As thousands of Afghans tried to flee the country after the Taliban took control of the nation, some women have opened up about forced marriages.<o:p></o:p>

US officials who have been processing Afghan refugees abroad have also alerted the State Department that many women and girls have been forced to get married to Afghan men in order to evacuate from the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-may-announce-new-government-after-friday-afternoon-prayers-reports-410319" hreflang="en">Taliban may announce new government after Friday afternoon prayers: Reports</a>

<o:p></o:p>

Afghan men have been forcing women to pose as their wife so that they can flee the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. These men have, reportedly, forcefully asked women outside the Kabul airport to pose as their wife, but may now be taking undue advantage of these girls and women.<o:p></o:p>

As per officials, some reputed families also paid thousands of dollars to men, who were eligible for evacuation, to pose as husbands for these women and help them escape the Taliban rule.<o:p></o:p>

Following these warnings form the US diplomats in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the US State Department has vowed to work with the Department of Homeland Security and the Defense Department and identify such cases of human trafficking.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-takeover-rejuvenates-fear-of-terrorism-in-bangladesh-410363">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-takeover-rejuvenates-fear-of-terrorism-in-bangladesh-410363/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US has been taking help of other countries who are acting as a stopover for Afghan refugees. The evacuees are first taken to other countries, such as the UAE, where the officials vet and process individuals and house them in local refugee centre for some time before flying them back to the US.<o:p></o:p>

While people have been desperately trying to flee the country to get away from the new Taliban regime, women and minority communities are in the most vulnerable spot right now.<o:p></o:p>

People were trying their best to send their daughters, wives and other female relatives out of Afghanistan after several initial reports claimed that the Taliban were collecting a list of all unmarried and widowed women and girls to make them ‘wives of Taliban’.<o:p></o:p>

As thousands of Afghans tried to flee the country after the Taliban took control of the nation, some women have opened up about forced marriages. US officials who have been processing Afghan refugees abroad have also alerted the State Department that many women and girls have been forced to get married to Afghan men in order to evacuate from the country.

As thousands of Afghans tried to flee the country after the Taliban took control of the nation, some women have opened up about forced marriages. US officials who have been processing Afghan refugees abroad have also alerted the State Department that many women and girls have been forced to get married to Afghan men in order to evacuate from the country. Also read | Taliban may announce new government after Friday afternoon prayers: Reports Afghan men have been forcing women to pose as their wife so that they can flee the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. These men have, reportedly, forcefully asked women outside the Kabul airport to pose as their wife, but may now be taking undue advantage of these girls and women. As per officials, some reputed families also paid thousands of dollars to men, who were eligible for evacuation, to pose as husbands for these women and help them escape the Taliban rule. Following these warnings form the US diplomats in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the US State Department has vowed to work with the Department of Homeland Security and the Defense Department and identify such cases of human trafficking. WATCH | The US has been taking help of other countries who are acting as a stopover for Afghan refugees. The evacuees are first taken to other countries, such as the UAE, where the officials vet and process individuals and house them in local refugee centre for some time before flying them back to the US. While people have been desperately trying to flee the country to get away from the new Taliban regime, women and minority communities are in the most vulnerable spot right now. People were trying their best to send their daughters, wives and other female relatives out of Afghanistan after several initial reports claimed that the Taliban were collecting a list of all unmarried and widowed women and girls to make them ‘wives of Taliban’.

Afghan women being forcefully married to flee the country: US officials

After Taliban's power grab in Afghanistan there was apprehensions about social rights of women and other sections of the society. Though Taliban have apparently taken softer than before stance about women's rights, a media report says that disability rights activists are being increasingly targetted in the country

The Nation published a report describing the ordeal of disability rights activist identified as 'A', who is on the run because of Taliban.

Reports say that Taliban fighters have been to A's house asking about their whereabouts. Such visits have been made three times till now. A is moving from house to house to evade capture.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-is-our-most-important-partner-says-taliban-spokesperson-zabihullah-mujahid-410510">China is our most important partner, says Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid</a>

During the time when US troops maintained their presence the disability rights activists worked to empower such members of Afghan society. With United States' help, the activists even got involved in campaigns that sought to make buildings more accessible to the disabled.

In past, the Taliban have recruited disabled Afghans to be suicide bombers. With little or no facilities or means to live a basic life, many of them have chosen to lose their lives just to make a little money for their families.

After Taliban's power grab in Afghanistan there was apprehensions about social rights of women and other sections of the society. Though Taliban have apparently taken softer than before stance about women's rights, a media report says that disability rights activists are being increasingly targetted in the country The Nation published a report describing the ordeal of disability rights activist identified as 'A', who is on the run because of Taliban.

After Taliban's power grab in Afghanistan there was apprehensions about social rights of women and other sections of the society. Though Taliban have apparently taken softer than before stance about women's rights, a media report says that disability rights activists are being increasingly targetted in the country The Nation published a report describing the ordeal of disability rights activist identified as 'A', who is on the run because of Taliban. Reports say that Taliban fighters have been to A's house asking about their whereabouts. Such visits have been made three times till now. A is moving from house to house to evade capture. Also Read | China is our most important partner, says Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid During the time when US troops maintained their presence the disability rights activists worked to empower such members of Afghan society. With United States' help, the activists even got involved in campaigns that sought to make buildings more accessible to the disabled. In past, the Taliban have recruited disabled Afghans to be suicide bombers. With little or no facilities or means to live a basic life, many of them have chosen to lose their lives just to make a little money for their families.

Disability-rights activists being targetted in Afghanistan, says report

The Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has rejuvenated the fear of terror within South Asia. In such discussions, we talk less about the implications of the movement of the foreign fighters in Bangladesh. WION tells you what will be the consequences of the Taliban's victory over Bangladesh.

Taliban takeover rejuvenates fear of terrorism in Bangladesh

Recently, a US lawmaker has said that the Pakistan intel agency had aided the Taliban and played a key role in Afghanistan takeover. To understand Canada's stance on the Taliban, WION speaks with Chris Alexander, former envoy to Pakistan.

'No permanent ceasefire in Afghanistan without sanctions against Pak', says Chris Alexander

New York top cop during 09/11 Bernard Kerik has spoken to WION on Afghanistan. Watch this report to know more.

New York top cop during 09/11 Bernard Kerik speaks to WION

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Thursday said that India's immediate focus is to ensure that Afghan soil is not used for terrorist activities directed against it.

MEA: India's concern is to prevent use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities

The Taliban could announce their government any time in the coming week. Earlier there were reports that the Taliban might announce its government during today sometime this evening. Watch this report to know more.

Report: Baradar to be head of Afghani Govt

Afghanistan: World hopes for an inclusive government in Kabul

In a rare show of defiance, around 60 Afghan women took to the streets demanding the right to work from the new rulers of Afghanistan.

Afghan women protests against Taliban over right to work

In what can be said to be further and stronger criticism of USA's hasty retreat from Afghanistan, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace suggested that US was no longer a superpower. His comments have come just days after total withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.

The strong words came as he gave an interview to Spectator magazine.

On being asked whether situation in Afghanistan revealed limitations of UK's power, Wallace said,"“It is obvious that Britain is not a superpower"

He then shifted focus to the US.

“But a superpower that is also not prepared to stick at something isn’t probably a superpower either. It is certainly not a global force, it’s just a big power," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blame-for-afghanistan-lies-on-president-biden-says-911-era-nypd-commissioner-410532">Blame for Afghanistan 'lies on President Biden', says 9/11-era NYPD commissioner&nbsp;</a>

The hasty retreat from Afghanistan has put USA and especially President Joe Biden on a defensive foot in light of the global criticism. The US has entered Afghanistan and fought against Taliban. But the same regime came back to power after US withdrawal.

This is not the first time the British defence secretary expressed his disapproval of American manoeuvres in Afghanistan. In mid-August, when theh Taliban were making lightning advance across the country, Wallace said that Donald Trump's peace deal with Taliban in 2020 was "a mistake".

In what can be said to be further and stronger criticism of USA's hasty retreat from Afghanistan, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace suggested that US was no longer a superpower.

In what can be said to be further and stronger criticism of USA's hasty retreat from Afghanistan, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace suggested that US was no longer a superpower. His comments have come just days after total withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan. The strong words came as he gave an interview to Spectator magazine. On being asked whether situation in Afghanistan revealed limitations of UK's power, Wallace said,"“It is obvious that Britain is not a superpower" He then shifted focus to the US. “But a superpower that is also not prepared to stick at something isn’t probably a superpower either. It is certainly not a global force, it’s just a big power," he said. Also Read | Blame for Afghanistan 'lies on President Biden', says 9/11-era NYPD commissioner The hasty retreat from Afghanistan has put USA and especially President Joe Biden on a defensive foot in light of the global criticism. The US has entered Afghanistan and fought against Taliban. But the same regime came back to power after US withdrawal. This is not the first time the British defence secretary expressed his disapproval of American manoeuvres in Afghanistan. In mid-August, when theh Taliban were making lightning advance across the country, Wallace said that Donald Trump's peace deal with Taliban in 2020 was "a mistake".

US no longer a superpower, suggests UK defence secretary

Report: Baradar to be head of Afghani Govt | Afghanistan | Latest World English News | WION News

Gravitas | The Taliban have given a greenlight to men's cricket, but what happens to Afghanistan's women's cricket team? What happens to Afghan cricket's special bond with India? WION's Palki Sharma brings you a report on the future of sports under the Taliban.

Gravitas: The future of sports under the Taliban

Gravitas | Former US diplomat Nikki Haley says China could take over Bagram airfield. Will the Taliban give up the strategic military asset? What else is the Taliban willing to trade for Chinese money? WION's Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China making a move on Bagram base?

Gravitas | The U.S. says military cooperation with the Taliban is 'possible'. The same US designates Taliban faction Haqqani Network as terrorists. What is the US surrendering to recruit Taliban in the war on terror? WION's Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: What is the cost of talking to the Taliban?

Gravitas | The Taliban is all set to don the political hat. They plan to have a new flag, a new constitution & a political system based on the Iranian model of governance. Who will be their Supreme Leader? Which countries will recognise their rule? WION's Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: The Taliban Regime set to rule Afghanistan

The Taliban is set to announce their new government for Afghanistan very soon, a little after the world leaders withdrew their troops and citizens from the country.<o:p></o:p>

A couple of Taliban sources were cited by the news agency AFP who claimed the new government may be announced after the Friday afternoon prayers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-taliban-leaders-born-and-trained-in-pakistan-says-imran-khans-minister-sheikh-rashid-410222">Watch: Taliban leaders 'born and trained' in Pakistan, says Imran Khan's Minister Sheikh Rashid</a>

<o:p></o:p>

The new government is expected to be more tolerant, and give more rights to women and other minority groups — something that the Taliban was missing in the first regime. This time the group will allow women to study and work, they claim.<o:p></o:p>

However, the government will still continue to impose Sharia Law in the country.<o:p></o:p>

The new government may not include any women leaders, even though the Taliban claimed that they will have a more 'inclusive'&nbsp;government this time, in comparison to their last stint from 1996 to 2001.<o:p></o:p>

Women took to streets in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-protest-in-afghanistans-herat-over-right-to-education-work-410216">Herat area of Afghanistan</a> to protest for their right to work and lack of opportunities to be involved in the new government. "We want the Taliban to hold consultations with us,” a protestor was quoted by AFP. “We don't see any women in their gatherings and meetings."

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-future-of-sports-under-the-taliban-410313">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-future-of-sports-under-the-taliban-410313/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Locals have also started complaining about the temporary closure of businesses and shops which, they reiterate, is adding to the already struggling economy of Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p>

This report has come a little after the United Nations (UN) announced that it is now restarting the humanitarian flights in a few selected areas of the country.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the Taliban has also claimed that China has assured the terrorist group-turned-governing government that the Chinese embassy will stay functional and Kabul. The Xi Jinping-led government has also assured that it will work to strengthen relationship with the Taliban-run Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p>

The Taliban is set to announce their new government for Afghanistan very soon, a little after the world leaders withdrew their troops and citizens from the country.

The Taliban is set to announce their new government for Afghanistan very soon, a little after the world leaders withdrew their troops and citizens from the country. A couple of Taliban sources were cited by the news agency AFP who claimed the new government may be announced after the Friday afternoon prayers. Also read | Watch: Taliban leaders 'born and trained' in Pakistan, says Imran Khan's Minister Sheikh Rashid The new government is expected to be more tolerant, and give more rights to women and other minority groups — something that the Taliban was missing in the first regime. This time the group will allow women to study and work, they claim. However, the government will still continue to impose Sharia Law in the country. The new government may not include any women leaders, even though the Taliban claimed that they will have a more 'inclusive' government this time, in comparison to their last stint from 1996 to 2001. Women took to streets in the Herat area of Afghanistan to protest for their right to work and lack of opportunities to be involved in the new government. "We want the Taliban to hold consultations with us,” a protestor was quoted by AFP. “We don't see any women in their gatherings and meetings." WATCH | Locals have also started complaining about the temporary closure of businesses and shops which, they reiterate, is adding to the already struggling economy of Afghanistan. This report has come a little after the United Nations (UN) announced that it is now restarting the humanitarian flights in a few selected areas of the country. Meanwhile, the Taliban has also claimed that China has assured the terrorist group-turned-governing government that the Chinese embassy will stay functional and Kabul. The Xi Jinping-led government has also assured that it will work to strengthen relationship with the Taliban-run Afghanistan.

Taliban may announce new government after Friday afternoon prayers: Reports

With the Taliban taking over Afghanistan, almost every area of art and culture is facing a threat of extinction from the country. The students and staff at the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM) are facing uncertain days after the Taliban recent announced they would ban music following their takeover of the country.&nbsp; 
 
The door of the once-celebrated school now remain shut and its hallways have fallen silent.&nbsp; 
 
The institute's founder and director Dr Ahman Sarmast explained to the BBC that how the students are scared to attend the music school post the Taliban's accession to power."They clearly understand that if they return to the school, they might face consequences or be punished for what they've been doing," Sarmast said.&nbsp; 
 
Some of the students have even returned their instruments to the school as they felt it was safer there instead of keeping at home, where fighters of the Islamist group might fight them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-wion-exclusive--afghan-actor-warina-hussain-i-dont-blame-women-who-have-taken-up-arms-in-afghanistan-409865" hreflang="en">WION exclusive | Afghan actor Warina Hussain: I don't blame women who have taken up arms in Afghanistan</a> 
 
The school, located in Kabul, was a popular institute that thrived for more than a decade. 
 
ANIM was one of its kind in the country which trained boys and girls in the same room- a rarity in Islamic Afghanistan. The students were taught both Afghan and Western classical music.&nbsp; 
 
Even Orphans and street children were encouraged to attend, and many graduates were the first in their families to receive a formal education. 
 
The school also established Afghanistan's first all-female orchestra Zohra, which in a short span of time has gained a huge audience across the world. Most of the members of the band belong to a Kabul orphanage and are of the age group between 13-20.&nbsp; 
 
In the past few weeks, as the Taliban took over the country, the orchestra, much like the music school has gone completely silent.&nbsp; 
 
"It is a time of devastation of our dreams, of hope, of inspiration for the future," Dr Sarmast said.&nbsp; 
 
"The students are very fearful about their future - not just of their education and their (music) programme, but also about their life," he said. "They do not feel safe in Afghanistan." 
 
While Dr Sarmast is stuck in Australia, his staff have informed that the Taliban has overrun the campus but not damaged it. 
 
Dr Sarmast, well known as an educationist across Afghanistan, was visiting family in Australia when the Taliban took over Kabul. He revealed that how the Taliban is looking for him and has even pressurised some of his staff members to hand over the keys of the institute. The director though has insisted that he will only speak to senior leaders of the Taliban.&nbsp;

With the Taliban taking over Afghanistan, almost every area of art and culture is facing a threat of extinction from the country. The students and staff at the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM) are facing uncertain days after the Taliban recent announced they would ban music following their takeover of the country.

With the Taliban taking over Afghanistan, almost every area of art and culture is facing a threat of extinction from the country. The students and staff at the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM) are facing uncertain days after the Taliban recent announced they would ban music following their takeover of the country. The door of the once-celebrated school now remain shut and its hallways have fallen silent. The institute's founder and director Dr Ahman Sarmast explained to the BBC that how the students are scared to attend the music school post the Taliban's accession to power."They clearly understand that if they return to the school, they might face consequences or be punished for what they've been doing," Sarmast said. Some of the students have even returned their instruments to the school as they felt it was safer there instead of keeping at home, where fighters of the Islamist group might fight them. WION exclusive | Afghan actor Warina Hussain: I don't blame women who have taken up arms in Afghanistan The school, located in Kabul, was a popular institute that thrived for more than a decade. ANIM was one of its kind in the country which trained boys and girls in the same room- a rarity in Islamic Afghanistan. The students were taught both Afghan and Western classical music. Even Orphans and street children were encouraged to attend, and many graduates were the first in their families to receive a formal education. The school also established Afghanistan's first all-female orchestra Zohra, which in a short span of time has gained a huge audience across the world. Most of the members of the band belong to a Kabul orphanage and are of the age group between 13-20. In the past few weeks, as the Taliban took over the country, the orchestra, much like the music school has gone completely silent. "It is a time of devastation of our dreams, of hope, of inspiration for the future," Dr Sarmast said. "The students are very fearful about their future - not just of their education and their (music) programme, but also about their life," he said. "They do not feel safe in Afghanistan." While Dr Sarmast is stuck in Australia, his staff have informed that the Taliban has overrun the campus but not damaged it. Dr Sarmast, well known as an educationist across Afghanistan, was visiting family in Australia when the Taliban took over Kabul. He revealed that how the Taliban is looking for him and has even pressurised some of his staff members to hand over the keys of the institute. The director though has insisted that he will only speak to senior leaders of the Taliban.

How Kabul's popular music school has been silenced after the Taliban took over Afghanistan

News Alert: Taliban to announce its govt next week

In what can be characterised by many as Russia's first indication of mellowing stance towards the Taliban&nbsp;regime in Afghanistan, Russian President Vladimir Putin called for joint efforts to decide about "legalising" a political force there.

Putin made the comment at a forum in Vladivostok. He was asked if Moscow&nbsp;would recognise the Taliban government.&nbsp;

Taliban is formally recognised as a terrorist group in Russia.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-co-founder-mullah-abdul-ghani-baradar-to-lead-new-afghan-government-sources-410403">Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar to lead new Afghan government: Sources</a>

Soviet Russia had invaded Afghanistan in 1979. Many of the current Talibanis were involved in the resistance against the invading force. The Soviet troops exited Afghanistan in the year 1979. The Taliban soon gained prominence in next decade and became politically influencial which led to them capturing power in the country.

After Taliban's recent power grab in Afghanistan, most of the major countries have gone in wait-and-watch mode. The regime does not enjoy formal recognition all over the world.

Taliban meanwhile <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-is-our-most-important-partner-says-taliban-spokesperson-zabihullah-mujahid-410510">has been making overtures to China</a>. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told an Italian newspaper on Thursday&nbsp;that Taliban would rely on Chinese funding.

Mujahid stated the Taliban will strive for an economic recovery with China's backing in an interview published by La Repubblica on Thursday.

Mujahid claimed that the regime supported China's One Belt One Road initiative.

In what can be characterised by many as Russia's first indication of mellowing stance towards the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, Russian President Vladimir Putin called for joint efforts to decide about "legalising" a political force there.

In what can be characterised by many as Russia's first indication of mellowing stance towards the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, Russian President Vladimir Putin called for joint efforts to decide about "legalising" a political force there. Putin made the comment at a forum in Vladivostok. He was asked if Moscow would recognise the Taliban government. Taliban is formally recognised as a terrorist group in Russia. Also Read | Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar to lead new Afghan government: Sources Soviet Russia had invaded Afghanistan in 1979. Many of the current Talibanis were involved in the resistance against the invading force. The Soviet troops exited Afghanistan in the year 1979. The Taliban soon gained prominence in next decade and became politically influencial which led to them capturing power in the country. After Taliban's recent power grab in Afghanistan, most of the major countries have gone in wait-and-watch mode. The regime does not enjoy formal recognition all over the world. Taliban meanwhile has been making overtures to China. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told an Italian newspaper on Thursday that Taliban would rely on Chinese funding. Mujahid stated the Taliban will strive for an economic recovery with China's backing in an interview published by La Repubblica on Thursday. Mujahid claimed that the regime supported China's One Belt One Road initiative.

Must decide about 'legalising' political force in Afghanistan, says Putin

Afghanistan's 250 women judges fear for their lives, with men they once jailed now freed by the victorious Taliban to hunt them down.

While some female judges were able to flee in recent weeks, most were left behind and are still trying to get out, said judges and activists working around the clock to help them escape.

The Taliban, who swept into power last month as the United States withdrew its troops, banned women from most work when they last ruled the country 20 years ago. They have said women's rights will be protected, but have yet to provide details.

Women who work in justice have already been high profile targets. Two female Supreme Court justices were gunned down in January. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-being-forcefully-married-to-flee-the-country-us-officials-410371">Also read | Afghan women being forcefully married to flee the country: US officials</a> 
 
Now, the Taliban have released prisoners across the country, which "really puts the lives of women judges in danger," a high-level Afghan woman judge who fled to Europe said from an undisclosed location.

In Kabul, "four or five Taliban members came and asked people in my house: 'Where is this woman judge?' These were people who I had put in jail, " she told Reuters in an interview, asking not to be identified.

She was among a small group of Afghan women judges to have made it out in recent weeks with the help of a collective of human rights volunteers and foreign colleagues at the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ).

Since then, she has been in touch with colleagues back home: "Their messages are of fear and complete terror. They tell me if they do not get rescued their lives are in direct danger. " 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-will-be-reliable-partner-of-russia-in-developing-its-far-east-region-pm-modi-410445">Also read |&nbsp;India will be reliable partner of Russia in developing its Far East region: PM Modi</a>

In addition to the judges, there are around a thousand other women human rights defenders who could also be in the Taliban's cross hairs, said Horia Mosadiq, an Afghan human rights activist.

Freed prisoners "are calling with death threats to women judges, women prosecutors, and women police officers, saying 'we will come after you'," she said.

FEARFUL

British Justice Minister Robert Buckland said last week London had evacuated nine female judges and was working to provide safe passage for more of the "very vulnerable people".

"A lot of these judges were responsible for administering the rule of law and quite rightly they are fearful about the consequences that could now face them with the rise of the Taliban," he said.

Human rights and legal activists said Western countries did not make the evacuation of women judges and human rights defenders a priority in the chaos after Kabul fell.

"Governments had zero interest in evacuating people that were not their own nationals," said Sarah Kay, a Belfast-based human rights lawyer and member of the Atlas Women network of international lawyers.

She is working with an online group of volunteer veterans known as the "digital Dunkirk," named for the World War Two evacuation of British troops from Nazi-occupied France. It has helped hundreds of people escape with the help of chat groups and personal contacts.

At the IAWJ, a team of six foreign judges has also been coordinating information, lobbying governments and arranging evacuations.

"The responsibility that we bear is almost unbearable at the moment because we are one of the few people taking responsibility for this group," one of the effort's leaders, Patricia Whalen, an American judge who helped train Afghan female judges in a 10-year programme, told Reuters.

"I am furious about that. None of us should be in this position."

Afghanistan's 250 women judges fear for their lives, with men they once jailed now freed by the victorious Taliban to hunt them down. While some female judges were able to flee in recent weeks, most were left behind and are still trying to get out, said judges and activists working around the clock to help them escape.

Afghanistan's 250 women judges fear for their lives, with men they once jailed now freed by the victorious Taliban to hunt them down. While some female judges were able to flee in recent weeks, most were left behind and are still trying to get out, said judges and activists working around the clock to help them escape. The Taliban, who swept into power last month as the United States withdrew its troops, banned women from most work when they last ruled the country 20 years ago. They have said women's rights will be protected, but have yet to provide details. Women who work in justice have already been high profile targets. Two female Supreme Court justices were gunned down in January. Also read | Afghan women being forcefully married to flee the country: US officials Now, the Taliban have released prisoners across the country, which "really puts the lives of women judges in danger," a high-level Afghan woman judge who fled to Europe said from an undisclosed location. In Kabul, "four or five Taliban members came and asked people in my house: 'Where is this woman judge?' These were people who I had put in jail, " she told Reuters in an interview, asking not to be identified. She was among a small group of Afghan women judges to have made it out in recent weeks with the help of a collective of human rights volunteers and foreign colleagues at the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ). Since then, she has been in touch with colleagues back home: "Their messages are of fear and complete terror. They tell me if they do not get rescued their lives are in direct danger. " Also read | India will be reliable partner of Russia in developing its Far East region: PM Modi In addition to the judges, there are around a thousand other women human rights defenders who could also be in the Taliban's cross hairs, said Horia Mosadiq, an Afghan human rights activist. Freed prisoners "are calling with death threats to women judges, women prosecutors, and women police officers, saying 'we will come after you'," she said. FEARFUL British Justice Minister Robert Buckland said last week London had evacuated nine female judges and was working to provide safe passage for more of the "very vulnerable people". "A lot of these judges were responsible for administering the rule of law and quite rightly they are fearful about the consequences that could now face them with the rise of the Taliban," he said. Human rights and legal activists said Western countries did not make the evacuation of women judges and human rights defenders a priority in the chaos after Kabul fell. "Governments had zero interest in evacuating people that were not their own nationals," said Sarah Kay, a Belfast-based human rights lawyer and member of the Atlas Women network of international lawyers. She is working with an online group of volunteer veterans known as the "digital Dunkirk," named for the World War Two evacuation of British troops from Nazi-occupied France. It has helped hundreds of people escape with the help of chat groups and personal contacts. At the IAWJ, a team of six foreign judges has also been coordinating information, lobbying governments and arranging evacuations. "The responsibility that we bear is almost unbearable at the moment because we are one of the few people taking responsibility for this group," one of the effort's leaders, Patricia Whalen, an American judge who helped train Afghan female judges in a 10-year programme, told Reuters. "I am furious about that. None of us should be in this position."

Hunted by the men they jailed, Afghanistan's women judges seek escape

Domestic flights from Kabul airport are set to resume from today. The closure of Kabul international airport has been posing major strategic and humanitarian challenges and to avert a crisis-driven situation, Qatar is working with the Taliban to quickly reopen Kabul's airport.

Domestic flights from Kabul airport set to resume from today

The world is nervously waiting for the Taliban rule to begin especially for women. Back in 1996 women were assaulted raped and subjugated under the Taliban rule. So what does the Taliban rule mean for the females?

Afghanistan: Will Taliban let women work & live freely?

Amid the chaos in Afghanistan, a woman presenter returned to her morning show on the national television channel Tolo TV.

The woman host was seen presenting the breakfast show on the channel Tolo TV, which is aired in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

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TOLO TV’s breakfast show, Bamdad e Khosh, is back on with a female host via ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/TOLO_TV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TOLO_TV</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/UM1UQEb0WV">pic.twitter.com/UM1UQEb0WV</a>
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After the Taliban took over the country, the safety of women has been one of the biggest concerns.

The visuals of a woman hosting a television show in Afghanistan was welcomed by many on Twitter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-protest-in-afghanistans-herat-over-right-to-education-work-410216">Also read |&nbsp;Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work</a>

Meanwhile, women and university students in Herat held protests to ensure the preservation of achievements in the past 20 years as the Taliban cements its hold over Afghanistan.

Afghanistan's Tolo News reported the women appealed to the international community not to forget them as they took to the streets with placards.

There were at least 50 women involved in the protests reports said as the Taliban begins final preparation to form the government.

Women protesters chanted "right to have education, work and security" while taking out demonstrations on the street.

Amid the chaos in Afghanistan, a woman presenter returned to her morning show on the national television channel Tolo TV. The woman host was seen presenting the breakfast show on the channel Tolo TV, which is aired in Afghanistan.

Amid the chaos in Afghanistan, a woman presenter returned to her morning show on the national television channel Tolo TV. The woman host was seen presenting the breakfast show on the channel Tolo TV, which is aired in Afghanistan. TOLO TV’s breakfast show, Bamdad e Khosh, is back on with a female host via ⁦@TOLO_TV⁩ pic.twitter.com/UM1UQEb0WV — Saad Mohseni (@saadmohseni) September 2, 2021 × After the Taliban took over the country, the safety of women has been one of the biggest concerns. The visuals of a woman hosting a television show in Afghanistan was welcomed by many on Twitter. Also read | Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work Meanwhile, women and university students in Herat held protests to ensure the preservation of achievements in the past 20 years as the Taliban cements its hold over Afghanistan. Afghanistan's Tolo News reported the women appealed to the international community not to forget them as they took to the streets with placards. There were at least 50 women involved in the protests reports said as the Taliban begins final preparation to form the government. Women protesters chanted "right to have education, work and security" while taking out demonstrations on the street.

Woman host back on Tolo TV breakfast show amid chaos in Afghanistan

According to reports, Taliban’s co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is likely to become the head of the executive council. Earlier, reports claimed that the Taliban's top religious leader Mullah Hebatullah Akhundzada will be 'supreme authority'.

Mullah Baradar, Taliban co-founder, to lead new govt in Afghanistan: Report

The government on Thursday said that India was not aware of any details or nature of the government that could be formed in Afghanistan by the Taliban.&nbsp;

Addressing a briefing of the Ministry of External Affairs, spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that the evacuation operation that has remained halted since the past few days would resume once the Kabul airport became operational.

“Currently Kabul airport is not operational. We will resume our operation to evacuate people from Kabul as soon the airport service will resume,” he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-will-be-reliable-partner-of-russia-in-developing-its-far-east-region-pm-modi-410445">Also read |&nbsp;India will be reliable partner of Russia in developing its Far East region: PM Modi</a>

He further added that India's current priority is the safety of its people in Kabul.

India established its first formal contact with the Taliban on Tuesday when the Indian ambassador to Qatar Deepak Mittal met the head of Taliban's political office, Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, in Doha at the Indian mission.

Talks were reportedly held on the safety of Indians, especially minorities, in the war-torn country. Mittal also urged the Taliban that Afghan soil should not be used for terrorist activities against India.

The government on Thursday said that India was not aware of any details or nature of the government that could be formed in Afghanistan by the Taliban. Addressing a briefing of the Ministry of External Affairs, spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that the evacuation operation that has remained halted since the past few days would resume once the Kabul airport became operational.

The government on Thursday said that India was not aware of any details or nature of the government that could be formed in Afghanistan by the Taliban. Addressing a briefing of the Ministry of External Affairs, spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that the evacuation operation that has remained halted since the past few days would resume once the Kabul airport became operational. “Currently Kabul airport is not operational. We will resume our operation to evacuate people from Kabul as soon the airport service will resume,” he said. Also read | India will be reliable partner of Russia in developing its Far East region: PM Modi He further added that India's current priority is the safety of its people in Kabul. India established its first formal contact with the Taliban on Tuesday when the Indian ambassador to Qatar Deepak Mittal met the head of Taliban's political office, Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, in Doha at the Indian mission. Talks were reportedly held on the safety of Indians, especially minorities, in the war-torn country. Mittal also urged the Taliban that Afghan soil should not be used for terrorist activities against India.

Evacuation of Indian citizens priority in Afghanistan: MEA

For about a year, Roberto Bravo lived in a windowless bedroom in a Brooklyn house owned by his brother, a dark basement unit he tried to cheer up with personal mementos: a photo of himself in a tuxedo surrounded by friends, and a flag of Ecuador, his home country, that he hung on the wall.

On Wednesday night, the apartment turned into a death trap as water gushed into his unit and quickly overwhelmed him.

He screamed for help — “Ayúdame por favor,” “Please help me” — as the water climbed to the ceiling. He never made it out.

Cramped basement apartments have long been a prevalent piece of New York City’s vast housing stock, a shadowy network of illegal rentals that often lack basic safety features like more than one way to get out, and that yet are a vital source of shelter for many immigrants like Bravo.

But after Wednesday’s record-shattering rainfall, the underground units turned into tormented scenes of life and death: Of the 13 people killed so far in New York City in Wednesday’s storm, at least 11 were in basement units, nearly as many dead as in Louisiana, where Hurricane Ida made landfall earlier this week.

That people living in illegal basement apartments face danger is not new. But while the worry has traditionally focused on fires or, to a lesser degree, carbon monoxide poisoning, climate change has now made these low-lying homes increasingly treacherous for a different reason: the likelihood of deadly flooding, when a wall of water blocks what is often the only means of escape.

“If there was ever proof that we need to address this basement issue, this is it,” said Annetta Seecharran, executive director of the Chhaya Community Development Corp., a group that works on housing issues for low-income South Asian and Indo-Caribbean New Yorkers. “We’re going to continue to have these climate-related issues.”

The floods on Wednesday have placed fresh scrutiny on New York City’s regulation of basement apartments. Because most are illegal, there is no reliable count of how many exist, but the number is likely in the tens of thousands.

In one of the most expensive housing markets in the world, they have offered low-income New Yorkers, including many working-class families who work in restaurants and hotels, affordable places to live. The basement apartments also provide some extra income for small landlords, many of whom are also immigrants.

“In most places if you have a house and your basement is big enough, most people are renting out their basements,” Seecharran said.

This week, however, as rain inundated New York, harrowing scenes played out in those basements.

Deborah Torres, who lives on the first floor of a building in Woodside, Queens, said she heard desperate pleas from the basement apartment of three members of a family, including a toddler, as floodwaters rushed in. A powerful cascade of water prevented anyone from getting into the apartment to help — or anyone from getting out. The family did not survive.

At a home in Forest Hills, Queens, floodwater burst through a glass sliding door into a basement apartment, pinning Darlene Lee, 48, between the apartment’s steel front door and the door frame. The property manager, Patricia Fuentes, heard Lee screaming for help, as others tried to free Lee while the waters rose. But they could not save her.

There have been long-standing problems with regulating such apartments. The law governing these apartments is complex, and includes rules that say a basement’s ceilings must be at least 7 feet 6 inches high and that living spaces must have a window. The city must approve apartments with a certificate of occupancy before they can be rented.

Between January 2011 and Tuesday, the city had received more than 157,000 complaints involving illegal conversions. Illegal conversions include not only basements that have been made into residential units, but also single-family homes that have been altered into multifamily buildings, and units that have been converted into short-term rentals.

But more than half of the cases were closed after an inspector couldn’t gain access to the dwelling, a New York Times analysis of buildings department data shows.

More than 77,000 of the complaints were in Queens, where at least 59% of cases were closed without inspectors gaining access — the highest rate of any borough.

At one home in Queens, where an 86-year-old woman was found dead in Wednesday’s storm, city records also showed two complaints of illegal basements in 2012. The complaints were closed after city building inspectors could not gain access to the basement.

A spokesperson for the city’s Department of Buildings said inspectors were required to make two attempts at gaining access to a property before the case can be closed. Tenants also have the right to deny entry, the spokesperson said.

In many cases, tenants or homeowners may not have an incentive to report any issues with safety because of a fear of getting fined or losing the home, said Jessica Katz, executive director of the Citizens Housing Planning Council, a nonprofit housing group.

She said the storm’s toll “highlights the housing crisis that we have that leads people to have to live in unsafe conditions in the first place, a code enforcement system that’s complaint-driven that wouldn’t necessarily be able to meet the needs of these tenants in such a situation, and a set of codes that make it very difficult to make the apartment safer.”

The office of Mayor Bill de Blasio did not answer questions about the city’s response to illegal basement homes on Thursday. But a City Hall official said anyone living in a basement apartment could call 311 or 911 to report issues without fear of being vacated, unless there were pressing life safety dangers. The official, who declined to be identified, said the city would announce additional measures on Friday.

Seecharran said that because of the growing need for affordable housing in New York City, and because many lower-income homeowners need supplemental income, people would continue to seek homes in basements, regardless of whether they were illegal.

“We need to bring basement apartments out of the shadows and into the light,” Seecharran said.

The city recently launched a pilot program in East New York, Brooklyn, designed to help people convert illegal units to legal, rentable apartments that meet safety standards. That program is ongoing but had been slowed by budget cuts during the coronavirus pandemic.

De Blasio called for legalizing basement units by helping homeowners with regulations and costs for conversion. Eric Adams, the Democratic nominee for mayor who is favored to win in November, also has expressed support for legalizing those units.

It is not clear whether all of the homes where people died during the storm on Wednesday were illegal units, but many have a history of complaints and violations of city code.

At the Woodside home, a certificate of occupancy shows that the basement had not been approved for residential use. At another home near Jamaica, Queens, where a 45-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man were found dead, a complaint claims that the space had been illegally converted to a residential space.

A spokesperson for the Department of Buildings said earlier Thursday that the agency was investigating the deaths, but did not have “any records of any previously issued violations at these properties related to illegal conversion issues.”

As the rains stopped and the sun shone, many residents of basement apartments in wide swaths of Queens were displaced and trying to find shelter. Property owners were struggling to access aid that could help them repair their homes and prevent mold or other problems from arising, Seecharran said.

“The damage has been done to countless basements, and for many people the basement is their home,” Gov. Kathy C. Hochul said at a news conference. “This is not a lower level where people have a game room, this is their home, and that’s what’s happened, so now we have a homeless situation, people who have to be in shelters.”

At the basement apartment where Bravo, 66, lived near Cypress Hills, Brooklyn, his brother, who owned the building, cleared out the debris on Thursday brought in by the floodwaters.

Bravo had served in the Ecuadorian army before immigrating to the United States in the 1980s, according to his brother Pablo Bravo. Roberto Bravo used to work in construction and paint homes. In recent years, however, he had gotten divorced and his health had deteriorated.

He walked to a senior center every day to eat and socialize, according to Walter Reyes, 68, who took care of him on many days. Asked if he knew whether the apartment was legal, Pablo Bravo said a building inspector told him it was not.

“I thought I was helping a family member,” he said.

Another tenant, Ricardo Garcia, 50, who works construction, said he pays $500 a month for his room in the home. He said he found out about the place from a friend.

Oliver De La Cruz, 22, a delivery driver, heard about another basement room from his cousin’s husband. De La Cruz said he never considered whether the apartment might be illegal.

He said he also never considered — or was warned about — the possibility of a flood and having to struggle to save himself.

He said he would never live in a basement apartment again.

For about a year, Roberto Bravo lived in a windowless bedroom in a Brooklyn house owned by his brother, a dark basement unit he tried to cheer up with personal mementos: a photo of himself in a tuxedo surrounded by friends, and a flag of Ecuador, his home country, that he hung on the wall.

For about a year, Roberto Bravo lived in a windowless bedroom in a Brooklyn house owned by his brother, a dark basement unit he tried to cheer up with personal mementos: a photo of himself in a tuxedo surrounded by friends, and a flag of Ecuador, his home country, that he hung on the wall. On Wednesday night, the apartment turned into a death trap as water gushed into his unit and quickly overwhelmed him. He screamed for help — “Ayúdame por favor,” “Please help me” — as the water climbed to the ceiling. He never made it out. Cramped basement apartments have long been a prevalent piece of New York City’s vast housing stock, a shadowy network of illegal rentals that often lack basic safety features like more than one way to get out, and that yet are a vital source of shelter for many immigrants like Bravo. But after Wednesday’s record-shattering rainfall, the underground units turned into tormented scenes of life and death: Of the 13 people killed so far in New York City in Wednesday’s storm, at least 11 were in basement units, nearly as many dead as in Louisiana, where Hurricane Ida made landfall earlier this week. That people living in illegal basement apartments face danger is not new. But while the worry has traditionally focused on fires or, to a lesser degree, carbon monoxide poisoning, climate change has now made these low-lying homes increasingly treacherous for a different reason: the likelihood of deadly flooding, when a wall of water blocks what is often the only means of escape. “If there was ever proof that we need to address this basement issue, this is it,” said Annetta Seecharran, executive director of the Chhaya Community Development Corp., a group that works on housing issues for low-income South Asian and Indo-Caribbean New Yorkers. “We’re going to continue to have these climate-related issues.” The floods on Wednesday have placed fresh scrutiny on New York City’s regulation of basement apartments. Because most are illegal, there is no reliable count of how many exist, but the number is likely in the tens of thousands. In one of the most expensive housing markets in the world, they have offered low-income New Yorkers, including many working-class families who work in restaurants and hotels, affordable places to live. The basement apartments also provide some extra income for small landlords, many of whom are also immigrants. “In most places if you have a house and your basement is big enough, most people are renting out their basements,” Seecharran said. This week, however, as rain inundated New York, harrowing scenes played out in those basements. Deborah Torres, who lives on the first floor of a building in Woodside, Queens, said she heard desperate pleas from the basement apartment of three members of a family, including a toddler, as floodwaters rushed in. A powerful cascade of water prevented anyone from getting into the apartment to help — or anyone from getting out. The family did not survive. At a home in Forest Hills, Queens, floodwater burst through a glass sliding door into a basement apartment, pinning Darlene Lee, 48, between the apartment’s steel front door and the door frame. The property manager, Patricia Fuentes, heard Lee screaming for help, as others tried to free Lee while the waters rose. But they could not save her. There have been long-standing problems with regulating such apartments. The law governing these apartments is complex, and includes rules that say a basement’s ceilings must be at least 7 feet 6 inches high and that living spaces must have a window. The city must approve apartments with a certificate of occupancy before they can be rented. Between January 2011 and Tuesday, the city had received more than 157,000 complaints involving illegal conversions. Illegal conversions include not only basements that have been made into residential units, but also single-family homes that have been altered into multifamily buildings, and units that have been converted into short-term rentals. But more than half of the cases were closed after an inspector couldn’t gain access to the dwelling, a New York Times analysis of buildings department data shows. More than 77,000 of the complaints were in Queens, where at least 59% of cases were closed without inspectors gaining access — the highest rate of any borough. At one home in Queens, where an 86-year-old woman was found dead in Wednesday’s storm, city records also showed two complaints of illegal basements in 2012. The complaints were closed after city building inspectors could not gain access to the basement. A spokesperson for the city’s Department of Buildings said inspectors were required to make two attempts at gaining access to a property before the case can be closed. Tenants also have the right to deny entry, the spokesperson said. In many cases, tenants or homeowners may not have an incentive to report any issues with safety because of a fear of getting fined or losing the home, said Jessica Katz, executive director of the Citizens Housing Planning Council, a nonprofit housing group. She said the storm’s toll “highlights the housing crisis that we have that leads people to have to live in unsafe conditions in the first place, a code enforcement system that’s complaint-driven that wouldn’t necessarily be able to meet the needs of these tenants in such a situation, and a set of codes that make it very difficult to make the apartment safer.” The office of Mayor Bill de Blasio did not answer questions about the city’s response to illegal basement homes on Thursday. But a City Hall official said anyone living in a basement apartment could call 311 or 911 to report issues without fear of being vacated, unless there were pressing life safety dangers. The official, who declined to be identified, said the city would announce additional measures on Friday. Seecharran said that because of the growing need for affordable housing in New York City, and because many lower-income homeowners need supplemental income, people would continue to seek homes in basements, regardless of whether they were illegal. “We need to bring basement apartments out of the shadows and into the light,” Seecharran said. The city recently launched a pilot program in East New York, Brooklyn, designed to help people convert illegal units to legal, rentable apartments that meet safety standards. That program is ongoing but had been slowed by budget cuts during the coronavirus pandemic. De Blasio called for legalizing basement units by helping homeowners with regulations and costs for conversion. Eric Adams, the Democratic nominee for mayor who is favored to win in November, also has expressed support for legalizing those units. It is not clear whether all of the homes where people died during the storm on Wednesday were illegal units, but many have a history of complaints and violations of city code. At the Woodside home, a certificate of occupancy shows that the basement had not been approved for residential use. At another home near Jamaica, Queens, where a 45-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man were found dead, a complaint claims that the space had been illegally converted to a residential space. A spokesperson for the Department of Buildings said earlier Thursday that the agency was investigating the deaths, but did not have “any records of any previously issued violations at these properties related to illegal conversion issues.” As the rains stopped and the sun shone, many residents of basement apartments in wide swaths of Queens were displaced and trying to find shelter. Property owners were struggling to access aid that could help them repair their homes and prevent mold or other problems from arising, Seecharran said. “The damage has been done to countless basements, and for many people the basement is their home,” Gov. Kathy C. Hochul said at a news conference. “This is not a lower level where people have a game room, this is their home, and that’s what’s happened, so now we have a homeless situation, people who have to be in shelters.” At the basement apartment where Bravo, 66, lived near Cypress Hills, Brooklyn, his brother, who owned the building, cleared out the debris on Thursday brought in by the floodwaters. Bravo had served in the Ecuadorian army before immigrating to the United States in the 1980s, according to his brother Pablo Bravo. Roberto Bravo used to work in construction and paint homes. In recent years, however, he had gotten divorced and his health had deteriorated. He walked to a senior center every day to eat and socialize, according to Walter Reyes, 68, who took care of him on many days. Asked if he knew whether the apartment was legal, Pablo Bravo said a building inspector told him it was not. “I thought I was helping a family member,” he said. Another tenant, Ricardo Garcia, 50, who works construction, said he pays $500 a month for his room in the home. He said he found out about the place from a friend. Oliver De La Cruz, 22, a delivery driver, heard about another basement room from his cousin’s husband. De La Cruz said he never considered whether the apartment might be illegal. He said he also never considered — or was warned about — the possibility of a flood and having to struggle to save himself. He said he would never live in a basement apartment again.

How the storm turned basement apartments into death traps

As Taliban commanders exchange their guns for the reins of power, some 38 million Afghans can do little but hold their breath and wait to see how their latest conquerors will rule.

That uncertainty, also palpable in foreign capitals from Washington to Beijing, is compounded by the deep contradiction between the group’s record of extremism and brutality during its prior reign, from 1996 to 2001, and its promises of moderation today.

History may offer a few clues. The Taliban are, depending on how one counts, something like the sixth or seventh rebel group to take over a country in the modern era. And while no two are exactly alike, certain patterns have emerged in how rebels rule.

Some learn to govern effectively, even to modernize, while others collapse in chaos or renewed war. Some grow crueler in power, lashing out at their subjects in fear and insecurity. Others moderate, though mostly in search of legitimacy and foreign aid.

But all seem to share a few traits:

A tightly bureaucratic authoritarianism, albeit sometimes allowing a degree of political opening. A focus on controlling or coercing elements of society seen as tied to the old order, sometimes through staggering violence. And a quest for foreign support and recognition as they strain to overcome the pariah status that tends to greet militants who shoot their way into power.

Those habits have a common purpose: consolidating authority. It is almost always the paramount concern for rebel rulers, who tend to understand that seizing a government building is not the same as becoming a government.

That years long process, civil war scholar Terrence Lyons has written, is shaped as much by the victors’ need for "postwar legitimacy and power consolidation" as it is by "the nature of victorious insurgent groups": hardened, disciplined and ideological.

Rebel Governance

Insurgents who seize power tend to quickly convert themselves into a very specific kind of government: party-based authoritarianism.

Think of China’s Communist Party, a one-time rebellion that took power in 1949. It is tightly unified, with rigid internal hierarchies and a practiced hand at bureaucratic organizing but little tolerance for dissent.

Rebels choose this model for the simple reason that it’s how they’re already organized.

"A successful rebel group is simultaneously a political party, a military organization and a business," Lyons wrote in a study on how rebels govern.

In power, the discipline and cohesion of rebel groups often make their governments more stable and pragmatic than other types of authoritarianism, perhaps even longer-lived.

They tend to express "ambivalence, if not hostility, toward democracy," Lyons found, even as they claim to represent popular liberation. And their experience in the zero-sum contests of war can lead them to see peacetime competition — elections, protests, dissent — as a threat.

After taking power over China, Mao Zedong invited intellectuals, journalists and others to critique the new government. But, apparently taken aback, he jailed or killed many who had taken up his offer.

Still, while rebel governments’ capacity for violence can be vast, years of hiding out in villages and mountain passes leaves them keenly aware of the value of cultivating popular support.

Many continue this practice in power, especially those who represent a particular ethnic or religious group, like the Taliban, and may wish to put the others at ease.

The rebels who seized Uganda in 1986 offered amnesty to supporters of the old order. Ethiopian militants who took power in 1991 hosted "peace and stability committees" across the country in an attempt to show that they intended to represent everyone. In 1994, when ethnic Tutsi militias took control of Rwanda amid a genocide of their kin, they promised reconciliation and a pan-ethnic unity government.

All three held elections, albeit mostly for show, and allowed a degree of political freedom, within tightly controlled limits.

But make no mistake: Insurgents, as a rule, cling to office with an authoritarian’s iron grip, guarded and perhaps paranoid about losing the power they fought so hard to win.

Purges and Mass Exodus

Rebel governments tend to organize much of their early rule around fears of being rejected by the public, undermined by holdovers from the previous government, even confronted by a rebellion of their own.

In response, they will often seek to control, coerce and even violently purge whole social classes seen as aligned to the old order, which may still hold sway over the culture, economy and governing bureaucracy.

One of Mao’s first acts was purging rural landowners, an economically powerful group considered to be right wing.

His forces rounded up thousands, encouraging local villagers to root out any left. Many were sent to forced labor camps or beaten to the death on the spot. Mao estimated the death toll at 2 million, though some historians put the number at 200,000.

The violence of Mao’s campaign is unusual, but the scale is not.

On taking power in 1959, Cuba’s revolutionaries made clear that they saw the middle and upper classes, which had largely backed the old government, as enemies. About 250,000 people fled. Their exodus permanently altered Cuban society.

The Taliban have said they wish to avoid this in Afghanistan, warning of a "brain drain" if its educated middle class flees. The group did not stand in the way as tens of thousands were evacuated over the past two weeks but has said it wishes to work with those who remain.

Since the extremes of the Cold War, when insurgents easily won superpower blessing for mass murder, rebels have learned to cater to the expectations of the international community.

Uganda has made a show of moderation and inclusion that, while superficial, averted the worst fears of postwar recrimination.

Seeking Recognition

The quest for legitimacy, to persuade subjects at home and governments abroad to treat insurgents as a rightful government, typically involves seeking public acknowledgment from social and religious leaders, even the war’s losers.

Accounts of the Taliban’s advance toward Kabul have included such scenes: local leaders or strongmen greeting the group in a show of acceptance.

But much of rebels’ focus is often abroad. Recognition from foreign powers can bring legitimacy and aid — essential for rebuilding after civil war — and stave off the threat of isolation.

Rwandan and Ugandan rebel leaders sat down with Western diplomats even as their forces still fought for control, promising to do as told.

The Taliban’s diplomatic outreach has been almost obsequious, praising even long-hostile governments such as India’s. For the group that harbored al-Qaida, international acceptance is unlikely to come easily.

Others have arguably confronted chillier receptions. It took Mao’s government 22 years to secure United Nations recognition and several more to win over the United States.

The episode is instructive. Though Mao oversaw a world power, the weaknesses inherent in rebel rule created a need for recognition deep enough that he radically altered his foreign policy to get it.

Internationally reviled and facing a potentially devastating economic crisis, the Taliban’s need may be even greater.

Barnett R. Rubin, an Afghanistan scholar, wrote this spring that the group’s "quest for recognition and eventual eligibility for aid provides some of the most important leverage that other actors have over them."

Still, China’s government changed only in the ways that the world demanded of it. As President Richard Nixon landed in Beijing in 1972, his hosts were overseeing one of the longest-running political purges in modern history. The inclinations and habits of their rebel origins still held.

As Taliban commanders exchange their guns for the reins of power, some 38 million Afghans can do little but hold their breath and wait to see how their latest conquerors will rule.

As Taliban commanders exchange their guns for the reins of power, some 38 million Afghans can do little but hold their breath and wait to see how their latest conquerors will rule. That uncertainty, also palpable in foreign capitals from Washington to Beijing, is compounded by the deep contradiction between the group’s record of extremism and brutality during its prior reign, from 1996 to 2001, and its promises of moderation today. History may offer a few clues. The Taliban are, depending on how one counts, something like the sixth or seventh rebel group to take over a country in the modern era. And while no two are exactly alike, certain patterns have emerged in how rebels rule. Some learn to govern effectively, even to modernize, while others collapse in chaos or renewed war. Some grow crueler in power, lashing out at their subjects in fear and insecurity. Others moderate, though mostly in search of legitimacy and foreign aid. But all seem to share a few traits: A tightly bureaucratic authoritarianism, albeit sometimes allowing a degree of political opening. A focus on controlling or coercing elements of society seen as tied to the old order, sometimes through staggering violence. And a quest for foreign support and recognition as they strain to overcome the pariah status that tends to greet militants who shoot their way into power. Those habits have a common purpose: consolidating authority. It is almost always the paramount concern for rebel rulers, who tend to understand that seizing a government building is not the same as becoming a government. That years long process, civil war scholar Terrence Lyons has written, is shaped as much by the victors’ need for "postwar legitimacy and power consolidation" as it is by "the nature of victorious insurgent groups": hardened, disciplined and ideological. Rebel Governance Insurgents who seize power tend to quickly convert themselves into a very specific kind of government: party-based authoritarianism. Think of China’s Communist Party, a one-time rebellion that took power in 1949. It is tightly unified, with rigid internal hierarchies and a practiced hand at bureaucratic organizing but little tolerance for dissent. Rebels choose this model for the simple reason that it’s how they’re already organized. "A successful rebel group is simultaneously a political party, a military organization and a business," Lyons wrote in a study on how rebels govern. In power, the discipline and cohesion of rebel groups often make their governments more stable and pragmatic than other types of authoritarianism, perhaps even longer-lived. They tend to express "ambivalence, if not hostility, toward democracy," Lyons found, even as they claim to represent popular liberation. And their experience in the zero-sum contests of war can lead them to see peacetime competition — elections, protests, dissent — as a threat. After taking power over China, Mao Zedong invited intellectuals, journalists and others to critique the new government. But, apparently taken aback, he jailed or killed many who had taken up his offer. Still, while rebel governments’ capacity for violence can be vast, years of hiding out in villages and mountain passes leaves them keenly aware of the value of cultivating popular support. Many continue this practice in power, especially those who represent a particular ethnic or religious group, like the Taliban, and may wish to put the others at ease. The rebels who seized Uganda in 1986 offered amnesty to supporters of the old order. Ethiopian militants who took power in 1991 hosted "peace and stability committees" across the country in an attempt to show that they intended to represent everyone. In 1994, when ethnic Tutsi militias took control of Rwanda amid a genocide of their kin, they promised reconciliation and a pan-ethnic unity government. All three held elections, albeit mostly for show, and allowed a degree of political freedom, within tightly controlled limits. But make no mistake: Insurgents, as a rule, cling to office with an authoritarian’s iron grip, guarded and perhaps paranoid about losing the power they fought so hard to win. Purges and Mass Exodus Rebel governments tend to organize much of their early rule around fears of being rejected by the public, undermined by holdovers from the previous government, even confronted by a rebellion of their own. In response, they will often seek to control, coerce and even violently purge whole social classes seen as aligned to the old order, which may still hold sway over the culture, economy and governing bureaucracy. One of Mao’s first acts was purging rural landowners, an economically powerful group considered to be right wing. His forces rounded up thousands, encouraging local villagers to root out any left. Many were sent to forced labor camps or beaten to the death on the spot. Mao estimated the death toll at 2 million, though some historians put the number at 200,000. The violence of Mao’s campaign is unusual, but the scale is not. On taking power in 1959, Cuba’s revolutionaries made clear that they saw the middle and upper classes, which had largely backed the old government, as enemies. About 250,000 people fled. Their exodus permanently altered Cuban society. The Taliban have said they wish to avoid this in Afghanistan, warning of a "brain drain" if its educated middle class flees. The group did not stand in the way as tens of thousands were evacuated over the past two weeks but has said it wishes to work with those who remain. Since the extremes of the Cold War, when insurgents easily won superpower blessing for mass murder, rebels have learned to cater to the expectations of the international community. Uganda has made a show of moderation and inclusion that, while superficial, averted the worst fears of postwar recrimination. Seeking Recognition The quest for legitimacy, to persuade subjects at home and governments abroad to treat insurgents as a rightful government, typically involves seeking public acknowledgment from social and religious leaders, even the war’s losers. Accounts of the Taliban’s advance toward Kabul have included such scenes: local leaders or strongmen greeting the group in a show of acceptance. But much of rebels’ focus is often abroad. Recognition from foreign powers can bring legitimacy and aid — essential for rebuilding after civil war — and stave off the threat of isolation. Rwandan and Ugandan rebel leaders sat down with Western diplomats even as their forces still fought for control, promising to do as told. The Taliban’s diplomatic outreach has been almost obsequious, praising even long-hostile governments such as India’s. For the group that harbored al-Qaida, international acceptance is unlikely to come easily. Others have arguably confronted chillier receptions. It took Mao’s government 22 years to secure United Nations recognition and several more to win over the United States. The episode is instructive. Though Mao oversaw a world power, the weaknesses inherent in rebel rule created a need for recognition deep enough that he radically altered his foreign policy to get it. Internationally reviled and facing a potentially devastating economic crisis, the Taliban’s need may be even greater. Barnett R. Rubin, an Afghanistan scholar, wrote this spring that the group’s "quest for recognition and eventual eligibility for aid provides some of the most important leverage that other actors have over them." Still, China’s government changed only in the ways that the world demanded of it. As President Richard Nixon landed in Beijing in 1972, his hosts were overseeing one of the longest-running political purges in modern history. The inclinations and habits of their rebel origins still held.

How will the Taliban govern? A history of rebel rule offers clues

Spokesman of Taliban's political office in Doha, Qatar said on Friday that China had promised to keep its Afghanistan embassy open. He added that China will also increase humanitarian aid to the war-ravaged country.

Abdul Salam Hanafi, a member of the Islamist group's political office in Doha, Qatar, "held a phone conversation with Wu Jianghao, Deputy Foreign Minister of the People's Republic of China," spokesman Suhail Shaheen tweeted.

"The Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister said that they would maintain their embassy in Kabul, adding our relations would beef up as compared to the past. Afghanistan can play an important role in security and development of the region," he said.

"China will also continue and increase its humanitarian assistance especially for treatment of covid-19," the spokesman continued.

When asked at a press briefing on Friday, Beijing said its embassy in Afghanistan is "an important channel for exchanges between the two countries" and is "in normal operation."

"We hope the Taliban will establish an open and inclusive political structure, pursue moderate and stable domestic and foreign policy and make a clean break with all terrorist groups," said foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin.

Much of the world is in wait-and-watch mode with respect to engagement with Taliban. But China has already said that it was ready to deepen "friendly and cooperative" relations with the Taliban following their takeover.

The Chinese embassy in Kabul remains operational, although Beijing began evacuating Chinese citizens from the country months ago as security deteriorated.

But Beijing has not yet recognised the Taliban as the de facto government, and is wary of the militant group providing support to Muslim-minority Uyghur separatists looking to infiltrate its sensitive border region of Xinjiang.

For Beijing, a stable and cooperative administration in Kabul would pave the way for an expansion of its overseas infrastructure drive, analysts say.

The Taliban, meanwhile, may consider China a crucial source of investment and economic support.

Chinese companies have also been eyeing Afghanistan's vast copper and lithium mines, but experts say the perilous security situation means any immediate commodities rush by investors is unlikely.

(With inputs from agencies)

Spokesman of Taliban's political office in Doha, Qatar said on Friday that China had promised to keep its Afghanistan embassy open. He added that China will also increase humanitarian aid to the war-ravaged country.

Spokesman of Taliban's political office in Doha, Qatar said on Friday that China had promised to keep its Afghanistan embassy open. He added that China will also increase humanitarian aid to the war-ravaged country. Abdul Salam Hanafi, a member of the Islamist group's political office in Doha, Qatar, "held a phone conversation with Wu Jianghao, Deputy Foreign Minister of the People's Republic of China," spokesman Suhail Shaheen tweeted. "The Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister said that they would maintain their embassy in Kabul, adding our relations would beef up as compared to the past. Afghanistan can play an important role in security and development of the region," he said. "China will also continue and increase its humanitarian assistance especially for treatment of covid-19," the spokesman continued. When asked at a press briefing on Friday, Beijing said its embassy in Afghanistan is "an important channel for exchanges between the two countries" and is "in normal operation." "We hope the Taliban will establish an open and inclusive political structure, pursue moderate and stable domestic and foreign policy and make a clean break with all terrorist groups," said foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin. Much of the world is in wait-and-watch mode with respect to engagement with Taliban. But China has already said that it was ready to deepen "friendly and cooperative" relations with the Taliban following their takeover. The Chinese embassy in Kabul remains operational, although Beijing began evacuating Chinese citizens from the country months ago as security deteriorated. But Beijing has not yet recognised the Taliban as the de facto government, and is wary of the militant group providing support to Muslim-minority Uyghur separatists looking to infiltrate its sensitive border region of Xinjiang. For Beijing, a stable and cooperative administration in Kabul would pave the way for an expansion of its overseas infrastructure drive, analysts say. The Taliban, meanwhile, may consider China a crucial source of investment and economic support. Chinese companies have also been eyeing Afghanistan's vast copper and lithium mines, but experts say the perilous security situation means any immediate commodities rush by investors is unlikely. (With inputs from agencies)

China to keep Afghanistan embassy, says Taliban spokesman

Since 2001, the United States has spent an estimated $83 billion on training and equipment for Afghan security forces.&nbsp;

This year alone, the United States provided $3 billion in military aid to Afghan forces, Forbes reported.

Even after the troop withdrawal, the US has left equipment worth billions in Afghanistan.

As per a Government Accountability Office report, the US purchased and provided 75,898 vehicles and 208 aircraft to the afghan army and security forces between 2003 and 2016.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-domestic-flights-to-resume-friday-in-a-bid-to-restore-normalcy-410411">Also read |&nbsp;Afghan domestic flights to resume Friday in a bid to restore normalcy</a>

According to Forbes, these are the estimated vehicle costs:

Armoured personnel carriers like the M113A2 cost $170,000 each, and recent M577A2 post carrier purchases cost $333,333 each.

The cost of mine-resistant vehicles ranges between $412,000 and $767,000. However, the total price tag could range from $382 million to $711 million.

Recovery vehicles such as the ‘truck, wrecker’ range in price from $168,960 for the base model to $880,674 for super strength versions.

Also, the cost of a medium-range tactical vehicle, which includes a 5-tonne cargo and general transport truck, was $67,139.&nbsp;

The MTV heavy vehicle family ranged in price from $235,500 to $724,820. The cost of cargo trucks used to transport aeroplanes is $800,865.

The price of an ambulance ranged from $37,943 to $142,918 with the majority at $96,466, cargo prices start at $104,682.

The average price for a utility Humvee was $91,429.&nbsp;

The 12,000-pound troop transport version, on the other hand, can cost up to $329,000.

Fast attack combat vehicles cost $69,400, &nbsp;and passenger motor vehicles were $65,500.

These are examples of light tactical vehicles.

According to military databases, all-terrain four-wheel vehicles can cost up to $42,273.

The Taliban has now seized Black Hawk helicopters and A-29 Super Tucano attack planes earlier this month.&nbsp;

The cost of a Black Hawk helicopter can reach $ 21 million.

The US ordered a total of 20 A-29 Super Tucano attack planes for $427 million in 2013 or $21.3 million per plane.&nbsp;

Other types of specialised helicopters can cost up to $37 million per unit.

As per the report by GAO, the US has provided at least 600,000 infantry weapons, including M16 rifles, 162,000 pieces of communication equipment, and 16,000 night-vision goggle devices to Afghan forces since 2003.

As per Forbes, the sights on night-vision sniper rifle scopes can cost up to $35,000, but the majority cost between $5,000 and $10,000.

Since 2001, the United States has spent an estimated $83 billion on training and equipment for Afghan security forces. This year alone, the United States provided $3 billion in military aid to Afghan forces, Forbes reported.

Since 2001, the United States has spent an estimated $83 billion on training and equipment for Afghan security forces. This year alone, the United States provided $3 billion in military aid to Afghan forces, Forbes reported. Even after the troop withdrawal, the US has left equipment worth billions in Afghanistan. As per a Government Accountability Office report, the US purchased and provided 75,898 vehicles and 208 aircraft to the afghan army and security forces between 2003 and 2016. Also read | Afghan domestic flights to resume Friday in a bid to restore normalcy According to Forbes, these are the estimated vehicle costs: Armoured personnel carriers like the M113A2 cost $170,000 each, and recent M577A2 post carrier purchases cost $333,333 each. The cost of mine-resistant vehicles ranges between $412,000 and $767,000. However, the total price tag could range from $382 million to $711 million. Recovery vehicles such as the ‘truck, wrecker’ range in price from $168,960 for the base model to $880,674 for super strength versions. Also, the cost of a medium-range tactical vehicle, which includes a 5-tonne cargo and general transport truck, was $67,139. The MTV heavy vehicle family ranged in price from $235,500 to $724,820. The cost of cargo trucks used to transport aeroplanes is $800,865. The price of an ambulance ranged from $37,943 to $142,918 with the majority at $96,466, cargo prices start at $104,682. The average price for a utility Humvee was $91,429. The 12,000-pound troop transport version, on the other hand, can cost up to $329,000. Fast attack combat vehicles cost $69,400, and passenger motor vehicles were $65,500. These are examples of light tactical vehicles. According to military databases, all-terrain four-wheel vehicles can cost up to $42,273. The Taliban has now seized Black Hawk helicopters and A-29 Super Tucano attack planes earlier this month. The cost of a Black Hawk helicopter can reach $ 21 million. The US ordered a total of 20 A-29 Super Tucano attack planes for $427 million in 2013 or $21.3 million per plane. Other types of specialised helicopters can cost up to $37 million per unit. As per the report by GAO, the US has provided at least 600,000 infantry weapons, including M16 rifles, 162,000 pieces of communication equipment, and 16,000 night-vision goggle devices to Afghan forces since 2003. As per Forbes, the sights on night-vision sniper rifle scopes can cost up to $35,000, but the majority cost between $5,000 and $10,000.

Here is the estimated worth of US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan

In the wake of the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan, neighbouring nations and others have started bracing for the possibility of a massive migrant crisis. WION brings you a report.

Fall of Afghanistan fuels massive refugee camps

Amid many uncertainties, the Taliban is all set to form the new Afghan government. As per the latest reports, Taliban’s co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is likely to become the head of the executive council.

Report: Taliban co-founder Mullah Baradar to become head of new Afghan govt

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