To discuss the situation in Afghanistan, the Centre has called an all-party meeting. During the meeting, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar briefed floor leaders of various political parties on the evacuation status of Indians in Afghanistan.

37 leaders from 31 political parties hold meeting on Afghanistan

The US military will continue evacuating people from Kabul airport until an August 31 deadline if needed but will prioritise the removal of troops and military equipment in the last couple of days.

US to prioritize troop evacuation in last two days of Kabul operation

According to Russian media reports, Afghan leaders Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah have been put under house arrest. Reports state that the former Afghan President Karzai is under house arrest in Kabul as of now while Abdullah Abdullah too has been put under house arrest.

Report: Hamid Karzai, Abdullah Abdullah put under house arrest

Officials from the United Kingdom, United States, and Australia have warned of a 'highly credible' threat of an attack at Kabul airport by Islamic State militants.

UK, US and Australia warn of terror threat at Kabul airport

The US Vice President is on a 7-day tour of Southeast Asia to rally the anti-China alliance. But after the debacle in Afghanistan, will America's partners march on Washington's orders? WION's Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Kamala Harris in Southeast Asia after Afghan debacle

The Delta Variant is fueling a surge of COVID-19 cases across the world. Countries are going into lockdown, others are ramping up their vaccination efforts. But in Afghanistan, it looks like the pandemic does not exist.

A forgotten pandemic in Afghanistan

The Taliban have reportedly removed security cover of former Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai and&nbsp;chief of the High&nbsp;Council for National Reconciliation Abdullah Abdullah. This has virtually put both leaders under house arrest

As per CNN, Abdullah's house was searched by the Taliban on Wednesday.

Earlier this week, the Taliban included Karzai, Abdullah and Taliban founder Baradar in its 12-member council that would govern Afghanistan. The moves to remove weapons from their security teams has come nonetheless.

Afghanistan has been at the centre of global attention ever since the Taliban captured power on August 15. The political and even military movements have gathered paces since then. Although Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah have had talks with Taliban delegations in Kabul, Afghanistan's former vice-president Amrullah Saleh has strick a defiant tone and has made several statements against Taliban.

The Taliban have reportedly removed security cover of former Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai and chief of the High Council for National Reconciliation Abdullah Abdullah.

The Taliban have reportedly removed security cover of former Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai and chief of the High Council for National Reconciliation Abdullah Abdullah. This has virtually put both leaders under house arrest As per CNN, Abdullah's house was searched by the Taliban on Wednesday. Earlier this week, the Taliban included Karzai, Abdullah and Taliban founder Baradar in its 12-member council that would govern Afghanistan. The moves to remove weapons from their security teams has come nonetheless. Afghanistan has been at the centre of global attention ever since the Taliban captured power on August 15. The political and even military movements have gathered paces since then. Although Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah have had talks with Taliban delegations in Kabul, Afghanistan's former vice-president Amrullah Saleh has strick a defiant tone and has made several statements against Taliban.

Taliban remove security cover of former Afghan president Hamid Karzai, say reports

The Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that India will approach the situation in Afghanistan in the spirit of national unity after the all-party meeting. The all-party meet on Afghanistan lasted for a three-and-half hours and 37 leaders of 31 parties were present. During the meet, EAM took questions from MPs and a presentation was given on the priorities and the challenges.

"On this matter we all have similar view and we have a strong national position on Afghanistan", EAM said, adding we approach the situation "very much in spirit of national unity".

India has been evacuating its nationals and number of Afghans from the country. So far, India has evacuated 565 people, of which 175 are embassy personnel, 263 are other Indian nationals, 112 are Afghan nationals including Hindus and Sikhs, 15 are nationals of other countries. Under 'Operation Devi Shakti', India has flown 6 flights, the latest of which was on Thursday morning.

EAM said that India had "brought back most of the Indians, there are still few out there, some of them could not make it to the flight yesterday, but we will bring out everybody".

For repatriation, India on 16th August formed the Afghan special cell. So far it has handled 3,014 Calls, 7,826 Whatsapp Messages and 3,101 emails. The cell is manned by more than 20 MEA officials.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/france-netherlands-to-halt-evacuation-from-kabul-airport-after-dire-warning-408487">France, Netherlands to halt evacuation from Kabul airport after dire warning</a>

Sources said that during all-party meet, EAM listed pre-emptive measures like temporary withdrawal of India-based personnel from Indian consulates in Herat and Jalalabad (April 2020), scale-down of Indian embassy in Kabul (June 2021), evacuation from Kandahar, Mazar-e-Sharif, and security advisories.

He highlighted that "govt is very very strongly committed to ensuring the full evacuation as soon as possible, in terms of any international decisions that are made, our diplomacy, our role, interest is recognised. we are in touch with our partners"

In the meet, EAM pointed out to challenges during evacuation, which included- frequent firing incidents near airport and inside Kabul, multiple checkpoints by various groups, landing permissions delays, overflight clearances from relevant countries.

The Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that India will approach the situation in Afghanistan in the spirit of national unity after the all-party meeting.

The Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that India will approach the situation in Afghanistan in the spirit of national unity after the all-party meeting. The all-party meet on Afghanistan lasted for a three-and-half hours and 37 leaders of 31 parties were present. During the meet, EAM took questions from MPs and a presentation was given on the priorities and the challenges. "On this matter we all have similar view and we have a strong national position on Afghanistan", EAM said, adding we approach the situation "very much in spirit of national unity". India has been evacuating its nationals and number of Afghans from the country. So far, India has evacuated 565 people, of which 175 are embassy personnel, 263 are other Indian nationals, 112 are Afghan nationals including Hindus and Sikhs, 15 are nationals of other countries. Under 'Operation Devi Shakti', India has flown 6 flights, the latest of which was on Thursday morning. EAM said that India had "brought back most of the Indians, there are still few out there, some of them could not make it to the flight yesterday, but we will bring out everybody". For repatriation, India on 16th August formed the Afghan special cell. So far it has handled 3,014 Calls, 7,826 Whatsapp Messages and 3,101 emails. The cell is manned by more than 20 MEA officials. Also Read | France, Netherlands to halt evacuation from Kabul airport after dire warning Sources said that during all-party meet, EAM listed pre-emptive measures like temporary withdrawal of India-based personnel from Indian consulates in Herat and Jalalabad (April 2020), scale-down of Indian embassy in Kabul (June 2021), evacuation from Kandahar, Mazar-e-Sharif, and security advisories. He highlighted that "govt is very very strongly committed to ensuring the full evacuation as soon as possible, in terms of any international decisions that are made, our diplomacy, our role, interest is recognised. we are in touch with our partners" In the meet, EAM pointed out to challenges during evacuation, which included- frequent firing incidents near airport and inside Kabul, multiple checkpoints by various groups, landing permissions delays, overflight clearances from relevant countries.

Approaching Afghan situation in spirit of national unity: Jaishankar after all party meet

Former Vice President of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh speaks with WION about the ongoing situation in Afghanistan. Watch his exclusive interview in this report of WION.

Former Vice President of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh speaks with WION

"I am very grateful that I made it out from Afghanistan but am really worried and concerned for my people back their", says Afghanistan's biggest female pop star Aryana Sayeed as she recounts her escape from Kabul.

'It's heartbreaking to see the misery of Afghans', says Aryana Sayeed, Afghanistan Pop Star

In a worrying development, Sikh community leaders have said that 140 Afghan sikh and Hindu pilgrims have been stopped by Taliban from leaving the country.

The development comes days after in a presser Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said that that they won't allow evacuation of Afghans anymore even as foreigners can leave the country.

The Afghan Sikhs were to reach Delhi later today for the 400th Birth Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur and a kirtan darbar was scheduled for Sunday.

"Many members of our community from various parts of the world have already arrived to attend the same . Unfortunately, Taliban has denied them access to the Kabul Airport ", Partap Singh (Afghan Origin), President of Gurdwara Sri Guru Arjan Dev, New Mahavir Nagar Delhi said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-baby-girl-born-aboard-us-military-plane-named-reach-after-aircrafts-code-name-408427">Also read |&nbsp;Afghan baby girl born aboard US military plane named 'Reach' after aircraft's code name</a>

India has so far evacuated 565 people. This includes 112 Afghan nationals, some of tehm Hindus and Sikh. Over the weekend, two Afghan Sikh MPs--Anarkali Honaryar and Narendra Singh Khalsar--reached India in an evacuation flight.

Guljeet Singh (Afghan Origin) , President of Gurudwara Guru Nanak Sahib Ji , Vikaspuri, said, "regret to note that last night these law-abiding pilgrims were turned back by Taliban security forces from the airport after waiting for more than 15 hours in their convoys”.

Last week, after the fall of Kabul, India's ministry of home affairs started e-visa system for many Afghans who want to come to India. This is the first time that e-visa system is opened for Afghans, and those who get the visa will be given the document for a period of six&nbsp;months. During the previous evacuations, India also brought back Holy Guru Granth Sahib as well. To receive the holy book, India had sent two union ministers at the airport.

Meanwhile, &nbsp;Puneet Singh , President of Indian World Forum, who has played a key role in the evacuation process, especially in coordination, "appealed to Taliban to facilitate an early departure of Afghan Hindu and&nbsp;Sikhs pilgrims in the interest of humanity at the highest level".

"Hindu and&nbsp;Sikh community in Afghanistan has significantly contributed in the development and economic growth of the Islamic nation and they should be granted free and safe access to arrive and depart,” he pointed out.

There has been no response by Taliban spokespersons on the development.

In a worrying development, Sikh community leaders have said that 140 Afghan sikh and Hindu pilgrims have been stopped by Taliban from leaving the country. The development comes days after in a presser Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said that that they won't allow evacuation of Afghans anymore even as foreigners can leave the country.

In a worrying development, Sikh community leaders have said that 140 Afghan sikh and Hindu pilgrims have been stopped by Taliban from leaving the country. The development comes days after in a presser Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said that that they won't allow evacuation of Afghans anymore even as foreigners can leave the country. The Afghan Sikhs were to reach Delhi later today for the 400th Birth Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur and a kirtan darbar was scheduled for Sunday. "Many members of our community from various parts of the world have already arrived to attend the same . Unfortunately, Taliban has denied them access to the Kabul Airport ", Partap Singh (Afghan Origin), President of Gurdwara Sri Guru Arjan Dev, New Mahavir Nagar Delhi said. Also read | Afghan baby girl born aboard US military plane named 'Reach' after aircraft's code name India has so far evacuated 565 people. This includes 112 Afghan nationals, some of tehm Hindus and Sikh. Over the weekend, two Afghan Sikh MPs--Anarkali Honaryar and Narendra Singh Khalsar--reached India in an evacuation flight. Guljeet Singh (Afghan Origin) , President of Gurudwara Guru Nanak Sahib Ji , Vikaspuri, said, "regret to note that last night these law-abiding pilgrims were turned back by Taliban security forces from the airport after waiting for more than 15 hours in their convoys”. Last week, after the fall of Kabul, India's ministry of home affairs started e-visa system for many Afghans who want to come to India. This is the first time that e-visa system is opened for Afghans, and those who get the visa will be given the document for a period of six months. During the previous evacuations, India also brought back Holy Guru Granth Sahib as well. To receive the holy book, India had sent two union ministers at the airport. Meanwhile, Puneet Singh , President of Indian World Forum, who has played a key role in the evacuation process, especially in coordination, "appealed to Taliban to facilitate an early departure of Afghan Hindu and Sikhs pilgrims in the interest of humanity at the highest level". "Hindu and Sikh community in Afghanistan has significantly contributed in the development and economic growth of the Islamic nation and they should be granted free and safe access to arrive and depart,” he pointed out. There has been no response by Taliban spokespersons on the development.

Taliban stop 140 Afghan Sikh and Hindu pilgrims from leaving Kabul: Sikh community leaders

"No country in the region wants to see Pakistan dominating Afghanistan and projecting power. Sooner or later, this will be challenged and Pakistan will pay a heavy price", former Afghan Vice President Amrullah Saleh tells WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma.

'No country wants to see Pakistan dominating Afghanistan', says Amrullah Saleh, former Afghan VP

The Pentagon said that there had been no change so far in Joe Biden's plan to meet the evacuation deadline for Afghanistan by the end of the month and that the pace of evacuations is picking up in Kabul.

Pentagon sticks to August 31 deadline for troops withdrawal

People stuck in Afghanistan are growing desperate to leave the country. In the latest, the Afghan citizens seeking evacuation were seen standing in knee-deep sewage water with documents just outside Kabul airport.

People seen standing in knee-deep sewage water outside Kabul airport

"At times of difficulties and uncertainties, Ashraf Ghani left the country. That's a stain in our history" says Former Afghanistan Vice President Amrullah Saleh speaks to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma.

'Ashraf Ghani leaving country is a stain in our history', says Amrullah Saleh, Afghan's former VP

"If a person of my stature and history tries to escape, it would be disgraceful and a historic shame," Afghanistan's former vice president Amrullah Saleh tells WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma on his decision to not leave the war-torn country.

'If person of my stature tries to escape, it would be disgraceful', says Amrullah Saleh

Western nations warned their citizens on August 26 to immediately leave the surrounds of Kabul airport over a terrorist threat, as thousands of people try to reach a dwindling number of evacuation flights.

Western Nations warn of terror attack at Kabul airport

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that Russia, China, Pakistan and the US are ready to serve as a mediator to establish peace and stability in Afghanistan. He expressed his views at a press briefing in Hungary.

Russia, China, US ready to serve as mediators in Afghanistan says Sergey Lavrov

President Joe Biden has informed G7 leaders that the US mission in Kabul is "on pace" to end by an August 31 pullout deadline. However, Biden also added that completing the evacuation mission by that date depends on the Taliban's cooperation.

Biden says 'US on pace' to complete Afghan evacuations by August 31

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

The Pentagon said that the US won't be responsible for Kabul airport after its troops are out of Afghanistan. It said the US military will continue its evacuation effort from Kabul airport until the 31st August deadline if needed.

News Alert: United States ramps up Afghan evacuation efforts

Four Russian military planes evacuated Russian and other nationals from Kabul on Wednesday on the orders of President Vladimir Putin, as Moscow held military exercises involving its tank forces in neighbouring Tajikistan.

The flights mark a shift in Russia's stance on Afghanistan. Its ambassador to Kabul had previously praised the Taliban's conduct and said the group, still officially designated a terrorist organisation in Russia, had made Kabul safer in the first 24 hours than it had been under the previous authorities.

But the Kremlin said on Wednesday that the situation was very tense and, citing the presence of Islamic State in Afghanistan as well as the Taliban, said that the terrorist threat was "very high."

The Russian defence ministry said it was evacuating more than 500 people from Afghanistan, including Russians and citizens of Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Ukraine.

The US&nbsp;exit from Afghanistan is a security headache for Moscow, which sees former Soviet Central Asia as part of its southern defensive flank and fears the spread of radical Islamism.

Moscow has reinforced its base in Tajikistan where it is holding a month of exercises.

It says it has learnt the lessons of the Soviet Union's failed intervention in Afghanistan in the 1980s and will not deploy its armed forces there.

On Wednesday, its defence ministry said it had deployed a number of T-72 tanks to Tajikistan's mountains which had practiced firing at long-range moving targets, the Interfax news agency reported.

The Russian government plans to request flights out of Afghanistan in September for Afghan students who are planning to study in Russia, the embassy said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

An Afghan diaspora leader told Russia's RIA news agency on Wednesday that Russian authorities would allow around 1,000 Afghans to come to Russia.

The diaspora leader, Ghulam Mohammad Jalal, said Afghans with Russian passports, residency rights, work visas and those studying in Russia would be allowed in once flights were available.

Four Russian military planes evacuated Russian and other nationals from Kabul on Wednesday on the orders of President Vladimir Putin, as Moscow held military exercises involving its tank forces in neighbouring Tajikistan.

Four Russian military planes evacuated Russian and other nationals from Kabul on Wednesday on the orders of President Vladimir Putin, as Moscow held military exercises involving its tank forces in neighbouring Tajikistan. The flights mark a shift in Russia's stance on Afghanistan. Its ambassador to Kabul had previously praised the Taliban's conduct and said the group, still officially designated a terrorist organisation in Russia, had made Kabul safer in the first 24 hours than it had been under the previous authorities. But the Kremlin said on Wednesday that the situation was very tense and, citing the presence of Islamic State in Afghanistan as well as the Taliban, said that the terrorist threat was "very high." The Russian defence ministry said it was evacuating more than 500 people from Afghanistan, including Russians and citizens of Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Ukraine. The US exit from Afghanistan is a security headache for Moscow, which sees former Soviet Central Asia as part of its southern defensive flank and fears the spread of radical Islamism. Moscow has reinforced its base in Tajikistan where it is holding a month of exercises. It says it has learnt the lessons of the Soviet Union's failed intervention in Afghanistan in the 1980s and will not deploy its armed forces there. On Wednesday, its defence ministry said it had deployed a number of T-72 tanks to Tajikistan's mountains which had practiced firing at long-range moving targets, the Interfax news agency reported. The Russian government plans to request flights out of Afghanistan in September for Afghan students who are planning to study in Russia, the embassy said on Tuesday. An Afghan diaspora leader told Russia's RIA news agency on Wednesday that Russian authorities would allow around 1,000 Afghans to come to Russia. The diaspora leader, Ghulam Mohammad Jalal, said Afghans with Russian passports, residency rights, work visas and those studying in Russia would be allowed in once flights were available.

Russia flies nationals out of Afghanistan on Vladimir Putin's orders

The British owner of an&nbsp;animal&nbsp;shelter&nbsp;in Afghanistan will be allowed to&nbsp;evacuate&nbsp;around&nbsp;200&nbsp;cats&nbsp;and&nbsp;dogs&nbsp;on a charter plane&nbsp;from&nbsp;Kabul, the UK's defence minister said Wednesday in an apparent climbdown.

The high-profile campaign by former Marine Paul "Pen" Farthing to&nbsp;evacuate&nbsp;his&nbsp;animals&nbsp;has prompted controversy as thousands of people seek to flee the Taliban ahead of United States troops' withdrawal by August 31.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-barber-fears-uncertain-future-under-taliban-rule-while-residents-hope-for-jobs-408340" hreflang="en">Kabul barber fears uncertain future under Taliban rule while residents hope for jobs</a>

After serving in Afghanistan with the British Army, Farthing founded an&nbsp;animal&nbsp;charity called Nowzad in&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;rescuing&nbsp;cats,&nbsp;dogs&nbsp;and donkeys.

He remains in&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;and has crowdfunded a plane to fly out his staff and their families as well as some&nbsp;200&nbsp;cats&nbsp;and&nbsp;dogs&nbsp;in what he calls Operation Ark.

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace had earlier said it would be wrong to "prioritise pets over people" as thousands wait outside the airport, many fearing reprisals&nbsp;from&nbsp;the Taliban which seized control of the country on August 15.

But early Wednesday Wallace tweeted that he had authorised officials to process Farthing's Afghan staff at&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;airport.

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Now that Pen Farthing’s staff have been cleared to come forward under LOTR I have authorised MOD to facilitate their processing alongside all other eligible personnel at HKIA. At that stage, if he arrives with his animals we will seek a slot for his plane. <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceHQ</a>
— Rt. Hon Ben Wallace MP (@BWallaceMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/BWallaceMP/status/1430327318434754568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Once that happens, "if he (Farthing) arrives with his&nbsp;animals&nbsp;we will seek a slot for his plane," Wallace said.

He emphasised that the "limiting factor" had been maintaining the flow of the evacuations, "not airplane capacity".&nbsp;

Wallace added that Farthing and his Afghan staff, who have been granted UK visas, could also leave without the&nbsp;animals&nbsp;on a Royal Air Force flight.

The defence minister had told Sky News on Tuesday that Farthing's chartered plane would "block the airfield" and "sit there empty" as officials processed other passengers waiting in a huge line.

"As for the&nbsp;animals&nbsp;that he (Farthing) has rescued and saved, it is just not going to be the case that I will prioritise them over the men, women and children we see in desperate need at the gate."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-afghanistan-minister-now-delivers-pizzas-in-germany-report-408316" hreflang="en">Former Afghanistan minister now delivers pizzas in Germany: Report</a>

Farthing has waged a campaign backed by celebrities including comedian Ricky Gervais, complaining at the UK defence ministry's stance.

British tabloids traditionally support campaigns to help&nbsp;animals&nbsp;abroad and The Sun wrote Wednesday that Wallace offered a "glimmer of hope" to the "mercy flight".&nbsp;

Farthing has said he could transport&nbsp;animals&nbsp;in the hold of the 250-seat plane and take Afghans in spare seats.

The UK has evacuated more than 10,000 people&nbsp;from&nbsp;Afghanistan since August 13 and more military flights were planned for Wednesday, according to the defence ministry.

Foreign Minister Dominic Raab praised the operation on Sky News on Wednesday, saying: "It's never been done before and no country has done better."

The British owner of an animal shelter in Afghanistan will be allowed to evacuate around 200 cats and dogs on a charter plane from Kabul, the UK's defence minister said Wednesday in an apparent climbdown.

The British owner of an animal shelter in Afghanistan will be allowed to evacuate around 200 cats and dogs on a charter plane from Kabul, the UK's defence minister said Wednesday in an apparent climbdown. The high-profile campaign by former Marine Paul "Pen" Farthing to evacuate his animals has prompted controversy as thousands of people seek to flee the Taliban ahead of United States troops' withdrawal by August 31. Also read | Kabul barber fears uncertain future under Taliban rule while residents hope for jobs After serving in Afghanistan with the British Army, Farthing founded an animal charity called Nowzad in Kabul rescuing cats, dogs and donkeys. He remains in Kabul and has crowdfunded a plane to fly out his staff and their families as well as some 200 cats and dogs in what he calls Operation Ark. British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace had earlier said it would be wrong to "prioritise pets over people" as thousands wait outside the airport, many fearing reprisals from the Taliban which seized control of the country on August 15. But early Wednesday Wallace tweeted that he had authorised officials to process Farthing's Afghan staff at Kabul airport. Now that Pen Farthing’s staff have been cleared to come forward under LOTR I have authorised MOD to facilitate their processing alongside all other eligible personnel at HKIA. At that stage, if he arrives with his animals we will seek a slot for his plane. @DefenceHQ — Rt. Hon Ben Wallace MP (@BWallaceMP) August 25, 2021 × Once that happens, "if he (Farthing) arrives with his animals we will seek a slot for his plane," Wallace said. He emphasised that the "limiting factor" had been maintaining the flow of the evacuations, "not airplane capacity". Wallace added that Farthing and his Afghan staff, who have been granted UK visas, could also leave without the animals on a Royal Air Force flight. The defence minister had told Sky News on Tuesday that Farthing's chartered plane would "block the airfield" and "sit there empty" as officials processed other passengers waiting in a huge line. "As for the animals that he (Farthing) has rescued and saved, it is just not going to be the case that I will prioritise them over the men, women and children we see in desperate need at the gate." Also read | Former Afghanistan minister now delivers pizzas in Germany: Report Farthing has waged a campaign backed by celebrities including comedian Ricky Gervais, complaining at the UK defence ministry's stance. British tabloids traditionally support campaigns to help animals abroad and The Sun wrote Wednesday that Wallace offered a "glimmer of hope" to the "mercy flight". Farthing has said he could transport animals in the hold of the 250-seat plane and take Afghans in spare seats. The UK has evacuated more than 10,000 people from Afghanistan since August 13 and more military flights were planned for Wednesday, according to the defence ministry. Foreign Minister Dominic Raab praised the operation on Sky News on Wednesday, saying: "It's never been done before and no country has done better."

Briton to evacuate 200 dogs and cats from his animal shelter in Kabul

Afghan refugees who lived in Pakistan for decades say their hopes of returning home have been dashed by the Taliban. Many Afghans living in Pakistan fear that they will return to hardline representation of Islamic law.

Afghanistan refugees in Pakistan say hopes of returning home dashed

Britain on Wednesday warned the Taliban against attempts to coercively seal off Afghanistan from the rest of the world and urged the militant group to keep its borders open.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said attempts by the Taliban to shut down the country could trigger a "refugee crisis" once Western forces withdrew from Kabul airport on August 31, as migrants make their way to neighbouring countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-agrees-to-let-afghans-leave-after-august-31-german-envoy-markus-potzel-408353" hreflang="en">Taliban agrees to let Afghans leave after August 31: German envoy Markus Potzel</a>

He noted that the Afghan border was "rugged and wide-ranging" and that efforts to isolate the country from the rest of the world would fail.

&nbsp;
<gwofw>
"If the Taliban leadership, as they were saying overnight, want to avoid the brain drain, they're not going to be able to do that by coercively blocking the border," he told Times Radio.

"You'll just see a larger flow of refugees going out and they'll have to be processed. They're not going to be able to avoid the refugee crisis by just a few roadblocks, they're not going to be able to hermetically seal the Afghan border, which is rugged and wide-ranging," he said.

During a series of interviews on Wednesday, Raab also sought to dismiss media reports of him "lounging on the beach" on holiday at the height of the Afghan crisis earlier this month.

He stressed that he had been constantly in virtual contact with the COBRA [Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms] meeting and officials to ensure the airlift of British nationals and supporters from the country. He said that the UK has evacuated more than 9,000 people from Afghanistan since August 15, including 2,000 people in the last 24 hours.

"I think it's going right the way up to the end of the calendar month," Raab said, in reference to efforts to airlift a further 4,000 people ahead of the Taliban's August 31 exit deadline. This also includes a Royal Marine veteran Paul "Pen" Farthing, who has been seeking evacuation with all the animals from his rescue shelter in the region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/briton-to-evacuate-200-dogs-and-cats-from-his-animal-shelter-in-kabul-408364">Briton to evacuate 200 dogs and cats from his animal shelter in Kabul</a>

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace had earlier said he could not prioritise animals over humans in the rescue mission but in a latest tweet he held out some hope for Farthing.

"If he arrives (at Kabul Airport) with his animals we will seek a slot for his plane. If he does not have his animals with him he and his staff can board an RAF (Royal Air Force) flight," said Wallace.

The UK and other allies, including through an emergency G7 meeting on Tuesday, had urged the US to stay beyond August 31 to allow more time for evacuation flights. But the Taliban remains staunchly opposed to any such extension and US President Joe Biden has also said the airlift had to come to an end by then because of the growing risk of an attack by the Islamic State group in Afghanistan.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who chaired the G7 virtual meet, told reporters following the talks that the West's number one condition for releasing the frozen assets was "safe passage"&nbsp;for people fleeing the country. Last week, the US froze USD 9.5 billion in assets belonging to the central bank of Afghanistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-chokes-taliban-funds-freezes-95-billion-of-afghan-central-bank-406641">US chokes Taliban funds, freezes $9.5 billion of Afghan central bank</a>

"If those huge funds are going to be unfrozen eventually for use by the government and people of Afghanistan, then what we're saying is Afghanistan can't lurch back into becoming a breeding ground of terror, Afghanistan can't become a narco state, girls have got to be educated up to the age of 18," said Johnson.

"Those are important things that we value. Those are things we fought for&nbsp;years in Afghanistan, for which people in this country gave their lives. We remain committed to those values and we remain committed to Afghanistan. The No 1 condition we're insisting on is safe passage,"&nbsp;he said.

The G7 joint statement also revolves around the central concern of the safe exit of foreigners and Afghans eligible for evacuation for having supported the US-led NATO operation in the country.&nbsp;
</gwofw>

&nbsp;

Britain on Wednesday warned the Taliban against attempts to coercively seal off Afghanistan from the rest of the world and urged the militant group to keep its borders open.

Britain on Wednesday warned the Taliban against attempts to coercively seal off Afghanistan from the rest of the world and urged the militant group to keep its borders open. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said attempts by the Taliban to shut down the country could trigger a "refugee crisis" once Western forces withdrew from Kabul airport on August 31, as migrants make their way to neighbouring countries. Also read | Taliban agrees to let Afghans leave after August 31: German envoy Markus Potzel He noted that the Afghan border was "rugged and wide-ranging" and that efforts to isolate the country from the rest of the world would fail. "If the Taliban leadership, as they were saying overnight, want to avoid the brain drain, they're not going to be able to do that by coercively blocking the border," he told Times Radio. "You'll just see a larger flow of refugees going out and they'll have to be processed. They're not going to be able to avoid the refugee crisis by just a few roadblocks, they're not going to be able to hermetically seal the Afghan border, which is rugged and wide-ranging," he said. During a series of interviews on Wednesday, Raab also sought to dismiss media reports of him "lounging on the beach" on holiday at the height of the Afghan crisis earlier this month. He stressed that he had been constantly in virtual contact with the COBRA [Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms] meeting and officials to ensure the airlift of British nationals and supporters from the country. He said that the UK has evacuated more than 9,000 people from Afghanistan since August 15, including 2,000 people in the last 24 hours. "I think it's going right the way up to the end of the calendar month," Raab said, in reference to efforts to airlift a further 4,000 people ahead of the Taliban's August 31 exit deadline. This also includes a Royal Marine veteran Paul "Pen" Farthing, who has been seeking evacuation with all the animals from his rescue shelter in the region. Also read | Briton to evacuate 200 dogs and cats from his animal shelter in Kabul Defence Secretary Ben Wallace had earlier said he could not prioritise animals over humans in the rescue mission but in a latest tweet he held out some hope for Farthing. "If he arrives (at Kabul Airport) with his animals we will seek a slot for his plane. If he does not have his animals with him he and his staff can board an RAF (Royal Air Force) flight," said Wallace. The UK and other allies, including through an emergency G7 meeting on Tuesday, had urged the US to stay beyond August 31 to allow more time for evacuation flights. But the Taliban remains staunchly opposed to any such extension and US President Joe Biden has also said the airlift had to come to an end by then because of the growing risk of an attack by the Islamic State group in Afghanistan. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who chaired the G7 virtual meet, told reporters following the talks that the West's number one condition for releasing the frozen assets was "safe passage" for people fleeing the country. Last week, the US froze USD 9.5 billion in assets belonging to the central bank of Afghanistan. Also read | US chokes Taliban funds, freezes $9.5 billion of Afghan central bank "If those huge funds are going to be unfrozen eventually for use by the government and people of Afghanistan, then what we're saying is Afghanistan can't lurch back into becoming a breeding ground of terror, Afghanistan can't become a narco state, girls have got to be educated up to the age of 18," said Johnson. "Those are important things that we value. Those are things we fought for years in Afghanistan, for which people in this country gave their lives. We remain committed to those values and we remain committed to Afghanistan. The No 1 condition we're insisting on is safe passage," he said. The G7 joint statement also revolves around the central concern of the safe exit of foreigners and Afghans eligible for evacuation for having supported the US-led NATO operation in the country.

UK warns Taliban against sealing Afghanistan off from the world

In a significant development, Tajikistan has drawn a clear red line on Taliban and&nbsp;that Dushanbe will not recognise government formed through oppression. The point was made during Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and&nbsp;Pakistan Foreign minister SM Qureshi's meeting.

The President said, "Tajikistan will not recognize any other government that is formed in this country through oppression, without taking into account the position of the entire Afghan people, especially all its minorities" and&nbsp;"stressed that Tajiks have a worthy place in the future government of Afghanistan", according to readout on state media Khovar.

During the meeting, the Tajik President pointed that "evidence clearly shows that the Taliban are abandoning their previous promises to form an interim government with the broad participation of other political forces in the country and are preparing to establish an Islamic emirate."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sikh-community-thanks-indian-government-for-protecting-three-holy-books-408355">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sikh-community-thanks-indian-government-for-protecting-three-holy-books-408355/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The comments carry weight as Tajikistan shares land border with Afghanistan and is directly impacted by instability in the country. &nbsp;Tajiks are also one of the main ethnicities of Afghanistan, along with Pashtuns, Uzbeks, Hazaras.

"Strongly condemning all forms of lawlessness, murder, looting, and persecution of the Afghan people, especially Tajiks, Uzbeks, and other national minorities,"&nbsp;the President said. "It is necessary to establish an inclusive government with the participation of all national minorities, especially Tajiks in Afghanistan, who make up more than 46% of the population."

Tajikistan has been worried over the developments in Afghanistan, and this has been the main focus during various Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meetings it has hosted. It will host the SCO heads of level meeting next month as the chair of the grouping.

The president explained during the talks with Pakistan FM that, "dangerous situation that has developed in Afghanistan is not only the problem of the Afghan people, but also one of the most pressing regional and global issues" and "Taliban’s rise to power has further complicated the geopolitical process in the region."

He also warned that international community's "indifference to the current situation in Afghanistan could lead to a protracted civil war."

In a significant development, Tajikistan has drawn a clear red line on Taliban and that Dushanbe will not recognise government formed through oppression. The point was made during Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Pakistan Foreign minister SM Qureshi's meeting.

In a significant development, Tajikistan has drawn a clear red line on Taliban and that Dushanbe will not recognise government formed through oppression. The point was made during Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Pakistan Foreign minister SM Qureshi's meeting. The President said, "Tajikistan will not recognize any other government that is formed in this country through oppression, without taking into account the position of the entire Afghan people, especially all its minorities" and "stressed that Tajiks have a worthy place in the future government of Afghanistan", according to readout on state media Khovar. During the meeting, the Tajik President pointed that "evidence clearly shows that the Taliban are abandoning their previous promises to form an interim government with the broad participation of other political forces in the country and are preparing to establish an Islamic emirate." WATCH | The comments carry weight as Tajikistan shares land border with Afghanistan and is directly impacted by instability in the country. Tajiks are also one of the main ethnicities of Afghanistan, along with Pashtuns, Uzbeks, Hazaras. "Strongly condemning all forms of lawlessness, murder, looting, and persecution of the Afghan people, especially Tajiks, Uzbeks, and other national minorities," the President said. "It is necessary to establish an inclusive government with the participation of all national minorities, especially Tajiks in Afghanistan, who make up more than 46% of the population." Tajikistan has been worried over the developments in Afghanistan, and this has been the main focus during various Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meetings it has hosted. It will host the SCO heads of level meeting next month as the chair of the grouping. The president explained during the talks with Pakistan FM that, "dangerous situation that has developed in Afghanistan is not only the problem of the Afghan people, but also one of the most pressing regional and global issues" and "Taliban’s rise to power has further complicated the geopolitical process in the region." He also warned that international community's "indifference to the current situation in Afghanistan could lead to a protracted civil war."

Tajikistan's red line on Taliban: Will not recognise government formed through oppression

Taliban has deployed their people to guard airport gates. Even the Taliban is checking each document before allowing entrance. Watch this report to know more.

Taliban deploys their people to guard airport gates

The Indian government has been carrying out evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of the country. In one such evacuation flight, the government also brough back three Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul.

India's Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs &amp; Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri&nbsp;welcomed the holy books on the Delhi airport as the Sikh Sangat carried the holy books out on their head. These books were then taken to Guru Arjan Dev Ji Gurdwara in New Mahavir Nagar, Delhi.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-india-welcomes-three-sikh-holy-books-brought-from-kabul-407965">&nbsp;Watch: India welcomes three Sikh holy books brought from Kabul</a>

"Blessed to receive and pay obeisance to three holy 'Swaroop'&nbsp;of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul to Delhi a short while ago," Puri had tweeted. &nbsp;

As of now, nearly 44 Afghan Sikhs have been evacuated from the Taliban controlled country. However, there are nearly 200 more Afghan Sikhs stranded in the country right now, Puneet Singh Chandhok, president of the Indian World Forum told media. These Sikhs have taken shelter at the nearest gurudwara from the airport, i.e., Karte Parwan gurdwara in Kabul.

"I thank the Modi government, the Indian embassy, the Sikh Sangat and the Indian forces for bringing us back to our country safely," said an Afghan Sikh who&nbsp;was evacuated by the Indian government recently.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sikh-community-thanks-indian-government-for-protecting-three-holy-books-408355">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sikh-community-thanks-indian-government-for-protecting-three-holy-books-408355/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Remembering the time when he also got stuck in the 1991 Iraq war, the Vice President of the Khalsa Help International said, "I have been a victim of this because even I was rescued by the Indian government in 1991 during the Iraq war. I applaud the Modi government for doing such a noble task. I salute my Sikh brothers, forces and the Indian government for bringing back the Guru Granth Sahib by placing it on their heads. They have respected our Guru and we are highly thankful to them for this."

Speaking on behalf of the Sikh community, he also stressed that the whole community is against the Taliban because the basic values of the community are aligned with helping the human kind, and they will oppose anyone who hurts people.

The Indian government has been carrying out evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of the country. In one such evacuation flight, the government also brough back three Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul.

The Indian government has been carrying out evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of the country. In one such evacuation flight, the government also brough back three Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul. India's Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs & Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri welcomed the holy books on the Delhi airport as the Sikh Sangat carried the holy books out on their head. These books were then taken to Guru Arjan Dev Ji Gurdwara in New Mahavir Nagar, Delhi. Also read | Watch: India welcomes three Sikh holy books brought from Kabul "Blessed to receive and pay obeisance to three holy 'Swaroop' of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Kabul to Delhi a short while ago," Puri had tweeted. As of now, nearly 44 Afghan Sikhs have been evacuated from the Taliban controlled country. However, there are nearly 200 more Afghan Sikhs stranded in the country right now, Puneet Singh Chandhok, president of the Indian World Forum told media. These Sikhs have taken shelter at the nearest gurudwara from the airport, i.e., Karte Parwan gurdwara in Kabul. "I thank the Modi government, the Indian embassy, the Sikh Sangat and the Indian forces for bringing us back to our country safely," said an Afghan Sikh who was evacuated by the Indian government recently. WATCH | Remembering the time when he also got stuck in the 1991 Iraq war, the Vice President of the Khalsa Help International said, "I have been a victim of this because even I was rescued by the Indian government in 1991 during the Iraq war. I applaud the Modi government for doing such a noble task. I salute my Sikh brothers, forces and the Indian government for bringing back the Guru Granth Sahib by placing it on their heads. They have respected our Guru and we are highly thankful to them for this." Speaking on behalf of the Sikh community, he also stressed that the whole community is against the Taliban because the basic values of the community are aligned with helping the human kind, and they will oppose anyone who hurts people.

Sikh community thanks Indian government for bringing back holy books

The Taliban are reportedly killing women for 'cooking bad food' and not wearing a burqa. Reports say Afghan women are being sold as sex slaves. Palki Sharma says we must all do our part to #SaveAfghanWomen.

Gravitas campaigns to #SaveAfghanWomen

Pentagon says no change in timeline of Afghan withdrawal

Taking aim at US president Joe Biden's Afghan policy, former President Donald Trump expressed concern that thousands of terrorists might have been flown out from Afghanistan as part of the evacuation process.

"Biden surrendered Afghanistan to terrorists and left thousands of Americans for dead by pulling out the military before our citizens," Trump said in a statement on Tuesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/joe-biden-says-us-on-pace-to-end-afghan-mission-by-august-31-408146" hreflang="en">Joe Biden says US 'on pace' to end Afghan mission by August 31</a>

"Now we are learning that out of the 26,000 people who have been evacuated, only 4,000 are Americans. You can be sure, the Taliban, who are now in complete control, didn't allow the best and brightest to board these evacuation flights."

"Instead, we can only imagine how many thousands of terrorists have been airlifted out of Afghanistan and into neighbourhoods around the world. What a terrible failure. NO VETTING. How many terrorists will Joe Biden bring to America? We don't know!", He said.

Meanwhile, Republican Congressman Mike Waltz, a former veteran of Afghanistan, introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives, criticizing Biden's blatant disregard for the advice of military and intelligence advisors.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-change-to-august-31-withdrawal-deadline-pentagons-john-kirby-408091" hreflang="en">'No change' to August 31 withdrawal deadline: Pentagon’s John Kirby</a>

He alleges that President Biden, ignored advice on the nature and speed of the Taliban offensive and that he failed to present a coherent counterterrorism or evacuation plan to the American people, and has done harm to US credibility by abandoning the US's Afghan allies.

Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Minority Whip Steve Scalise, and Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik cosponsored the resolution.

"President Biden has embarrassed the United States on the world stage and created the worst foreign policy blunder in our modern history," Waltz said.

Waltz said that Biden has embarrassed the United States on the world stage and has made the worst foreign policy blunder in US modern history.

As per Waltz, in order to seek a headline that he would withdraw US troops prior to the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Biden created a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-taliban-evade-wions-question-on-secret-meeting-between-mullah-baradar-and-cia-chief-408084" hreflang="en">Watch | Taliban evade WION’s question on secret meeting between Mullah Baradar and CIA chief</a>

'Now, we will have shamefully given away the freedoms of Afghans, our military equipment and infrastructure, and countless other resources to the hands of Taliban terrorists because of the President's cluelessness and stubbornness,' Waltz alleged.

'Additionally, it is growing more likely by the day we will have broken our promise to thousands of Afghan allies who stood should-to-shoulder with our troops on the battlefield that have now been handed a death sentence for our failure to safely evacuate them in a timely fashion," he said.

Waltz also said that the intelligence community has repeatedly warned that Al Qaeda 3.0 will return as the Taliban have shown no signs of cutting ties with the September 11 attack perpetrators.&nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Taking aim at US president Joe Biden's Afghan policy, former President Donald Trump expressed concern that thousands of terrorists might have been flown out from Afghanistan as part of the evacuation process.

Taking aim at US president Joe Biden's Afghan policy, former President Donald Trump expressed concern that thousands of terrorists might have been flown out from Afghanistan as part of the evacuation process. "Biden surrendered Afghanistan to terrorists and left thousands of Americans for dead by pulling out the military before our citizens," Trump said in a statement on Tuesday. Also read | Joe Biden says US 'on pace' to end Afghan mission by August 31 "Now we are learning that out of the 26,000 people who have been evacuated, only 4,000 are Americans. You can be sure, the Taliban, who are now in complete control, didn't allow the best and brightest to board these evacuation flights." "Instead, we can only imagine how many thousands of terrorists have been airlifted out of Afghanistan and into neighbourhoods around the world. What a terrible failure. NO VETTING. How many terrorists will Joe Biden bring to America? We don't know!", He said. Meanwhile, Republican Congressman Mike Waltz, a former veteran of Afghanistan, introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives, criticizing Biden's blatant disregard for the advice of military and intelligence advisors. Also read | 'No change' to August 31 withdrawal deadline: Pentagon’s John Kirby He alleges that President Biden, ignored advice on the nature and speed of the Taliban offensive and that he failed to present a coherent counterterrorism or evacuation plan to the American people, and has done harm to US credibility by abandoning the US's Afghan allies. Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Minority Whip Steve Scalise, and Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik cosponsored the resolution. "President Biden has embarrassed the United States on the world stage and created the worst foreign policy blunder in our modern history," Waltz said. Waltz said that Biden has embarrassed the United States on the world stage and has made the worst foreign policy blunder in US modern history. As per Waltz, in order to seek a headline that he would withdraw US troops prior to the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Biden created a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. Also read | Watch | Taliban evade WION’s question on secret meeting between Mullah Baradar and CIA chief 'Now, we will have shamefully given away the freedoms of Afghans, our military equipment and infrastructure, and countless other resources to the hands of Taliban terrorists because of the President's cluelessness and stubbornness,' Waltz alleged. 'Additionally, it is growing more likely by the day we will have broken our promise to thousands of Afghan allies who stood should-to-shoulder with our troops on the battlefield that have now been handed a death sentence for our failure to safely evacuate them in a timely fashion," he said. Waltz also said that the intelligence community has repeatedly warned that Al Qaeda 3.0 will return as the Taliban have shown no signs of cutting ties with the September 11 attack perpetrators. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump takes aim at Biden's Afghan policy, alleges thousands of terrorists might have been airlifted out of Kabul

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