The United States completed the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan, ending 20 years of war. The withdrawal came before the end of the August 31 deadline.

US completes military withdrawal from Afghanistan after 20-year war

As the United States completed the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan the Taliban fired their guns in the air celebrating victory after a 20-year long war.

Taliban fire guns in the air to celebrate victory after US troops leaves Afghan

As the 20-year military presence of the US in Afghanistan ends, President Joe Biden said Taliban must honour commitments on safe passage. There are 200 Americans still left, who want to move out. &nbsp;

Biden added the Secretary of State Antony Blinken will lead the continued coordination with international partners to ensure the safe passage for any US citizens, Afghan partners or foreign nationals, who still want to leave the war-torn country. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: American Defence firms exploits desperation of Afghans

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Blinken said less than 200 Americans remain in Afghanistan, who want to leave, and the US will make efforts to get them out. The US would work with the neighbours of Afghanistan to secure their departure either overland or by charter flight once the Kabul airport re-opens, Blinken added. &nbsp;

The US president also said the continued efforts also include the work to build on the UN Security Council resolution, which sent a clear message about the international community’s expectations from the Taliban that it would deliver on moving forward, notably freedom of travel. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-completes-military-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-409541" hreflang="en">US completes military withdrawal from Afghanistan</a>

President said, “The Taliban has made commitments on safe passage and the world will hold them to their commitments. It will include ongoing diplomacy in Afghanistan and coordination with partners in the region to reopen the airport allowing for continued departure for those who want to leave and delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As the 20-year military presence of the US in Afghanistan ends, President Joe Biden said Taliban must honour commitments on safe passage. There are 200 Americans still left, who want to move out.

As the 20-year military presence of the US in Afghanistan ends, President Joe Biden said Taliban must honour commitments on safe passage. There are 200 Americans still left, who want to move out. Biden added the Secretary of State Antony Blinken will lead the continued coordination with international partners to ensure the safe passage for any US citizens, Afghan partners or foreign nationals, who still want to leave the war-torn country. Watch | Gravitas: American Defence firms exploits desperation of Afghans × Blinken said less than 200 Americans remain in Afghanistan, who want to leave, and the US will make efforts to get them out. The US would work with the neighbours of Afghanistan to secure their departure either overland or by charter flight once the Kabul airport re-opens, Blinken added. The US president also said the continued efforts also include the work to build on the UN Security Council resolution, which sent a clear message about the international community’s expectations from the Taliban that it would deliver on moving forward, notably freedom of travel. Also Read | US completes military withdrawal from Afghanistan President said, “The Taliban has made commitments on safe passage and the world will hold them to their commitments. It will include ongoing diplomacy in Afghanistan and coordination with partners in the region to reopen the airport allowing for continued departure for those who want to leave and delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan." (With inputs from agencies)

Biden urges Taliban to honour commitments as under 200 Americans still left in Afghanistan  

The last US soldier has left Afghanistan and the Taliban has taken control over the country. Two superpowers, Russia and the US have bitten the dust in Afghanistan.

WION Live Broadcast: Last US soldier leaves Afghanistan

20-year-old US military presence in Afghanistan has come to an end and the US troops have taken an exit from the country.

WION Live Broadcast: America's Longest War Ends

Taliban conducts first press briefing after US' exit from Afghanistan. "We need to bring out eternal talents," says the Taliban and adds that they "need economic experts to step forward."

Taliban conducts first press briefing after US' exit from Afghanistan

India has formally held a meeting with the Taliban at their request. This meeting was held between Indian ambassador to Qatar and Taliban's political chief at its Doha office.

India conducts meeting with Taliban at Doha

Tuesday was the first day that the hardline Islamist Taliban have been in total control of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

As the group celebrates the withdrawal of US troops, many Afghan&nbsp;residents of Kabul fear a return of the earlier infamous rule of the Taliban.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/surrender-or-die-taliban-pin-chilling-letters-on-doors-says-report-409709" hreflang="en">'Surrender or die': Taliban pin chilling letters on doors, says report</a>

Between 1996-2001, the group was notorious for its treatment of girls and women and a brutal justice system.&nbsp;

Even though the Taliban have repeatedly promised a more tolerant government the Mujahid has continued with the earlier theme.&nbsp;

An Afghan resident says that the government must be inclusive and acceptable for Afghans.&nbsp;

However, some residents were concerned by the Taliban's celebratory gunfire overnight, but many continue to hold hope that now that the US has withdrawn completely the Taliban will stay true to its word and bring about nationwide peace.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explainer-what-is-badri-313-unit-talibans-so-called-special-force-409665" hreflang="en">Explainer: What is Badri 313 unit? Taliban's so-called 'special force'</a>

The United States' longest military conflict ended on Monday night with the withdrawal of its forces from Kabul's airport.&nbsp;In its frenzied airlift, more than 123,000 people fled life under the Taliban.

In a shocking turnaround from the 2001 US force invasion of the country, as soon as the US left the Taliban fighters swept into the airport and fired weapons in jubilation across the city.

"Congratulations to Afghanistan... this victory belongs to us all," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told reporters hours later on the runway of the airport, adding that&nbsp;the Taliban victory was a "lesson for other invaders".

"We want to have good relations with the US and the world. We welcome good diplomatic relations with them all," he said.

Mujahid also insisted Taliban security forces would "be gentle and nice".

(With inputs from agencies)

Tuesday was the first day that the hardline Islamist Taliban have been in total control of Afghanistan. As the group celebrates the withdrawal of US troops, many Afghan residents of Kabul fear a return of the earlier infamous rule of the Taliban.

Tuesday was the first day that the hardline Islamist Taliban have been in total control of Afghanistan. As the group celebrates the withdrawal of US troops, many Afghan residents of Kabul fear a return of the earlier infamous rule of the Taliban. Also read | 'Surrender or die': Taliban pin chilling letters on doors, says report Between 1996-2001, the group was notorious for its treatment of girls and women and a brutal justice system. Even though the Taliban have repeatedly promised a more tolerant government the Mujahid has continued with the earlier theme. An Afghan resident says that the government must be inclusive and acceptable for Afghans. However, some residents were concerned by the Taliban's celebratory gunfire overnight, but many continue to hold hope that now that the US has withdrawn completely the Taliban will stay true to its word and bring about nationwide peace. Also read | Explainer: What is Badri 313 unit? Taliban's so-called 'special force' The United States' longest military conflict ended on Monday night with the withdrawal of its forces from Kabul's airport. In its frenzied airlift, more than 123,000 people fled life under the Taliban. In a shocking turnaround from the 2001 US force invasion of the country, as soon as the US left the Taliban fighters swept into the airport and fired weapons in jubilation across the city. "Congratulations to Afghanistan... this victory belongs to us all," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told reporters hours later on the runway of the airport, adding that the Taliban victory was a "lesson for other invaders". "We want to have good relations with the US and the world. We welcome good diplomatic relations with them all," he said. Mujahid also insisted Taliban security forces would "be gentle and nice". (With inputs from agencies)

As Taliban gain complete control of Afghanistan, Kabul residents hold on to hope for a 'peaceful' future

The United States announced it has completed its withdrawal ending its engagement in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ground-report-chilling-details-of-10-victims-killed-by-us-drone-strike-in-afghanistan-409525"> Afghanistan </a>which lasted for 20 years and claimed the lives of at least 2,400 US service members.

"I'm here to announce the completion of our withdrawal from Afghanistan and the end of the military mission to evacuate American citizens," US General Kenneth McKenzie said.

Watch:

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President Biden had set August 31 as the final date for US personnel to leave Afghanistan. The US military was able to achieve the withdrawal objective with nearly a day to spare amid confusion and terror strikes at Kabul airport.

"Tonight's withdrawal signifies both the end of the military component of the evacuation but also the end of the nearly 20-year mission that began in Afghanistan shortly after September 11, 2001," McKenzie added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ground-report-chilling-details-of-10-victims-killed-by-us-drone-strike-in-afghanistan-409525">Also Read:&nbsp;Chilling details of 10 victims killed by US drone strike in Afghanistan</a>

General McKenzie said the US left Afghanistan "at 1929 GMT Monday-just before the start of Tuesday in Kabul."

President Biden is due to address the nation today amid the US pullout from Afghanistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/should-have-informed-us-taliban-condemn-arbitrary-us-drone-strike-claim-civilians-killed-409410">Taliban </a>spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said said the country had "gained full independence" as the US officially left the country.

Reports say 123,000 people were airlifted from Kabul airport in the past fortnight ever since the Taliban took control of Kabul on August 15 even as the UNSC passed a resolution on Monday urging the Taliban to honour commitment to allow Afghans to freely leave the country.

The withdrawal was marred by a suicide attack at Kabul airport last week in which 13 US troops were killed including several Afghans. The US later carried out drone strikes in which it said two militants linked to ISIS-K were killed.

On Monday, there were reports of rockets being fired towards Kabul airport but there was no report of any casualties as the US defence system shot down the incoming rockets.

(With inputs from Agencies)

The United States announced it has completed its withdrawal ending its engagement in Afghanistan which lasted for 20 years and claimed the lives of at least 2,400 US service members.

The United States announced it has completed its withdrawal ending its engagement in Afghanistan which lasted for 20 years and claimed the lives of at least 2,400 US service members. "I'm here to announce the completion of our withdrawal from Afghanistan and the end of the military mission to evacuate American citizens," US General Kenneth McKenzie said. Watch: President Biden had set August 31 as the final date for US personnel to leave Afghanistan. The US military was able to achieve the withdrawal objective with nearly a day to spare amid confusion and terror strikes at Kabul airport. "Tonight's withdrawal signifies both the end of the military component of the evacuation but also the end of the nearly 20-year mission that began in Afghanistan shortly after September 11, 2001," McKenzie added. Also Read: Chilling details of 10 victims killed by US drone strike in Afghanistan General McKenzie said the US left Afghanistan "at 1929 GMT Monday-just before the start of Tuesday in Kabul." President Biden is due to address the nation today amid the US pullout from Afghanistan. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said said the country had "gained full independence" as the US officially left the country. Reports say 123,000 people were airlifted from Kabul airport in the past fortnight ever since the Taliban took control of Kabul on August 15 even as the UNSC passed a resolution on Monday urging the Taliban to honour commitment to allow Afghans to freely leave the country. The withdrawal was marred by a suicide attack at Kabul airport last week in which 13 US troops were killed including several Afghans. The US later carried out drone strikes in which it said two militants linked to ISIS-K were killed. On Monday, there were reports of rockets being fired towards Kabul airport but there was no report of any casualties as the US defence system shot down the incoming rockets. (With inputs from Agencies)

US completes military withdrawal from Afghanistan

Two weeks after the Taliban took Kabul, terrorists are re-establishing their base and tightening their grip on Afghanistan. A senior leader of the Al-Qaeda has returned to the country, while a sanctioned terrorist has been asked to "finalise" the list of cabinet members. WION’s Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas | Afghanistan: Two weeks after Kabul fell, Who's in charge?

In 20 years, the Taliban have gone from terrorists to stakeholders in Afghanistan. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how the US baptised the Taliban by putting them on the negotiation table.

Gravitas: How the US legitimised the Taliban

Taliban's grip on power in Afghanistan is a forgone conclusion. But there is qualitative difference in their hold than when they ruled Afghanistan in the late 90s. This time, the Taliban have been able to lay their hands on weapons and other military equipment left hurriedly by the US forces.

Over last week, pictures of a so-called 'special force' of Taliban are doing round. This is being called the "Badri 313" unit and being projected as something of an elite force of the Taliban

What is&nbsp;Badri 313 unit?

<img alt="Badri 313 unit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="719dfa85-6c0e-472d-ab29-261608dc1928" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Badri.JPG" />

Named after the battle of Badr 1,400 years ago, when the Prophet Mohammed supposedly vanquished his enemies with only 313 soldiers, the Taliban unit could number up to several thousand men, experts say.

It's not fully clear how much equipment is at their disposal. But there are number of images of them with captured Humvees, aircraft and weapons abandoned by defeated Afghan National Army.

Pictures and videos of fighters in the so-called "Badri 313" unit have been posted online for propaganda purposes to underline how the Taliban have better equipped and trained men at their disposal than in the past, experts say.

The soldiers are shown in uniforms, boots, balaclavas and body armour similar to those worn by special forces around the world -- and unlike the shalwar kameez, turban and sandals of the traditional Taliban fighter.

<img alt="Badri forces" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37465922-4782-4fdc-80ae-d66266908c36" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Badri%20forces.JPG" />

Rather than a battered Russian-designed Kalashnikov rifle slung over their shoulder, the men of Badri 313 hold new US-made rifles such as the M4, sometimes with night-vision goggles and advanced gunsights.&nbsp;

What do the experts say?

Badri 313 "likely represents some of the best trained and equipped fighters within the Taliban more broadly, although as you would expect there is a degree of sensationalising in propaganda coverage of the unit by the group," Matt Henman from the Janes defence consultancy told AFP.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/surrender-or-die-taliban-pin-chilling-letters-on-doors-says-report-409709">'Surrender or die': Taliban pin chilling letters on doors, says report</a>

A Western weapons expert who writes on Twitter under the pseudonym Calibre Obscura told AFP that the Badri forces would be no match for Western special forces or those of India and Pakistan.

But "they are more effective than normal Taliban and certainly more than standard Afghan national army troops from a couple of weeks ago," he told AFP.

<img alt="Taliban Badri forces" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="522810fd-9fa0-438f-bfd1-f187a49a4b6c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/taliban%20badri%20forces.JPG" />

Experts say the most sophisticated equipment, especially the helicopters, will be difficult to operate and near-impossible to maintain.&nbsp;

"There is certainly a degree of propaganda, but we saw during the final offensive since May that the Taliban special forces have been critical in the taking over of Afghanistan," said Bill Roggio, managing editor of the US-based Long War Journal.&nbsp;

"When they began to overrun the Afghan forces, they progressively integrated Western supplies. The US in effect armed the Taliban army," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban's grip on power in Afghanistan is a forgone conclusion. But there is qualitative difference in their hold than when they ruled Afghanistan in the late 90s.

Taliban's grip on power in Afghanistan is a forgone conclusion. But there is qualitative difference in their hold than when they ruled Afghanistan in the late 90s. This time, the Taliban have been able to lay their hands on weapons and other military equipment left hurriedly by the US forces. Over last week, pictures of a so-called 'special force' of Taliban are doing round. This is being called the "Badri 313" unit and being projected as something of an elite force of the Taliban What is Badri 313 unit? Named after the battle of Badr 1,400 years ago, when the Prophet Mohammed supposedly vanquished his enemies with only 313 soldiers, the Taliban unit could number up to several thousand men, experts say. It's not fully clear how much equipment is at their disposal. But there are number of images of them with captured Humvees, aircraft and weapons abandoned by defeated Afghan National Army. Pictures and videos of fighters in the so-called "Badri 313" unit have been posted online for propaganda purposes to underline how the Taliban have better equipped and trained men at their disposal than in the past, experts say. The soldiers are shown in uniforms, boots, balaclavas and body armour similar to those worn by special forces around the world -- and unlike the shalwar kameez, turban and sandals of the traditional Taliban fighter. Rather than a battered Russian-designed Kalashnikov rifle slung over their shoulder, the men of Badri 313 hold new US-made rifles such as the M4, sometimes with night-vision goggles and advanced gunsights. What do the experts say? Badri 313 "likely represents some of the best trained and equipped fighters within the Taliban more broadly, although as you would expect there is a degree of sensationalising in propaganda coverage of the unit by the group," Matt Henman from the Janes defence consultancy told AFP. Also Read | 'Surrender or die': Taliban pin chilling letters on doors, says report A Western weapons expert who writes on Twitter under the pseudonym Calibre Obscura told AFP that the Badri forces would be no match for Western special forces or those of India and Pakistan. But "they are more effective than normal Taliban and certainly more than standard Afghan national army troops from a couple of weeks ago," he told AFP. Experts say the most sophisticated equipment, especially the helicopters, will be difficult to operate and near-impossible to maintain. "There is certainly a degree of propaganda, but we saw during the final offensive since May that the Taliban special forces have been critical in the taking over of Afghanistan," said Bill Roggio, managing editor of the US-based Long War Journal. "When they began to overrun the Afghan forces, they progressively integrated Western supplies. The US in effect armed the Taliban army," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Explainer: What is Badri 313 unit? Taliban's so-called 'special force'

US President has not won any praise on his stance on Afghanistan. The majority of Americans did not support Biden's stance. In the poll completed just before the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan, 49% said the US military should have stayed in Afghanistan.

Americans disapprove US President's stance on Afghanistan

Pakistan minister on Tuesday ruled out long term stay of US troops in Pakistan. Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad said that presence of US troops was 'temporary'. He was quoted by PTI who cited Pakistan's Dawn newspaper.

The minister told the Dawn newspaper that the foreigners came to Pakistan after evacuation from Afghanistan and their stay would be for a limited period and have been issued transit visas ranging from 21 to 30 days.

Pictures of US troops at Islamabad airport had sparked rumours of their long-term presence in Pakistan.

He rejected the assertion that Pakistan was set to return to the Musharraf era and chided the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam's chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman for his claim that the government was booking hotels for Americans in the federal capital, the report said.

As many as 2,192 individuals had entered Pakistan from the Torkham border while 1,627 had come to Islamabad by air, Ahmad said, adding that a small number of people had come from the Chaman border.

Many people travelled between Pakistan and Afghanistan through the Chaman border on a daily basis. Many Afghans entered Pakistan from this border and returned to their country, he said, adding that it was ?a normal activity?.

Ahmad said the issuance of visas to those coming from Afghanistan was not a money-making exercise and that no target had been set to generate funds through this activity.

He pointed out that a normal visa fee was being charged from these people while visas on arrival were being issued for free of cost. Asked as to what was the status of individuals crossing into Pakistan from Torkham and Chaman borders, he said none of them had been given refugee status.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan minister on Tuesday ruled out long term stay of US troops in Pakistan. Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad said that presence of US troops was 'temporary'.

Pakistan minister on Tuesday ruled out long term stay of US troops in Pakistan. Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad said that presence of US troops was 'temporary'. He was quoted by PTI who cited Pakistan's Dawn newspaper. The minister told the Dawn newspaper that the foreigners came to Pakistan after evacuation from Afghanistan and their stay would be for a limited period and have been issued transit visas ranging from 21 to 30 days. Pictures of US troops at Islamabad airport had sparked rumours of their long-term presence in Pakistan. He rejected the assertion that Pakistan was set to return to the Musharraf era and chided the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam's chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman for his claim that the government was booking hotels for Americans in the federal capital, the report said. As many as 2,192 individuals had entered Pakistan from the Torkham border while 1,627 had come to Islamabad by air, Ahmad said, adding that a small number of people had come from the Chaman border. Many people travelled between Pakistan and Afghanistan through the Chaman border on a daily basis. Many Afghans entered Pakistan from this border and returned to their country, he said, adding that it was ?a normal activity?. Ahmad said the issuance of visas to those coming from Afghanistan was not a money-making exercise and that no target had been set to generate funds through this activity. He pointed out that a normal visa fee was being charged from these people while visas on arrival were being issued for free of cost. Asked as to what was the status of individuals crossing into Pakistan from Torkham and Chaman borders, he said none of them had been given refugee status. (With inputs from agencies)

US troop presence in Pakistan 'temporary': Pakistan interior minister

On the first day of the Taliban taking over the Kabul airport after the complete departure of the US military troops, the airport wears a deserted look. WION's Anas Mallick gets you the first look from inside the airport.

WION Ground Report: Kabul airport wears deserted look after US military complete withdrawal

One of the tasks that the United States military has completed before leaving Afghanistan was to disable aircraft, armoured vehicles, and high-tech rocket systems. WION's Anas Mallick brings you a ground report.

US military disabled aircrafts, armored vehicles before leaving Kabul airport

One of the tasks that the United States military has completed before leaving Afghanistan was to disable aircraft, armoured vehicles, and high-tech rocket systems.

The Taliban has understood the power of social media. But the question is - will tech giants like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter recognise the Taliban as the legitimate government and let them host content on their services? We explore that in this video.

How social media platforms are dealing with the Taliban

According to reports, Afghan Hindus and Sikhs will be allowed to travel to India if they possess valid documents. WION's Anas Mallick brings you a report from Kabul airport.

Report: Afghan Hindus, Sikhs can travel to India with valid documents

The head of foreign relations for the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan Ali Maisam Nazary has said that the current situation in Panjshir is stable and forces of aggressor have been pushed back.&nbsp; The National Resistance Front of Afghanistan, also known as Panjshir resistance and the Second Resistance is led by Ahmad Massoud, the son of Ahmad Shah Massoud,&nbsp;who led the Northern Alliance against the Taliban in 1990s.&nbsp;

Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Nazary, who is in&nbsp;Washington,&nbsp;said, "There was an agreement, gentlemen's agreement, that there would not be any offensive, any fighting however, last night,&nbsp;there was fighting in the southern parts of Panjshir." He hoped for an inclusive govt being established, but the resistance will join only&nbsp;if&nbsp;there&nbsp;demands are met. The demands include "decentralisation&nbsp;of power and resources, preserving democracy, establishing social justice."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US forces leave Afghanistan ahead of August 31 deadline | The end of America's longest war

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&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What is the situation inside Panjshir?&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: The current situation in Panjshir is stable.&nbsp;Its peaceful, people are living their normal lives, there has been no disruption in the lives of normal people in Panjshir. They have guests, refugees, influx of refugees in past. People are not facing any difficulties at the moment. There have been few skirmishes outside of the valley, however, the situation inside Panjshir is stable as it was before August 15.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of talks, or conversations are on with the Taliban?&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: There are informal negotiations, there is a dialogue between the national resistance front and the Taliban movement. However, we proposed our conditions, our demands for peaceful Afghanistan. An Afghanistan with lasting peace, and there&nbsp;are&nbsp;decentralisation&nbsp;of power and resources, preserving democracy, establishing social justice, guaranteeing the equality of everyone. Equality is very important for us. Guaranteeing the rights and freedoms of all citizens of Afghanistan.&nbsp;So,&nbsp;these are the conditions we have proposed and we believe if these conditions are met, we can form an inclusive government,&nbsp;which represents every single citizen of Afghanistan, regards of their race, religion and gender.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: It is understood that there was a ceasefire reached.&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: There was an agreement, gentlemen's agreement, that there would not be any offensive, any fighting.&nbsp;However, last night,&nbsp;there was fighting in the southern parts of Panjshir. Forces of aggressor tried to enter Panjshir but they face defeat. They were defeated and they retreated.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: It is learnt that Taliban have begun cutting power, telecom, if could give details?&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary:&nbsp;So,&nbsp;the internet and phone has been coming and going, it was cut off for a more than a day. It came back on yesterday. They are disrupting the connectivity; it has not been permanent. It has been coming on and off.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghan-sikhs-hindus-with-valid-documents-can-travel-to-india-taliban-409596" hreflang="en">Afghan Sikhs, Hindus with valid documents can travel to India: Taliban</a>

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: US has evacuated and Taliban&nbsp;have declared and termed it as "full independence"..&nbsp;your take?&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: The withdrawal was an American decision and we respect it, however,&nbsp;we do not believe that situation is better than September 2001. We believe international terrorism in Afghanistan has emerged much stronger, compared to September 2001 and if US abandons Afghanistan, ignore Afghanistan then another 9/11 is possible. If not in the short term, in long term,&nbsp;another 9/11 is possible. However, in the short term Al Qaeda, ISIS- K will plan attack against US assets in the region from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Do you think Taliban have the intent to form an inclusive govt and they will take you on board?&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: Unfortunately, no, Taliban doesn't believe in any sort of inclusivity.&nbsp;They believe they are the victors and they should be the dominant force in the govt.&nbsp;They should be forming system of the country,&nbsp;dominate it and use others as token, give a few ministerial post,&nbsp;ambassadorial post and give few positions in the govt, but they won't be decision makers or policy makers. Policy and decision making will be dominated by Taliban, that is their version of future government. We are against&nbsp;this.&nbsp;We believe Afghanistan is a country made up of ethnic minorities and there is no majority. So, one ethnic group cannot dominate the political landscape, we need to make sure every single ethnic group sees themselves in power, in decision-making process, in policy-making and not left out of the future government. If the intention is to create an inclusive government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Are&nbsp;you getting support from regional countries, like the northern alliance?&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: No, we are not receiving support from any outside country, nor in the region or beyond that.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-how-us-demilitarised-humvees-c-ram-systems-and-aircraft-at-kabul-airport-409583" hreflang="en">Watch: How US 'demilitarised' Humvees, C-RAM systems and aircraft at Kabul airport</a> &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Do&nbsp;you expect support, have&nbsp;you reached out?&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: We have been asking international community, not a specific country. We have been asking international community for humanitarian assistance. We believe humanitarian assistance should be delivered; however, we have not asked a specific country for anything else.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant&nbsp;Sibal: Your views about Pakistan, its role in Afghanistan?&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: Our policy is rapprochement with Pakistan, we have a line of communication, we have been speaking with the Pakistanis, we are still speaking with the Pakistanis, and we believe Pakistan has a role in convincing all sides that inclusivity and inclusive govt is the only solution to Afghanistan. There were negotiations in Islamabad on August&nbsp;15, a high-level delegation&nbsp;visited Islamabad and they were fruitful. And we have to still see its results,&nbsp;but we have been told by the Pakistanis that they will do their best to convince other political forces that a&nbsp;decentralised&nbsp;state is in the interest of everyone, for people of Afghanistan or the region. We still have to wait, it that will take place.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal:&nbsp;What about&nbsp;role of India. In last 20 years,&nbsp;India&nbsp;has been building&nbsp;several&nbsp;projects.&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: We believe India is an important player in the region, it can't be ignored. We believe that there should be economic ties with India, trade routes opened to India and from India to central Asia. We believe in regional connectivity and regional integration and the most important thing is, promoting trade and economic development in the region and India has a prominent role in it.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Are&nbsp;you in touch with anyone from the Indian side?&nbsp;

Ali Maisam Nazary: No, we haven't sent any delegation or representative to Delhi yet. At the moment, there is no plans or there hasn't been any plans. We still have to see the situation how it unfolds, at the moment,&nbsp;and based on information I received, we don't have a representative there.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The head of foreign relations for the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan Ali Maisam Nazary has said that the current situation in Panjshir is stable and forces of aggressor have been pushed back.

The head of foreign relations for the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan Ali Maisam Nazary has said that the current situation in Panjshir is stable and forces of aggressor have been pushed back. The National Resistance Front of Afghanistan, also known as Panjshir resistance and the Second Resistance is led by Ahmad Massoud, the son of Ahmad Shah Massoud, who led the Northern Alliance against the Taliban in 1990s. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Nazary, who is in Washington, said, "There was an agreement, gentlemen's agreement, that there would not be any offensive, any fighting however, last night, there was fighting in the southern parts of Panjshir." He hoped for an inclusive govt being established, but the resistance will join only if there demands are met. The demands include "decentralisation of power and resources, preserving democracy, establishing social justice." Watch: US forces leave Afghanistan ahead of August 31 deadline | The end of America's longest war × Sidhant Sibal: What is the situation inside Panjshir? Ali Maisam Nazary: The current situation in Panjshir is stable. Its peaceful, people are living their normal lives, there has been no disruption in the lives of normal people in Panjshir. They have guests, refugees, influx of refugees in past. People are not facing any difficulties at the moment. There have been few skirmishes outside of the valley, however, the situation inside Panjshir is stable as it was before August 15. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of talks, or conversations are on with the Taliban? Ali Maisam Nazary: There are informal negotiations, there is a dialogue between the national resistance front and the Taliban movement. However, we proposed our conditions, our demands for peaceful Afghanistan. An Afghanistan with lasting peace, and there are decentralisation of power and resources, preserving democracy, establishing social justice, guaranteeing the equality of everyone. Equality is very important for us. Guaranteeing the rights and freedoms of all citizens of Afghanistan. So, these are the conditions we have proposed and we believe if these conditions are met, we can form an inclusive government, which represents every single citizen of Afghanistan, regards of their race, religion and gender. Sidhant Sibal: It is understood that there was a ceasefire reached. Ali Maisam Nazary: There was an agreement, gentlemen's agreement, that there would not be any offensive, any fighting. However, last night, there was fighting in the southern parts of Panjshir. Forces of aggressor tried to enter Panjshir but they face defeat. They were defeated and they retreated. Sidhant Sibal: It is learnt that Taliban have begun cutting power, telecom, if could give details? Ali Maisam Nazary: So, the internet and phone has been coming and going, it was cut off for a more than a day. It came back on yesterday. They are disrupting the connectivity; it has not been permanent. It has been coming on and off. Also Read: Afghan Sikhs, Hindus with valid documents can travel to India: Taliban Sidhant Sibal: US has evacuated and Taliban have declared and termed it as "full independence".. your take? Ali Maisam Nazary: The withdrawal was an American decision and we respect it, however, we do not believe that situation is better than September 2001. We believe international terrorism in Afghanistan has emerged much stronger, compared to September 2001 and if US abandons Afghanistan, ignore Afghanistan then another 9/11 is possible. If not in the short term, in long term, another 9/11 is possible. However, in the short term Al Qaeda, ISIS- K will plan attack against US assets in the region from Afghanistan. Sidhant Sibal: Do you think Taliban have the intent to form an inclusive govt and they will take you on board? Ali Maisam Nazary: Unfortunately, no, Taliban doesn't believe in any sort of inclusivity. They believe they are the victors and they should be the dominant force in the govt. They should be forming system of the country, dominate it and use others as token, give a few ministerial post, ambassadorial post and give few positions in the govt, but they won't be decision makers or policy makers. Policy and decision making will be dominated by Taliban, that is their version of future government. We are against this. We believe Afghanistan is a country made up of ethnic minorities and there is no majority. So, one ethnic group cannot dominate the political landscape, we need to make sure every single ethnic group sees themselves in power, in decision-making process, in policy-making and not left out of the future government. If the intention is to create an inclusive government. Sidhant Sibal: Are you getting support from regional countries, like the northern alliance? Ali Maisam Nazary: No, we are not receiving support from any outside country, nor in the region or beyond that. Also Read: Watch: How US 'demilitarised' Humvees, C-RAM systems and aircraft at Kabul airport Sidhant Sibal: Do you expect support, have you reached out? Ali Maisam Nazary: We have been asking international community, not a specific country. We have been asking international community for humanitarian assistance. We believe humanitarian assistance should be delivered; however, we have not asked a specific country for anything else. Sidhant Sibal: Your views about Pakistan, its role in Afghanistan? Ali Maisam Nazary: Our policy is rapprochement with Pakistan, we have a line of communication, we have been speaking with the Pakistanis, we are still speaking with the Pakistanis, and we believe Pakistan has a role in convincing all sides that inclusivity and inclusive govt is the only solution to Afghanistan. There were negotiations in Islamabad on August 15, a high-level delegation visited Islamabad and they were fruitful. And we have to still see its results, but we have been told by the Pakistanis that they will do their best to convince other political forces that a decentralised state is in the interest of everyone, for people of Afghanistan or the region. We still have to wait, it that will take place. Sidhant Sibal: What about role of India. In last 20 years, India has been building several projects. Ali Maisam Nazary: We believe India is an important player in the region, it can't be ignored. We believe that there should be economic ties with India, trade routes opened to India and from India to central Asia. We believe in regional connectivity and regional integration and the most important thing is, promoting trade and economic development in the region and India has a prominent role in it. Sidhant Sibal: Are you in touch with anyone from the Indian side? Ali Maisam Nazary: No, we haven't sent any delegation or representative to Delhi yet. At the moment, there is no plans or there hasn't been any plans. We still have to see the situation how it unfolds, at the moment, and based on information I received, we don't have a representative there.

Panjshir stable, forces of aggressor pushed back, says Afghan Resistance Front's Ali Maisam 

It was a moment of joy when Hossain Rasouli, an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-paralympics-ipc-president-says-welcoming-afghanistan-athletes-best-moment-of-games-409404">athlete from Afghanistan</a>, appeared on track at the ongoing Tokyo Paralympic Games 2020 and&nbsp;pointed towards the Afghanistan Paralympic Committee logo on his white vest on Tuesday (August 31).&nbsp;

Rasouli was competing in the men's T47 long jump final and his name was at 13th place on the start list. Although, he finished last but definitely spread a message of hope on one of the most decorated global platforms.&nbsp;

Rasouli, whose left hand was amputated after a mine explosion, finally made the much-awaited appearance of Afghanistan's appearance at the Tokyo Paralympic&nbsp;Games.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridi-makes-glaring-remark-says-taliban-outfit-have-entered-afghanistan-with-positive-mindset-409575">Shahid Afridi makes glaring remark, says Taliban outfit have entered Afghanistan with 'positive mindset'</a>

As he was too late to compete in his favoured T47 100m event, he entered the long jump final and recorded jumps of 4.37, 4.21 and 4.46. It did not win him a medal, but the attempts were long enough to cross physical, mental and political hurdles.&nbsp;

Another long jumper Roderick Townsend said he didn't feel rivalry but "joy" as he said Rasouli's participation was symbolic and this is what &nbsp;Paralympic Games "stands for".&nbsp;

Rasouli is one of the two Paralympians who were evacuated from Afghanistan, arriving in Tokyo with team-mate Zakia Khudadadi on Saturday (August 29), after catching a secret flight from Paris one week after being evacuated from Kabul.&nbsp;

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El velocista afgano Hossain Rasouli salta en los Paralímpicos de Tokio<a href="https://t.co/AVPgRNDID9">https://t.co/AVPgRNDID9</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xg34p39QJD">pic.twitter.com/Xg34p39QJD</a>
— Meta de Pulso (@meta_pulso) <a href="https://twitter.com/meta_pulso/status/1432561950525898755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The best 13th place ever: Afghanistan Paralympian, Hossain Rasouli, a 100 metre runner who missed his event because he was fleeing the Taliban in Kabul, competes in the long jump instead and sets a PB💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paralympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paralympics</a> <a href="https://t.co/cdC0RVmK5l">pic.twitter.com/cdC0RVmK5l</a>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-paralympics-ipc-says-afghan-athletes-well-being-is-top-priority-no-media-access-during-games-409155">Rasouli</a> left the stadium without speaking to reporters officials have said&nbsp;Afghan Paralympians will not be speaking to the media during the Paralympic Games. &nbsp;

A couple of days ago, Andrew Parsons, the president of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) said he was able to see the Afghan athletes in person after they arrived, and promised that the IPC would "provide everything in our capacity" to ensure "the safest" and "calmest" environment for them to focus on their competitions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-completes-military-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-409541">US completes military withdrawal from Afghanistan</a>

Watch:

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The athletes were due to arrive in Tokyo on August 17 but they could not travel to Japan after the Taliban took control over the country, routing government forces.&nbsp;

They had missed the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games on Tuesday (August 24), however, their country's flag was carried during the event, spreading a "message of solidarity and peace".&nbsp;

Khudadadi will make her first appearance in the women's taekwondo K44 -49kg category on Thursday.

It was a moment of joy when Hossain Rasouli, an athlete from Afghanistan, appeared on track at the ongoing Tokyo Paralympic Games 2020 and pointed towards the Afghanistan Paralympic Committee logo on his white vest on Tuesday (August 31).

It was a moment of joy when Hossain Rasouli, an athlete from Afghanistan, appeared on track at the ongoing Tokyo Paralympic Games 2020 and pointed towards the Afghanistan Paralympic Committee logo on his white vest on Tuesday (August 31). Rasouli was competing in the men's T47 long jump final and his name was at 13th place on the start list. Although, he finished last but definitely spread a message of hope on one of the most decorated global platforms. Rasouli, whose left hand was amputated after a mine explosion, finally made the much-awaited appearance of Afghanistan's appearance at the Tokyo Paralympic Games. ALSO READ | Shahid Afridi makes glaring remark, says Taliban outfit have entered Afghanistan with 'positive mindset' As he was too late to compete in his favoured T47 100m event, he entered the long jump final and recorded jumps of 4.37, 4.21 and 4.46. It did not win him a medal, but the attempts were long enough to cross physical, mental and political hurdles. Another long jumper Roderick Townsend said he didn't feel rivalry but "joy" as he said Rasouli's participation was symbolic and this is what Paralympic Games "stands for". Rasouli is one of the two Paralympians who were evacuated from Afghanistan, arriving in Tokyo with team-mate Zakia Khudadadi on Saturday (August 29), after catching a secret flight from Paris one week after being evacuated from Kabul. El velocista afgano Hossain Rasouli salta en los Paralímpicos de Tokiohttps://t.co/AVPgRNDID9 pic.twitter.com/Xg34p39QJD — Meta de Pulso (@meta_pulso) August 31, 2021 × The best 13th place ever: Afghanistan Paralympian, Hossain Rasouli, a 100 metre runner who missed his event because he was fleeing the Taliban in Kabul, competes in the long jump instead and sets a PB💪 #Tokyo2020 #Paralympics pic.twitter.com/cdC0RVmK5l — Tracey Holmes (@TraceyLeeHolmes) August 31, 2021 × Rasouli left the stadium without speaking to reporters officials have said Afghan Paralympians will not be speaking to the media during the Paralympic Games. A couple of days ago, Andrew Parsons, the president of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) said he was able to see the Afghan athletes in person after they arrived, and promised that the IPC would "provide everything in our capacity" to ensure "the safest" and "calmest" environment for them to focus on their competitions. ALSO READ | US completes military withdrawal from Afghanistan Watch: × The athletes were due to arrive in Tokyo on August 17 but they could not travel to Japan after the Taliban took control over the country, routing government forces. They had missed the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games on Tuesday (August 24), however, their country's flag was carried during the event, spreading a "message of solidarity and peace". Khudadadi will make her first appearance in the women's taekwondo K44 -49kg category on Thursday.

Afghan athlete Hossain Rasouli's participation at Tokyo Paralympics is an insignia of hope and courage

A U.S. drone strike blew up a vehicle carrying “multiple suicide bombers” from Afghanistan's Islamic State affiliate on Sunday. This is the second drone attack of US amid crisis in Afghanistan.

US conducts drone strike on Afghanistan's Islamic State affiliate

The U.S. has carried out a second strike against suspected members of ISIS-K in Afghanistan, following the Thursday attack at the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul that killed more than 170 people.

US carries out second strike against suspected members of ISIS-K

After a long and hard day at work, Zemari Ahmadi drove to his home in Khwaja Burgha, a working-class neighbourhood just a few miles west of Kabul airport, when the ill-fated US drone attacked a vehicle, initially claimed by the US military that it was laden with bombs and driven a member of the Islamic State group.

As he pulled into the driveway about 4:30 pm (Kabul time), children — his own as well as those of his brothers and other relatives — swarmed around Zemari’s Toyota Corolla car.

His 12-year-old son, Farzad, asked if he could park the car, to which Zemari obliged. He put Farzad in the driver’s seat and then he switched over to the passenger side.

That’s when, the family says, an “American missile”, which was fired from a drone, drilled through the car, slammed into the ground and detonated, killing 10 people instantly.

Among the deceased include 40-year-old Zemari, an engineer and employed with a Japanese firm in Kabul, four kids— aged between 2 and 5 — and his 25-year-old nephew who was about to get married, Zemari’s brother Emal said on Monday.

In the driveway what remained of the Corolla was a blackened, incinerated heap of metal, melted plastic and scraps of what appeared to be human flesh.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-taliban-militants-surround-tv-anchor-during-news-show-video-goes-viral-409309">Taliban militants surround TV anchor during news show, video goes viral</a>

An inconsolable friend of Zemarai who arrived at the scene just five minutes after the blast narrated his ordeal.

“This was my best friend’s house. He was an engineer and had nothing to do with the army or with Talibs (Taliban) or anyone else either. 10 people were killed including seven children. There’s a lot of fear because of the strike. I came here after five minutes and saw the people lying in terrible condition. I did the best I could.”

Among the 10 deceased, nine people’s identities have been established so far. They are: Zemari Ahmadi, Naseer, Zameer, a shopkeeper, Faisal, a student, Farzad, a student, 2-year-olds Ayat and Sumaya, 3-year-old Binyamen and 4-year-old Armin.

After a long and hard day at work, Zemari Ahmadi drove to his home in Khwaja Burgha, a working-class neighbourhood just a few miles west of Kabul airport, when the ill-fated US drone attacked a vehicle, initially claimed by the US military that it was laden with bombs and driven a member of the Islamic State group.

After a long and hard day at work, Zemari Ahmadi drove to his home in Khwaja Burgha, a working-class neighbourhood just a few miles west of Kabul airport, when the ill-fated US drone attacked a vehicle, initially claimed by the US military that it was laden with bombs and driven a member of the Islamic State group. As he pulled into the driveway about 4:30 pm (Kabul time), children — his own as well as those of his brothers and other relatives — swarmed around Zemari’s Toyota Corolla car. His 12-year-old son, Farzad, asked if he could park the car, to which Zemari obliged. He put Farzad in the driver’s seat and then he switched over to the passenger side. That’s when, the family says, an “American missile”, which was fired from a drone, drilled through the car, slammed into the ground and detonated, killing 10 people instantly. Among the deceased include 40-year-old Zemari, an engineer and employed with a Japanese firm in Kabul, four kids— aged between 2 and 5 — and his 25-year-old nephew who was about to get married, Zemari’s brother Emal said on Monday. In the driveway what remained of the Corolla was a blackened, incinerated heap of metal, melted plastic and scraps of what appeared to be human flesh. Watch | Taliban militants surround TV anchor during news show, video goes viral An inconsolable friend of Zemarai who arrived at the scene just five minutes after the blast narrated his ordeal. “This was my best friend’s house. He was an engineer and had nothing to do with the army or with Talibs (Taliban) or anyone else either. 10 people were killed including seven children. There’s a lot of fear because of the strike. I came here after five minutes and saw the people lying in terrible condition. I did the best I could.” Among the 10 deceased, nine people’s identities have been established so far. They are: Zemari Ahmadi, Naseer, Zameer, a shopkeeper, Faisal, a student, Farzad, a student, 2-year-olds Ayat and Sumaya, 3-year-old Binyamen and 4-year-old Armin.

Ground report: Chilling details of 10 victims killed by US drone strike in Afghanistan

Less than 24 hours are left before the deadline of 31st August 2021 will end. Taliban has issued strict warning that things may take an ugly turn if deadline is not met. While most of the countries have concluded their evacuation operations, US Forces are struggling to complete it and as on 30th August 2021, they not only handed over the outer perimeter security of Kabul Airport to Taliban but also destroyed all their material and equipment not feasible to be taken out.

A non-stop plan of airlifting all the men is underway. A contingent of over 1200 Taliban fighters is ready to take over the entire Kabul Airport and simultaneously their leaders are contacting foreign agencies to help them run the Airport since Taliban fighters are technically not competent to do so.

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&nbsp;

While we talk about it, the biggest question appears before us is the future of Afghanistan after 31st August 2021 when there will be no support forces in Afghanistan and the country will be at the mercy of God. There are several aspects that cannot be ignored and must be taken into consideration when thinking of the destiny of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Absence of a proper government

Although Taliban has occupied large tracts of the country, they are still far off from forming a legitimate government. They are known to be a terrorist group and many of their leaders are in the most wanted list of United Nations. So far hardly any country has given them recognition as a government and hence they are trying to rule the country with the help of guns. On the other hand, there is a resistance movement taking place in Panjshir Valley where the vice president of Afghanistan Mr Amrullah Saleh has declared himself as caretaker president. Technically as per the constitution of Afghanistan, he is right and hence gathering his Tajik fighters in formidable Panjshir valley where clashes with Taliban are already going on. In such situation, the government is unstable and in case resistance forces can take over the reins of Kabul, things may take a different turn altogether. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Cash starved economy- Threat of narco-terrorism

While USA has frozen all the monetary assets of Afghanistan, other organisations like IMF and World Bank have refused to release any money to Afghanistan. With no cash available in a war-torn economy, things are going to turn bad post 31st August 2021. Taliban wants money to pay its fighters, expenditure on war and to create its propaganda machine in the country. With a situation near bankruptcy, there is a big threat looming as to how mandatory expenditures will be paid in Afghanistan. Taliban is known to promote narco-terrorism and a major part of its revenue comes from opium cultivation. With no money coming to the country, drugs will remain the only source of money and in such situation, things are likely to take a turn not only for Afghanistan but for entire of the world.&nbsp;

Difficulties in providing humanitarian aid

Whole world is doubtful of the credibility of Taliban who are known to be terrorist supporters. Prior to 31st August 2021, several organisations including International Red Cross were actively working in Afghanistan but presently none of them is ready to work due to the fear of their own security. Taliban has also not given any assurance of security to international organisations. In such situation, it is difficult for a country which is fighting a war for over five decades to survive. So far, Taliban has not come up with any plan to provide basic amenities for its citizen too. Many people are already suffering due to issues related to health, hygiene, malnutrition, and drug abuse and in the situation where third wave of COVID19 is expected anytime, future is extremely dark.&nbsp;

Ultra-fanatic attitude of Taliban&nbsp;

Taliban are not fit to rule any country. They are primarily religious scholars who were taught ultra-fanatic form of Islam since childhood. They are brainwashed to be brutal fighters. Governing a country is totally different and needs an empathetic attitude. Taliban has already forced sharia law in the country and scrapped the constitution of Afghanistan. Their most brutal and stringent forms of medieval laws are a curse to humanity. Furthermore, their control over every department of country and run it as per their own laws is going to create problems. There are no rights to women and children. Male patriarchy is at top, and anyone can be punished at the call of religious leaders. Such things are not relevant in today’s time but since Taliban is hell bent to implement it, people of Afghanistan are certainly going to suffer due to lunatic attitude of Taliban.&nbsp;

Safety of citizens

The biggest threat post 31st August 2021 is the safety of Afghan citizens. People have very ugly memories of previous Taliban rule in Afghanistan. When they entered Kabul in 1996, mass executions happened. Anyone with the slightest of doubt was killed mercilessly on streets and women were stoned to death. Presently when Taliban have access to entire database of the people who helped American forces against them, targeted killings have already started. We heard that Taliban are carrying out door-to-door searches in all major cities of Afghanistan and killing people at their will. After another 24 hours, there will be no one to control them and a bloodbath in Afghanistan is on cards.&nbsp;

Refugee crisis – Breeding grounds for terrorists

UN-related organisations have predicted that more than 5-6 million refugees will migrate to nearby countries due to the ongoing crisis. Arranging basic amenities for these people is a big task especially with the fact that there is limited scope for humanitarian organisations. We must remember that Taliban was born from the colonies of the refugees who migrated to Pakistan during Soviet-Afghan war. These colonies were the breeding grounds of terrorists who went to the middle east, India (Jammu and Kashmir), Europe, Chechnya, Serbia and many other countries to fight. &nbsp;At this time when the number of refugees is much larger, it is extremely difficult to predict as to which monster are they going to create in future.&nbsp;

Threat of terrorist groups other than Taliban&nbsp;

Islamic State- Khorasan has already made an entry in the peace process by bombing Kabul Airport on 26th August and firing rockets at it on 30th August 2021. They are most brutal of all and consider anyone who defies their ideology as enemy even if he is a Muslim. Similarly, there are other groups like Al-Qaeda, Haqqani Network, Tehrik-E-Taliban, Lashkar-E-Tayyeba, Hezb-E-Islami, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and East Turkestan Islamic Movement present in Afghanistan. These groups are looking for the right opportunity to strike. With the present situation, any action by these groups is going to bring catastrophe to the country.&nbsp;

Warlords- Threat of a civil war

Afghanistan’s politics had been dependent upon warlords who live a lavish lifestyle at the cost of common people. These warlords keep an army of armed soldiers and are very much possessive about their territories. They get support from their respective tribes and have been influencing day-to-day life in Afghanistan. Taliban advance has pushed most of these warlords away from their lands while some of them have joined the Taliban way of governance. As we saw in the past, these warlords are not going to sit silent and will strike back at a moment of their choice. While this will be a fight between Taliban and the warlords, ultimate sufferer will be the common Afghani citizen.

Role of Pakistan in destabilising Afghanistan&nbsp;

Over the last five decades, if we see the sole reason behind all the disturbances in Afghanistan, only one name comes to mind and that is Pakistan. They created a force to destabilise Sardar Mohammad Daud Khan in 1974 and then led US-led operations in Afghanistan for over a decade. They were the ones who controlled majority of the warlords including “Buther of the Kabul”- Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and they were the ones who created Taliban. A significantly large number of global terrorists were from Pakistan which is evident from just one fact that at one point of time, more than 40% detainees in Guantanamo Bay detention facility were Pakistani citizens. The plot of 9/11 was hatched in Pakistan and the most wanted terrorist of the world, Osama Bin Laden was enjoying safe haven in the proximity of a military cantonment in Pakistan only. Nothing is predictable with a country that preaches terrorism as a state policy. The proximity of Pakistani intelligence agency ISI with Taliban and other terror groups like ISIS-K is not a secret anymore. Pakistan’s past actions proved that it is going to continue its activities and will not let peace prevail in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

There are many questions and although we are quite close to midnight of 31st August 2021 when the bell will ring and the land of Gandhara will be left at the mercy of God, the indications and past experiences are pointing out to a major catastrophe in Afghanistan. Nothing can be predicted about the future since all our guesses have proved wrong. Only time has the answers hidden deep into its pockets. We can only pray and assume that things improve and there is normalcy in Afghanistan at the earliest.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Less than 24 hours are left before the deadline of 31st August 2021 will end. Taliban has issued strict warning that things may take an ugly turn if deadline is not met.

Less than 24 hours are left before the deadline of 31st August 2021 will end. Taliban has issued strict warning that things may take an ugly turn if deadline is not met. While most of the countries have concluded their evacuation operations, US Forces are struggling to complete it and as on 30th August 2021, they not only handed over the outer perimeter security of Kabul Airport to Taliban but also destroyed all their material and equipment not feasible to be taken out. A non-stop plan of airlifting all the men is underway. A contingent of over 1200 Taliban fighters is ready to take over the entire Kabul Airport and simultaneously their leaders are contacting foreign agencies to help them run the Airport since Taliban fighters are technically not competent to do so. × While we talk about it, the biggest question appears before us is the future of Afghanistan after 31st August 2021 when there will be no support forces in Afghanistan and the country will be at the mercy of God. There are several aspects that cannot be ignored and must be taken into consideration when thinking of the destiny of Afghanistan. Absence of a proper government Although Taliban has occupied large tracts of the country, they are still far off from forming a legitimate government. They are known to be a terrorist group and many of their leaders are in the most wanted list of United Nations. So far hardly any country has given them recognition as a government and hence they are trying to rule the country with the help of guns. On the other hand, there is a resistance movement taking place in Panjshir Valley where the vice president of Afghanistan Mr Amrullah Saleh has declared himself as caretaker president. Technically as per the constitution of Afghanistan, he is right and hence gathering his Tajik fighters in formidable Panjshir valley where clashes with Taliban are already going on. In such situation, the government is unstable and in case resistance forces can take over the reins of Kabul, things may take a different turn altogether. Cash starved economy- Threat of narco-terrorism While USA has frozen all the monetary assets of Afghanistan, other organisations like IMF and World Bank have refused to release any money to Afghanistan. With no cash available in a war-torn economy, things are going to turn bad post 31st August 2021. Taliban wants money to pay its fighters, expenditure on war and to create its propaganda machine in the country. With a situation near bankruptcy, there is a big threat looming as to how mandatory expenditures will be paid in Afghanistan. Taliban is known to promote narco-terrorism and a major part of its revenue comes from opium cultivation. With no money coming to the country, drugs will remain the only source of money and in such situation, things are likely to take a turn not only for Afghanistan but for entire of the world. Difficulties in providing humanitarian aid Whole world is doubtful of the credibility of Taliban who are known to be terrorist supporters. Prior to 31st August 2021, several organisations including International Red Cross were actively working in Afghanistan but presently none of them is ready to work due to the fear of their own security. Taliban has also not given any assurance of security to international organisations. In such situation, it is difficult for a country which is fighting a war for over five decades to survive. So far, Taliban has not come up with any plan to provide basic amenities for its citizen too. Many people are already suffering due to issues related to health, hygiene, malnutrition, and drug abuse and in the situation where third wave of COVID19 is expected anytime, future is extremely dark. Ultra-fanatic attitude of Taliban Taliban are not fit to rule any country. They are primarily religious scholars who were taught ultra-fanatic form of Islam since childhood. They are brainwashed to be brutal fighters. Governing a country is totally different and needs an empathetic attitude. Taliban has already forced sharia law in the country and scrapped the constitution of Afghanistan. Their most brutal and stringent forms of medieval laws are a curse to humanity. Furthermore, their control over every department of country and run it as per their own laws is going to create problems. There are no rights to women and children. Male patriarchy is at top, and anyone can be punished at the call of religious leaders. Such things are not relevant in today’s time but since Taliban is hell bent to implement it, people of Afghanistan are certainly going to suffer due to lunatic attitude of Taliban. Safety of citizens The biggest threat post 31st August 2021 is the safety of Afghan citizens. People have very ugly memories of previous Taliban rule in Afghanistan. When they entered Kabul in 1996, mass executions happened. Anyone with the slightest of doubt was killed mercilessly on streets and women were stoned to death. Presently when Taliban have access to entire database of the people who helped American forces against them, targeted killings have already started. We heard that Taliban are carrying out door-to-door searches in all major cities of Afghanistan and killing people at their will. After another 24 hours, there will be no one to control them and a bloodbath in Afghanistan is on cards. Refugee crisis – Breeding grounds for terrorists UN-related organisations have predicted that more than 5-6 million refugees will migrate to nearby countries due to the ongoing crisis. Arranging basic amenities for these people is a big task especially with the fact that there is limited scope for humanitarian organisations. We must remember that Taliban was born from the colonies of the refugees who migrated to Pakistan during Soviet-Afghan war. These colonies were the breeding grounds of terrorists who went to the middle east, India (Jammu and Kashmir), Europe, Chechnya, Serbia and many other countries to fight. At this time when the number of refugees is much larger, it is extremely difficult to predict as to which monster are they going to create in future. Threat of terrorist groups other than Taliban Islamic State- Khorasan has already made an entry in the peace process by bombing Kabul Airport on 26th August and firing rockets at it on 30th August 2021. They are most brutal of all and consider anyone who defies their ideology as enemy even if he is a Muslim. Similarly, there are other groups like Al-Qaeda, Haqqani Network, Tehrik-E-Taliban, Lashkar-E-Tayyeba, Hezb-E-Islami, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and East Turkestan Islamic Movement present in Afghanistan. These groups are looking for the right opportunity to strike. With the present situation, any action by these groups is going to bring catastrophe to the country. Warlords- Threat of a civil war Afghanistan’s politics had been dependent upon warlords who live a lavish lifestyle at the cost of common people. These warlords keep an army of armed soldiers and are very much possessive about their territories. They get support from their respective tribes and have been influencing day-to-day life in Afghanistan. Taliban advance has pushed most of these warlords away from their lands while some of them have joined the Taliban way of governance. As we saw in the past, these warlords are not going to sit silent and will strike back at a moment of their choice. While this will be a fight between Taliban and the warlords, ultimate sufferer will be the common Afghani citizen. Role of Pakistan in destabilising Afghanistan Over the last five decades, if we see the sole reason behind all the disturbances in Afghanistan, only one name comes to mind and that is Pakistan. They created a force to destabilise Sardar Mohammad Daud Khan in 1974 and then led US-led operations in Afghanistan for over a decade. They were the ones who controlled majority of the warlords including “Buther of the Kabul”- Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and they were the ones who created Taliban. A significantly large number of global terrorists were from Pakistan which is evident from just one fact that at one point of time, more than 40% detainees in Guantanamo Bay detention facility were Pakistani citizens. The plot of 9/11 was hatched in Pakistan and the most wanted terrorist of the world, Osama Bin Laden was enjoying safe haven in the proximity of a military cantonment in Pakistan only. Nothing is predictable with a country that preaches terrorism as a state policy. The proximity of Pakistani intelligence agency ISI with Taliban and other terror groups like ISIS-K is not a secret anymore. Pakistan’s past actions proved that it is going to continue its activities and will not let peace prevail in Afghanistan. There are many questions and although we are quite close to midnight of 31st August 2021 when the bell will ring and the land of Gandhara will be left at the mercy of God, the indications and past experiences are pointing out to a major catastrophe in Afghanistan. Nothing can be predicted about the future since all our guesses have proved wrong. Only time has the answers hidden deep into its pockets. We can only pray and assume that things improve and there is normalcy in Afghanistan at the earliest. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | What lies on the other side of the red line in Afghanistan?

US forces retain the inherent right of self defense and are authorized to meet threats with a swift and forceful response. Force protection is paramount in this phase of the operation over the weekend and in today evacuation operations continued.

Pentagon: 3 rockets landed outside the grounds

Afghanistan's healthcare system is on the verge of collapse, reported Reuters quoting two major aid agencies. Foreign donors have stopped donations after Taliban takeover.

International donors including the World Bank and European Union froze funding to Afghanistan shortly after Taliban took control.

"One of the great risks for the health system here is basically to collapse because of lack of support," said Filipe Ribeiro, Afghanistan representative for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), one of the largest medical aid agencies in the country.

"The overall health system in Afghanistan is understaffed, under-equipped and underfunded, for years. And the great risk is that this underfunding will continue over time."

Necephor Mghendi, Afghanistan head of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC), said the healthcare system, which was already fragile and heavily reliant on foreign aid, had been left under additional strain.

"The humanitarian needs on the ground are massive," he said.

Increased demand

Both aid agencies said that they have seen significant increase in demand as other facilities are unable to fully function.

Mghendi said closures of Afghan banks had meant almost all humanitarian agencies have been unable to access funds, leaving vendors and staff unpaid.

Compounding the issue, medical supplies will now need to be restocked earlier than expected.

"Supplies that were supposed to last for three months will not be able to last three months. We may need to replenish much earlier than that," Mghendi said.

Ribeiro said MSF had stockpiled medical supplies before the takeover but that with flights disrupted and land borders in disarray, it was unclear when more might reach the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan's healthcare system is on the verge of collapse, reported Reuters quoting two major aid agencies. Foreign donors have stopped donations after Taliban takeover.

Afghanistan's healthcare system is on the verge of collapse, reported Reuters quoting two major aid agencies. Foreign donors have stopped donations after Taliban takeover. International donors including the World Bank and European Union froze funding to Afghanistan shortly after Taliban took control. "One of the great risks for the health system here is basically to collapse because of lack of support," said Filipe Ribeiro, Afghanistan representative for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), one of the largest medical aid agencies in the country. "The overall health system in Afghanistan is understaffed, under-equipped and underfunded, for years. And the great risk is that this underfunding will continue over time." Necephor Mghendi, Afghanistan head of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC), said the healthcare system, which was already fragile and heavily reliant on foreign aid, had been left under additional strain. "The humanitarian needs on the ground are massive," he said. Increased demand Both aid agencies said that they have seen significant increase in demand as other facilities are unable to fully function. Mghendi said closures of Afghan banks had meant almost all humanitarian agencies have been unable to access funds, leaving vendors and staff unpaid. Compounding the issue, medical supplies will now need to be restocked earlier than expected. "Supplies that were supposed to last for three months will not be able to last three months. We may need to replenish much earlier than that," Mghendi said. Ribeiro said MSF had stockpiled medical supplies before the takeover but that with flights disrupted and land borders in disarray, it was unclear when more might reach the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Aid agencies warn Afghanistan's healthcare system near collapse

Amid the crisis in Afghanistan, farmers of the country are living under the fear of no export of their crops. Almost one-third of Afghanistan's GDP comes from agriculture. Farmers are of the hope that the exporters will buy their harvest.

Farmers fear no export of their crops in Afghanistan

The TV news anchor who interviewed a Taliban spokesperson after the Taliban took power earlier this month has fled Afghanistan, raising concerns about the future of female journalists in the country.

On 17 August, Beheshta Arghand of Tolo News, Afghanistan's only international channel, interviewed Taliban spokesperson Mawlawi Abdullhaq Hemad and grilled him about women's rights under Taliban rule following the Taliban's takeover of power in Kabul and the fall of the Ashraf Ghani government that week.&nbsp;

Beheshta Arghand was at the pinnacle of her journalism career. When she was in Class 9, she wished to be a journalist. She has now fled Afghanistan, citing the dangers that journalists and citizens have faced since the Taliban took over. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-a-first-taliban-spokesman-gets-interviewed-by-female-presenter-on-afghan-tv-406526">Also read | In a first, Taliban spokesman gets interviewed by female presenter on Afghan TV</a>

"I left the country because, like millions of people, I fear the Taliban," she said in an interview with CNN.

She did, however, add, "If the Taliban do what they said — what they promised — and the situation improves, and I know I am safe and there is no threat to my life, I will return to my country and work for it. For the sake of my people. "&nbsp; 
 
TOLO News had claimed that presenter Beheshta Arghand's interview with Taliban spokesperson Mawlawi Abdulhaq Hemad was the first time an Afghan woman had interviewed with a senior Taliban official inside the country's borders.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
TOLOnews and the Taliban making history again: Abdul Haq Hammad, senior Taliban rep, speaking to our (female) presenter Beheshta earlier this morning. Unthinkable two decades ago when they were last in charge ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/TOLOnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TOLOnews</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/XzREQ6ZJ1a">pic.twitter.com/XzREQ6ZJ1a</a>
— Saad Mohseni (@saadmohseni) <a href="https://twitter.com/saadmohseni/status/1427531355538272269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Saad Mohseni, the owner of Tolo News, described Beheshta Arghand's situation as a perfect example of what is happening in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.&nbsp;

"Almost all of our well-known journalists and reporters have left. We've been working nonstop to replace them with new employees. We face the dual challenge of getting people out [because they are afraid] while also keeping the operation running, "Mohseni stated to CNN.&nbsp;

In an open letter, Afghan journalists, cameramen, and photographers asked the UN, the international community, rights groups, and media-supporting organisations to protect them from threats.

"Given the increasing challenges and threats facing media workers, as well as their families and property, we urge the United Nations and donor countries to take action to save our lives and our families," read the letter, signed by 150 journalists and published on Saturday.

The letter follows the August 15 fall of the Afghan government. Several journalists and media personnel have since fled the country, fearing retaliation from the Taliban.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The TV news anchor who interviewed a Taliban spokesperson after the Taliban took power earlier this month has fled Afghanistan, raising concerns about the future of female journalists in the country.

The TV news anchor who interviewed a Taliban spokesperson after the Taliban took power earlier this month has fled Afghanistan, raising concerns about the future of female journalists in the country. On 17 August, Beheshta Arghand of Tolo News, Afghanistan's only international channel, interviewed Taliban spokesperson Mawlawi Abdullhaq Hemad and grilled him about women's rights under Taliban rule following the Taliban's takeover of power in Kabul and the fall of the Ashraf Ghani government that week. Beheshta Arghand was at the pinnacle of her journalism career. When she was in Class 9, she wished to be a journalist. She has now fled Afghanistan, citing the dangers that journalists and citizens have faced since the Taliban took over. Also read | In a first, Taliban spokesman gets interviewed by female presenter on Afghan TV "I left the country because, like millions of people, I fear the Taliban," she said in an interview with CNN. She did, however, add, "If the Taliban do what they said — what they promised — and the situation improves, and I know I am safe and there is no threat to my life, I will return to my country and work for it. For the sake of my people. " TOLO News had claimed that presenter Beheshta Arghand's interview with Taliban spokesperson Mawlawi Abdulhaq Hemad was the first time an Afghan woman had interviewed with a senior Taliban official inside the country's borders. TOLOnews and the Taliban making history again: Abdul Haq Hammad, senior Taliban rep, speaking to our (female) presenter Beheshta earlier this morning. Unthinkable two decades ago when they were last in charge ⁦@TOLOnews⁩ pic.twitter.com/XzREQ6ZJ1a — Saad Mohseni (@saadmohseni) August 17, 2021 × Saad Mohseni, the owner of Tolo News, described Beheshta Arghand's situation as a perfect example of what is happening in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. "Almost all of our well-known journalists and reporters have left. We've been working nonstop to replace them with new employees. We face the dual challenge of getting people out [because they are afraid] while also keeping the operation running, "Mohseni stated to CNN. In an open letter, Afghan journalists, cameramen, and photographers asked the UN, the international community, rights groups, and media-supporting organisations to protect them from threats. "Given the increasing challenges and threats facing media workers, as well as their families and property, we urge the United Nations and donor countries to take action to save our lives and our families," read the letter, signed by 150 journalists and published on Saturday. The letter follows the August 15 fall of the Afghan government. Several journalists and media personnel have since fled the country, fearing retaliation from the Taliban. (With inputs from agencies)

Female journalist Beheshta Arghand flees Afghanistan after TV interview with Taliban leader

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