The Spanish government has revealed that they have officially ended their evacuation process in Afghanistan following the arrival of the last two military flights in Dubai.

Spain ends evacuations from Kabul, Britain to complete operations today

At least 90 Afghanscivilians and 13 US service members have died following the twin bomb blasts in Kabul. Two explosions had occurred outside Kabul airport on Thursday.

Kabul Airport Blasts Update: At least 13 US troops and 90 Afghans killed in bomb attack

<p>The United States President Joe Biden said that he has seen "no evidence" that the Taliban colluded with Islamic State militants in carrying out the deadly suicide bomb blasts at the Kabul airport in Afghanistan on Thursday (August 26).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden condemned the attacks and promised that the United States would "hunt down" those responsible for the explosions that caused mayhem at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport amid the mass evacuation of thousands of people from Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is no evidence thus far that I've been given as a consequence by any of the commanders in the field that there has been collusion between the Taliban and ISIS in carrying out what happened today," Biden said in an address at the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerian-gunmen-free-dozens-of-kidnapped-seminary-pupils-says-teacher-408677">Nigerian gunmen free dozens of kidnapped seminary pupils, says teacher</a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the press briefing after deadly blasts at Kabul airport, Biden was asked about the ongoing criticism about the dependence on the Taliban to secure the perimeter of the airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To which Biden replied, "The fact is that we’re in a situation — we inherited a situation, particularly since, as we all know, that the Afghan military collapsed 11 days before — in 11 days — that it is in the interest of, as Mackenzie said, in the interest of the Taliban that, in fact, ISIS-K does not metastasize beyond what it is, number one. And number two, it’s in their interest that we are able to leave on time, on target."</p>

<p>"As a consequence of that, the major things we've asked them — moving back the perimeter; give me more space between the wall; stopping vehicles from coming through, et cetera; searching people coming through — it is not what you’d call a tightly commanded, regimented operation like the US is — the military is — but they’re acting in their interest — their interest," Biden added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch Joe Biden's address here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Watch as I deliver remarks on the terror attack at Hamid Karzai International Airport, and the U.S. service members and Afghan victims killed and wounded. <a href="https://t.co/NBv02m3Bpm">https://t.co/NBv02m3Bpm</a></p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1431004614283993104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The American service members who gave their lives were heroes. Heroes who have been engaged in a dangerous, selfless mission to save the lives of others. We have a continuing obligation — a sacred obligation — to their families that will last forever.</p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1431034088790581249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-hunt-you-down-joe-biden-warns-kabul-bombers-vows-to-avenge-deaths-of-us-soldiers-408665">'Will hunt you down': Joe Biden warns Kabul bombers, vows to avenge deaths of US soldiers</a></strong></p>

<p>The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks that killed at least 13 soldiers including US Marines and navy medic, along with scores of Afghans, who were waiting outside Kabul airport to flee Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden also informed that he has asked the Pentagon to develop plans to strike back at Islamist militants. He said, "I've also ordered my commanders to develop operational plans to strike ISIS-K assets, leadership and facilities."&nbsp;</p>


The United States President Joe Biden said that he has seen "no evidence" that the Taliban colluded with Islamic State militants in carrying out the deadly suicide bomb blasts at the Kabul airport in Afghanistan on Thursday (August 26).

The United States President Joe Biden said that he has seen "no evidence" that the Taliban colluded with Islamic State militants in carrying out the deadly suicide bomb blasts at the Kabul airport in Afghanistan on Thursday (August 26). Biden condemned the attacks and promised that the United States would "hunt down" those responsible for the explosions that caused mayhem at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport amid the mass evacuation of thousands of people from Afghanistan. "There is no evidence thus far that I've been given as a consequence by any of the commanders in the field that there has been collusion between the Taliban and ISIS in carrying out what happened today," Biden said in an address at the White House. ALSO READ | Nigerian gunmen free dozens of kidnapped seminary pupils, says teacher During the press briefing after deadly blasts at Kabul airport, Biden was asked about the ongoing criticism about the dependence on the Taliban to secure the perimeter of the airport. To which Biden replied, "The fact is that we’re in a situation — we inherited a situation, particularly since, as we all know, that the Afghan military collapsed 11 days before — in 11 days — that it is in the interest of, as Mackenzie said, in the interest of the Taliban that, in fact, ISIS-K does not metastasize beyond what it is, number one. And number two, it’s in their interest that we are able to leave on time, on target." "As a consequence of that, the major things we've asked them — moving back the perimeter; give me more space between the wall; stopping vehicles from coming through, et cetera; searching people coming through — it is not what you’d call a tightly commanded, regimented operation like the US is — the military is — but they’re acting in their interest — their interest," Biden added. Watch Joe Biden's address here: Watch as I deliver remarks on the terror attack at Hamid Karzai International Airport, and the U.S. service members and Afghan victims killed and wounded. https://t.co/NBv02m3Bpm — President Biden (@POTUS) August 26, 2021 × The American service members who gave their lives were heroes. Heroes who have been engaged in a dangerous, selfless mission to save the lives of others. We have a continuing obligation — a sacred obligation — to their families that will last forever. — President Biden (@POTUS) August 26, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'Will hunt you down': Joe Biden warns Kabul bombers, vows to avenge deaths of US soldiers The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks that killed at least 13 soldiers including US Marines and navy medic, along with scores of Afghans, who were waiting outside Kabul airport to flee Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Biden also informed that he has asked the Pentagon to develop plans to strike back at Islamist militants. He said, "I've also ordered my commanders to develop operational plans to strike ISIS-K assets, leadership and facilities."

Kabul blasts: Joe Biden says no sign of 'collusion' between Taliban and Islamic State in attacks

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<p>India strongly condemned the deadly bomb blasts that rocked Afghanistan's capital city Kabul on Thursday (August 26), killing at least 13 US soldiers, along with dozens&nbsp;of Afghans, who were waiting outside Kabul airport to flee Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement released on Thursday (August 26) by India's Ministry of External Affairs read: "India strongly condemns the bomb blasts in Kabul today. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of this terrorist attack."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-blasts-joe-biden-says-no-sign-of-collusion-between-taliban-and-islamic-state-in-attacks-408695">Kabul blasts: Joe Biden says no sign of 'collusion' between Taliban and Islamic State in attacks</a></strong></p>

<p>"Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the injured. Today’s attacks reinforce the need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism and all those who provide sanctuaries to terrorists," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks and the United States President Joe Biden said that he has seen "no evidence" that the Taliban colluded with Islamic State militants in carrying out the deadly attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-dozens-of-civilians-at-least-13-us-troops-killed-in-kabul-airport-attack-408575">Dozens of civilians, at least 13 US troops killed in Kabul airport attack</a></strong></p>

<p>The US President condemned the blasts and promised that the United States would "hunt down" those responsible for the explosions that caused mayhem at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport amid the mass evacuation of thousands of people from Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden also informed that he has asked the Pentagon to develop plans to strike back at Islamist militants. He said, "I've also ordered my commanders to develop operational plans to strike ISIS-K assets, leadership and facilities."&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 100,000 people have been flown out of Afghanistan since the Taliban swept into power on August 15, with Afghans desperate to escape the feared hardline rule of the fundamentalist Islamists.</p>

<p>The Taliban had allowed US-led forces to conduct the airlift, while planning to finalise their own government as soon as the American troops left.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The suicide bombers targeted people trying to reach access gates at the airport, creating scenes of terror and devastation.</p>

<p>Footage shared on social media showed men and women in a tangled mess in the shin-deep water of a drainage canal.</p>

<p>Stunned survivors pulled themselves to their feet, while others desperately shouted for help in searching the carnage for loved ones.</p>

<p>The Italian NGO Emergency said the hospital it operates in Kabul had been overwhelmed by a "massive influx" of more than 60 casualties, 16 of whom were pronounced dead on arrival.</p>

<p><strong><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></strong></p>


India strongly condemned the deadly bomb blasts that rocked Afghanistan's capital city Kabul on Thursday (August 26), killing at least 13 US soldiers, along with dozens of Afghans, who were waiting outside Kabul airport to flee Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

India strongly condemned the deadly bomb blasts that rocked Afghanistan's capital city Kabul on Thursday (August 26), killing at least 13 US soldiers, along with dozens of Afghans, who were waiting outside Kabul airport to flee Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. The statement released on Thursday (August 26) by India's Ministry of External Affairs read: "India strongly condemns the bomb blasts in Kabul today. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of this terrorist attack." ALSO READ | Kabul blasts: Joe Biden says no sign of 'collusion' between Taliban and Islamic State in attacks "Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the injured. Today’s attacks reinforce the need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism and all those who provide sanctuaries to terrorists," the statement added. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks and the United States President Joe Biden said that he has seen "no evidence" that the Taliban colluded with Islamic State militants in carrying out the deadly attacks. IN PICS | Dozens of civilians, at least 13 US troops killed in Kabul airport attack The US President condemned the blasts and promised that the United States would "hunt down" those responsible for the explosions that caused mayhem at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport amid the mass evacuation of thousands of people from Afghanistan. Biden also informed that he has asked the Pentagon to develop plans to strike back at Islamist militants. He said, "I've also ordered my commanders to develop operational plans to strike ISIS-K assets, leadership and facilities." More than 100,000 people have been flown out of Afghanistan since the Taliban swept into power on August 15, with Afghans desperate to escape the feared hardline rule of the fundamentalist Islamists. The Taliban had allowed US-led forces to conduct the airlift, while planning to finalise their own government as soon as the American troops left. The suicide bombers targeted people trying to reach access gates at the airport, creating scenes of terror and devastation. Footage shared on social media showed men and women in a tangled mess in the shin-deep water of a drainage canal. Stunned survivors pulled themselves to their feet, while others desperately shouted for help in searching the carnage for loved ones. The Italian NGO Emergency said the hospital it operates in Kabul had been overwhelmed by a "massive influx" of more than 60 casualties, 16 of whom were pronounced dead on arrival. (with inputs from agencies)

India condemns Kabul blasts, says 'need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism'

$6500 US dollars- that's the amount one has to pay if they want to reserve a seat on a chartered flight. The US defence contractor has put a price on the lives of Afghans who want to flee from Kabul. WION brings you a report.

Blackwater is charging $6,500 to evacuate people from Afghanistan

<p>Afghanistan's capital city Kabul was stunned by more than one suicide bomb blast at the airport on Thursday (August 26), that killed dozens of people including US troops as the&nbsp;United States President Joe Biden issued a stern warning to those who are&nbsp;responsible for the attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The death toll from devastating blasts has risen as the latest US media reports, citing an official with Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Health, revealed that more than 90 people have been killed, including civilians and 13 US troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden has vowed to avenge the fallen soldiers, who he said were engaged "in a dangerous mission to save the lives of others".&nbsp; He said that the United States will "hunt down" the attackers and "make them pay".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For those who carried out this attack as well as anyone who wishes America harm, know this: We will not forgive. We will not forget. We will hunt you down and make you pay," Biden said in an address at the White House on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-condemns-kabul-blasts-says-need-for-the-world-to-stand-unitedly-against-terrorism-408703">India condemns Kabul blasts, says 'need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism'</a></strong></p>

<p>The blasts have deepened the Afghan crisis further in the final days of an already tensed evacuation efforts by the West from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There are many women and children among the victims. Most of the wounded people are in trauma and shock," one of the officials said as quoted by AFP, adding the toll only accounted for those taken to city hospitals.</p>

<p>The US Defense Department confirmed the number of American troops killed in the suicide bomb blasts at Kabul airport rose by one to 13.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A thirteenth US service member has died from his wounds suffered as a result of the attack on Abbey Gate," Central Command spokesman Captain Bill Urban said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden also informed that he has asked the Pentagon to develop plans to strike back at Islamist militants. He said, "I've also ordered my commanders to develop operational plans to strike ISIS-K assets, leadership and facilities."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-condemns-kabul-blasts-says-need-for-the-world-to-stand-unitedly-against-terrorism-408703">India condemns Kabul blasts, says 'need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism'</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

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<p>The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks, however, Biden said that he has seen "no evidence" that the Taliban colluded with Islamic State militants in carrying out the deadly attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former US president Donald Trump and other Republican lawmakers have lashed out at Biden over deaths of US soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This tragedy should never have been allowed to happen, which makes our grief even deeper and more difficult to understand," said Trump, who is a staunch critic of Biden over the Afghan crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Afghanistan's capital city Kabul was stunned by more than one suicide bomb blast at the airport on Thursday (August 26), that killed dozens of people including US troops as the United States President Joe Biden issued a stern warning to those who are responsible for the attacks.

Afghanistan's capital city Kabul was stunned by more than one suicide bomb blast at the airport on Thursday (August 26), that killed dozens of people including US troops as the United States President Joe Biden issued a stern warning to those who are responsible for the attacks. The death toll from devastating blasts has risen as the latest US media reports, citing an official with Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Health, revealed that more than 90 people have been killed, including civilians and 13 US troops. Biden has vowed to avenge the fallen soldiers, who he said were engaged "in a dangerous mission to save the lives of others". He said that the United States will "hunt down" the attackers and "make them pay". "For those who carried out this attack as well as anyone who wishes America harm, know this: We will not forgive. We will not forget. We will hunt you down and make you pay," Biden said in an address at the White House on Thursday. ALSO READ | India condemns Kabul blasts, says 'need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism' The blasts have deepened the Afghan crisis further in the final days of an already tensed evacuation efforts by the West from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. "There are many women and children among the victims. Most of the wounded people are in trauma and shock," one of the officials said as quoted by AFP, adding the toll only accounted for those taken to city hospitals. The US Defense Department confirmed the number of American troops killed in the suicide bomb blasts at Kabul airport rose by one to 13. "A thirteenth US service member has died from his wounds suffered as a result of the attack on Abbey Gate," Central Command spokesman Captain Bill Urban said in a statement. Biden also informed that he has asked the Pentagon to develop plans to strike back at Islamist militants. He said, "I've also ordered my commanders to develop operational plans to strike ISIS-K assets, leadership and facilities." ALSO READ | India condemns Kabul blasts, says 'need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism' Watch: × The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks, however, Biden said that he has seen "no evidence" that the Taliban colluded with Islamic State militants in carrying out the deadly attacks. Former US president Donald Trump and other Republican lawmakers have lashed out at Biden over deaths of US soldiers. "This tragedy should never have been allowed to happen, which makes our grief even deeper and more difficult to understand," said Trump, who is a staunch critic of Biden over the Afghan crisis.

Kabul blasts: More than 90 dead as Joe Biden vows to 'hunt down' those responsible

<p>Former US president Donald Trump and other Republican lawmakers have lashed out at Joe Biden after deadly bomb blasts rocked Afghanistan's capital Kabul, killing at least 13 US soldiers among others on Thursday (August 26).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This tragedy should never have been allowed to happen, which makes our grief even deeper and more difficult to understand," said Trump, who is a staunch critic of Biden over the Afghan crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Soon after the explosions, Biden addressed the media at the White House. He condemned the attacks and paid tributes to the US soldiers who lost their lives in the suicide bomb blasts outside Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-condemns-kabul-blasts-says-need-for-the-world-to-stand-unitedly-against-terrorism-408703">India condemns Kabul blasts, says 'need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism'</a></strong></p>

<p>Several Republicans also slammed Biden.</p>

<p>"Joe Biden is responsible," said Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri. "It is now clear beyond all doubt that he has neither the capacity nor the will to lead. He must resign."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Joe Biden has blood on his hands," tweeted Representative Elise Stefanik, the third-ranking Republican in the House. "The buck stops with the President of the United States," Stefanik said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Joe Biden has blood on his hands.<br />
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The buck stops with the President of the United States.<br />
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This horrific national security and humanitarian disaster is solely the result of Joe Biden’s weak and incompetent leadership. He is unfit to be Commander-in-Chief.</p>
— Elise Stefanik (@EliseStefanik) <a href="https://twitter.com/EliseStefanik/status/1430912462333829120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks as more than 60 people have lost their lives; Biden has promised to avenge the fallen soldiers, who according to the President were engaged "in a dangerous mission to save the lives of others" and said that the United States will "hunt down" the attackers and "make them pay".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-blasts-joe-biden-says-no-sign-of-collusion-between-taliban-and-islamic-state-in-attacks-408695">Kabul blasts: Joe Biden says no sign of 'collusion' between Taliban and Islamic State in attacks</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is time for Congress to act quickly to save lives," Representative Kevin McCarthy said. "Our enemies have taken advantage of the chaotic nature of the withdrawal."</p>

<p>McCarthy said House speaker Nancy Pelosi "must bring Congress back into session before August 31 so that we can be briefed thoroughly and comprehensively by the Biden administration."</p>

<p>McCarthy also called on Biden to "take decisive action to protect our troops, our citizens, and our allies without regard for an arbitrary deadline."<b>&nbsp;</b></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell called the Kabul attack "enraging" and said, "we need to redouble our global efforts to confront these barbarian enemies who want to kill our Americans and attack our homeland."&nbsp;</p>

<p>As he concluded the media interview, Biden informed that he has asked the Pentagon to develop plans to strike back at Islamist militants. He said, "I've also ordered my commanders to develop operational plans to strike ISIS-K assets, leadership and facilities."&nbsp;</p>


Former US president Donald Trump and other Republican lawmakers have lashed out at Joe Biden after deadly bomb blasts rocked Afghanistan's capital Kabul, killing at least 13 US soldiers among others on Thursday (August 26).

Former US president Donald Trump and other Republican lawmakers have lashed out at Joe Biden after deadly bomb blasts rocked Afghanistan's capital Kabul, killing at least 13 US soldiers among others on Thursday (August 26). "This tragedy should never have been allowed to happen, which makes our grief even deeper and more difficult to understand," said Trump, who is a staunch critic of Biden over the Afghan crisis. Soon after the explosions, Biden addressed the media at the White House. He condemned the attacks and paid tributes to the US soldiers who lost their lives in the suicide bomb blasts outside Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport. ALSO READ | India condemns Kabul blasts, says 'need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism' Several Republicans also slammed Biden. "Joe Biden is responsible," said Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri. "It is now clear beyond all doubt that he has neither the capacity nor the will to lead. He must resign." "Joe Biden has blood on his hands," tweeted Representative Elise Stefanik, the third-ranking Republican in the House. "The buck stops with the President of the United States," Stefanik said. Joe Biden has blood on his hands. The buck stops with the President of the United States. This horrific national security and humanitarian disaster is solely the result of Joe Biden’s weak and incompetent leadership. He is unfit to be Commander-in-Chief. — Elise Stefanik (@EliseStefanik) August 26, 2021 × The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks as more than 60 people have lost their lives; Biden has promised to avenge the fallen soldiers, who according to the President were engaged "in a dangerous mission to save the lives of others" and said that the United States will "hunt down" the attackers and "make them pay". ALSO READ | Kabul blasts: Joe Biden says no sign of 'collusion' between Taliban and Islamic State in attacks "It is time for Congress to act quickly to save lives," Representative Kevin McCarthy said. "Our enemies have taken advantage of the chaotic nature of the withdrawal." McCarthy said House speaker Nancy Pelosi "must bring Congress back into session before August 31 so that we can be briefed thoroughly and comprehensively by the Biden administration." McCarthy also called on Biden to "take decisive action to protect our troops, our citizens, and our allies without regard for an arbitrary deadline." Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell called the Kabul attack "enraging" and said, "we need to redouble our global efforts to confront these barbarian enemies who want to kill our Americans and attack our homeland." As he concluded the media interview, Biden informed that he has asked the Pentagon to develop plans to strike back at Islamist militants. He said, "I've also ordered my commanders to develop operational plans to strike ISIS-K assets, leadership and facilities."

'Biden has blood on his hands': Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers slam US president after Kabul blasts

<p>In the aftermath of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, as the world’s major countries engage the Taliban regime in Kabul, India appears to have shot itself in the foot and retired hurt into a sulk. New Delhi breaks its sullen silence only to keep reminding the world of its seething animus against Pakistan.</p>

<p>As the regional superpower with unique civilisational connections and people-to-people ties with Afghanistan, India ought to have been a prominent player at this juncture of historic transition. Far from raising its profile during a critical situation, New Delhi beat a hasty retreat along with the US and its coalition partners who had failed to accomplish their objectives during the 20 years of military occupation of Afghanistan.</p>

<p>The US, the UK and Australia, to name a few, have presided over tens of thousands of deaths in Afghanistan and inflicted untold cruelties on a people during their 20-year military occupation. They may well be guilty of war crimes, too, which could be the main reason for their taking flight with a change of regime.</p>

<p>In stark contrast, India’s role in Afghanistan has been benign and positive with a focus on the country’s all-round development. There are structures and processes besides institutions and people that bear testimony to India’s massive developmental contribution to Afghanistan, which is estimated at more than USD 3 billion over the last 20 years.</p>

<p>There was no need, no call by any reckoning, and no strategic compulsion to practically abandon its diplomatic missions to the care of local staff and flee along with the US and its coalition partners. Since India stands in a class apart, as defined by its role in and contribution to Afghanistan’s development, New Delhi should have stood its ground. It did not.</p>

<p>The failure to do so may be attributed to: a misreading of the situation; reluctance to exercise strategic autonomy especially by standing apart from the US-led fleeing occupation forces; fear of being “left behind” in the company of countries such as Russia, China and Iran; resentment at being on the ground alongside Pakistan which, being embedded with the Taliban, is rising in the world’s power ladder; lack of confidence to keep India’s flag flying high despite the Taliban’s explicit assurance of protection and pleas to stay back; and, utter unpreparedness for a situation that was foreseen as inevitable at least from 2018.</p>

<p>Above all, having sided with the occupation forces and supported the corrupt regime of President Ashraf Ghani who looted and impoverished his own people, New Delhi may have felt that what it did in Afghanistan would not be condoned.</p>

<p>India had overwhelming reasons, which need no elaboration, for staying put on the scene. At least the embassy in Kabul, if not the consulates as well, should have been kept open for business. Instead, our diplomats were among the first, on August 17, to scramble for the exit after the Taliban takeover on August 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, the Taliban had reached out to India with a request to not withdraw its diplomats from the embassy. The Taliban had also explicitly assured protection to Indian missions and diplomats. As any entity, including India’s Ministry of External Affairs and the Taliban, involved in the situation knew, any attack on Indian diplomats or any diplomatic mission would have wrecked any hope of the Taliban gaining legitimacy from any quarter; and, that is something they would not have allowed to happen before they had even formed the government. The conduct of the Taliban leadership since August 15 shows that India could have taken the regime at its word and kept its embassy open.</p>

<p>Thus, India has lost the first-mover advantage that could have been had on a platter but which now rests with Pakistan, Iran, Russia and China (PIRC). These four may well be the first to recognise the Taliban’s legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan and reap the economic and strategic gains which are certain to follow. In the event—with deals to be struck, contracts to be signed, business to be done and profits to be raked in—the US and the West, for all their shrill condemnation of the Taliban, would quickly get down to working with the Taliban government, lest the PRIC nations get to cash in on all the opportunities. As it stands, India might not get a share of the pickings at this “feast of the vultures”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, it should not be surprising if the US and the West found other ways of persisting with their military presence in Afghanistan for an indefinite period after August 31. The two bomb blasts of August 26 might well provide an opening to the US for continuing to stay militarily engaged in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>India has squarely cast itself on the wrong side of history by pitting itself, no matter how temporarily, against the emerging realities in Afghanistan. New Delhi may see itself as being with the “democracy bloc” led by the US, which is perceived as a declining power. The US withdrawal from Afghanistan (if that happens in spite of the August 26 bomb blasts) has damaged its credibility and prestige; and reinforces the view that—like it did in Saigon 47 years ago—when the hour of reckoning comes, Washington will not hesitate to jettison its allies.</p>

<p>It is of utmost importance that India strives to recover its prestige and make its presence felt in Afghanistan at the earliest opportunity, i.e. if the Taliban is able to form an inclusive government and broadly meets the expectations of a majority of the P-5 on the issues of terrorism, human rights and women’s education and employment. &nbsp;</p>

<p>For now, after the bomb blasts, it is what the US does that would determine the course of the new regime as well as what India and PIRC do.</p>

<p><strong>(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.)</strong></p>


In the aftermath of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, as the world’s major countries engage the Taliban regime in Kabul, India appears to have shot itself in the foot and retired hurt into a sulk.

In the aftermath of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, as the world’s major countries engage the Taliban regime in Kabul, India appears to have shot itself in the foot and retired hurt into a sulk. New Delhi breaks its sullen silence only to keep reminding the world of its seething animus against Pakistan. As the regional superpower with unique civilisational connections and people-to-people ties with Afghanistan, India ought to have been a prominent player at this juncture of historic transition. Far from raising its profile during a critical situation, New Delhi beat a hasty retreat along with the US and its coalition partners who had failed to accomplish their objectives during the 20 years of military occupation of Afghanistan. The US, the UK and Australia, to name a few, have presided over tens of thousands of deaths in Afghanistan and inflicted untold cruelties on a people during their 20-year military occupation. They may well be guilty of war crimes, too, which could be the main reason for their taking flight with a change of regime. In stark contrast, India’s role in Afghanistan has been benign and positive with a focus on the country’s all-round development. There are structures and processes besides institutions and people that bear testimony to India’s massive developmental contribution to Afghanistan, which is estimated at more than USD 3 billion over the last 20 years. There was no need, no call by any reckoning, and no strategic compulsion to practically abandon its diplomatic missions to the care of local staff and flee along with the US and its coalition partners. Since India stands in a class apart, as defined by its role in and contribution to Afghanistan’s development, New Delhi should have stood its ground. It did not. The failure to do so may be attributed to: a misreading of the situation; reluctance to exercise strategic autonomy especially by standing apart from the US-led fleeing occupation forces; fear of being “left behind” in the company of countries such as Russia, China and Iran; resentment at being on the ground alongside Pakistan which, being embedded with the Taliban, is rising in the world’s power ladder; lack of confidence to keep India’s flag flying high despite the Taliban’s explicit assurance of protection and pleas to stay back; and, utter unpreparedness for a situation that was foreseen as inevitable at least from 2018. Above all, having sided with the occupation forces and supported the corrupt regime of President Ashraf Ghani who looted and impoverished his own people, New Delhi may have felt that what it did in Afghanistan would not be condoned. India had overwhelming reasons, which need no elaboration, for staying put on the scene. At least the embassy in Kabul, if not the consulates as well, should have been kept open for business. Instead, our diplomats were among the first, on August 17, to scramble for the exit after the Taliban takeover on August 15. Moreover, the Taliban had reached out to India with a request to not withdraw its diplomats from the embassy. The Taliban had also explicitly assured protection to Indian missions and diplomats. As any entity, including India’s Ministry of External Affairs and the Taliban, involved in the situation knew, any attack on Indian diplomats or any diplomatic mission would have wrecked any hope of the Taliban gaining legitimacy from any quarter; and, that is something they would not have allowed to happen before they had even formed the government. The conduct of the Taliban leadership since August 15 shows that India could have taken the regime at its word and kept its embassy open. Thus, India has lost the first-mover advantage that could have been had on a platter but which now rests with Pakistan, Iran, Russia and China (PIRC). These four may well be the first to recognise the Taliban’s legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan and reap the economic and strategic gains which are certain to follow. In the event—with deals to be struck, contracts to be signed, business to be done and profits to be raked in—the US and the West, for all their shrill condemnation of the Taliban, would quickly get down to working with the Taliban government, lest the PRIC nations get to cash in on all the opportunities. As it stands, India might not get a share of the pickings at this “feast of the vultures”. In fact, it should not be surprising if the US and the West found other ways of persisting with their military presence in Afghanistan for an indefinite period after August 31. The two bomb blasts of August 26 might well provide an opening to the US for continuing to stay militarily engaged in Afghanistan. India has squarely cast itself on the wrong side of history by pitting itself, no matter how temporarily, against the emerging realities in Afghanistan. New Delhi may see itself as being with the “democracy bloc” led by the US, which is perceived as a declining power. The US withdrawal from Afghanistan (if that happens in spite of the August 26 bomb blasts) has damaged its credibility and prestige; and reinforces the view that—like it did in Saigon 47 years ago—when the hour of reckoning comes, Washington will not hesitate to jettison its allies. It is of utmost importance that India strives to recover its prestige and make its presence felt in Afghanistan at the earliest opportunity, i.e. if the Taliban is able to form an inclusive government and broadly meets the expectations of a majority of the P-5 on the issues of terrorism, human rights and women’s education and employment. For now, after the bomb blasts, it is what the US does that would determine the course of the new regime as well as what India and PIRC do. (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 | On the Margin: India’s Afghan missteps

Few hours before the blast hit, KabulAirport was swamped with people, waiting in knee-deep sewage to get closer to the airport. Thousands were waving their documents and begging the western forces to let them enter the airport.

Desperate Afghans queue in sewage-filled canal outside Kabul airport

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called a snap September&nbsp;20 election to benefit from his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination program, but now faces questions over how his Liberal government dealt with this month's chaos in Kabul.</p>

<p>Canada announced on Thursday it had halted&nbsp;evacuations of its citizens and vulnerable Afghans who worked for Western nations in Afghanistan, admitting it did not know how many were left behind.</p>

<p>Just days before the Afghan capital fell to the Taliban in a lightning advance, Canada said it had identified 6,000 Afghans for evacuation. In the end, only 3,700 Canadian citizens and Afghans were flown out.</p>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-twin-blasts-rock-kabul-13-killed-60-injured-at-afghanistan-evacuation-site-408582" hreflang="en">Live | Twin blasts rock Kabul: 13 killed, 60 injured at Afghan evacuation site</a></h2>

<p>Advocates said Canada's rescue effort was half-hearted, falling far short of what other allies were doing.</p>

<p>Some 54 per cent of Canadians think Ottawa should have acted more quickly to help Afghans, according to a Postmedia/Leger Marketing poll published on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Trudeau, who has governed Canada for nearly six years, has been pressed on Afghanistan on every day of the campaign so far. Last Friday, a reporter read out a message from a person with relatives trapped in Afghanistan who told the prime minister that "their blood will be on your hands" if any were killed by the Taliban.</p>

<p>Trudeau side-stepped the remark, saying: "I can't imagine, the despair, the anguish that so many individuals are facing ... this is a horrific situation."</p>

<p>Canada withdrew the bulk of its troops from Afghanistan in 2011, but participated in a NATO mission to train the Afghan military until 2014 and continued to have diplomats and aid workers on the ground.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/suicide-bomb-attack-at-kabuls-hamid-karzai-international-airport-408617"><strong>WATCH |</strong></a></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/suicide-bomb-attack-at-kabuls-hamid-karzai-international-airport-408617/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"Canada's poor initial response in Kabul points to an extreme of centralized political micro-management," said Andrew Leslie, a retired Canadian general and former head of the army who was a Liberal member of parliament from 2015 to 2019.</p>

<p>Adding to the awkwardness for Trudeau is the fact that his main rival, Conservative Party leader Erin O'Toole, is a decorated former Air Force helicopter navigator who served for 13 years.</p>

<p>"The situation on the ground is heartbreaking ... Mr. Trudeau has abandoned people there," O'Toole told reporters on Wednesday, stressing his military experience.</p>

<p>"(Trudeau) has had years to make sure that people who were at risk because they had served Canada are taken out of the country ... he put his political interests ahead of a crisis there."</p>

<p>The Globe and Mail, a national newspaper, said in an editorial on Thursday that "Canada's plan to get marked men and women through a fast-closing door was designed as if there was all the time in the world."</p>

<p>A suspected suicide bomb exploded outside Kabul's airport on Thursday, killing at least 13 people, a Taliban official said. The Pentagon said there were at least two explosions near the airport, with civilians and U.S. service members among the casualties.</p>

<p><strong>Domestic concerns</strong></p>

<p>Trudeau aides say they do not fear much damage from the chaos in Afghanistan ahead of the election, given voters are likely to be focused on domestic matters.</p>

<p>Nelson Wiseman, a political science professor at the University of Toronto, said that expectation may be valid.</p>

<p>"Unless I see Canadian casualties or Canadians being held hostage, I just don't see this figuring," he said.</p>

<p>During the 2015 election campaign, the former Conservative government's campaign was thrown off track by its response to a photograph of the body of a three-year-old Syrian boy who drowned after a boat capsized as his family sought to reach Greece and ultimately Canada.</p>

<p>In opposition at the time, Trudeau said Canada must do much more and said a Liberal government would accept 25,000 Syrian refugees. He went on to win a majority government in the election. Trudeau's Liberals lost their majority in 2019 and have governed since then with the support of opposition parties.</p>

<p>In recent days, Trudeau, who attended a virtual G7 meeting on Afghanistan on Tuesday from a hotel in the Canadian province of Ontario, has rejected any suggestions of bungling, noting the speed of the Taliban's moves caught most observers by surprise.</p>

<p>"Canadians across the country are thinking about, yes, Afghanistan, but they're also thinking about how they're going to get through this pandemic," Trudeau said this week.</p>


Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called a snap September 20 election to benefit from his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination program, but now faces questions over how his Liberal government dealt with this month's chaos in Kabul.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called a snap September 20 election to benefit from his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination program, but now faces questions over how his Liberal government dealt with this month's chaos in Kabul. Canada announced on Thursday it had halted evacuations of its citizens and vulnerable Afghans who worked for Western nations in Afghanistan, admitting it did not know how many were left behind. Just days before the Afghan capital fell to the Taliban in a lightning advance, Canada said it had identified 6,000 Afghans for evacuation. In the end, only 3,700 Canadian citizens and Afghans were flown out. Live | Twin blasts rock Kabul: 13 killed, 60 injured at Afghan evacuation site Advocates said Canada's rescue effort was half-hearted, falling far short of what other allies were doing. Some 54 per cent of Canadians think Ottawa should have acted more quickly to help Afghans, according to a Postmedia/Leger Marketing poll published on Wednesday. Trudeau, who has governed Canada for nearly six years, has been pressed on Afghanistan on every day of the campaign so far. Last Friday, a reporter read out a message from a person with relatives trapped in Afghanistan who told the prime minister that "their blood will be on your hands" if any were killed by the Taliban. Trudeau side-stepped the remark, saying: "I can't imagine, the despair, the anguish that so many individuals are facing ... this is a horrific situation." Canada withdrew the bulk of its troops from Afghanistan in 2011, but participated in a NATO mission to train the Afghan military until 2014 and continued to have diplomats and aid workers on the ground. WATCH | "Canada's poor initial response in Kabul points to an extreme of centralized political micro-management," said Andrew Leslie, a retired Canadian general and former head of the army who was a Liberal member of parliament from 2015 to 2019. Adding to the awkwardness for Trudeau is the fact that his main rival, Conservative Party leader Erin O'Toole, is a decorated former Air Force helicopter navigator who served for 13 years. "The situation on the ground is heartbreaking ... Mr. Trudeau has abandoned people there," O'Toole told reporters on Wednesday, stressing his military experience. "(Trudeau) has had years to make sure that people who were at risk because they had served Canada are taken out of the country ... he put his political interests ahead of a crisis there." The Globe and Mail, a national newspaper, said in an editorial on Thursday that "Canada's plan to get marked men and women through a fast-closing door was designed as if there was all the time in the world." A suspected suicide bomb exploded outside Kabul's airport on Thursday, killing at least 13 people, a Taliban official said. The Pentagon said there were at least two explosions near the airport, with civilians and U.S. service members among the casualties. Domestic concerns Trudeau aides say they do not fear much damage from the chaos in Afghanistan ahead of the election, given voters are likely to be focused on domestic matters. Nelson Wiseman, a political science professor at the University of Toronto, said that expectation may be valid. "Unless I see Canadian casualties or Canadians being held hostage, I just don't see this figuring," he said. During the 2015 election campaign, the former Conservative government's campaign was thrown off track by its response to a photograph of the body of a three-year-old Syrian boy who drowned after a boat capsized as his family sought to reach Greece and ultimately Canada. In opposition at the time, Trudeau said Canada must do much more and said a Liberal government would accept 25,000 Syrian refugees. He went on to win a majority government in the election. Trudeau's Liberals lost their majority in 2019 and have governed since then with the support of opposition parties. In recent days, Trudeau, who attended a virtual G7 meeting on Afghanistan on Tuesday from a hotel in the Canadian province of Ontario, has rejected any suggestions of bungling, noting the speed of the Taliban's moves caught most observers by surprise. "Canadians across the country are thinking about, yes, Afghanistan, but they're also thinking about how they're going to get through this pandemic," Trudeau said this week.

'Their blood will be on your hands': Kabul's chaos hit Canadian PM's campaign

Germany will continue to evacuate its own nationals from Afghanistan for 'as long as possible', says Chancellor Angela Merkel. She also added that the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan is bitter.

Angela Merkel: Germany to continue Afghanistan evacuations 'for as long as possible'

Weeks before the Taliban took over Kabul, the former American interpreter, Hamidullah Ehsan managed to get his mother and two siblings out of a conflict-ridden nation. But one of his sister, her baby, and husband are still in Kabul.

Former Afghan interpreter Hamidullah Ehsan seeks to rescue sister

<p class="MsoNormal">Twin bomb blasts rocked the Kabul Airport on Thursday, killing at least 60 people and injuring more than 140 people.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">These blasts have happened more than a week after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, and may not be an act of the ruling terrorist group in the country.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">A little after the blasts caused chaos and bloodshed near the Kabul Airport, Taliban openly condemned these blasts labelling it to be 'evil circles'.</p>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-twin-blasts-rock-kabul-13-killed-60-injured-at-afghanistan-evacuation-site-408582" hreflang="en">Live | Twin blasts rock Kabul: 60 killed, 140 injured at Afghan evacuation site</a></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"The Islamic Emirate strongly condemns the bombing of civilians at Kabul airport, which took place in an area where US forces are responsible for security,"&nbsp;a tweet from the official Twitter account of the spokesman of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Zabihullah Mujahid, read. "The Islamic Emirate is paying close attention to the security and protection of its people, and evil circles will be strictly stopped."</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ps"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%BA%D8%A8%D8%B1%DA%AB%D9%88%D9%86?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#غبرګون</a>:<br />
اسلامي امارت د کابل په هوايي ډګر کې په ملکي خلکو چاودنه په کلکه غندي، یاده چاودنه په هغه سیمه کې ترسره شوې چې د‌ امنيت مسئولیت يې د امريکايي ځواکونو په لاس کې دی.<br />
اسلامي امارت د خپلو خلکو امنيت او ساتنې ته کلک متوجه دی، د شر غوښتونکو کړيو مخه به په کلکه سره ونيول شي.</p>
— Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) <a href="https://twitter.com/Zabehulah_M33/status/1430930715760340994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>As of now, the US is suspecting that these attacks have been carried out by the members of Islamic State-Khorasan. ISIS-K and Taliban have not looked eye to eye on several matters and that has often led to a bloody fight between the two, in which the Taliban has usually been declared victorious. Reportedly,&nbsp;Islamic State-Khorasan was also not very happy with the Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/isis-khorasan-what-you-should-know-408623">&nbsp;ISIS- Khorasan: What you should know</a></strong></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The US had been warning against a high possibility of such an attack, and the UK and the US governments had warned their citizens in Kabul to stay away from the area due to the same reason.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">These twin blasts happened in the late hours of the Thursday evening as hundreds of people had gathered around the area in hope of getting an opportunity to board an evacuation flight.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While some US soldiers have been reportedly injured, the UK has confirmed that as of now there have been no reports of casualties in their troops.<o:p></o:p></p>


Twin bomb blasts rocked the Kabul Airport on Thursday, killing at least 60 people and injuring more than 140 people. These blasts have happened more than a week after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, and may not be an act of the ruling terrorist group in the country.

Twin bomb blasts rocked the Kabul Airport on Thursday, killing at least 60 people and injuring more than 140 people. These blasts have happened more than a week after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, and may not be an act of the ruling terrorist group in the country. A little after the blasts caused chaos and bloodshed near the Kabul Airport, Taliban openly condemned these blasts labelling it to be 'evil circles'. Live | Twin blasts rock Kabul: 60 killed, 140 injured at Afghan evacuation site "The Islamic Emirate strongly condemns the bombing of civilians at Kabul airport, which took place in an area where US forces are responsible for security," a tweet from the official Twitter account of the spokesman of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Zabihullah Mujahid, read. "The Islamic Emirate is paying close attention to the security and protection of its people, and evil circles will be strictly stopped." #غبرګون: اسلامي امارت د کابل په هوايي ډګر کې په ملکي خلکو چاودنه په کلکه غندي، یاده چاودنه په هغه سیمه کې ترسره شوې چې د‌ امنيت مسئولیت يې د امريکايي ځواکونو په لاس کې دی. اسلامي امارت د خپلو خلکو امنيت او ساتنې ته کلک متوجه دی، د شر غوښتونکو کړيو مخه به په کلکه سره ونيول شي. — Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) August 26, 2021 × As of now, the US is suspecting that these attacks have been carried out by the members of Islamic State-Khorasan. ISIS-K and Taliban have not looked eye to eye on several matters and that has often led to a bloody fight between the two, in which the Taliban has usually been declared victorious. Reportedly, Islamic State-Khorasan was also not very happy with the Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan. Also read | ISIS- Khorasan: What you should know The US had been warning against a high possibility of such an attack, and the UK and the US governments had warned their citizens in Kabul to stay away from the area due to the same reason. These twin blasts happened in the late hours of the Thursday evening as hundreds of people had gathered around the area in hope of getting an opportunity to board an evacuation flight. While some US soldiers have been reportedly injured, the UK has confirmed that as of now there have been no reports of casualties in their troops.

'Evil circles': Taliban condemns Kabul airport blast

<p class="MsoNormal">As the Kabul is still trying to hold its ground after the deadly twin blasts near the international airport, Germany has announced a stop on its evacuation process.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Germany’s Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, on Thursday, announced that the country has successfully pulled out all its soldiers from Afghanistan as its last evacuation flight took off from the Taliban-controlled country on Thursday.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"All soldiers, members of the foreign ministry and federal police who have led this mission to a safe end for us on the ground have been flown out of Kabul," she said.</p>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-twin-blasts-rock-kabul-13-killed-60-injured-at-afghanistan-evacuation-site-408582" hreflang="en">Live | Twin blasts rock Kabul: 60 killed, 1400 injured at Afghan evacuation site</a></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">She also added that the Merkel government is "relieved that our soldiers who carried out this dangerous operation have safely left Afghan airspace."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The minister clarified that the European nation has evacuated 5,347 people since August 15 — a day after Taliban took control of Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Germany’s&nbsp;Federal Defence Minister,&nbsp;Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer also added that a hospital plane has been kept on standby to fly to Kabul and help evacuate people who have been injure din the Kabul airport attack.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/evil-circles-taliban-condemns-kabul-airport-blast-408636">'Evil circles': Taliban condemns Kabul airport blast</a></strong></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Meanwhile, the UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, assured that his government will continue evacuation despite the deadly attack.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"We've been ready for it," he said of the attack. "We're going to continue with that operation, we're now coming towards the very end of it in any event."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Assuring that swift action will be taken, he added, "We're going to work flat out... getting people through as fast as they can still, and we're going to keep going up until the last moment."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kabul-airport-blast-isis-bomber-carried-out-attack-408632"><strong>WATCH |</strong></a></o:p></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kabul-airport-blast-isis-bomber-carried-out-attack-408632/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p class="MsoNormal">UK’s ministry of defence has also confirmed that no UK troops were injured in the attack. "There have been no reported UK military or UK government casualties following the incidents in Kabul," the department tweeted. "UK forces are working closely with our partners to provide security and medical assistance."<o:p></o:p></p>


As the Kabul is still trying to hold its ground after the deadly twin blasts near the international airport, Germany has announced a stop on its evacuation process.

As the Kabul is still trying to hold its ground after the deadly twin blasts near the international airport, Germany has announced a stop on its evacuation process. Germany’s Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, on Thursday, announced that the country has successfully pulled out all its soldiers from Afghanistan as its last evacuation flight took off from the Taliban-controlled country on Thursday. "All soldiers, members of the foreign ministry and federal police who have led this mission to a safe end for us on the ground have been flown out of Kabul," she said. Live | Twin blasts rock Kabul: 60 killed, 1400 injured at Afghan evacuation site She also added that the Merkel government is "relieved that our soldiers who carried out this dangerous operation have safely left Afghan airspace." The minister clarified that the European nation has evacuated 5,347 people since August 15 — a day after Taliban took control of Afghanistan. Germany’s Federal Defence Minister, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer also added that a hospital plane has been kept on standby to fly to Kabul and help evacuate people who have been injure din the Kabul airport attack. Also read | 'Evil circles': Taliban condemns Kabul airport blast Meanwhile, the UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, assured that his government will continue evacuation despite the deadly attack. "We've been ready for it," he said of the attack. "We're going to continue with that operation, we're now coming towards the very end of it in any event." Assuring that swift action will be taken, he added, "We're going to work flat out... getting people through as fast as they can still, and we're going to keep going up until the last moment." WATCH | UK’s ministry of defence has also confirmed that no UK troops were injured in the attack. "There have been no reported UK military or UK government casualties following the incidents in Kabul," the department tweeted. "UK forces are working closely with our partners to provide security and medical assistance."

Germany completes evacuation from Afghanistan; UK to continue rescue operation

<p>Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport was rocked by two explosions, which is believed to have killed at least 60&nbsp;people and injured more than 100 people. The massive bomb blast is claimed to have injured three US soldiers as well as Taliban guards.</p>

<p>The blast occurred near the Abbey gate entry, where British forces have recently been stationed.</p>

<p>It was one of three gates that had been shut after terrorist threats were issued.</p>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-twin-blasts-rock-kabul-13-killed-60-injured-at-afghanistan-evacuation-site-408582" hreflang="en">Live | Twin blasts rock Kabul: 60 killed, 1400 injured at Afghan evacuation site</a></h2>

<p>Various images and videos have emerged on social media showing people, including children, walking around in shock at the scene. People with noticeable injuries and blood can also be seen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Condemning the attack, global leaders expressed their grief for the lives lost.</p>

<p>US Defence Department Press Secretary John Kirby tweeted that "We can confirm an explosion outside Kabul airport. Casualties are unclear at this time. We will provide additional details when we can."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We can confirm that the explosion at the Abbey Gate was the result of a complex attack that resulted in a number of US &amp; civilian casualties. We can also confirm at least one other explosion at or near the Baron Hotel, a short distance from Abbey Gate. We will continue to update.</p>
— John Kirby (@PentagonPresSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PentagonPresSec/status/1430907314043719683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ex Vice President of US, Mike Pence, urged America to do whatever it is in its power and protect the troops.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Praying for the three U.S. Marines and innocent civilians injured in the terrorist attacks near Kabul Airport today. America must do whatever it takes to protect our troops and our citizens stranded in this disastrous withdrawal. God bless them all.</p>
— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Pence/status/1430923085515997187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the allied forces should continue to evacuate as many vulnerable people as they can from Kabul despite what he branded a "horrific terrorist attack".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our priority remains to evacuate as many people to safety as quickly as possible," he tweeted after two deadly explosions hit crowds on the perimeter of the airport in Afghanistan's capital.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I strongly condemn the horrific terrorist attack outside <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a> airport. My thoughts are with all those affected and their loved ones. Our priority remains to evacuate as many people to safety as quickly as possible.</p>
— Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/jensstoltenberg/status/1430914579563835405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>France, however, is still seeking to evacuate hundreds more people from Afghanistan ahead of a looming deadline, President Emmanuel Macron<b>&nbsp;</b>said&nbsp;warning of an "extremely risky" situation in the wake of blasts around Kabul airport.</p>

<p>"We will do everything we can" to bring to France Afghan citizens and dual nationals who had been in its embassy and are currently outside the perimeter of the airport in 20 buses, Macron said on a visit to Ireland.</p>

<p>"We are talking about several hundred people who are still in danger," he said. "I cannot guarantee you today that we will be able to carry out these operations, because the security situation is not under our control."</p>

<p>President Joe&nbsp;Biden is being briefed on the bloody attack against Kabul's airport, the White House. "The president has been briefed and he is in the Situation Room," an official told AFP on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>As a result of the crisis, a meeting with Prime Minister Naftali Bennett planned for 11:30 "will be delayed," a White House official said.</p>

<p>"There is not yet an updated time for the meeting," a spokesman for Bennett said, adding the delay was due "to the events in Afghanistan."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">WH: The President met with national security team, including Secretary Blinken, Secretary Austin, Chairman Milley, and commanders on the ground. He will continue to be briefed on updates on the evolving situation thru the day.<br />
Briefing delayed, updates to POTUS schedule to come</p>
— Jacqui Heinrich (@JacquiHeinrich) <a href="https://twitter.com/JacquiHeinrich/status/1430923319180767239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The spokesperson for the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Stéphane Dujarric, also condemned the deadly blasts saying the "attack which killed and injured a number of civilians and extends his deep condolences to the families of those killed."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Secretary-General <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@antonioguterres</a> expresses his deep concern about the rapidly deteriorating socio-economic situation in Lebanon. He calls on all Lebanese political leaders to form an effective government of national unity: <a href="https://t.co/mzbD09psSR">https://t.co/mzbD09psSR</a></p>
— UN Spokesperson (@UN_Spokesperson) <a href="https://twitter.com/UN_Spokesperson/status/1430930422893056003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Calling it a "heinous" attack, Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel also condemned the attack.&nbsp;"We don't know all the details yet but the terrorists targeted people waiting at the airport gates who were hoping to leave," Merkel said. "They wanted security and freedom and that is why it is an absolutely heinous attack in a very, very tense situation."</p>

<p>UK's Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a press conference and condemned the attack. He offered condolences to the locals of Afghanistan and the US military troops stationed in Kabul right now.</p>

<p>"We extend our condolences both to the United States of America and the people of&nbsp;Afghanistan," Johnson said. He also assured that the UK will continue evacuating British passport holders and others from Kabul as the evacuation was near the end, anyhow.</p>

<p>India, too, extended "heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of this terrorist attack. Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the injured. Today’s attacks reinforce the need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism and all those who provide sanctuaries to terrorists," a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs read.</p>


Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport was rocked by two explosions, which is believed to have killed at least 60 people and injured more than 100 people. The massive bomb blast is claimed to have injured three US soldiers as well as Taliban guards.

Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport was rocked by two explosions, which is believed to have killed at least 60 people and injured more than 100 people. The massive bomb blast is claimed to have injured three US soldiers as well as Taliban guards. The blast occurred near the Abbey gate entry, where British forces have recently been stationed. It was one of three gates that had been shut after terrorist threats were issued. Live | Twin blasts rock Kabul: 60 killed, 1400 injured at Afghan evacuation site Various images and videos have emerged on social media showing people, including children, walking around in shock at the scene. People with noticeable injuries and blood can also be seen. Condemning the attack, global leaders expressed their grief for the lives lost. US Defence Department Press Secretary John Kirby tweeted that "We can confirm an explosion outside Kabul airport. Casualties are unclear at this time. We will provide additional details when we can." We can confirm that the explosion at the Abbey Gate was the result of a complex attack that resulted in a number of US & civilian casualties. We can also confirm at least one other explosion at or near the Baron Hotel, a short distance from Abbey Gate. We will continue to update. — John Kirby (@PentagonPresSec) August 26, 2021 × Ex Vice President of US, Mike Pence, urged America to do whatever it is in its power and protect the troops. Praying for the three U.S. Marines and innocent civilians injured in the terrorist attacks near Kabul Airport today. America must do whatever it takes to protect our troops and our citizens stranded in this disastrous withdrawal. God bless them all. — Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) August 26, 2021 × NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the allied forces should continue to evacuate as many vulnerable people as they can from Kabul despite what he branded a "horrific terrorist attack". "Our priority remains to evacuate as many people to safety as quickly as possible," he tweeted after two deadly explosions hit crowds on the perimeter of the airport in Afghanistan's capital. I strongly condemn the horrific terrorist attack outside #Kabul airport. My thoughts are with all those affected and their loved ones. Our priority remains to evacuate as many people to safety as quickly as possible. — Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) August 26, 2021 × France, however, is still seeking to evacuate hundreds more people from Afghanistan ahead of a looming deadline, President Emmanuel Macron said warning of an "extremely risky" situation in the wake of blasts around Kabul airport. "We will do everything we can" to bring to France Afghan citizens and dual nationals who had been in its embassy and are currently outside the perimeter of the airport in 20 buses, Macron said on a visit to Ireland. "We are talking about several hundred people who are still in danger," he said. "I cannot guarantee you today that we will be able to carry out these operations, because the security situation is not under our control." President Joe Biden is being briefed on the bloody attack against Kabul's airport, the White House. "The president has been briefed and he is in the Situation Room," an official told AFP on condition of anonymity. As a result of the crisis, a meeting with Prime Minister Naftali Bennett planned for 11:30 "will be delayed," a White House official said. "There is not yet an updated time for the meeting," a spokesman for Bennett said, adding the delay was due "to the events in Afghanistan." WH: The President met with national security team, including Secretary Blinken, Secretary Austin, Chairman Milley, and commanders on the ground. He will continue to be briefed on updates on the evolving situation thru the day. Briefing delayed, updates to POTUS schedule to come — Jacqui Heinrich (@JacquiHeinrich) August 26, 2021 × The spokesperson for the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Stéphane Dujarric, also condemned the deadly blasts saying the "attack which killed and injured a number of civilians and extends his deep condolences to the families of those killed." Secretary-General @antonioguterres expresses his deep concern about the rapidly deteriorating socio-economic situation in Lebanon. He calls on all Lebanese political leaders to form an effective government of national unity: https://t.co/mzbD09psSR — UN Spokesperson (@UN_Spokesperson) August 26, 2021 × Calling it a "heinous" attack, Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel also condemned the attack. "We don't know all the details yet but the terrorists targeted people waiting at the airport gates who were hoping to leave," Merkel said. "They wanted security and freedom and that is why it is an absolutely heinous attack in a very, very tense situation." UK's Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a press conference and condemned the attack. He offered condolences to the locals of Afghanistan and the US military troops stationed in Kabul right now. "We extend our condolences both to the United States of America and the people of Afghanistan," Johnson said. He also assured that the UK will continue evacuating British passport holders and others from Kabul as the evacuation was near the end, anyhow. India, too, extended "heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of this terrorist attack. Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the injured. Today’s attacks reinforce the need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism and all those who provide sanctuaries to terrorists," a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs read.

Kabul airport attack: Global leaders condemn the horrific attack

Two attacks took place outside Kabul's Hamid Karzai International airport on Thursday. At least 13 were killed in the explosions. The attack was carried out by an ISIS bomber. US troops were also wounded in the blasts. Watch this report to know more.

US troops wounded in the blast at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International airport

<p>The terror attack on Kabul airport on Thursday struck the crowded gates of the airport. The two explosions claimed at least 13 lives and at least 60 people were injured. The dead include children.</p>

<p>Injured were rushed to hospitals. A surgical hospital run by an Italian charity said it was treating more than 60 injured.</p>

<p>The blasts created chaos at the Kabul airport where hundreds of Afghan were trying to flee the country.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/live-twin-blasts-rock-kabul-13-killed-60-injured-at-afghanistan-evacuation-site-408582">Click here for LIVE updates</a></strong></p>

<p>There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the blasts, but Washington and its allies had been urging civilians to stay away from the airport on Thursday because of a threat of a suicide attack by Islamic State militants, enemies of both the West and the Taliban.</p>

<p>Western countries have evacuated nearly 100,000 people, mostly Afghans who helped them, in the past 12 days. But they acknowledge that thousands more will be left behind following President Joe Biden's order to pull out all troops by Aug 31.</p>

<p>Several U.S. officials said the blast appeared to be a suicide attack. A witness in Kabul saw many wounded men, women and children waiting for treatment outside a hospital.</p>

<p>The Taliban official said many Taliban guards, who are securing the airport, were among the wounded.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The terror attack on Kabul airport on Thursday struck the crowded gates of the airport. The two explosions claimed at least 13 lives and at least 60 people were injured.

The terror attack on Kabul airport on Thursday struck the crowded gates of the airport. The two explosions claimed at least 13 lives and at least 60 people were injured. The dead include children. Injured were rushed to hospitals. A surgical hospital run by an Italian charity said it was treating more than 60 injured. The blasts created chaos at the Kabul airport where hundreds of Afghan were trying to flee the country. Click here for LIVE updates There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the blasts, but Washington and its allies had been urging civilians to stay away from the airport on Thursday because of a threat of a suicide attack by Islamic State militants, enemies of both the West and the Taliban. Western countries have evacuated nearly 100,000 people, mostly Afghans who helped them, in the past 12 days. But they acknowledge that thousands more will be left behind following President Joe Biden's order to pull out all troops by Aug 31. Several U.S. officials said the blast appeared to be a suicide attack. A witness in Kabul saw many wounded men, women and children waiting for treatment outside a hospital. The Taliban official said many Taliban guards, who are securing the airport, were among the wounded. (With inputs from agencies)

Kabul airport attack: Wounded rushed to hospital

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the Taliban has committed to ensuring safe passage for Americans and at-risk Afghans to leave the country after the August 31 deadline.

Antony Blinken: Taliban agreed to allow Americans evacuation after August 31

<p>The students of Seminaries came as sweeping wave to conquer entire Afghanistan in just two weeks in the most unprecedented manner. They have claimed the power in erstwhile Gandhara Kingdom and are now negotiating with Afghan leaders to establish a legitimate government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India being a big stakeholder in the development of Afghanistan must watch things carefully. So far Indian government has not opened its cards and is watching the developments carefully. Relations with the power centres of Afghanistan is of great importance for India and hence any development on this turf is to be watched carefully.</p>

<p>India had a diplomatic setback when despite of being the most important country in South Asia, it was kept away from Doha as well as Moscow talks. This affected the relationship and mutual understanding with Taliban. With China flexing its muscles now in central Asia, it becomes important for India to have a clear-cut policy towards Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It had reverse aspect too. Having a fair relation with India is also on the cards for Taliban since they are struggling for legitimacy. Any action against the biggest democracy of the world will spoil their dreams. Further, they are cash-strapped and are unable to run a country. Countries are not run with the gun-slinging to the shoulder but by effective utilisation of resources and human capital. They will need not only financial but also the diplomatic support from the world. If they do not get it, their regime will be short-lived. In the current day situation, they are in power and with Taliban being in power corridors, India must look for three major aspects before opening its cards.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Taliban’s Proximity with Pakistan</strong></p>

<p>First and foremost concern is the proximity of Taliban with Pakistan, ISI and their government. Taliban was raised on the platform of fanatic Islam &amp; terrorism. It is a universal truth that Taliban is not only the creation of Pakistan but currently being run on ISI directives. It was further evident in recent events where ISI officials accompanied Taliban during search of Indian consulates in Herat &amp; Kandahar. Pakistan and India have long-running issues, have fought four wars and thus, Pakistan would never like Taliban to be favouring India. It will also try to create unrest and promote terror activities in India using Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notorious terrorists like Maulana Massoud Azhar and Hafiz Saeed have proximity with top Taliban leaders. There are high chances that present-day Taliban seminaries may become breeding grounds for terrorists causing disturbances in India. Although Taliban is desperate for legitimacy and their spokesperson has been reiterating that this will be a new chapter of their rule which will be devoid of terrorism, but India needs to watch their deeds first.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Indian investments &amp; bilateral trade with Afghanistan</strong></p>

<p>Over last few years, India has invested heavily in Afghanistan to the tune of about 3 billion USD. Nearly all of it was developmental assistance in the form of more than 40 projects. There is a long list including Salma Dam in Herat, Zaranj-Delaram highway, Afghan Parliament, restoration of Stor Palace &amp; many more in the fields of power, transmission, health, sanitation as well as education. There were several other projects are currently in pipeline including Shahtoot Dam near Kabul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since Afghanistan is a landlocked country, India also established a supply chain network connecting Chabahar Port to Afghanistan. With Taliban in power, there are serious threats looming over the upcoming projects and India must be cautious of every Taliban move. Safety and continuation of Indian interests is a prime concern.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further, India has been the biggest export market for Afghanistan and a major source of revenue for the hilly country. In year 2020-21, the bilateral trade was close to 1.7 billion USD which was a major source of revenue for Afghanistan and in case Indo-Taliban relations sour, it will be a financial catastrophe for government of Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Global Posturing</strong></p>

<p>Any Indian reaction against Taliban led power centres in Afghanistan will also be dependent upon global posturing. Concurrently, most of the world has not yet recognised Taliban as a legitimate government and everyone is looking at each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are serious allegations of Terrorism, human rights violation, ultra-fanatic attitude, lunatic, Anti-democracy, and being a puppet of Pakistan against Taliban and they must fulfil the expectations of the world first. While keeping India on its wrong side will be detrimental for Taliban, India also must see the flow of water in Kabul river and the global posturing before establishing relationship with Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over last few months, India has been reluctant to open communication channels with Taliban owing to their attitude, proximity with Terror sympathisers and ultra-fanatic attitude. With them in power, there are mutual expectations from both sides.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Taliban wants legitimacy and a better economy, India wants safety of its past, present, and future investments, humanitarian approach from Taliban and their changed attitude towards terror related activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since Taliban is in dire need, they will have to prove themselves first before India makes a move. Taliban must prove to the world that they are no longer a terrorist organisation and are not dancing to the tunes of Pakistan ISI. They also must induce comfort levels to the world with relation to humanitarian approach.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(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.)</strong></p>


The students of Seminaries came as sweeping wave to conquer entire Afghanistan in just two weeks in the most unprecedented manner. They have claimed the power in erstwhile Gandhara Kingdom and are now negotiating with Afghan leaders to establish a legitimate government.

The students of Seminaries came as sweeping wave to conquer entire Afghanistan in just two weeks in the most unprecedented manner. They have claimed the power in erstwhile Gandhara Kingdom and are now negotiating with Afghan leaders to establish a legitimate government. India being a big stakeholder in the development of Afghanistan must watch things carefully. So far Indian government has not opened its cards and is watching the developments carefully. Relations with the power centres of Afghanistan is of great importance for India and hence any development on this turf is to be watched carefully. India had a diplomatic setback when despite of being the most important country in South Asia, it was kept away from Doha as well as Moscow talks. This affected the relationship and mutual understanding with Taliban. With China flexing its muscles now in central Asia, it becomes important for India to have a clear-cut policy towards Taliban. It had reverse aspect too. Having a fair relation with India is also on the cards for Taliban since they are struggling for legitimacy. Any action against the biggest democracy of the world will spoil their dreams. Further, they are cash-strapped and are unable to run a country. Countries are not run with the gun-slinging to the shoulder but by effective utilisation of resources and human capital. They will need not only financial but also the diplomatic support from the world. If they do not get it, their regime will be short-lived. In the current day situation, they are in power and with Taliban being in power corridors, India must look for three major aspects before opening its cards. Taliban’s Proximity with Pakistan First and foremost concern is the proximity of Taliban with Pakistan, ISI and their government. Taliban was raised on the platform of fanatic Islam & terrorism. It is a universal truth that Taliban is not only the creation of Pakistan but currently being run on ISI directives. It was further evident in recent events where ISI officials accompanied Taliban during search of Indian consulates in Herat & Kandahar. Pakistan and India have long-running issues, have fought four wars and thus, Pakistan would never like Taliban to be favouring India. It will also try to create unrest and promote terror activities in India using Taliban. Notorious terrorists like Maulana Massoud Azhar and Hafiz Saeed have proximity with top Taliban leaders. There are high chances that present-day Taliban seminaries may become breeding grounds for terrorists causing disturbances in India. Although Taliban is desperate for legitimacy and their spokesperson has been reiterating that this will be a new chapter of their rule which will be devoid of terrorism, but India needs to watch their deeds first. Indian investments & bilateral trade with Afghanistan Over last few years, India has invested heavily in Afghanistan to the tune of about 3 billion USD. Nearly all of it was developmental assistance in the form of more than 40 projects. There is a long list including Salma Dam in Herat, Zaranj-Delaram highway, Afghan Parliament, restoration of Stor Palace & many more in the fields of power, transmission, health, sanitation as well as education. There were several other projects are currently in pipeline including Shahtoot Dam near Kabul. Since Afghanistan is a landlocked country, India also established a supply chain network connecting Chabahar Port to Afghanistan. With Taliban in power, there are serious threats looming over the upcoming projects and India must be cautious of every Taliban move. Safety and continuation of Indian interests is a prime concern. Further, India has been the biggest export market for Afghanistan and a major source of revenue for the hilly country. In year 2020-21, the bilateral trade was close to 1.7 billion USD which was a major source of revenue for Afghanistan and in case Indo-Taliban relations sour, it will be a financial catastrophe for government of Afghanistan. Global Posturing Any Indian reaction against Taliban led power centres in Afghanistan will also be dependent upon global posturing. Concurrently, most of the world has not yet recognised Taliban as a legitimate government and everyone is looking at each other. There are serious allegations of Terrorism, human rights violation, ultra-fanatic attitude, lunatic, Anti-democracy, and being a puppet of Pakistan against Taliban and they must fulfil the expectations of the world first. While keeping India on its wrong side will be detrimental for Taliban, India also must see the flow of water in Kabul river and the global posturing before establishing relationship with Taliban. Over last few months, India has been reluctant to open communication channels with Taliban owing to their attitude, proximity with Terror sympathisers and ultra-fanatic attitude. With them in power, there are mutual expectations from both sides. While Taliban wants legitimacy and a better economy, India wants safety of its past, present, and future investments, humanitarian approach from Taliban and their changed attitude towards terror related activities. Since Taliban is in dire need, they will have to prove themselves first before India makes a move. Taliban must prove to the world that they are no longer a terrorist organisation and are not dancing to the tunes of Pakistan ISI. They also must induce comfort levels to the world with relation to humanitarian approach. (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 | Indo-Taliban Relations: Game of legitimacy, power and mutual trust

The former Afghan Vice President is seen as one of the most prominent anti-Taliban voices even at a time when the group controls more than 90% of the war-torn country. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma spoke to Amrullah Saleh to assess the situation on the ground.

'Escaping will mean hammering sacrifices of our people', says Amrullah Saleh, Afghan's former VP

On Wednesday, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat said that India had anticipated the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, only the timelines had changed.

India's Chief of Defence Staff on Taliban takeover of Afghanistan

WION brings you some images from inside the Kabul airport where battle hardened soldiers share some lighter moments with children.

Afghanistan: Battle hardened soldiers share some lighter moments with children

An explosion took place outside Kabul's Hamid Karzai International airport on Thursday as the United States and other countries try to evacuate their citizens and Afghans at risk from the Taliban. At least 13 were killed in the explosion. The attack was carried out by an ISIS bomber.

Kabul Airport Blast: ISIS bomber carried out attack

India too voiced its concerns around the use of Afghanistan soil by terror groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. It also reiterated its concerns around the rights of women, children, and minorities.

India at UNHRC: Hope terrorists don't use Afghan soil

An explosion took place outside Kabul's Hamid Karzai International airport on Thursday as the United States and other countries try to evacuate their citizens and Afghans at risk from the Taliban. At least 13 were killed and 15 injured in the explosion.

Reports: 15 people injured in the Kabul airport explosion

An explosion took place outside Kabul's Hamid Karzai International airport on Thursday as the United States and other countries try to evacuate their citizens and Afghans at risk from the Taliban. At least 13 were killed in the explosion.

Suicide bomb attack at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport

<p>Kabul airport terror attack created chaos at the airport already thronged by hundreds of people wanting to escape the country. The blast claimed at least 13 lives. The blast took place at the Abbey gate of Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport.</p>

<p>Soon after the blast, social media was filled with images and videos.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Terrible scenes from outside the emergency hospital in Kabul via ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/TOLOnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TOLOnews</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/J7sU4w70jX">pic.twitter.com/J7sU4w70jX</a></p>
— Saad Mohseni (@saadmohseni) <a href="https://twitter.com/saadmohseni/status/1430897783796420617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Picture from near Baron Gate, Kabul airport. Explosion just now. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afgahnistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afgahnistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/jypJkS0YxJ">pic.twitter.com/jypJkS0YxJ</a></p>
— Gareth Browne (@BrowneGareth) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrowneGareth/status/1430887830264246281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The moment of Kabul airport blast.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KabulAirport?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KabulAirport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/aJfwtFQoBP">pic.twitter.com/aJfwtFQoBP</a></p>
— Wajahat Kazmi (@KazmiWajahat) <a href="https://twitter.com/KazmiWajahat/status/1430894065168441352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Explosion near Baron hotel <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KabulAirport?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KabulAirport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kabulblast?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kabulblast</a> <a href="https://t.co/fDMb0i5gwr">pic.twitter.com/fDMb0i5gwr</a></p>
— Safal Rasheed (@itz_me_safal) <a href="https://twitter.com/itz_me_safal/status/1430914228693598219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Several injured after Kabul airport blast are now being transported by ambulance outside a local hospital.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/0FNDgFhc4f">pic.twitter.com/0FNDgFhc4f</a></p>
— Ihtesham Afghan (@IhteshamAfghan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IhteshamAfghan/status/1430902277494120451?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Kabul airport terror attack created chaos at the airport already thronged by hundreds of people wanting to escape the country. The blast claimed at least 13 lives.

Kabul airport terror attack created chaos at the airport already thronged by hundreds of people wanting to escape the country. The blast claimed at least 13 lives. The blast took place at the Abbey gate of Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport. Soon after the blast, social media was filled with images and videos. Terrible scenes from outside the emergency hospital in Kabul via ⁦@TOLOnews⁩ pic.twitter.com/J7sU4w70jX — Saad Mohseni (@saadmohseni) August 26, 2021 × Picture from near Baron Gate, Kabul airport. Explosion just now. #Afgahnistan pic.twitter.com/jypJkS0YxJ — Gareth Browne (@BrowneGareth) August 26, 2021 × The moment of Kabul airport blast.#Kabul #KabulAirport #Taliban #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/aJfwtFQoBP — Wajahat Kazmi (@KazmiWajahat) August 26, 2021 × Explosion near Baron hotel #KabulAirport #kabulblast pic.twitter.com/fDMb0i5gwr — Safal Rasheed (@itz_me_safal) August 26, 2021 × Several injured after Kabul airport blast are now being transported by ambulance outside a local hospital.#Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/0FNDgFhc4f — Ihtesham Afghan (@IhteshamAfghan) August 26, 2021 ×

WATCH: Chaotic scenes in airport, hospital after Kabul airport terror attack

As thousands try to flee in a desperate bid to escape the rule of the Taliban in Afghanistan, vehicles patrolled the streets of Kabul with the Taliban flag on them.

Taliban fighters patrol the streets of Kabul amid chaos

Afghanistan: Kabul airport blast kills at least 13, including children

As evacuation efforts pace up, the situation at the Kabul airport has become uncertain. Huge crowds encircle the airport each day. The congestion has led to breathlessness and airport security has resorted to firing tear gas in an attempt to disperse the crowds.

Hundreds wait outside Kabul airport, plead for evacuation

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