security situation there is obviously much worse. Added to that the Taliban government is making it very difficult for the few ex-pats working there, making it very difficult to travel." Also read | Since Taliban takeover, over 6,000 Afghan journalists have lost jobs; women journalists severely impacted “A lot of people are trying to get to the bottom of what has happened to him, where he is being held and under what charges," he added. Amid increasing fears, the Foreign Office has been desperately trying to locate him. Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, the situation has not been so good. Recently, a survey by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA) revealed that 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover. Four months ago, most Afghan provinces had at least 10 privately-owned media outlets. However, now, regions have no local media at all. A humanitarian crisis is looming in the country amid fears of extreme poverty. Heartbreaking reports of poverty in the nation have been emerging since August 15, the date when the Taliban took over. Afghanistan had already been facing chronic poverty and drought but the situation worsened since the Taliban seized power, along with the disruption of aid. (With inputs from agencies)

British worker Grant Bailey missing in Afghanistan after Taliban seized him at gunpoint

The UN wants to pay nearly 6 million dollars to Taliban govt. According to reports, this money will then go to the Taliban interior ministry and it is meant for the protection of UN facilities and personnel.

UN decides to pay 6 million dollars to Taliban

A suicide bomber was killed at the gate of a passport office in the Afghan capital Kabul on Thursday, a government spokesman said, and several people were injured in the blast, according to unconfirmed reports.

A spokesman for Afghanistan's interior ministry said the attacker was shot and killed while trying to enter the passport office premises.

One member of the Taliban who was a witness told Reuters multiple people were injured, and the building and streets around the area were locked down by Taliban security forces.

Large crowds of Afghans have been thronging outside the passport office in a bid to get travel documents in recent days after the service was restarted after weeks of suspension.

Officials said that Thursdays are reserved as a special day for Taliban officials to visit the passport office to make travel documents.

A suicide bomber was killed at the gate of a passport office in the Afghan capital Kabul on Thursday, a government spokesman said, and several people were injured in the blast, according to unconfirmed reports.

A suicide bomber was killed at the gate of a passport office in the Afghan capital Kabul on Thursday, a government spokesman said, and several people were injured in the blast, according to unconfirmed reports. A spokesman for Afghanistan's interior ministry said the attacker was shot and killed while trying to enter the passport office premises. One member of the Taliban who was a witness told Reuters multiple people were injured, and the building and streets around the area were locked down by Taliban security forces. Large crowds of Afghans have been thronging outside the passport office in a bid to get travel documents in recent days after the service was restarted after weeks of suspension. Officials said that Thursdays are reserved as a special day for Taliban officials to visit the passport office to make travel documents.

Suicide bomber killed at Kabul passport office gate

In an effort to maintain the flow of aid to Afghanistan as it sinks deeper into a humanitarian crisis, on Wednesday the United States officially exempted from sanctions, US and UN officials doing permitted business with the Taliban.

As part of efforts to ease humanitarian aid flows into Afghanistan, the Treasury issued three general licenses on Wednesday.

Whether the move would pave the way for proposed UN payments of about $6 million to the Islamists for security was not clear.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-proposes-to-pay-nearly-6-million-to-taliban-for-security-438988">UN proposes to pay nearly $6 million to Taliban for security</a>

UN plans to pay monthly food allowances to Taliban-run personnel guarding UN facilities next year and to subsidise their salaries, a proposal that has raised questions about whether the payments would violate US sanctions.

Treasury officials declined to confirm whether the new license would exempt UN payments from US sanctions against the Taliban.

Since Washington has designated the Taliban as a terrorist organisation for years, it has frozen its assets and barred Americans from dealing with them.

Officials from the United States and certain international organisations, such as the United Nations, are allowed to participate in official business in transactions involving the Taliban or Haqqani Network under two of the licenses.

Another license allows non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to work on humanitarian projects, including those involving the Taliban and Haqqani Network, without violating US sanctions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-taliban-govt-resumed-issuing-passports-hundreds-queue-outside-the-office-in-a-bid-to-leave-afghanistan-438244" hreflang="en">As Taliban govt resumed issuing passports, hundreds queue outside the office</a>

According to a senior US administration official, the Taliban must take action to stave off a further economic contraction in Afghanistan.

"What we can attempt to do, what we're going to work to do, is to mitigate the humanitarian crisis by getting resources to the Afghan people, and these general licenses will allow us to allow organisations that are doing this work to do exactly that," the official told reporters.

Democratic President Joe Biden's administration was criticised by the top Republican on the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee.

The exemption "could result in using American taxpayer funds to reward, legitimise and enable the same Taliban that took power by force and has shown no interest in abiding by international norms," Representative Michael McCaul said in a statement.

The UN says that nearly 23 million people - about 55 per cent of the population - face extreme levels of hunger, and nearly 9 million are at risk of famine this winter.

Watch |&nbsp;UNSC adopts resolution to ease Afghan aid

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unsc-adopts-resolution-to-ease-afghan-aid-439159/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We will continue to support efforts by our partners to scale up assistance and deliver necessary relief during this moment of particular need," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

In a separate effort to deal with the crisis, the UN Security Council approved a resolution exempting donors, aid groups, and financial institutions that provide humanitarian assistance from UN asset freezes on Taliban leaders&nbsp;and associated entities.

The exemption is “solely for the provision of humanitarian assistance and other activities that support basic human needs in Afghanistan which the council will review in one year,” Jeffrey DeLaurentis, a senior adviser to the US mission to the United Nations, said in urging approval of the measure.

(With inputs from agencies)

In an effort to maintain the flow of aid to Afghanistan as it sinks deeper into a humanitarian crisis, on Wednesday the United States officially exempted from sanctions, US and UN officials doing permitted business with the Taliban.

In an effort to maintain the flow of aid to Afghanistan as it sinks deeper into a humanitarian crisis, on Wednesday the United States officially exempted from sanctions, US and UN officials doing permitted business with the Taliban. As part of efforts to ease humanitarian aid flows into Afghanistan, the Treasury issued three general licenses on Wednesday. Whether the move would pave the way for proposed UN payments of about $6 million to the Islamists for security was not clear. Also read | UN proposes to pay nearly $6 million to Taliban for security UN plans to pay monthly food allowances to Taliban-run personnel guarding UN facilities next year and to subsidise their salaries, a proposal that has raised questions about whether the payments would violate US sanctions. Treasury officials declined to confirm whether the new license would exempt UN payments from US sanctions against the Taliban. Since Washington has designated the Taliban as a terrorist organisation for years, it has frozen its assets and barred Americans from dealing with them. Officials from the United States and certain international organisations, such as the United Nations, are allowed to participate in official business in transactions involving the Taliban or Haqqani Network under two of the licenses. Another license allows non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to work on humanitarian projects, including those involving the Taliban and Haqqani Network, without violating US sanctions. Also read | As Taliban govt resumed issuing passports, hundreds queue outside the office According to a senior US administration official, the Taliban must take action to stave off a further economic contraction in Afghanistan. "What we can attempt to do, what we're going to work to do, is to mitigate the humanitarian crisis by getting resources to the Afghan people, and these general licenses will allow us to allow organisations that are doing this work to do exactly that," the official told reporters. Democratic President Joe Biden's administration was criticised by the top Republican on the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee. The exemption "could result in using American taxpayer funds to reward, legitimise and enable the same Taliban that took power by force and has shown no interest in abiding by international norms," Representative Michael McCaul said in a statement. The UN says that nearly 23 million people - about 55 per cent of the population - face extreme levels of hunger, and nearly 9 million are at risk of famine this winter. Watch | UNSC adopts resolution to ease Afghan aid "We will continue to support efforts by our partners to scale up assistance and deliver necessary relief during this moment of particular need," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. In a separate effort to deal with the crisis, the UN Security Council approved a resolution exempting donors, aid groups, and financial institutions that provide humanitarian assistance from UN asset freezes on Taliban leaders and associated entities. The exemption is “solely for the provision of humanitarian assistance and other activities that support basic human needs in Afghanistan which the council will review in one year,” Jeffrey DeLaurentis, a senior adviser to the US mission to the United Nations, said in urging approval of the measure. (With inputs from agencies)

To keep aid flowing to Afghanistan, US authorises certain transactions with Taliban

UNSC adopts resolution to ease Afghan aid

First war and now natural calamities, it is a storm of crisis for war-torn Afghanistan. 25 out of 34 provinces have been hit hard by drought.

Climate change parches Afghanistan

A recent survey has 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 talks about how 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;

Four months ago, most Afghan provinces had at least 10 privately-owned media outlets. However, now, regions have no local media at all.&nbsp;

A report by RSF cited the example of the mountainous northern province of Parwan where there were at least 10 media outlets in total. However, now just three are functioning.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-keep-aid-flowing-to-afghanistan-us-authorises-certain-transactions-with-taliban-439164">Also read |&nbsp;To keep aid flowing to Afghanistan, US authorises certain transactions with Taliban</a>

In Herat and several surrounding provinces, only 18 of the 51 media outlets are still operating. The central Kabul region has lost more than one of every two media outlets. It had the maximum number of media outlets in Afghanistan. Now, out of the 148 tallied before 15 August, only 72 are still operating.

This has led to a major impact on employment in the media sector. At the beginning of August, 10,790 people worked in the Afghan media, out of which 8,290 were men and 2,490 were women.

When this survey was carried out, only 4,360 people, including 3,950 men and 410 women, were remaining.&nbsp;

"Six provinces have seen three-quarters of their male journalists lose their jobs. But no female journalist at all is still working in 15 of the countries 34 provinces. For example, in the northern province of Jowzjan, which used to have 19 media outlets employing 112 women, none of the 12 media outlets still operating is employing a woman," stated the report.&nbsp;

Anthony Bellanger, secretary-general, IFJ while speaking to the Guardian said, I believe what we will see emerge is an official media – a Taliban media – and no women. All other journalists will just disappear. It wasn’t easy before – and even before the Taliban took power, journalists were killed – but it is very bleak now."

(With inputs from agencies)

A recent survey has 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 talks about how 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover.

A recent survey has 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 talks about how 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. Four months ago, most Afghan provinces had at least 10 privately-owned media outlets. However, now, regions have no local media at all. A report by RSF cited the example of the mountainous northern province of Parwan where there were at least 10 media outlets in total. However, now just three are functioning. Also read | To keep aid flowing to Afghanistan, US authorises certain transactions with Taliban In Herat and several surrounding provinces, only 18 of the 51 media outlets are still operating. The central Kabul region has lost more than one of every two media outlets. It had the maximum number of media outlets in Afghanistan. Now, out of the 148 tallied before 15 August, only 72 are still operating. This has led to a major impact on employment in the media sector. At the beginning of August, 10,790 people worked in the Afghan media, out of which 8,290 were men and 2,490 were women. When this survey was carried out, only 4,360 people, including 3,950 men and 410 women, were remaining. "Six provinces have seen three-quarters of their male journalists lose their jobs. But no female journalist at all is still working in 15 of the countries 34 provinces. For example, in the northern province of Jowzjan, which used to have 19 media outlets employing 112 women, none of the 12 media outlets still operating is employing a woman," stated the report. Anthony Bellanger, secretary-general, IFJ while speaking to the Guardian said, I believe what we will see emerge is an official media – a Taliban media – and no women. All other journalists will just disappear. It wasn’t easy before – and even before the Taliban took power, journalists were killed – but it is very bleak now." (With inputs from agencies)

Since Taliban takeover, over 6,000 Afghan journalists have lost jobs; women journalists severely impacted

UN to pay 6 million dollars to Taliban for protection of its facilities in Afghanistan

In a sign of fresh border tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the Taliban forces uprooted barbed wires erected by the Pakistan security forces in the eastern Nangarhar province along the Durand Line, according to local media reports.

According to the Afghanistan-based Khama Press (KP) news agency, the barbed wires were&nbsp;destroyed and brought to Afghanistan.

A video of the incident had gone viral, showing Afghanistan forces threatening their Pakistani counterparts with harsh repercussions if another attempt was made to erect barbed wires along the border.

“Next time if you look bad at Afghanistan, I will come and make this area (only hundreds of meters from Pakistan’s soil) and will make it my frontline to wage war with you. I swear by Allah that waging war with you makes me happier than waging war with Jewish,” KP quoted Doctor Bashir as saying in the video.

Khama Press also said, while citing reports, that Pakistani forces launched artilleries on Kunar province on Monday night after the incident in the Gushta district of Nangarhar province.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-pakistan-dispute-escalates-2-days-after-oic-meet-438885/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The reports of fresh skirmish along the border come days after Pakistan hosted the 17th session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Islamabad to discuss the Afghanistan situation.

Durand Line is an international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The border earned its moniker after British civil servant Sir Henry Mortimer Durand who signed an agreement with Amir Abdur Rahman, then the Afghan ruler, on November 12, 1893, to establish an international border between British India and Afghanistan.

Durand Line often witnesses periodic skirmish between the two forces. Previous Afghan governments, including the Taliban, have repeatedly opposed the British demarcation of the border.

Recent Pakistani attempts to establish fences and border posts along the disputed border have been met with stiff resistance from Afghanistan.

&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)

In a sign of fresh border tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the Taliban forces uprooted barbed wires erected by the Pakistan security forces in the eastern Nangarhar province along the Durand Line, according to local media reports.

In a sign of fresh border tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the Taliban forces uprooted barbed wires erected by the Pakistan security forces in the eastern Nangarhar province along the Durand Line, according to local media reports. According to the Afghanistan-based Khama Press (KP) news agency, the barbed wires were destroyed and brought to Afghanistan. A video of the incident had gone viral, showing Afghanistan forces threatening their Pakistani counterparts with harsh repercussions if another attempt was made to erect barbed wires along the border. “Next time if you look bad at Afghanistan, I will come and make this area (only hundreds of meters from Pakistan’s soil) and will make it my frontline to wage war with you. I swear by Allah that waging war with you makes me happier than waging war with Jewish,” KP quoted Doctor Bashir as saying in the video. Khama Press also said, while citing reports, that Pakistani forces launched artilleries on Kunar province on Monday night after the incident in the Gushta district of Nangarhar province. Watch The reports of fresh skirmish along the border come days after Pakistan hosted the 17th session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Islamabad to discuss the Afghanistan situation. Durand Line is an international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The border earned its moniker after British civil servant Sir Henry Mortimer Durand who signed an agreement with Amir Abdur Rahman, then the Afghan ruler, on November 12, 1893, to establish an international border between British India and Afghanistan. Durand Line often witnesses periodic skirmish between the two forces. Previous Afghan governments, including the Taliban, have repeatedly opposed the British demarcation of the border. Recent Pakistani attempts to establish fences and border posts along the disputed border have been met with stiff resistance from Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban tear down barbed wire fence put up by Pak forces as Durand Line border tension brews

First war & now natural disasters are battering Afghanistan as 25 of 34 provinces are hit by drought

Opium poppy cultivation and harvesting have long been a part of Afghanistan's history.

By 2021, Afghanistan's harvest will account for more than 90% of worldwide illegal heroin production and more than 95% of European supply.

In Afghanistan, opium growing takes up more territory than coca cultivation in Latin America.

Since 2001, the country has been the world's biggest illicit drug producer.&nbsp;

The Taliban, who were born in Pakistan, control most of the world's opium-growing land, making them the world's most powerful narcotics cartel.

It regulates and taxes the production of opioids, monitors exports, and protects smuggling networks.

This is critical to their long-term survival.&nbsp;

Afghanistan is the world's top opium producer.

Afghanistan produced an estimated 6,800 tonnes of opium during the previous harvest season, which concluded in July.

According to a recent report by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, this was an increase of 8% from 2020.

According to the research, <a href="https://www.unodc.org/documents/data-and-analysis/Afghanistan/Afghanistan_brief_Nov_2021.pdf">Afghanistan produces 85 per cent of the world's opium</a>, and Afghan opiates are used by 80 per cent of the world's opium users.

According to the UNODC, the opium trade in Afghanistan will earn between $1.8 billion and $2.7 billion&nbsp;in 2021, accounting for around one-tenth of the country's economic output.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Opium poppy cultivation and harvesting have long been a part of Afghanistan's history. By 2021, Afghanistan's harvest will account for more than 90% of worldwide illegal heroin production and more than 95% of European supply.

Opium poppy cultivation and harvesting have long been a part of Afghanistan's history. By 2021, Afghanistan's harvest will account for more than 90% of worldwide illegal heroin production and more than 95% of European supply. In Afghanistan, opium growing takes up more territory than coca cultivation in Latin America. Since 2001, the country has been the world's biggest illicit drug producer. The Taliban, who were born in Pakistan, control most of the world's opium-growing land, making them the world's most powerful narcotics cartel. It regulates and taxes the production of opioids, monitors exports, and protects smuggling networks. This is critical to their long-term survival. Afghanistan is the world's top opium producer. Afghanistan produced an estimated 6,800 tonnes of opium during the previous harvest season, which concluded in July. According to a recent report by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, this was an increase of 8% from 2020. According to the research, Afghanistan produces 85 per cent of the world's opium, and Afghan opiates are used by 80 per cent of the world's opium users. According to the UNODC, the opium trade in Afghanistan will earn between $1.8 billion and $2.7 billion in 2021, accounting for around one-tenth of the country's economic output. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan produces 85% of the world's opium: UN report

The United Nations is proposing to pay nearly $6 million for protection in Afghanistan to&nbsp;Taliban-run Interior Ministry personnel, whose chief is under UN&nbsp;and US&nbsp;sanctions and wanted by the FBI, according to a UN&nbsp;document and a source familiar with the matter.

The proposed funds would be paid next year mostly to subsidise&nbsp;the monthly wages of&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;fighters guarding UN&nbsp;facilities and to provide them a monthly food allowance under an expansion of an accord with the former US-backed Afghan government, the document reviewed by Reuters shows.

The plan underscores the persisting insecurity in Afghanistan following the Islamist&nbsp;Taliban’s takeover in August as the last US&nbsp;troops left, as well as a dire shortage of funds hampering the new government because of a cutoff of international financial aid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-taliban-govt-resumed-issuing-passports-hundreds-queue-outside-the-office-in-a-bid-to-leave-afghanistan-438244" hreflang="en">As Taliban govt resumed issuing passports, hundreds queue outside the office</a>

“The United Nations has a duty as an employer to reinforce and, where necessary, supplement the capacity of host states in circumstances where UN&nbsp;personnel work in areas of insecurity,” deputy UN&nbsp;spokesman Farhan Haq wrote in an email in response to Reuters’ questions about the proposed payments. He did not dispute the contents of the document.

Several experts said the proposed payments raise questions about whether they would violate US&nbsp;and UN&nbsp;sanctions on the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;and their top leaders, and whether the United Nations could detect diversions of funds for other purposes.

“What it comes down to is there is no proper oversight,” said the source, who requested anonymity to discuss the matter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/days-after-oic-meet-tension-ensues-between-pakistan-and-afghanistan-on-durand-line-border-438954" hreflang="en">Days after OIC meet, tension ensues between Pakistan and Afghanistan on Durand Line border</a>

Those under sanctions include deputy&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;leader and Interior Ministry chief Sirajuddin Haqqani. He heads the Haqqani network, a faction blamed for some of the bloodiest attacks over 20 years of war. The United States, which says Haqqani is close to al Qaeda, is offering a $10 million reward for information leading to his arrest.

The UN&nbsp;Assistance Mission to Afghanistan (UNAMA) budget is “currently under review,” but the mission “maintains full compliance with all UN&nbsp;sanctions regimes,” Haq said.

He did not respond to a question about whether the proposed payments would breach US&nbsp;sanctions.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dont-politicise-education-and-right-to-work-afghan-women-protest-against-taliban-government-422880" hreflang="en">'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government</a>

A US&nbsp;Treasury Department official said the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;and the Haqqani network remain designated under the US&nbsp;government's counterterrorism sanctions program and that unauthorized people supporting them "risk exposure to US&nbsp;sanctions."

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, declined to comment on the UN&nbsp;proposal.

Food shortages, economic collapse

The proposed funds would bolster the cash-strapped&nbsp;Taliban’s ability to protect some 3,500 UN&nbsp;personnel in Kabul and 10 field offices. Many are striving to help the country of 39 million cope with food shortages amid a public services breakdown and an economic collapse accelerated by the evaporation of foreign financial aid.

The UN&nbsp;document says most of a proposed $4 million security budget for 2022 shared by the 20 UN&nbsp;agencies operating in Afghanistan “constitutes payments in respect of supplementing host nation resources for their primary responsibility to protect UN&nbsp;personnel (as foreseen in our SOMA).”

SOMA stands for a Status of Mission Agreement with the former government. Under the accord, the United Nations subsidized the costs to the Interior Ministry of police who protected UN&nbsp;facilities, the source said.

Most of the $4 million would boost the wages of individual&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;members by $275-to-$319 per month and provide a monthly food allowance of $90 per person, “which was previously only paid in the regions but now also extended to Kabul,” the document said.

UNAMA would spend an additional nearly $2 million “for similar services” outside the security budget shared with other UN&nbsp;agencies, the document added.

“The UN&nbsp;system provided allowances to personnel who perform supplementary security services which are critical to the safety of personnel and compounds, as well as operations and movements in the country,” said Haq.

Such funds, he said, are paid directly to recipients "and not through the de facto authorities.”

The United Nations is proposing to pay nearly $6 million for protection in Afghanistan to Taliban-run Interior Ministry personnel, whose chief is under UN and US sanctions and wanted by the FBI, according to a UN document and a source familiar with the matter.

The United Nations is proposing to pay nearly $6 million for protection in Afghanistan to Taliban-run Interior Ministry personnel, whose chief is under UN and US sanctions and wanted by the FBI, according to a UN document and a source familiar with the matter. The proposed funds would be paid next year mostly to subsidise the monthly wages of Taliban fighters guarding UN facilities and to provide them a monthly food allowance under an expansion of an accord with the former US-backed Afghan government, the document reviewed by Reuters shows. The plan underscores the persisting insecurity in Afghanistan following the Islamist Taliban’s takeover in August as the last US troops left, as well as a dire shortage of funds hampering the new government because of a cutoff of international financial aid. Also read | As Taliban govt resumed issuing passports, hundreds queue outside the office “The United Nations has a duty as an employer to reinforce and, where necessary, supplement the capacity of host states in circumstances where UN personnel work in areas of insecurity,” deputy UN spokesman Farhan Haq wrote in an email in response to Reuters’ questions about the proposed payments. He did not dispute the contents of the document. Several experts said the proposed payments raise questions about whether they would violate US and UN sanctions on the Taliban and their top leaders, and whether the United Nations could detect diversions of funds for other purposes. “What it comes down to is there is no proper oversight,” said the source, who requested anonymity to discuss the matter. Also read | Days after OIC meet, tension ensues between Pakistan and Afghanistan on Durand Line border Those under sanctions include deputy Taliban leader and Interior Ministry chief Sirajuddin Haqqani. He heads the Haqqani network, a faction blamed for some of the bloodiest attacks over 20 years of war. The United States, which says Haqqani is close to al Qaeda, is offering a $10 million reward for information leading to his arrest. The UN Assistance Mission to Afghanistan (UNAMA) budget is “currently under review,” but the mission “maintains full compliance with all UN sanctions regimes,” Haq said. He did not respond to a question about whether the proposed payments would breach US sanctions. Also see | 'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government A US Treasury Department official said the Taliban and the Haqqani network remain designated under the US government's counterterrorism sanctions program and that unauthorized people supporting them "risk exposure to US sanctions." The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, declined to comment on the UN proposal. Food shortages, economic collapse The proposed funds would bolster the cash-strapped Taliban’s ability to protect some 3,500 UN personnel in Kabul and 10 field offices. Many are striving to help the country of 39 million cope with food shortages amid a public services breakdown and an economic collapse accelerated by the evaporation of foreign financial aid. The UN document says most of a proposed $4 million security budget for 2022 shared by the 20 UN agencies operating in Afghanistan “constitutes payments in respect of supplementing host nation resources for their primary responsibility to protect UN personnel (as foreseen in our SOMA).” SOMA stands for a Status of Mission Agreement with the former government. Under the accord, the United Nations subsidized the costs to the Interior Ministry of police who protected UN facilities, the source said. Most of the $4 million would boost the wages of individual Taliban members by $275-to-$319 per month and provide a monthly food allowance of $90 per person, “which was previously only paid in the regions but now also extended to Kabul,” the document said. UNAMA would spend an additional nearly $2 million “for similar services” outside the security budget shared with other UN agencies, the document added. “The UN system provided allowances to personnel who perform supplementary security services which are critical to the safety of personnel and compounds, as well as operations and movements in the country,” said Haq. Such funds, he said, are paid directly to recipients "and not through the de facto authorities.”

UN proposes to pay nearly $6 million to Taliban for security

afghanistan-0

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

afghanistan 0