New Delhi has asked all its citizens to leave Mazar-E-Sharif and return to India. A special flight will be sent to the Afghan city in the evening to bring Indian back home.

India asks citizens to leave Mazar-e-Sharif as Taliban avances its moves

Amid the recent intensification of conflict with the Afghan Government, the Taliban continues to violate human rights unabatedly by killing civilians, destroying mosques, and assaulting women. Innocent Afghan children killed by Taliban. At least 27 children have been killed by Taliban in the last 72 hours.

WION Live Broadcast: Afghan children killed by Taliban

The Indian embassy in Afghanistan advised all Indians to return from the country amid the ongoing fighting between Afghan security forces and the Taliban. India has now closed all its consulates, leaving only the embassy in Kabul operational.

Afghanistan's Indian embassy advises all Indians to return amid ongoing crisis

India has been invited to a meeting of regional countries on Afghanistan in Doha later this week, which will see the participation of countries like Turkey and Indonesia as well.

India has been invited to a meeting of regional countries on Afghanistan in Doha later this week, which will see the participation of countries like Turkey and Indonesia as well. The invite was extended during the visit of Qatari Special Envoy for Counter-Terrorism and Mediation in Conflict Resolution Mutlaq Al Qahtani. The Regional Conference on Afghanistan is expected to take place on August 12. The meeting comes even as Doha is hosting the Troika Plus meeting on Wednesday involving the US, Russia, and China, plus Pakistan. Qahtani was in India for a 2-day visit starting last Friday, during which he met with India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, and foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. Qatar's Special Envoy also had a meeting with JP Singh Joint Secretary PAI and Secretary (CPV and OIA) Sanjay Bhattacharya in Delhi. In a tweet after the meeting, EAM said, "The rapid deterioration of the security situation is a serious matter" and "a peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected." Rapid deterioration of the security situation is a serious matter. A peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 7, 2021 × The special envoy during the various meetings was concerned about external players as much as internal. The visit and the meeting in Doha come amid a deteriorating situation in Afghanistan as the Taliban make territorial gains. The Taliban have now come close to the northern city of Mazar E Sharif, which is the capital of Balkh province. With this development, India has decided to evacuate its diplomats from its consulate. India has been leading diplomatic engagements as the situation in Afghanistan deteriorates. Earlier this month, India hosted a meeting on Afghanistan at the United Nations Security Council under its presidency. The meeting came days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar requested India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar for such a meeting. At the meeting, India's envoy to the United Nations, T S Tirumurti, called on the Taliban to engage in "negotiations in good faith", "eschew the path of violence" and "severe ties with Al Qaeda and other terrorist organizations". Tirumurti said that the Taliban should "fully commit itself towards reaching a political solution" and "violence and military threats cannot be used to strengthen the negotiating position of any side" for which a "tangible demonstration of this commitment is required." During the around one-and-half-hour-long session, Afghanistan exposed Pakistan's support for the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country and how the group continues to enjoy a "safe haven". The Afghan envoy to the United Nations, Ghulam M Isaczai, speaking at the United Nations Security Council, said, "Taliban continue to enjoy a safe haven and supply and logistics lines extended to their war machine from Pakistan."

India invited to Afghanistan meet in Doha this week

India will soon bring back its diplomats from its consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif, the 4th largest city of Afghanistan and the capital of Balkh province, which borders Central Asian countries.

A special flight transporting Indian nationals will depart Mazar later today, according to the Indian embassy.&nbsp;

The development comes days after India evacuated its diplomats from Kandahar, in Southern Afghanistan.

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(2/2) Indian citizens desiring to leave by special flight should immediately convey their full name, passport number, date of expiry by whatsapp at the following numbers: 
 
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0785891301
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Around 1500 Indian nationals are involved in various development projects in the country.&nbsp;

The situation in Afghanistan has continuously deteriorated as the Taliban launches its military offensive.

The Indian government has been leading diplomatic engagement. Last week, the President of the United Nations Security Council also held a meeting on Afghanistan.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-talibans-72-hour-blitzkrieg-in-afghanistan-404335/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At the United Nations Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, India's envoy to the United Nations, T.S. Tirumurti, called on the Taliban to engage in "negotiations in good faith", "eschew the path of violence" and "severe ties with Al Qaeda and other terrorist organisations".

The meeting occurred just days after the Afghan foreign minister, Hanif Atmar, called India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, and invited him to hold a dialogue, as the situation in his country deteriorates.

Tirumurti said the Taliban must "fully commit itself towards reaching a political solution" and that "violence and military threat can not be used to strengthen the negotiating position of any side". He also added that for this, a "tangible demonstration of this commitment is required."

India will soon bring back its diplomats from its consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif, the 4th largest city of Afghanistan and the capital of Balkh province, which borders Central Asian countries.

India will soon bring back its diplomats from its consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif, the 4th largest city of Afghanistan and the capital of Balkh province, which borders Central Asian countries. A special flight transporting Indian nationals will depart Mazar later today, according to the Indian embassy. The development comes days after India evacuated its diplomats from Kandahar, in Southern Afghanistan. (2/2) Indian citizens desiring to leave by special flight should immediately convey their full name, passport number, date of expiry by whatsapp at the following numbers: 0785891303 0785891301 — India in Mazar (@IndianConsMazar) August 10, 2021 × Around 1500 Indian nationals are involved in various development projects in the country. The situation in Afghanistan has continuously deteriorated as the Taliban launches its military offensive. The Indian government has been leading diplomatic engagement. Last week, the President of the United Nations Security Council also held a meeting on Afghanistan. Watch: At the United Nations Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, India's envoy to the United Nations, T.S. Tirumurti, called on the Taliban to engage in "negotiations in good faith", "eschew the path of violence" and "severe ties with Al Qaeda and other terrorist organisations". The meeting occurred just days after the Afghan foreign minister, Hanif Atmar, called India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, and invited him to hold a dialogue, as the situation in his country deteriorates. Tirumurti said the Taliban must "fully commit itself towards reaching a political solution" and that "violence and military threat can not be used to strengthen the negotiating position of any side". He also added that for this, a "tangible demonstration of this commitment is required."

India to evacuate diplomats and citizens from Mazar-e-Sharif consulate in Afghanistan

The US has said that the situation in Afghanistan is not going in the right direction and added that Afghan security forces had the capability to fight.

US says situation in Afghanistan is concerning, makes remarks on Afghan forces' capability to fight

The US is having conversations with the Pakistani leadership about the need to shut down the safe havens for Taliban militants along the Afghan-Pakistan border that are providing a source of more insecurity and instability inside Afghanistan, the Pentagon has said, as Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke over the phone with Pakistan Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Austin, in a phone call with Gen Bajwa on Monday, discussed the current situation in Afghanistan, regional security issues and the bilateral defence ties, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/grave-concern-taliban-advance-towards-mazar-i-sharif-after-weekend-blitz-404348">'Grave concern': Taliban advance towards Mazar-i-Sharif after weekend blitz</a>

During the phone call, Austin expressed his interest in continuing to improve the US-Pakistan relationship and build upon their multiple shared interests in the region, Kirby said on Monday in a readout of the conversation.

"Secretary Austin and General Bajwa discussed the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, regional security and stability, and the bilateral defence relationship more broadly,"&nbsp;Kirby said.

Austin discussed the mutual goals of security and stability in the region, he said.

Responding to a question, Kirby said the US continues to have conversations with the Pakistani leadership about the safe havens that exist along that border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-why-us-strategy-in-afghanistan-failed-against-taliban-pakistan-nexus-403844">Opinion | Why US strategy in Afghanistan failed against Taliban-Pakistan nexus?</a>

"We are mindful that those safe havens are only providing a source of more insecurity and more instability inside Afghanistan. We are not bashful about having that discussion with Pakistani leaders,"&nbsp;he said.

"We are also mindful that Pakistan and the Pakistani people also fall victim to terrorist activities that emanate from that region. So, we all have a shared sense of the importance of closing down those safe havens and not allowing them to be used by the Taliban or other terrorist networks to sow discord,"&nbsp;Kirby said.

"And again, we're having that conversation with the Pakistanis all the time,"&nbsp;he added. Taliban's surge in Afghanistan has intensified as US and NATO troops wrap up their withdrawal from the war-torn country.

With Taliban attacks increasing, Afghan security forces and government troops have retaliated with airstrikes aided by the United States.

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Afghanistan and the US have criticised Pakistan in the past for allowing Taliban fighters to cross into Pakistan where they are provided safe havens and also receive medical treatment.

While Kabul claims that Islamabad is sending thousands of militants to fight in the war-ravaged country and providing safe haven for the Taliban, Pakistan alleges that Afghanistan harbours the anti-Pakistani group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, the Pakistani Taliban, and also the secessionist Balochistan Liberation Army.

Pakistan has said that it has used its influence over the Taliban to press the insurgents into talks with the US and the Afghan government to find a political solution to the crisis.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan last month said that the US "really messed it up" in Afghanistan as he questioned the American motive for the 2001 invasion of the country in the first place and then their subsequent attempts of seeking a political solution with the Taliban from a position of weakness.&nbsp;

The US is having conversations with the Pakistani leadership about the need to shut down the safe havens for Taliban militants along the Afghan-Pakistan border that are providing a source of more insecurity and instability inside Afghanistan, the Pentagon has said, as Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke over the phone with Pakistan Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa.

The US is having conversations with the Pakistani leadership about the need to shut down the safe havens for Taliban militants along the Afghan-Pakistan border that are providing a source of more insecurity and instability inside Afghanistan, the Pentagon has said, as Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke over the phone with Pakistan Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa. Austin, in a phone call with Gen Bajwa on Monday, discussed the current situation in Afghanistan, regional security issues and the bilateral defence ties, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said. Also read | 'Grave concern': Taliban advance towards Mazar-i-Sharif after weekend blitz During the phone call, Austin expressed his interest in continuing to improve the US-Pakistan relationship and build upon their multiple shared interests in the region, Kirby said on Monday in a readout of the conversation. "Secretary Austin and General Bajwa discussed the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, regional security and stability, and the bilateral defence relationship more broadly," Kirby said. Austin discussed the mutual goals of security and stability in the region, he said. Responding to a question, Kirby said the US continues to have conversations with the Pakistani leadership about the safe havens that exist along that border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Also read | Opinion | Why US strategy in Afghanistan failed against Taliban-Pakistan nexus? "We are mindful that those safe havens are only providing a source of more insecurity and more instability inside Afghanistan. We are not bashful about having that discussion with Pakistani leaders," he said. "We are also mindful that Pakistan and the Pakistani people also fall victim to terrorist activities that emanate from that region. So, we all have a shared sense of the importance of closing down those safe havens and not allowing them to be used by the Taliban or other terrorist networks to sow discord," Kirby said. "And again, we're having that conversation with the Pakistanis all the time," he added. Taliban's surge in Afghanistan has intensified as US and NATO troops wrap up their withdrawal from the war-torn country. With Taliban attacks increasing, Afghan security forces and government troops have retaliated with airstrikes aided by the United States. Afghanistan and the US have criticised Pakistan in the past for allowing Taliban fighters to cross into Pakistan where they are provided safe havens and also receive medical treatment. While Kabul claims that Islamabad is sending thousands of militants to fight in the war-ravaged country and providing safe haven for the Taliban, Pakistan alleges that Afghanistan harbours the anti-Pakistani group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, the Pakistani Taliban, and also the secessionist Balochistan Liberation Army. Pakistan has said that it has used its influence over the Taliban to press the insurgents into talks with the US and the Afghan government to find a political solution to the crisis. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan last month said that the US "really messed it up" in Afghanistan as he questioned the American motive for the 2001 invasion of the country in the first place and then their subsequent attempts of seeking a political solution with the Taliban from a position of weakness.

Pentagon: US talking to Pakistan about closing Taliban safe havens along Afghan border

Taliban is on a blitzkrieg in Afghanistan. 6 provinces have fallen in 72 hours. 90% of the border has been 'seized'. Key routes to Kabul are blocked. A woman has been killed for wearing 'tight clothes'. Palki Sharma gets you a report on the Taliban's onslaught.

Gravitas: Taliban's 72-hour blitzkrieg in Afghanistan

The terror group Taliban is rapidly closing in on the heart of Afghanistan, Kabul city. There has been intense fighting in areas that are a few kilometers from Kabul.

WION In Afghanistan: Afghan civilians fear Taliban takeover

According to sources, the Taliban have also taken government buildings in the northern provincial capital of Sar-e Pul, driving officials out of the main city to a nearby military base, Mohammad Noor Rahmani.

Taliban seize government buildings in Afghan cities Kunduz, Sar-e Pul

Herat, the third-largest city in Afghanistan remains precarious. The Taliban continues to make rapid territorial gains in the country. WION's correspondent reports from the heart of the conflict.

WION Ground Report: Third largest city of Afghanistan fears Taliban takeover

After working in Afghanistan for 9 years with NATO and the USA, the Afghan cameraman Salim Zalmi landed in the United States in 2018 escaping the Taliban's escalating threats to the family. WION brings you Zalmi's journey to the US.

Afghan cameraman Salim Zalmi's road to settling in US

Taliban has reportedly seized the northeastern city of Kunduz with the Afghan forces in control of the airport and the army base.

Kunduz, a strategic town lies at the gateway of northern provinces and Central Asia. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-seize-two-more-afghan-provincial-capitals-in-northern-blitz-404055">Taliban </a>spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said its forces were close to the airport.

Last week the Taliban had captured a provincial capital located on the border of Iran and Afghanistan named Zaranj situated in southern Nimroz province.

Watch:

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Zaranj city in Nimroz had fallen to the Taliban as it continued its surge in provincial capitals after seizing rural areas and strategic border crossings in Afghanistan even as Kunduz, Sar-e-Pul and Taloqan in the north fell on Sunday.

The security forces fell back in Taloqan in northeastern Takhar province after they failed to get reinforcements.

On Saturday, the Taliban had reportedly seized Jawzjan which was the second provincial capital to fall to the militant outfit in under 24 hours.

The Taliban has increased its offensive since mid-May as the US decided to leave the region. President Joe Biden had declared that the US will pull out of Afghanistan by August 31 which is just weeks away.

Ashraf Ayni, a representative in parliament for Takhar province had said its capital Taloqan had fallen to the Taliban which continues to sweep through the country.

The militant group had earlier taken control of rural areas in the north and south but it has now begun its renewed offensive against provincial capitals.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban has reportedly seized the northeastern city of Kunduz with the Afghan forces in control of the airport and the army base. Kunduz, a strategic town lies at the gateway of northern provinces and Central Asia.

Taliban has reportedly seized the northeastern city of Kunduz with the Afghan forces in control of the airport and the army base. Kunduz, a strategic town lies at the gateway of northern provinces and Central Asia. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said its forces were close to the airport. Last week the Taliban had captured a provincial capital located on the border of Iran and Afghanistan named Zaranj situated in southern Nimroz province. Watch: Zaranj city in Nimroz had fallen to the Taliban as it continued its surge in provincial capitals after seizing rural areas and strategic border crossings in Afghanistan even as Kunduz, Sar-e-Pul and Taloqan in the north fell on Sunday. The security forces fell back in Taloqan in northeastern Takhar province after they failed to get reinforcements. On Saturday, the Taliban had reportedly seized Jawzjan which was the second provincial capital to fall to the militant outfit in under 24 hours. The Taliban has increased its offensive since mid-May as the US decided to leave the region. President Joe Biden had declared that the US will pull out of Afghanistan by August 31 which is just weeks away. Ashraf Ayni, a representative in parliament for Takhar province had said its capital Taloqan had fallen to the Taliban which continues to sweep through the country. The militant group had earlier taken control of rural areas in the north and south but it has now begun its renewed offensive against provincial capitals. (With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban seize provincial capitals in Afghanistan as Kunduz falls

US B-52 bombers hit Taliban's positions in Afghanistan

The Taliban faced heavy casualties when Air Forces targeted their gatherings and hideouts in the city of Sheberghan, killing 200 members of the terrorist outfit.

US B-52 bombers targeted a Taliban rally in Sheberghan

The Taliban tightened the noose over northern Afghanistan Sunday, capturing two more provincial capitals as they take their fight to the cities after seizing much of the countryside in recent months.

The insurgents have snatched up four provincial capitals in Afghanistan since Friday in a lightning offensive that appears to have overwhelmed government forces.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-why-us-strategy-in-afghanistan-failed-against-taliban-pakistan-nexus-403844">Opinion | Why US strategy in Afghanistan failed against Taliban-Pakistan nexus?</a>

Kunduz and Sar-e-Pul in the north fell within hours of each other Sunday, lawmakers and residents in the cities confirmed, but not without fierce fighting.

Pro-Taliban social media accounts claimed the insurgents were also close to overrunning the provincial capital of Taloqan.

In Kunduz, one resident described the city as being enveloped in "total chaos".

"After some fierce fighting, the mujahideen, with the grace of God, captured the capital of Kunduz," the Taliban said in a statement.

"The mujahideen also captured Sar-e-Pul city, the government buildings and all the installations there."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-captures-key-installations-in-kunduz-heavy-fighting-underway-in-herat-kandahar-403938">Taliban captures key installations in Kunduz, heavy fighting underway in Herat, Kandahar</a>

Parwina Azimi, a women's rights activist in Sar-e-Pul, told AFP by phone that government officials and the remaining forces had retreated to an army barracks about three kilometres (two miles) from the city.

The Taliban had the compound "surrounded", said Mohammad Hussein Mujahidzada, a member of the provincial council.

Perennial target

Kunduz is the most significant Taliban gain since the insurgents launched an offensive in May as foreign forces began the final stages of their withdrawal.&nbsp;

It has been a perennial target for the Taliban, who briefly overran the city in 2015 and again in 2016 but never managed to hold it for long.&nbsp;

The ministry of defence said government forces were fighting to retake key installations.

"The commando forces have launched a clearing operation. Some areas, including the national radio and TV buildings, have been cleared of the terrorist Taliban," it said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-taliban-claims-to-capture-urban-parts-in-kunduz-403956/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kabul's ability to hold the north may prove crucial to the government's long-term survival.

Northern Afghanistan has long been considered an anti-Taliban stronghold that saw some of the stiffest resistance to militant rule in the 1990s.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-taliban-held-nimroz-public-property-gets-looted-403846">In Taliban-held Nimroz, public property gets ‘looted’</a>

The region remains home to several militias and is also a fertile recruiting ground for the country's armed forces.&nbsp;

"The capture of Kunduz is quite significant because it will free up a large number of Taliban forces who might then be mobilised in other parts of the north," said Ibraheem Thurial, a consultant for International Crisis Group.

Vivid footage of the fighting was posted on social media over the weekend, including what appeared to be large numbers of prisoners being freed from jails in captured cities.

The Taliban frequently target prisons to release incarcerated fighters to replenish their ranks.

On Friday, the insurgents seized their first provincial capital, Zaranj in southwestern Nimroz on the border with Iran, and followed it up by taking&nbsp;Sheberghan&nbsp;in northern Jawzjan province the next day.

US airstrikes&nbsp;

Fighting was also reported on the outskirts of Herat in the west, and Lashkar Gah and Kandahar in the south.

The pace of Taliban advances has caught government forces flatfooted, but they won some respite late Saturday after US warplanes bombed Taliban positions in&nbsp;Sheberghan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-orders-b-52-bombers-spectre-gunships-to-target-taliban-says-report-403840">US orders B-52 bombers, Spectre gunships to target Taliban, says report</a> &nbsp;

"US forces have conducted several air strikes in defence of our Afghan partners in recent days," Major Nicole Ferrara, a Central Command spokesperson, told AFP in Washington.

Sheberghan&nbsp;is the stronghold of notorious Afghan warlord Abdul Rashid Dostum, whose militiamen and government forces were reportedly retreating east to Mazar-i-Sharif in Balkh province.

Dostum has overseen one of the largest militias in the north and garnered a fearsome reputation fighting the Taliban in the 1990s -- along with accusations his forces massacred thousands of insurgent prisoners of war.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-international-community-worries-for-afghans-404044/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A retreat of his fighters dents the government's recent hopes that militias could help the overstretched military.

The government has said little about the fall of the provincial capitals, other than vowing to retake them.

That has been a familiar response to most Taliban gains in recent weeks, although government forces have largely failed to make good on promises to retake dozens of districts and border posts.

Hundreds of thousands of Afghans have been displaced by the recent fighting, and on Saturday, 12 people were killed when their bus was struck by a roadside bomb as they tried to flee Gardez in Paktia province.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-violence-in-herat-city-prompt-mass-evacuation-403959/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I lost my mother, father, two brothers, two sisters-in-law and other members of the family," said Noor Jan.

The withdrawal of foreign forces is due to finish at the end of this month ahead of the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The US-led invasion sparked by 9/11 toppled the first Taliban regime in 2001.

The Taliban tightened the noose over northern Afghanistan Sunday, capturing two more provincial capitals as they take their fight to the cities after seizing much of the countryside in recent months.

The Taliban tightened the noose over northern Afghanistan Sunday, capturing two more provincial capitals as they take their fight to the cities after seizing much of the countryside in recent months. The insurgents have snatched up four provincial capitals in Afghanistan since Friday in a lightning offensive that appears to have overwhelmed government forces. Also read | Opinion | Why US strategy in Afghanistan failed against Taliban-Pakistan nexus? Kunduz and Sar-e-Pul in the north fell within hours of each other Sunday, lawmakers and residents in the cities confirmed, but not without fierce fighting. Pro-Taliban social media accounts claimed the insurgents were also close to overrunning the provincial capital of Taloqan. In Kunduz, one resident described the city as being enveloped in "total chaos". "After some fierce fighting, the mujahideen, with the grace of God, captured the capital of Kunduz," the Taliban said in a statement. "The mujahideen also captured Sar-e-Pul city, the government buildings and all the installations there." Also read | Taliban captures key installations in Kunduz, heavy fighting underway in Herat, Kandahar Parwina Azimi, a women's rights activist in Sar-e-Pul, told AFP by phone that government officials and the remaining forces had retreated to an army barracks about three kilometres (two miles) from the city. The Taliban had the compound "surrounded", said Mohammad Hussein Mujahidzada, a member of the provincial council. Perennial target Kunduz is the most significant Taliban gain since the insurgents launched an offensive in May as foreign forces began the final stages of their withdrawal. It has been a perennial target for the Taliban, who briefly overran the city in 2015 and again in 2016 but never managed to hold it for long. The ministry of defence said government forces were fighting to retake key installations. "The commando forces have launched a clearing operation. Some areas, including the national radio and TV buildings, have been cleared of the terrorist Taliban," it said. Kabul's ability to hold the north may prove crucial to the government's long-term survival. Northern Afghanistan has long been considered an anti-Taliban stronghold that saw some of the stiffest resistance to militant rule in the 1990s. Also read | In Taliban-held Nimroz, public property gets ‘looted’ The region remains home to several militias and is also a fertile recruiting ground for the country's armed forces. "The capture of Kunduz is quite significant because it will free up a large number of Taliban forces who might then be mobilised in other parts of the north," said Ibraheem Thurial, a consultant for International Crisis Group. Vivid footage of the fighting was posted on social media over the weekend, including what appeared to be large numbers of prisoners being freed from jails in captured cities. The Taliban frequently target prisons to release incarcerated fighters to replenish their ranks. On Friday, the insurgents seized their first provincial capital, Zaranj in southwestern Nimroz on the border with Iran, and followed it up by taking Sheberghan in northern Jawzjan province the next day. US airstrikes Fighting was also reported on the outskirts of Herat in the west, and Lashkar Gah and Kandahar in the south. The pace of Taliban advances has caught government forces flatfooted, but they won some respite late Saturday after US warplanes bombed Taliban positions in Sheberghan. Also read | US orders B-52 bombers, Spectre gunships to target Taliban, says report "US forces have conducted several air strikes in defence of our Afghan partners in recent days," Major Nicole Ferrara, a Central Command spokesperson, told AFP in Washington. Sheberghan is the stronghold of notorious Afghan warlord Abdul Rashid Dostum, whose militiamen and government forces were reportedly retreating east to Mazar-i-Sharif in Balkh province. Dostum has overseen one of the largest militias in the north and garnered a fearsome reputation fighting the Taliban in the 1990s -- along with accusations his forces massacred thousands of insurgent prisoners of war. A retreat of his fighters dents the government's recent hopes that militias could help the overstretched military. The government has said little about the fall of the provincial capitals, other than vowing to retake them. That has been a familiar response to most Taliban gains in recent weeks, although government forces have largely failed to make good on promises to retake dozens of districts and border posts. Hundreds of thousands of Afghans have been displaced by the recent fighting, and on Saturday, 12 people were killed when their bus was struck by a roadside bomb as they tried to flee Gardez in Paktia province. "I lost my mother, father, two brothers, two sisters-in-law and other members of the family," said Noor Jan. The withdrawal of foreign forces is due to finish at the end of this month ahead of the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The US-led invasion sparked by 9/11 toppled the first Taliban regime in 2001.

Taliban seize two more Afghan provincial capitals in northern blitz

Afghan security forces have for days been telling residents in the western city of Herat to evacuate areas where the Taliban have dug in. Watch this report to know more.

Afghanistan: Violence in Herat city prompt mass evacuation

The Taliban had captured the key Afghan city of Kunduz, as fierce fighting raged in the centre of the second northern capital. Watch this report to know more.

Afghanistan: Taliban claims to capture urban parts in Kunduz

Angry at not being able to speak at the&nbsp;United Nations&nbsp;Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, Pakistan has expressed its "deep regret" that it was not allowed to "present its perspective on the Afghan peace process". Friday saw a session on Afghanistan under India's presidency, days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar requested India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar for such a meet.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The UNSC meet comes even as Pakistan has been trying to host Afghan leaders for peace talks,&nbsp;and foreign ministers of regional countries on the situation in Afghanistan. So far, no headway has been made on both the meetings as participants have not agreed to it.&nbsp;

During the around one-and-a-half-hour-long session, Afghanistan exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country&nbsp;and&nbsp;how the group continues to enjoy "safe haven"&nbsp;inside Islamabad’s borders. Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M&nbsp;Isaczai, speaking at United Nations Security Council,&nbsp;said, "Taliban continue to enjoy a safe haven in, and supply and logistics line extended to their war machine from Pakistan."&nbsp;

Pointing that this is "not only a naked violation of the 1988 UN Security Council Sanctions Regime but also leads to further erosion of trust and confidence towards establishing a collaborative relationship with Pakistan to end the war in our country."&nbsp;

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I must express my regret that Pakistan's request for participation in the UN Security Council meeting today was not accepted. This is most unfortunate, since Pakistan is a neighboring country of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>, &amp; has direct stakes in Afghanistan's peace &amp; stability <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNPressBriefing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNPressBriefing</a> <a href="https://t.co/Vh5zkvvRL0">pic.twitter.com/Vh5zkvvRL0</a>
— Pakistan Permanent Representative to UN (@PakistanPR_UN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PakistanPR_UN/status/1423783941757149186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Pakistani foreign ministry in a long statement said, "Afghanistan's representative propagated disinformation and leveled baseless allegations against Pakistan with a view to mislead the international community. Pakistan categorically rejects these accusations."&nbsp;

Many won't buy Islamabad's argument. Afghanistan&nbsp;government&nbsp;at the Friday meet highlighted, how "graphic reports and videos of Taliban fighters congregating close to the Durand Line to enter Afghanistan, fund-raising events, transfer of dead bodies for mass burial, and treatment of injured Taliban in Pakistani hospitals are emerging and are widely available."&nbsp;

Last month at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit, Afghanistan&nbsp;President Ashraf Ghani had&nbsp;publicly&nbsp;slammed Pakistani PM Imran Khan for his country's support to the group and terror elements that are causing mayhem in his country. During a bilateral meet between Ghani and Khan in Tashkent, the latter had urged that Islamabad must help in removing and dismantling of the Taliban’s sanctuary and supply line.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Taliban has launched an offensive in 31 of the 34 provinces of Afghanistan and has got the support of more than 10,000 foreign terrorists fighters crossing over from Pakistan. These foreign&nbsp;terrorist&nbsp;fighters are from terror groups representing 20 groups,&nbsp;including Al-Qaeda, Lashkar-e-Taiba.&nbsp;

It is not for the first time Pakistan-based international terror group&nbsp;Lashkar-e-Taiba's&nbsp;name has been mentioned by the Afghanistan&nbsp;government. Recently,&nbsp;in a briefing to foreign envoys based in Kabul, Afghanistan&nbsp;FM Atmar had also mentioned Lashkar's name. The terror group has been responsible for attacks in India. Afghanistan is even willing to provide evidence of Pakistan&nbsp;support to the Taliban to Security Council.&nbsp;

Angry at not being able to speak at the United Nations Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, Pakistan has expressed its "deep regret" that it was not allowed to "present its perspective on the Afghan peace process".

Angry at not being able to speak at the United Nations Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, Pakistan has expressed its "deep regret" that it was not allowed to "present its perspective on the Afghan peace process". Friday saw a session on Afghanistan under India's presidency, days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar requested India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar for such a meet. The UNSC meet comes even as Pakistan has been trying to host Afghan leaders for peace talks, and foreign ministers of regional countries on the situation in Afghanistan. So far, no headway has been made on both the meetings as participants have not agreed to it. During the around one-and-a-half-hour-long session, Afghanistan exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country and how the group continues to enjoy "safe haven" inside Islamabad’s borders. Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M Isaczai, speaking at United Nations Security Council, said, "Taliban continue to enjoy a safe haven in, and supply and logistics line extended to their war machine from Pakistan." Pointing that this is "not only a naked violation of the 1988 UN Security Council Sanctions Regime but also leads to further erosion of trust and confidence towards establishing a collaborative relationship with Pakistan to end the war in our country." I must express my regret that Pakistan's request for participation in the UN Security Council meeting today was not accepted. This is most unfortunate, since Pakistan is a neighboring country of #Afghanistan, & has direct stakes in Afghanistan's peace & stability #UNPressBriefing pic.twitter.com/Vh5zkvvRL0 — Pakistan Permanent Representative to UN (@PakistanPR_UN) August 6, 2021 × The Pakistani foreign ministry in a long statement said, "Afghanistan's representative propagated disinformation and leveled baseless allegations against Pakistan with a view to mislead the international community. Pakistan categorically rejects these accusations." Many won't buy Islamabad's argument. Afghanistan government at the Friday meet highlighted, how "graphic reports and videos of Taliban fighters congregating close to the Durand Line to enter Afghanistan, fund-raising events, transfer of dead bodies for mass burial, and treatment of injured Taliban in Pakistani hospitals are emerging and are widely available." Last month at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani had publicly slammed Pakistani PM Imran Khan for his country's support to the group and terror elements that are causing mayhem in his country. During a bilateral meet between Ghani and Khan in Tashkent, the latter had urged that Islamabad must help in removing and dismantling of the Taliban’s sanctuary and supply line. Taliban has launched an offensive in 31 of the 34 provinces of Afghanistan and has got the support of more than 10,000 foreign terrorists fighters crossing over from Pakistan. These foreign terrorist fighters are from terror groups representing 20 groups, including Al-Qaeda, Lashkar-e-Taiba. It is not for the first time Pakistan-based international terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba's name has been mentioned by the Afghanistan government. Recently, in a briefing to foreign envoys based in Kabul, Afghanistan FM Atmar had also mentioned Lashkar's name. The terror group has been responsible for attacks in India. Afghanistan is even willing to provide evidence of Pakistan support to the Taliban to Security Council.

Pakistan miffed by UNSC meet over Afghanistan; Rants against Kabul 

Amid strong calls for peace and political settlement. Afghanistan continues to crumble under a Taliban onslaught. In the latest, the Taliban has captured two provincial capitals in two days.

Afghanistan: Taliban captures two provincial capitals

Britain&nbsp;has warned all UK&nbsp;nationals&nbsp;in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;to&nbsp;leave&nbsp;the country&nbsp;immediately&nbsp;due to the "worsening security situation" as fighting intensifies.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on Friday updated its website to advise against all travel to&nbsp;Afghanistan.

"All British&nbsp;nationals&nbsp;in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;are advised to&nbsp;leave&nbsp;now by commercial means. If you are still in&nbsp;Afghanistan, you are advised to&nbsp;leave&nbsp;now by commercial means because of the worsening security situation," it said.

The foreign office warned Britons not to rely on it for emergency evacuation, saying the assistance it could provide was "extremely limited".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-search-of-covid-19-origin-us-intel-agencies-scour-massive-genetic-data-from-wuhan-lab-403569">Also read |&nbsp;In search of COVID-19 origin, US intel agencies scour massive genetic data from Wuhan lab</a>

The warning comes after the Taliban launched a major offensive to coincide with the withdrawal of US-led foreign forces after nearly two decades of conflict.

"Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in&nbsp;Afghanistan. Specific methods of attack are evolving and increasing in sophistication," the foreign office said.

The Taliban now control vast swathes of rural&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;and are challenging government forces in several cities, including Herat, near the western border with Iran, and Lashkar Gah and Kandahar in the south.

On Friday, the Islamist militants captured their first provincial capital since stepping up their offensive in May.

Zaranj, the capital of the southwest province of Nimroz, fell "without a fight", deputy provincial governor Roh Gul Khairzad told AFP.

Britain has warned all UK nationals in Afghanistan to leave the country immediately due to the "worsening security situation" as fighting intensifies. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on Friday updated its website to advise against all travel to Afghanistan.

Britain has warned all UK nationals in Afghanistan to leave the country immediately due to the "worsening security situation" as fighting intensifies. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on Friday updated its website to advise against all travel to Afghanistan. "All British nationals in Afghanistan are advised to leave now by commercial means. If you are still in Afghanistan, you are advised to leave now by commercial means because of the worsening security situation," it said. The foreign office warned Britons not to rely on it for emergency evacuation, saying the assistance it could provide was "extremely limited". Also read | In search of COVID-19 origin, US intel agencies scour massive genetic data from Wuhan lab The warning comes after the Taliban launched a major offensive to coincide with the withdrawal of US-led foreign forces after nearly two decades of conflict. "Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Afghanistan. Specific methods of attack are evolving and increasing in sophistication," the foreign office said. The Taliban now control vast swathes of rural Afghanistan and are challenging government forces in several cities, including Herat, near the western border with Iran, and Lashkar Gah and Kandahar in the south. On Friday, the Islamist militants captured their first provincial capital since stepping up their offensive in May. Zaranj, the capital of the southwest province of Nimroz, fell "without a fight", deputy provincial governor Roh Gul Khairzad told AFP.

Britain tells nationals to leave Afghanistan immediately

The Pakistani nationals affiliated with al Qaeda were killed in airstrikes on the outskirts of Lashkargah city in Helmand province, according to Afghanistan’s defence ministry.

The Afghan defence ministry on Saturday said that thirty Pakistani citizens were among the 112 Taliban terrorists killed in airstrikes in Helmand province.

All 30 Pakistani nationals were members of terrorist Islamist multi-national organization al-Qaeda.

“112 #Taliban terrorists including 30 #Pakistani affiliated to Al-Qaeda terrorist network for the Indian subcontinent, were killed and 31 others wounded in #airstrikes conducted by #AAF at the outskirts of #Lashkargah city, #Helmand provincial centre, yesterday,” the Afghan ministry of defence tweeted.

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112 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> terrorists including 30 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistani</a> affiliated to Al-Qaeda terrorist network for indian subcontinent, were killed and 31 others wounded in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/airstrikes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#airstrikes</a> conducted by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAF</a> at the outskirts of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lashkargah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lashkargah</a> city, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Helmand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Helmand</a> provincial center, yesterday. <a href="https://t.co/zEOmhHoZZI">pic.twitter.com/zEOmhHoZZI</a>
— Ministry of Defense, Afghanistan (@MoDAfghanistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoDAfghanistan/status/1423937201985961986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of harbouring terrorists on its soil and assisting the Taliban's onslaught against Afghan government forces on several occasions.

The airstrikes came a day after the Afghan Ambassador to the United Nations Ghulam Isaczai stated that Afghanistan is willing to give substantial proof to the UN Security Council in support of its assertion that Pakistan is maintaining a Taliban supply chain.

"Should members of the Security Council want that evidence, we are ready to provide them," Ghulam said. He added that the Afghan government has been in constant contact with the Pakistani government about the matter and has provided Islamabad with the evidence.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Pakistani nationals affiliated with al Qaeda were killed in airstrikes on the outskirts of Lashkargah city in Helmand province, according to Afghanistan’s defence ministry.

The Pakistani nationals affiliated with al Qaeda were killed in airstrikes on the outskirts of Lashkargah city in Helmand province, according to Afghanistan’s defence ministry. The Afghan defence ministry on Saturday said that thirty Pakistani citizens were among the 112 Taliban terrorists killed in airstrikes in Helmand province. All 30 Pakistani nationals were members of terrorist Islamist multi-national organization al-Qaeda. “112 #Taliban terrorists including 30 #Pakistani affiliated to Al-Qaeda terrorist network for the Indian subcontinent, were killed and 31 others wounded in #airstrikes conducted by #AAF at the outskirts of #Lashkargah city, #Helmand provincial centre, yesterday,” the Afghan ministry of defence tweeted. 112 #Taliban terrorists including 30 #Pakistani affiliated to Al-Qaeda terrorist network for indian subcontinent, were killed and 31 others wounded in #airstrikes conducted by #AAF at the outskirts of #Lashkargah city, #Helmand provincial center, yesterday. pic.twitter.com/zEOmhHoZZI — Ministry of Defense, Afghanistan (@MoDAfghanistan) August 7, 2021 × Afghanistan has accused Pakistan of harbouring terrorists on its soil and assisting the Taliban's onslaught against Afghan government forces on several occasions. The airstrikes came a day after the Afghan Ambassador to the United Nations Ghulam Isaczai stated that Afghanistan is willing to give substantial proof to the UN Security Council in support of its assertion that Pakistan is maintaining a Taliban supply chain. "Should members of the Security Council want that evidence, we are ready to provide them," Ghulam said. He added that the Afghan government has been in constant contact with the Pakistani government about the matter and has provided Islamabad with the evidence. (With inputs from agencies)

30 Pakistani terrorists among 112 Taliban killed in airstrikes in Helmand: Afghan govt

In Afghanistan's Paktia, The Taliban dislodged the Sikh religious flag at a historic shrine that was visited by the Guru Nanak. As the Taliban's offensive escalates, the terror group is sending a message to the Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan.

Gravitas: The Taliban is targeting Sikhs and Hindus in Afghanistan

Before the 1990s, Afghanistan was a cultural melting pot. But when the Taliban captured power, they hunted and killed minorities and destroyed their cultural artefacts.

Gravitas: How the Taliban erased Afghan minorities

In a tweet, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar announced that he is meeting Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani in New Delhi.&nbsp;

During the meeting,&nbsp;the Minister shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan with the envoy. He also raised concerns of the region that he came to know during recent interactions.&nbsp;

“Rapid deterioration of the security situation in Afghanistan is a serious matter. A peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected,” said the minister on the micro blogging site. &nbsp;

Jaishankar also said, “Pleased to receive Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani.” &nbsp;

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Pleased to receive Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani. 
 
Shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan. Also the concerns of the region that I heard during recent interactions. <a href="https://t.co/D6yA7EB4JL">pic.twitter.com/D6yA7EB4JL</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1423910550115819524?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Mohammad Haneef Atmar, the Afghan foreign minister, had spoken to his Indian counterpart Dr S Jaishankar about holding an emergency session of the UN Security Council to address the Taliban's brutality and crimes across Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India is the President of the United Nations Security Council for August and decides upon the work of the top United Nations body.&nbsp;

An Afghan government readout said Afghan FM called Dr S Jaishankar to "discuss convening an emergency UN Security Council Session on Afghanistan" and that the "UN &amp; international community must play a greater role in stopping the unfolding tragedy in Afghanistan due to Taliban violence &amp; atrocities. Appreciate the lead role of India as the current UNSC President."&nbsp;

In a tweet, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar announced that he is meeting Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani in New Delhi. During the meeting, the Minister shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan with the envoy.

In a tweet, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar announced that he is meeting Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani in New Delhi. During the meeting, the Minister shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan with the envoy. He also raised concerns of the region that he came to know during recent interactions. “Rapid deterioration of the security situation in Afghanistan is a serious matter. A peaceful and stable Afghanistan requires that the rights and interests of all sections of society are promoted and protected,” said the minister on the micro blogging site. Jaishankar also said, “Pleased to receive Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani.” Pleased to receive Qatar Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani. Shared the Indian perspective on recent developments in Afghanistan. Also the concerns of the region that I heard during recent interactions. pic.twitter.com/D6yA7EB4JL — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 7, 2021 × Earlier, Mohammad Haneef Atmar, the Afghan foreign minister, had spoken to his Indian counterpart Dr S Jaishankar about holding an emergency session of the UN Security Council to address the Taliban's brutality and crimes across Afghanistan. India is the President of the United Nations Security Council for August and decides upon the work of the top United Nations body. An Afghan government readout said Afghan FM called Dr S Jaishankar to "discuss convening an emergency UN Security Council Session on Afghanistan" and that the "UN & international community must play a greater role in stopping the unfolding tragedy in Afghanistan due to Taliban violence & atrocities. Appreciate the lead role of India as the current UNSC President."

Jaishankar meets Qatar special envoy, discusses Afghan security situation 

Afghanistan on Friday exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country by saying how the group continues to enjoy 'safe haven'. Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M Isaczai, speaking at United Nations Security Council, said, "Taliban continue to enjoy a safe haven in and supply and logistics line extended to their war machine from Pakistan."&nbsp;

He was speaking at the session of UNSC organised under India's presidency of the top UN body. The session was organised days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar had called India's external Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar.&nbsp;

The Afghan envoy Isaczai highlighted, how "graphic reports and videos of Taliban fighters congregating close to the Durand Line to enter Afghanistan, fund-raising events, transfer of dead bodies for mass burial, and treatment of injured Taliban in Pakistani hospitals are emerging and are widely available."&nbsp;

Pointing that this is "not only a naked violation of the 1988 UN Security Council Sanctions Regime but also leads to further erosion of trust and confidence towards establishing a collaborative relationship with Pakistan to end the war in our country." &nbsp;

Last month at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had publically slammed Pakistani PM Imran Khan for his country's support to the group and terror elements that are causing mayhem in his country. During a bilateral meet between Ghani and Khan in Tashkent, the latter had urged that Islamabad must help in removing and dismantling of the Taliban’s sanctuary and supply line. Kabul also called for the establishment of a joint monitoring and verification mechanism to make the fight against terrorism effective and credible.&nbsp;

Giving details of the Taliban offensive in 31 of the 34 provinces of Afghanistan, the Afghan envoy said, "these attacks have been launched with the direct support of more than 10,000 foreign terrorists fighters representing 20 groups including al-Qaeda, Lashkar-e-Taiba, TTP, IMU, ETIM, and ISIL, who entered our country and are fighting alongside the Taliban against our population and security forces."&nbsp;

It is not for the first time Pakistan-based international terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba's name has been mentioned by the Afghan government. Recently in a briefing to foreign envoys based in Kabul, Afghan FM Atmar had also mentioned Lashkar's name. The terror group has been responsible for attacks in India. &nbsp;

Later at the media stakeout, in response to the WION question that will the Afghan government provide evidence of Pak support to the Taliban, the Afghan envoy said, "Our government is constantly in touch. We have been providing evidence to the Pakistani Government. Should the security council want the evidence, we are ready to provide it."&nbsp;

At the same media stakeout, he thanked India's under whose presidency the council met very urgently on our request and pen holders, Estonia and Norway.&nbsp;

Afghanistan on Friday exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country by saying how the group continues to enjoy 'safe haven'. Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M Isaczai, speaking at United Nations Security Council, said, "Taliban continue to enjoy a safe haven in and supply and logistics line extended to their war machine from Pakistan.

Afghanistan on Friday exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country by saying how the group continues to enjoy 'safe haven'. Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M Isaczai, speaking at United Nations Security Council, said, "Taliban continue to enjoy a safe haven in and supply and logistics line extended to their war machine from Pakistan." He was speaking at the session of UNSC organised under India's presidency of the top UN body. The session was organised days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar had called India's external Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar. The Afghan envoy Isaczai highlighted, how "graphic reports and videos of Taliban fighters congregating close to the Durand Line to enter Afghanistan, fund-raising events, transfer of dead bodies for mass burial, and treatment of injured Taliban in Pakistani hospitals are emerging and are widely available." Pointing that this is "not only a naked violation of the 1988 UN Security Council Sanctions Regime but also leads to further erosion of trust and confidence towards establishing a collaborative relationship with Pakistan to end the war in our country." Last month at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had publically slammed Pakistani PM Imran Khan for his country's support to the group and terror elements that are causing mayhem in his country. During a bilateral meet between Ghani and Khan in Tashkent, the latter had urged that Islamabad must help in removing and dismantling of the Taliban’s sanctuary and supply line. Kabul also called for the establishment of a joint monitoring and verification mechanism to make the fight against terrorism effective and credible. Giving details of the Taliban offensive in 31 of the 34 provinces of Afghanistan, the Afghan envoy said, "these attacks have been launched with the direct support of more than 10,000 foreign terrorists fighters representing 20 groups including al-Qaeda, Lashkar-e-Taiba, TTP, IMU, ETIM, and ISIL, who entered our country and are fighting alongside the Taliban against our population and security forces." It is not for the first time Pakistan-based international terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba's name has been mentioned by the Afghan government. Recently in a briefing to foreign envoys based in Kabul, Afghan FM Atmar had also mentioned Lashkar's name. The terror group has been responsible for attacks in India. Later at the media stakeout, in response to the WION question that will the Afghan government provide evidence of Pak support to the Taliban, the Afghan envoy said, "Our government is constantly in touch. We have been providing evidence to the Pakistani Government. Should the security council want the evidence, we are ready to provide it." At the same media stakeout, he thanked India's under whose presidency the council met very urgently on our request and pen holders, Estonia and Norway.

At UNSC, Afghanistan exposes Pakistani support to Taliban's ongoing offensive 

China is playing a very risky game in Afghanistan. It has been trying to strike a deal with the Taliban but now the Afghan Government has warned Beijing against trusting the terror group. Watch this report to know more.

Afghan Envoy Javid Ahmad Qaem warns China on Taliban

The UNSC has condemned the deliberate attacks on civilians in Afghanistan. In a resolution passed on Tuesday, the council also called the July 30 attack on UN compound in Herat "deplorable." The council's statement came a day after a powerful blast hit Kabul near the city’s heavily fortified Green Zone.

UNSC condemns deliberate attacks on civilians in Afghanistan, calls it 'deplorable'

The Taliban on Friday captured their first provincial capital since launching an offensive to coincide with the departure of foreign troops, a major blow to an Afghan government desperately trying to push back the insurgents.

"Zaranj, provincial capital of Nimroz, has fallen to the Taliban," Roh Gul Khairzad, the deputy governor of Nimroz, told AFP.

She said the city -- in southwest Afghanistan near the Iranian border -- had been taken "without a fight", and social media showed clips of insurgents roaming the streets, being cheered by residents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taliban-needs-to-eschew-the-path-of-violence-cut-ties-with-terror-groups-india-403564" hreflang="en">Taliban needs to eschew the path of violence, cut ties with terror groups: India</a>

The veracity of the videos could not immediately be confirmed.

The fall of Zaranj comes the same day the Taliban claimed responsibility for killing the head of the Afghan government's media information department.

The insurgents warned this week they would target senior administration figures in retaliation for increased air strikes.

The assassination on Friday of Dawa Khan Menapal, one of the government's leading voices, followed another bloody day of fighting as the war increasingly spills into Kabul.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-remove-sikh-flag-nishan-sahib-from-historical-gurdwara-in-afghanistans-paktia-403510" hreflang="en">Taliban remove Sikh flag Nishan Sahib from historical Gurdwara in Afghanistan's Paktia</a>

The news from Nimroz also comes as the UN Security Council met in New York to discuss the conflict.

Deborah Lyons, head of the world body's Afghan aid operation, painted a grim picture of the country's deteriorating situation.

"The Security Council must issue an unambiguous statement that attacks against cities must stop now," Lyons said via video-link from Kabul.

'Cowardly act'

In the Afghan capital, officials expressed shock at the fatal shooting of Menapal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/terrorists-assassinated-afghan-govt-media-head-who-was-critical-of-pakistan-taliban-403458" hreflang="en">Terrorists assassinated Afghan govt media head who was critical of Pakistan, Taliban</a>

"Unfortunately, the savage terrorists have committed a cowardly act once again and martyred a patriotic Afghan," said interior ministry spokesman Mirwais Stanikzai.

Menapal was popular in Kabul's tight-knit media community, and known for pillorying the Taliban on social media -- even jokingly at times.&nbsp;

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid sent a message to the media saying Menapal "was killed in a special attack carried out by mujahideen".

The murder comes after the militants warned Wednesday of more attacks targeting Afghan government leaders.&nbsp;

The day before, defence minister Bismillah Mohammadi escaped an assassination attempt in a bomb-and-gun attack.

The Afghan and US militaries have stepped up air strikes in their fight against the insurgents in a string of cities, and the Taliban said Tuesday's Kabul attack was their response.

Fighting in Afghanistan's long-running conflict has intensified since May, when foreign forces began the final stage of a withdrawal due to be completed later this month.

The Taliban already control large portions of the countryside, and are now challenging government forces in several provincial capitals.

'Nothing left'

Government forces continue to hit Taliban positions with air strikes and commando raids, and the defence ministry boasted Friday of eliminating more than 400 insurgents in the past 24 hours.&nbsp;

Both sides frequently exaggerate battlefield casualty figures, making independent verification virtually impossible.&nbsp;

But even as Afghan officials claimed to be hitting the Taliban hard, security forces have yet to flush out the militants from provincial capitals they have already entered -- with hundreds of thousands of civilians forced to flee in recent weeks.

Social media was also filled with videos of the devastating toll the fighting has taken in the southern city of Lashkar Gah -- capital of Helmand province, with posts showing a major market area in flames.&nbsp;

Aid group Action Against Hunger said its offices had been hit by an "aerial bomb" in the city earlier this week, according to a statement released by the organisation on Friday.

"The building was marked from the street and roof as a non-governmental (NGO) organisation, and the office location has been communicated often to the parties involved in the conflict," said the group, adding that no staff had been harmed.

In the key western city of Herat, a steady stream of people were leaving their homes in anticipation of a government assault on positions recently won by the Taliban.

"We completely evacuated," resident Ahmad Zia told AFP. "We have nothing left and we do not know where to go."

The Taliban on Friday captured their first provincial capital since launching an offensive to coincide with the departure of foreign troops, a major blow to an Afghan government desperately trying to push back the insurgents.

The Taliban on Friday captured their first provincial capital since launching an offensive to coincide with the departure of foreign troops, a major blow to an Afghan government desperately trying to push back the insurgents. "Zaranj, provincial capital of Nimroz, has fallen to the Taliban," Roh Gul Khairzad, the deputy governor of Nimroz, told AFP. She said the city -- in southwest Afghanistan near the Iranian border -- had been taken "without a fight", and social media showed clips of insurgents roaming the streets, being cheered by residents. Also read | Taliban needs to eschew the path of violence, cut ties with terror groups: India The veracity of the videos could not immediately be confirmed. The fall of Zaranj comes the same day the Taliban claimed responsibility for killing the head of the Afghan government's media information department. The insurgents warned this week they would target senior administration figures in retaliation for increased air strikes. The assassination on Friday of Dawa Khan Menapal, one of the government's leading voices, followed another bloody day of fighting as the war increasingly spills into Kabul. Also read | Taliban remove Sikh flag Nishan Sahib from historical Gurdwara in Afghanistan's Paktia The news from Nimroz also comes as the UN Security Council met in New York to discuss the conflict. Deborah Lyons, head of the world body's Afghan aid operation, painted a grim picture of the country's deteriorating situation. "The Security Council must issue an unambiguous statement that attacks against cities must stop now," Lyons said via video-link from Kabul. 'Cowardly act' In the Afghan capital, officials expressed shock at the fatal shooting of Menapal. Also read | Terrorists assassinated Afghan govt media head who was critical of Pakistan, Taliban "Unfortunately, the savage terrorists have committed a cowardly act once again and martyred a patriotic Afghan," said interior ministry spokesman Mirwais Stanikzai. Menapal was popular in Kabul's tight-knit media community, and known for pillorying the Taliban on social media -- even jokingly at times. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid sent a message to the media saying Menapal "was killed in a special attack carried out by mujahideen". The murder comes after the militants warned Wednesday of more attacks targeting Afghan government leaders. The day before, defence minister Bismillah Mohammadi escaped an assassination attempt in a bomb-and-gun attack. The Afghan and US militaries have stepped up air strikes in their fight against the insurgents in a string of cities, and the Taliban said Tuesday's Kabul attack was their response. Fighting in Afghanistan's long-running conflict has intensified since May, when foreign forces began the final stage of a withdrawal due to be completed later this month. The Taliban already control large portions of the countryside, and are now challenging government forces in several provincial capitals. 'Nothing left' Government forces continue to hit Taliban positions with air strikes and commando raids, and the defence ministry boasted Friday of eliminating more than 400 insurgents in the past 24 hours. Both sides frequently exaggerate battlefield casualty figures, making independent verification virtually impossible. But even as Afghan officials claimed to be hitting the Taliban hard, security forces have yet to flush out the militants from provincial capitals they have already entered -- with hundreds of thousands of civilians forced to flee in recent weeks. Social media was also filled with videos of the devastating toll the fighting has taken in the southern city of Lashkar Gah -- capital of Helmand province, with posts showing a major market area in flames. Aid group Action Against Hunger said its offices had been hit by an "aerial bomb" in the city earlier this week, according to a statement released by the organisation on Friday. "The building was marked from the street and roof as a non-governmental (NGO) organisation, and the office location has been communicated often to the parties involved in the conflict," said the group, adding that no staff had been harmed. In the key western city of Herat, a steady stream of people were leaving their homes in anticipation of a government assault on positions recently won by the Taliban. "We completely evacuated," resident Ahmad Zia told AFP. "We have nothing left and we do not know where to go."

Taliban capture first Afghan provincial capital in blow to government

Despite heavy army deployment by the Afghan govt, Taliban continues advancing every possible province in Afghanistan. Watch this exclusive ground report from Wardak province.

Afghanistan: Despite army's deployment, Taliban continues to make gains

The Afghan Taliban, who are rapidly gaining momentum in the war-torn nation, have forcibly taken the Nishan Sahib, a Sikh holy flag, from a Gurdwara in eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province.

The Taliban allegedly ordered the custodian of the Gurdwara Thala Sahib in the Chamkani region of Paktia province to remove the flag from the rooftop, according to sources.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Sikhs all across the world are hurt by Taliban removing Nishan Sahib from historical Gurdwara Thala Sahib, which was visited by Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji 
Taliban’s action reflects grave threats to Sikhs’ religious freedom in Afghanistan.<a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/htTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@htTweets</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/republic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@republic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/punjabkesari?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@punjabkesari</a> <a href="https://t.co/WyV40Opyi2">pic.twitter.com/WyV40Opyi2</a>
— Manjinder Singh Sirsa (@mssirsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/mssirsa/status/1423578296126607360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Last year, the Taliban kidnapped Nidan Singh Sachdeva, an Afghan leader of the Hindu and Sikh communities, from the Gurdwara.

Sachdeva was kidnapped on June 22, 2020, in Paktia province, and freed after efforts by the Afghan government and community leaders.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FLASH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FLASH</a> :- The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NishanSahib?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NishanSahib</a> , Sikh religious flag removed by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> Forces from the roof of Gurdwara Thala Sahib , Chamkani , Paktia , <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> : sources <a href="https://t.co/VSxFoLjOhy">pic.twitter.com/VSxFoLjOhy</a>
— Ravinder Singh Robin ਰਵਿੰਦਰ ਸਿੰਘ راویندرسنگھ روبن (@rsrobin1) <a href="https://twitter.com/rsrobin1/status/1423543627720970244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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An ISIS shooter opened fire at the Guru Har Rai Sahib Gurdwara in Shor Bazar, Kabul, in March of that year, killing at least 25 Sikhs.

In Afghanistan, there were around 650 Sikhs in 2020.

Members of the community have written to the Indian Embassy in Kabul, requesting that special planes be dispatched to them.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Afghan Taliban, who are rapidly gaining momentum in the war-torn nation, have forcibly taken the Nishan Sahib, a Sikh holy flag, from a Gurdwara in eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province.

The Afghan Taliban, who are rapidly gaining momentum in the war-torn nation, have forcibly taken the Nishan Sahib, a Sikh holy flag, from a Gurdwara in eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province. The Taliban allegedly ordered the custodian of the Gurdwara Thala Sahib in the Chamkani region of Paktia province to remove the flag from the rooftop, according to sources. Sikhs all across the world are hurt by Taliban removing Nishan Sahib from historical Gurdwara Thala Sahib, which was visited by Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Taliban’s action reflects grave threats to Sikhs’ religious freedom in Afghanistan.@ANI @htTweets @republic @punjabkesari pic.twitter.com/WyV40Opyi2 — Manjinder Singh Sirsa (@mssirsa) August 6, 2021 × Last year, the Taliban kidnapped Nidan Singh Sachdeva, an Afghan leader of the Hindu and Sikh communities, from the Gurdwara. Sachdeva was kidnapped on June 22, 2020, in Paktia province, and freed after efforts by the Afghan government and community leaders. #FLASH :- The #NishanSahib , Sikh religious flag removed by #Taliban Forces from the roof of Gurdwara Thala Sahib , Chamkani , Paktia , #Afghanistan : sources pic.twitter.com/VSxFoLjOhy — Ravinder Singh Robin ਰਵਿੰਦਰ ਸਿੰਘ راویندرسنگھ روبن (@rsrobin1) August 6, 2021 × An ISIS shooter opened fire at the Guru Har Rai Sahib Gurdwara in Shor Bazar, Kabul, in March of that year, killing at least 25 Sikhs. In Afghanistan, there were around 650 Sikhs in 2020. Members of the community have written to the Indian Embassy in Kabul, requesting that special planes be dispatched to them. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban remove Sikh flag Nishan Sahib from historical Gurdwara in Afghanistan's Paktia

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