India has abstained from a vote on the draft United Nations General Assembly resolution on Afghanistan. This is significant as India slowly makes overtures to the Taliban-led regime in Afghanistan. The Indian envoy to the UN opposed punitive measures against Afghanistan. &nbsp;Without mentioning Pakistan directly, India asked for coordinated efforts against terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad and their sponsors. Stressing on its longstanding ties with Afghanistan, India expressed commitment to meeting the war-torn country's humanitarian and developmental needs.<h2>India opposes punishment-based approach to Afghanistan</h2>At the vote on Monday (July 7), India's &nbsp;Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, &nbsp;said a “business as usual” approach will not provide the desired outcomes for the Afghan people.&nbsp; &nbsp;“An approach focused only on punitive measures, in our view, is unlikely to succeed," Harish said. "The United Nations and the broader international community have adopted more balanced and nuanced approaches in other post-conflict contexts.”<h2>India hints at Pakistan-based terrorism at UN vote on Afghanistan</h2>While stressing that India was ‘closely monitoring the security situation in Afghanistan, Harish sought coordinated international efforts to ensure that entities like Al Qaeda, ISIL, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammed, “along with their regional sponsors who facilitate their operations,” no longer exploit Afghan territory for terrorism. This was an indirect reference to Pakistan.<h2>India highlights its humanitarian aid for Afghanistan</h2>Harish said India's immediate priorities in Afghanistan were humanitarian assistance and capacity building', while sharing that India had supported more than &nbsp;500 development projects in the country. India also provided humanitarian aid like wheat, medicines, vaccines and pesticides, Harish noted. “We have been working closely with UN agencies to support the Afghan people in critical areas such as health, food security, education and sports.”&nbsp; He also highlighted India's drug rehabilitation programmes in Afghanistan in partnership with the UNODC, the UN anti-narcotics agency.The Indian envoy also noted how India continues to provide scholarships for Afghans, which have supported 2,000 students since 2023, including 600 girls and women.<h2>What did the UN resolution on Afghanistan say?</h2>Introduced by Germany, the UNGA draft resolution on ‘The situation in Afghanistan’ was adopted with 116 votes in favour; two against. India was among 12 abstentions in the vote on the resolution, which recognised Afghanistan’s role as a “land bridge in Asia” critical for regional economic development and stability.&nbsp; The resolution noted the importance of regional cooperation and contributions from neighbouring countries such as India in supporting Afghan education and development.&nbsp; It asked the Taliban to establish cooperation mechanisms with interested&nbsp;

The Indian envoy to the UN opposed punitive measures against Afghanistan.  Stressing on its longstanding ties with Afghanistan, India expressed commitment to meeting the war-torn country's humanitarian and developmental needs.

India has abstained from a vote on the draft United Nations General Assembly resolution on Afghanistan. This is significant as India slowly makes overtures to the Taliban-led regime in Afghanistan. The Indian envoy to the UN opposed punitive measures against Afghanistan. Without mentioning Pakistan directly, India asked for coordinated efforts against terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad and their sponsors. Stressing on its longstanding ties with Afghanistan, India expressed commitment to meeting the war-torn country's humanitarian and developmental needs. India opposes punishment-based approach to Afghanistan At the vote on Monday (July 7), India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, said a “business as usual” approach will not provide the desired outcomes for the Afghan people. “An approach focused only on punitive measures, in our view, is unlikely to succeed," Harish said. "The United Nations and the broader international community have adopted more balanced and nuanced approaches in other post-conflict contexts.” India hints at Pakistan-based terrorism at UN vote on Afghanistan While stressing that India was ‘closely monitoring the security situation in Afghanistan, Harish sought coordinated international efforts to ensure that entities like Al Qaeda, ISIL, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammed, “along with their regional sponsors who facilitate their operations,” no longer exploit Afghan territory for terrorism. This was an indirect reference to Pakistan. India highlights its humanitarian aid for Afghanistan Harish said India's immediate priorities in Afghanistan were humanitarian assistance and capacity building', while sharing that India had supported more than 500 development projects in the country. India also provided humanitarian aid like wheat, medicines, vaccines and pesticides, Harish noted. “We have been working closely with UN agencies to support the Afghan people in critical areas such as health, food security, education and sports.” He also highlighted India's drug rehabilitation programmes in Afghanistan in partnership with the UNODC, the UN anti-narcotics agency. The Indian envoy also noted how India continues to provide scholarships for Afghans, which have supported 2,000 students since 2023, including 600 girls and women. What did the UN resolution on Afghanistan say? Introduced by Germany, the UNGA draft resolution on ‘The situation in Afghanistan’ was adopted with 116 votes in favour; two against. India was among 12 abstentions in the vote on the resolution, which recognised Afghanistan’s role as a “land bridge in Asia” critical for regional economic development and stability. The resolution noted the importance of regional cooperation and contributions from neighbouring countries such as India in supporting Afghan education and development. It asked the Taliban to establish cooperation mechanisms with interested

The Indian envoy to the UN opposed punitive measures against Afghanistan. &nbsp;Stressing on its longstanding ties with Afghanistan, India expressed commitment to meeting the war-torn country's humanitarian and developmental needs.

In India's abstention from UN resolution vote on Afghanistan, a hint at Pakistan-sponsored terrorism

Kabul could become the first modern city to run out of water in the next five years, with groundwater level dropping significantly due to over-extraction and the effects of climate change. According to a report by Mercy Corps, Kabul’s aquifer levels have plummeted by 82 – 98 feet in the last 10 years. The extraction level of water has exceeded natural reserves by a staggering 44 million cubic metres a year. The report said that according to UNICEF, nearly half of Kabul's underground bore wells are already dry. The reports project that if the current trend is followed, then Kabul will be dry by 2030. It also discloses that groundwater is believed to be unsafe, with high levels of sewage, arsenic and salinity.&nbsp;<h2>Why is Kabul in a water crisis?</h2>Firstly, a decade-long Soviet War in Afghanistan and a two-decade-long US intervention in Kabul have left the country in disarray. It forced people to move to Kabul as governance in the rest of the country suffered. Years of war have left the country in a poorly governed state. Weak governance and sanctions have compounded the problem; much of the aid that was allotted to the nation was used for security reasons. Since the Taliban's return to power, there have been efforts to manage the water crisis, but Western sanctions have made it difficult for the authorities.&nbsp;“In well-managed cities, such impacts are mitigated through robust water governance and infrastructure. Kabul lacks such capacity, and the current authorities are unable to address the problem without external support,” said Aseem Mayar, a former lecturer at Kabul Polytechnic University, as quoted by Al Jazeera.“The three rivers — Kabul river, Paghman river and Logar river—that replenish Kabul’s groundwater rely heavily on snow and glacier meltwater from the Hindu Kush mountains,” mentioned the report. ”However, between October 2023 to January 2024, Afghanistan only received only 45 to 60 percent of the average precipitation during the peak winter season compared to previous years."The prediction is based on the increasing difference between the groundwater recharge and the annual water extraction. “It reflects a worst-case scenario that could materialise by 2030 if no effective interventions are made,” &nbsp;said &nbsp;Mayar. Even though it is impossible to predict the exact date of the running out of water. But the crisis is dire.The majority of the Afghan population relies on borewells. According to the National Statistics Directorate, there are approximately 310,000 drilled wells and 120,000 unregulated bore wells in Kabul. According to a UN report of 23, around 49 per cent of the bore wells in Kabul are dry, and the rest of them are working at 60 per cent efficiency. As water becomes less people who can afford it, they dig deeper. Thus making less water available for poorer people. Water crisis exposes the divide between the city’s rich and poor.&nbsp;<h2>How can this crisis be addressed?</h2>"Artificial groundwater recharge and the development of basic water infrastructure around the city are urgently needed. Once these foundations are in place, a citywide water supply network can gradually be developed,” said Mayar.“Sanctions restrict Afghanistan’s access to essential resources, technology, and funding needed for water infrastructure development and maintenance,” said Mayar.The Afghan government needs to renew ageing water pipes t bring in water to the city from nearby rivers. They also need to recharge underground aquifers with the construction of check dams and reservoirs.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kabul is at a dire water crisis, with the growing gap between groundwater recharge and the annual water extraction. A report by Mercy Corps predicts that Kabul will run out of water by 2030. 

Kabul could become the first modern city to run out of water in the next five years, with groundwater level dropping significantly due to over-extraction and the effects of climate change. According to a report by Mercy Corps, Kabul’s aquifer levels have plummeted by 82 – 98 feet in the last 10 years. The extraction level of water has exceeded natural reserves by a staggering 44 million cubic metres a year. The report said that according to UNICEF, nearly half of Kabul's underground bore wells are already dry. The reports project that if the current trend is followed, then Kabul will be dry by 2030. It also discloses that groundwater is believed to be unsafe, with high levels of sewage, arsenic and salinity. Why is Kabul in a water crisis? Firstly, a decade-long Soviet War in Afghanistan and a two-decade-long US intervention in Kabul have left the country in disarray. It forced people to move to Kabul as governance in the rest of the country suffered. Years of war have left the country in a poorly governed state. Weak governance and sanctions have compounded the problem; much of the aid that was allotted to the nation was used for security reasons. Since the Taliban's return to power, there have been efforts to manage the water crisis, but Western sanctions have made it difficult for the authorities. “In well-managed cities, such impacts are mitigated through robust water governance and infrastructure. Kabul lacks such capacity, and the current authorities are unable to address the problem without external support,” said Aseem Mayar, a former lecturer at Kabul Polytechnic University, as quoted by Al Jazeera. “The three rivers — Kabul river, Paghman river and Logar river—that replenish Kabul’s groundwater rely heavily on snow and glacier meltwater from the Hindu Kush mountains,” mentioned the report. ”However, between October 2023 to January 2024, Afghanistan only received only 45 to 60 percent of the average precipitation during the peak winter season compared to previous years." The prediction is based on the increasing difference between the groundwater recharge and the annual water extraction. “It reflects a worst-case scenario that could materialise by 2030 if no effective interventions are made,” said Mayar. Even though it is impossible to predict the exact date of the running out of water. But the crisis is dire. The majority of the Afghan population relies on borewells. According to the National Statistics Directorate, there are approximately 310,000 drilled wells and 120,000 unregulated bore wells in Kabul. According to a UN report of 23, around 49 per cent of the bore wells in Kabul are dry, and the rest of them are working at 60 per cent efficiency. As water becomes less people who can afford it, they dig deeper. Thus making less water available for poorer people. Water crisis exposes the divide between the city’s rich and poor. How can this crisis be addressed? "Artificial groundwater recharge and the development of basic water infrastructure around the city are urgently needed. Once these foundations are in place, a citywide water supply network can gradually be developed,” said Mayar. “Sanctions restrict Afghanistan’s access to essential resources, technology, and funding needed for water infrastructure development and maintenance,” said Mayar. The Afghan government needs to renew ageing water pipes t bring in water to the city from nearby rivers. They also need to recharge underground aquifers with the construction of check dams and reservoirs.

Kabul is at a dire water crisis, with the growing gap between groundwater recharge and the annual water extraction. A report by Mercy Corps predicts that Kabul will run out of water by 2030.&nbsp;

Kabul to become first big city without water by 2030, amid conflict, climate change and government failure

Amid India's continued humanitarian assistance to Afghans, India last week organised a five-day "Jaipur Foot" camp was organised in Kabul. The camp was organised by Jaipur-based NGO Shree Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) which is known for providing artificial limbs, calipers and other assistive devices. India's Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement, said that the "camp saw an enthusiastic response".&nbsp;Hafiz Umari, an Afghan national, took to social media and said, "Due to the efforts of Minister Dr. Sahib Ahrar and other officials, Indian doctors have fitted artificial limbs for 100 disabled Afghan citizens in Kabul".&nbsp;&nbsp;But he added, "Many more individuals in Afghanistan remain in need of prosthetics, and it seems this program is nearing its conclusion. We call on the authorities to engage with India to prolong this initiative, so that more disabled Afghans who still lack proper artificial limbs can benefit from this important support".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%85%D9%87%D9%85%D9%87?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#مهمه</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%BA%D9%88%DA%9A%D8%AA%D9%86%D9%87?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#غوښتنه</a> د هند او افغانستان تعلقات دې دائمي او پراخ شي!!! د ځوان وزیر ډاکتر صاحب احرار او نورو مسؤلینو په هڅو د هند هېواد د ډاکترانو له لوري کابل کې 100 تنه معلولو هېوادواللو ته مصنوعي پښې جوړي شوې. دا چې یاده پروسه لنډمهاله وه او داسې بریښي چې پای ته رسېدلې ده. زموږ زیات… <a href="https://t.co/Grkvokh4LP">pic.twitter.com/Grkvokh4LP</a>&mdash; Hafiz Umari (@HafizUmari313) <a href="https://twitter.com/HafizUmari313/status/1939392009413754967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This is not the first such camp organised by India in partnership with BMVSS. In the past, both sides in cooperation organised camps in countries like Malawi, Iraq, Nepal, Egypt, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Syria etc. In October 2018, the ‘India for Humanity’ initiative was launched to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and under this NGO Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti popularly known as "Jaipur Foot" provded year-long series of artificial limb fitment camps in a number of countries.&nbsp;India has been reaching out to Afghanistan, especially with humanitarian support. India has so far dispatched several shipments consisting of 50,000 MTs of wheat, 300 tons of medicines, 27 tons of earthquake relief aid, 40,000 litres of pesticides, 100 million polio doses, 1.5 million doses of COVID Vaccine, 11,000 units of hygiene kits for the drug de-addiction programme, 500 units of winter clothing and 1.2 tons of stationery kits, etc. In response to the request from the Afghan side, India has agreed to provide further material support in the first instance to the health sector and for the rehabilitation of refugees.

Amid India's continued humanitarian assistance to Afghans, India last week organised a five-day "Jaipur Foot" camp was organised in Kabul. 

Amid India's continued humanitarian assistance to Afghans, India last week organised a five-day "Jaipur Foot" camp was organised in Kabul. The camp was organised by Jaipur-based NGO Shree Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) which is known for providing artificial limbs, calipers and other assistive devices. India's Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement, said that the "camp saw an enthusiastic response". Hafiz Umari, an Afghan national, took to social media and said, "Due to the efforts of Minister Dr. Sahib Ahrar and other officials, Indian doctors have fitted artificial limbs for 100 disabled Afghan citizens in Kabul". But he added, "Many more individuals in Afghanistan remain in need of prosthetics, and it seems this program is nearing its conclusion. We call on the authorities to engage with India to prolong this initiative, so that more disabled Afghans who still lack proper artificial limbs can benefit from this important support".

Amid India's continued humanitarian assistance to Afghans, India last week organised a five-day "Jaipur Foot" camp was organised in Kabul.&nbsp;

India provides prosthetic limbs to Afghans

The Afghan capital, Kabul, is close to becoming the first modern city to get completely run out of water. A report by the NGO Mercy Corps warned that water levels in Afghanistan’s largest city have dropped by up to 30 metres over the past decade. This came as a result of rapid urbanisation and climate breakdown, the report claimed.&nbsp;Also, 50 per cent of Kabul's boreholes – the primary source of drinking water for residents - have dried out. &nbsp;Water extraction currently exceeds the natural recharge rate by 44m cubic metres each year.&nbsp;If the situation remains unresolved, all of Kabul’s aquifers will run dry as early as 2030, posing an existential threat to the city’s seven million inhabitants.&nbsp;Dayne Curry, Afghanistan country director for Mercy Corps said, “There should be a committed effort to document this better and to draw international attention to the need to address the crisis.”&nbsp;“No water means people leave their communities, so for the international community to not address the water needs of Afghanistan will only result in more migration and more hardship for the Afghan people,” he added.&nbsp;The report also said Kabul is likely to go through water contamination challenges. It said that Kabul’s 80 per cent groundwater is deemed unsafe.&nbsp;As per The Guardian, up to 30 per cent income of Kabul residents goes to water. Some are even in debt due to spending on water.&nbsp;“Afghanistan is facing a lot of problems, but this water scarcity is one of the hardest,” Nazifa, a teacher living in the Khair Khana neighbourhood of Kabul, told the British newspaper. “Every household is facing difficulty, especially those with low income. Adequate, good quality, well water just doesn’t exist,” she added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kabul to run out of water by 2030? Here is all you need to know about latest warning 


The Afghan capital, Kabul, is close to becoming the first modern city to get completely run out of water. A report by the NGO Mercy Corps warned that water levels in Afghanistan’s largest city have dropped by up to 30 metres over the past decade. This came as a result of rapid urbanisation and climate breakdown, the report claimed. Also, 50 per cent of Kabul's boreholes – the primary source of drinking water for residents - have dried out. Water extraction currently exceeds the natural recharge rate by 44m cubic metres each year. If the situation remains unresolved, all of Kabul’s aquifers will run dry as early as 2030, posing an existential threat to the city’s seven million inhabitants. Dayne Curry, Afghanistan country director for Mercy Corps said, “There should be a committed effort to document this better and to draw international attention to the need to address the crisis.” “No water means people leave their communities, so for the international community to not address the water needs of Afghanistan will only result in more migration and more hardship for the Afghan people,” he added. The report also said Kabul is likely to go through water contamination challenges. It said that Kabul’s 80 per cent groundwater is deemed unsafe. As per The Guardian, up to 30 per cent income of Kabul residents goes to water. Some are even in debt due to spending on water. “Afghanistan is facing a lot of problems, but this water scarcity is one of the hardest,” Nazifa, a teacher living in the Khair Khana neighbourhood of Kabul, told the British newspaper. “Every household is facing difficulty, especially those with low income. Adequate, good quality, well water just doesn’t exist,” she added.

Kabul is close to becoming the first modern city to get completely run out of water. A report by the NGO Mercy Corps warned that water levels in Afghanistan’s largest city have dropped by up to 30 metres over the past decade.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kabul to run out of water by 2030? Here’s all you need to know about latest warning

The Donald Trump administration has launched a Pentagon investigation into the 2021 withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.In a memo, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people".Pentagon chief Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, in his memo, said that the review would ensure that accountability for the troop withdrawal was met.“On August 26, 2021, President Biden's administration led a chaotic withdrawal of U.S. military and embassy officials from Afghanistan that led to the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and 170 civilians in a suicide bombing at the Kabul International Airport's Abbey Gate.”"I have concluded that we need to conduct a comprehensive review to ensure that accountability for this event is met and that the complete picture is provided to the American people," stated the memo.What happened during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan? Here's the timeline.<h3>11 September 2001</h3>The US is devastated by a massive terrorist strike. Four commercial airliners were hijacked by Al-Qaeda operatives, who then crashed three of them into the World Trade Centre in New York. The fourth one crashed into a field in Pennsylvania thanks to brave passengers.Around three thousand people died in the terror attack.In the aftermath, US President George W. Bush vowed to "win the war against terrorism".Nineteen hijackers were involved in the attack, none of them Afghan citizens.The Bush government zeroed in on Al-Qaeda and its leader, Osama bin Laden, who was located in Afghanistan. The US called on the Taliban regime to "deliver to the United States authorities all the leaders of al-Qaeda who hide in your land" or share in their fate.<h3>18 September 2001</h3>President George Bush signed into law a joint resolution authorising the use of force against the terrorists involved in the 9/11 attack.<h3>7 October 2001</h3>With British support, the US launched "Operation Enduring Freedom" and began a bombing campaign against Taliban forces. In the early phase, the US mainly carried out air strikes on al-Qaeda and Taliban forces. 12 days later, the first wave of conventional ground forces arrives.<h3>November 2001</h3>In a series of losses, the Taliban regime starts to unravel rapidly, with their strongholds crumbling.<h3>14 November 2001</h3>The UN Security Council (UNSC) passes Resolution 1378, calling for a "central role" for the United Nations in establishing a transitional administration and inviting member states to send peacekeeping forces to promote stability and aid delivery.<h3>December 2001</h3>Following the fall of Kabul in November 2001, with UN backing, major Afghan factions signed the Bonn Agreement and installed Hamid Karzai as the interim administration head and created an international peacekeeping force to maintain security in Kabul. Following this, UNSC Resolution 1386 on December 20 establishes the International Security Assistance Force, or ISAF.<h3>December 2001</h3>Taliban collapse and the fall can be tied to the surrender of Kandahar.<h3>March 2002</h3>The US launches its first major ground assault, called Operation Anaconda, against 800 al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters in the Shah-i-Kot Valley south of the city of Gardez (Paktia Province).<h3>April 2002</h3>President Bush calls for the reconstruction of Afghanistan.Speaking at the Virginia Military Institute, he said, “By helping to build an Afghanistan that is free from this evil and is a better place in which to live, we are working in the best traditions of George Marshall.”Between 2001 and 2009, the US Congress granted $38 billion in humanitarian and reconstruction assistance.<h3>1 May 2011</h3>Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was killed in Pakistan by US forces. Following this, the then-President Barack Obama prepared to announce the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan but was met with arguments for sustained military engagement.<h3>22 June 2011</h3>President Obama outlines a plan to withdraw thirty-three thousand troops by the summer of 2012—the surge troops sent in December 2009—including ten thousand by the end of 2011.<h3>November 2011</h3>The US marks ten years of war in Afghanistan. The war toll includes casualties of 1,800 US troop members and $444 billion in spending.<h3>June 2013</h3>Following peace talks, Afghan forces take the lead in security responsibility nationwide. The US-led coalition, meanwhile, switches to military training and special operations-driven counterterrorism. Talks continued in Doha, Qatar, between the Taliban and the US.<h3>27 May 2014</h3>President Obama announces a timetable for US troop withdrawal – to be completed by the end of 2016. The first phase of the plan calls for 9,800 troops to remain in Afghanistan, conducting operations against al-Qaeda and training Afghan forces.<h3>September 2014</h3>Newly elected Afghan president Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a top Taliban official, and his chief opponent Abdullah Abdullah signed a power-sharing agreement.<h3>21 August 2017</h3>US President Donald Trump, in an address to troops in Arlington, Virginia, signals a prolonged Afghan war. He said that though his "original instinct was to pull out", He will instead press on with an open-ended military commitment aimed at preventing the emergence of "a vacuum for terrorists".<h3>29 February 2020</h3>The US and the Taliban sign an agreement paving the way for peace in Afghanistan and the drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan. The agreement includes guarantees from the Taliban that the country would not be used for terrorist activities.<h3>17 November 2020</h3>Before the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, the then-acting US Defence Secretary Christopher C. Miller announced that the number of troops in Afghanistan would be halved to 2,500 by mid-January.<h3>14 April 2021</h3>Newly inaugurated President Joe Biden announces the US will withdraw all its troops by 11 September 2021. "It's time to end America’s longest war," he said.<h3>15 August 2021</h3>Taliban takeover of Kabul and the presidential palace. Leaders of the terror group say they will hold talks with Afghan officials to form an "open, inclusive Islamic government".<h3>26 August 2021</h3>12 members of the US military are killed and 18 are injured in an attack outside the Kabul airport amid "chaotic" troop withdrawal. At least 170 Afghans were also killed. The Islamic State in Khorasan claims responsibility, and several days later, the United States launches an air strike targeting a suspected plotter from the group.<h3>30 August 2021</h3>After twenty years of war, the last of the US military departs from Afghanistan, leaving the nation under its Taliban rulers.

Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people". What happened during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan? From the 9/11 attack to the end of US' 20-year war, here's a timeline 

The Donald Trump administration has launched a Pentagon investigation into the 2021 withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan. In a memo, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people". Pentagon chief Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, in his memo, said that the review would ensure that accountability for the troop withdrawal was met. “On August 26, 2021, President Biden's administration led a chaotic withdrawal of U.S. military and embassy officials from Afghanistan that led to the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and 170 civilians in a suicide bombing at the Kabul International Airport's Abbey Gate.” "I have concluded that we need to conduct a comprehensive review to ensure that accountability for this event is met and that the complete picture is provided to the American people," stated the memo. What happened during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan? Here's the timeline. 11 September 2001 The US is devastated by a massive terrorist strike. Four commercial airliners were hijacked by Al-Qaeda operatives, who then crashed three of them into the World Trade Centre in New York. The fourth one crashed into a field in Pennsylvania thanks to brave passengers. Around three thousand people died in the terror attack. In the aftermath, US President George W. Bush vowed to "win the war against terrorism". Nineteen hijackers were involved in the attack, none of them Afghan citizens. The Bush government zeroed in on Al-Qaeda and its leader, Osama bin Laden, who was located in Afghanistan. The US called on the Taliban regime to "deliver to the United States authorities all the leaders of al-Qaeda who hide in your land" or share in their fate. 18 September 2001 President George Bush signed into law a joint resolution authorising the use of force against the terrorists involved in the 9/11 attack. 7 October 2001 With British support, the US launched "Operation Enduring Freedom" and began a bombing campaign against Taliban forces. In the early phase, the US mainly carried out air strikes on al-Qaeda and Taliban forces. 12 days later, the first wave of conventional ground forces arrives. November 2001 In a series of losses, the Taliban regime starts to unravel rapidly, with their strongholds crumbling. 14 November 2001 The UN Security Council (UNSC) passes Resolution 1378, calling for a "central role" for the United Nations in establishing a transitional administration and inviting member states to send peacekeeping forces to promote stability and aid delivery. December 2001 Following the fall of Kabul in November 2001, with UN backing, major Afghan factions signed the Bonn Agreement and installed Hamid Karzai as the interim administration head and created an international peacekeeping force to maintain security in Kabul. Following this, UNSC Resolution 1386 on December 20 establishes the International Security Assistance Force, or ISAF. December 2001 Taliban collapse and the fall can be tied to the surrender of Kandahar. March 2002 The US launches its first major ground assault, called Operation Anaconda, against 800 al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters in the Shah-i-Kot Valley south of the city of Gardez (Paktia Province). April 2002 President Bush calls for the reconstruction of Afghanistan. Speaking at the Virginia Military Institute, he said, “By helping to build an Afghanistan that is free from this evil and is a better place in which to live, we are working in the best traditions of George Marshall.” Between 2001 and 2009, the US Congress granted $38 billion in humanitarian and reconstruction assistance. 1 May 2011 Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was killed in Pakistan by US forces. Following this, the then-President Barack Obama prepared to announce the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan but was met with arguments for sustained military engagement. 22 June 2011 President Obama outlines a plan to withdraw thirty-three thousand troops by the summer of 2012—the surge troops sent in December 2009—including ten thousand by the end of 2011. November 2011 The US marks ten years of war in Afghanistan. The war toll includes casualties of 1,800 US troop members and $444 billion in spending. June 2013 Following peace talks, Afghan forces take the lead in security responsibility nationwide. The US-led coalition, meanwhile, switches to military training and special operations-driven counterterrorism. Talks continued in Doha, Qatar, between the Taliban and the US. 27 May 2014 President Obama announces a timetable for US troop withdrawal – to be completed by the end of 2016. The first phase of the plan calls for 9,800 troops to remain in Afghanistan, conducting operations against al-Qaeda and training Afghan forces. September 2014 Newly elected Afghan president Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a top Taliban official, and his chief opponent Abdullah Abdullah signed a power-sharing agreement. 21 August 2017 US President Donald Trump, in an address to troops in Arlington, Virginia, signals a prolonged Afghan war. He said that though his "original instinct was to pull out", He will instead press on with an open-ended military commitment aimed at preventing the emergence of "a vacuum for terrorists". 29 February 2020 The US and the Taliban sign an agreement paving the way for peace in Afghanistan and the drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan. The agreement includes guarantees from the Taliban that the country would not be used for terrorist activities. 17 November 2020 Before the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, the then-acting US Defence Secretary Christopher C. Miller announced that the number of troops in Afghanistan would be halved to 2,500 by mid-January. 14 April 2021 Newly inaugurated President Joe Biden announces the US will withdraw all its troops by 11 September 2021. "It's time to end America’s longest war," he said. 15 August 2021 Taliban takeover of Kabul and the presidential palace. Leaders of the terror group say they will hold talks with Afghan officials to form an "open, inclusive Islamic government". 26 August 2021 12 members of the US military are killed and 18 are injured in an attack outside the Kabul airport amid "chaotic" troop withdrawal. At least 170 Afghans were also killed. The Islamic State in Khorasan claims responsibility, and several days later, the United States launches an air strike targeting a suspected plotter from the group. 30 August 2021 After twenty years of war, the last of the US military departs from Afghanistan, leaving the nation under its Taliban rulers.

Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people". What happened during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan? From the 9/11 attack to the end of US' 20-year war, here's a timeline&nbsp;

Trump admin launches review of US troops' withdrawal from Afghanistan: Timeline from 9/11 attack to end of '20-year-war' | WION Explains

Afghanistan has welcomed the decision to upgrade diplomatic relations with Pakistan, where the Taliban government's foreign minister is due to travel in the coming days, his office said on Saturday.The move signals easing tensions between the neighbouring countries, as relations between the Taliban authorities and Pakistan – already rocky – have cooled in recent months, fuelled by security concerns and a campaign by Islamabad to expel tens of thousands of Afghans.Pakistan's top diplomat on Friday said the charge d'affaires stationed in Kabul would be elevated to the rank of ambassador, with Kabul later announcing its representative in Islamabad would also be upgraded."This elevation in diplomatic representation between Afghanistan &amp; Pakistan paves the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation in multiple domains," the Aghan foreign ministry said on X.Kabul's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is due to visit Pakistan "in the coming days", ministry spokesman Zia Ahmad Takal told AFP.Muttaqi met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in May in Beijing as part of a trilateral meeting with their Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.Wang afterwards announced Kabul and Islamabad's intention to exchange ambassadors and expressed Beijing's willingness "to continue to assist with improving Afghanistan-Pakistan ties".Dar hailed the "positive trajectory" of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations on Friday, saying the upgrading of their representatives would "promote further exchanges between two fraternal countries".Only a handful of countries -- including China -- have agreed to host Taliban government ambassadors since their return to power in 2021, with no country yet formally recognising the administration.Russia last month said it would also accredit a Taliban government ambassador, days after removing the group's "terrorist" designation.&nbsp;

The move signals easing tensions between the neighbouring countries, as relations between the Taliban authorities and Pakistan – already rocky – have cooled in recent months, fuelled by security concerns and a campaign by Islamabad to expel tens of thousands of Afghans.

Afghanistan has welcomed the decision to upgrade diplomatic relations with Pakistan, where the Taliban government's foreign minister is due to travel in the coming days, his office said on Saturday. The move signals easing tensions between the neighbouring countries, as relations between the Taliban authorities and Pakistan – already rocky – have cooled in recent months, fuelled by security concerns and a campaign by Islamabad to expel tens of thousands of Afghans. Pakistan's top diplomat on Friday said the charge d'affaires stationed in Kabul would be elevated to the rank of ambassador, with Kabul later announcing its representative in Islamabad would also be upgraded. "This elevation in diplomatic representation between Afghanistan & Pakistan paves the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation in multiple domains," the Aghan foreign ministry said on X. Kabul's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is due to visit Pakistan "in the coming days", ministry spokesman Zia Ahmad Takal told AFP. Muttaqi met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in May in Beijing as part of a trilateral meeting with their Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. Wang afterwards announced Kabul and Islamabad's intention to exchange ambassadors and expressed Beijing's willingness "to continue to assist with improving Afghanistan-Pakistan ties". Dar hailed the "positive trajectory" of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations on Friday, saying the upgrading of their representatives would "promote further exchanges between two fraternal countries". Only a handful of countries -- including China -- have agreed to host Taliban government ambassadors since their return to power in 2021, with no country yet formally recognising the administration. Russia last month said it would also accredit a Taliban government ambassador, days after removing the group's "terrorist" designation.

The move signals easing tensions between the neighbouring countries, as relations between the Taliban authorities and Pakistan – already rocky – have cooled in recent months, fuelled by security concerns and a campaign by Islamabad to expel tens of thousands of Afghans.

Afghanistan welcomes upgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan

Donald Trump's Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has launched a Pentagon investigation into the 2021 withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.The chaotic withdrawal has long been a target of Republican criticism, and in a memo, Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people".<h2>Pete Hegseth's push for accountability</h2>In his memo, the Pentagon chief wrote that the review would ensure that accountability for the troop withdrawal was met.“On August 26, 2021. President Biden's administration led a chaotic withdrawal of U.S. military and embassy officials from Afghanistan that led to the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and 170 civilians in a suicide bombing at the Kabul International Airport's Abbey Gate.”"I have concluded that we need to conduct a comprehensive review to ensure that accountability for this event is met and that the complete picture is provided to the American people," stated the memo.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Memo regarding the Review of the U.S. Military Withdrawal from Afghanistan. <a href="https://t.co/2V7Dt8biOm">pic.twitter.com/2V7Dt8biOm</a>&mdash; Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (@SecDef) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef/status/1924885591075795254?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to it, a special review panel will be tasked with "thoroughly" examining the events that led to what it calls "one of America's darkest and deadliest international moments".It will examine "previous investigations, to include but not limited to, findings of fact, sources, witnesses, and analyse the decision-making that led to one of America's darkest and deadliest international moments"."This team will ensure ACCOUNTABILITY to the American people and the warfighters of our great Nation," it added.<h2>The 2021 withdrawal</h2>In August 2021, after a 20-year stint in Afghanistan, US troops were pulled from the nation by the then-US president.Announcing the withdrawal, Biden at the time said that American troops were sent to Afghanistan to "make sure al Qaeda could not use Afghanistan as a base from which to attack us again," and not for "nation building"."We went to Afghanistan almost 20 years ago with clear goals: get those who attacked us on September 11th, 2001, and make sure al Qaeda could not use Afghanistan as a base from which to attack us again," he said."We did that. &nbsp;We severely degraded al Qaeda in Afghanistan. We never gave up the hunt for Osama bin Laden, and we got him. &nbsp;That was a decade ago," said Biden, adding "Our mission in Afghanistan was never supposed to have been nation-building. It was never supposed to be creating a unified, centralised democracy.""Our only vital national interest in Afghanistan remains today what it has always been: preventing a terrorist attack on American homeland."The US troop withdrawal paved the way for the Taliban to return to power, two decades after their first government was toppled by American forces in the wake of the September 11 attacks.

The chaotic withdrawal has long been a target of Republican criticism, and in a memo, Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people".

Donald Trump's Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has launched a Pentagon investigation into the 2021 withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan. The chaotic withdrawal has long been a target of Republican criticism, and in a memo, Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people". Pete Hegseth's push for accountability In his memo, the Pentagon chief wrote that the review would ensure that accountability for the troop withdrawal was met. “On August 26, 2021. President Biden's administration led a chaotic withdrawal of U.S. military and embassy officials from Afghanistan that led to the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and 170 civilians in a suicide bombing at the Kabul International Airport's Abbey Gate.” "I have concluded that we need to conduct a comprehensive review to ensure that accountability for this event is met and that the complete picture is provided to the American people," stated the memo.

The chaotic withdrawal has long been a target of Republican criticism, and in a memo, Hegseth said that he has concluded that a "comprehensive review" was needed to ensure that a "complete picture is provided to the American people".

Trump admin launches Pentagon review of 'chaotic' 2021 US troops' withdrawal from Afghanistan under Joe Biden

New Delhi: India plans to give humanitarian assistance to Afghan refugees who have been expelled by Pakistan. Pakistan has been expelling Afghan refugees as part of a repatriation campaign that intensified in 2023, citing security concerns and economic pressures. The deportations have sparked humanitarian concerns.
Both sides are also discussing having India-supported development projects in Afghanistan. In the past, India has played an instrumental role in building dams, cricket stadiums, and community development projects in the country.
The development comes amid the first ever talks between India&rsquo;s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The Afghan Acting Foreign Minister spoke to India&rsquo;s foreign minister just ahead of his scheduled visits to Iran and China slated for next week.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-thanks-taliban-for-condemning-pahalgam-attack-holds-first-high-level-talks-since-2021-afghanistan-takeover-operation-sindoor-pakistan-9073712">Pakistan on 'probation,' faces 'strict punishment' without behaviour change warns Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh</a>
During the talks, the Afghan side condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and rejected the Pakistani misinformation that Indian missiles reached Afghanistan. The readout said, &ldquo;India welcomed his firm rejection of recent attempts to create distrust between India and Afghanistan through false and baseless reports.&rdquo;
Afghanistan also hopes for Indian visas for its traders. An Afghan readout said, &ldquo;Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, trade, and elevating the level of diplomatic ties.&rdquo;
Trade has been a key part of the engagement. ⁠Both sides are considering to enhance bilateral trade from the current $ 1 billion. The Indian side also granted clearance, as a special gesture, for entry of 160 Afghan trucks carrying dry fruits and nuts through Attari. This despite the Wagah-Attari border being effectively closed for India-Pakistan trade.
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The talks between the foreign ministers is an elevation in terms of the engagement between India and Afghanistan. The Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Afghan Acting FM Muttaqi in January, while Joint Secretary Anand Prakash, who is the head of MEA's Pakistan, Afghanistan &amp; Iran (PAI) division, held a meeting with Muttaqi and his team in the last week of April.
India has been a long-standing partner of Afghanistan. Since 2021, India has sent 50,000 tonnes of wheat, 350 tonnes of medicines, 40,000 litres of Malathion and 28 tonnes of earthquake relief material to Afghanistan. Delhi has also provided 2000 online scholarships for Afghan students, something that has been welcomed by Kabul.

India News | Afghanistan: After the talks, the Indian MEA readout said, “India welcomed his firm rejection of recent attempts to create distrust between India and Afghanistan through false and baseless reports.”

New Delhi: India plans to give humanitarian assistance to Afghan refugees who have been expelled by Pakistan. Pakistan has been expelling Afghan refugees as part of a repatriation campaign that intensified in 2023, citing security concerns and economic pressures. The deportations have sparked humanitarian concerns. Both sides are also discussing having India-supported development projects in Afghanistan. In the past, India has played an instrumental role in building dams, cricket stadiums, and community development projects in the country. The development comes amid the first ever talks between India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The Afghan Acting Foreign Minister spoke to India’s foreign minister just ahead of his scheduled visits to Iran and China slated for next week. Also Read | Pakistan on 'probation,' faces 'strict punishment' without behaviour change warns Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh During the talks, the Afghan side condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and rejected the Pakistani misinformation that Indian missiles reached Afghanistan. The readout said, “India welcomed his firm rejection of recent attempts to create distrust between India and Afghanistan through false and baseless reports.” Afghanistan also hopes for Indian visas for its traders. An Afghan readout said, “Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, trade, and elevating the level of diplomatic ties.” Trade has been a key part of the engagement. ⁠Both sides are considering to enhance bilateral trade from the current $ 1 billion. The Indian side also granted clearance, as a special gesture, for entry of 160 Afghan trucks carrying dry fruits and nuts through Attari. This despite the Wagah-Attari border being effectively closed for India-Pakistan trade. Also read | From al-Qaeda terrorist to Trump's 'tough attractive guy': Story of Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa The talks between the foreign ministers is an elevation in terms of the engagement between India and Afghanistan. The Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Afghan Acting FM Muttaqi in January, while Joint Secretary Anand Prakash, who is the head of MEA's Pakistan, Afghanistan & Iran (PAI) division, held a meeting with Muttaqi and his team in the last week of April. India has been a long-standing partner of Afghanistan. Since 2021, India has sent 50,000 tonnes of wheat, 350 tonnes of medicines, 40,000 litres of Malathion and 28 tonnes of earthquake relief material to Afghanistan. Delhi has also provided 2000 online scholarships for Afghan students, something that has been welcomed by Kabul.

India, Afghanistan working on humanitarian assistance to Afghan refugees, trade, development cooperation

As US President Donald Trump has once again claimed of China occupying the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bagram-airbase">Bagram Airbase</a> in Afghanistan, the major military airfield has come under the spotlight. Trump has also stressed that the US is going to keep the airbase.&nbsp;
Earlier this month, as well as today, the US president reinstated that the US will keep the big Air Force base, which is just an hour away from where China makes its nuclear weapons.&nbsp;
He also said that the US cannot give up on one of the biggest airbases in the world, among the strongest and longest runways anywhere in the world.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-occupies-it-now-us-president-donald-trump-says-us-will-keep-control-of-bagram-airbase-in-afghanistan-9071816">'You know who occupies it, CHINA': Trump stresses US will keep Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan</a>
<h2>Story of Bagram Airbase&nbsp;</h2>
Bagram Airbase is a major military airfield, located in the Parwan province of Afghanistan. The largest air base in Afghanistan lies about 60 km north of Kabul in the Parwan province.&nbsp;
It has a significant strategic importance as it has served major US and NATO military operations in Afghanistan for many years.&nbsp;
The airbase was built by the Soviet Union in 1950 and the USSR had control over it during the early days of the Cold War. During the Soviet-Afghan war, the airbase was fortified and started lodging military personnel from the USSR.
The US came in the picturee in 1959, when then US President Dwight Eisenhower paid a visit to Afghanistan and landed in Bagram.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-taliban-rejects-chinese-presence-as-trump-vows-bagram-takeover-8774510">Afghanistan: Taliban rejects Chinese presence as Trump vows bagram takeover</a>&nbsp;
In 1990, the Soviets withdrew from Afghanistan, and the airbase was left abandoned. It then became the frontline between the Taliban and the Northern Alliance military. However, during the conflict, the airbase was severely damaged.&nbsp;
Later in 2001 after the 9/11 terror attack, the US and its Western allies took over the Afghan airfield. For the next 20 years, they controlled the Bagram airbase, claiming that they were using it for America's "War on terrorism".&nbsp;
In 2020, the US and the Taliban signed a deal to withdraw international forces from Afghanistan by May 2021.&nbsp;
The last American aircraft took off from the Kabul airport on August 30, 2021, and the US forces vacated Bagram on July 2. The airbase formally was handed over to the Taliban on August 15.&nbsp;
The base is currently under Taliban control, however, the US has been stressing that China made the entry into Afghanistan's airbase after they left.&nbsp;
Earlier this year in March, Trump made similar claims of China making its nuclear missiles, an hour away from the airbase. To this, the Taliban issued a statement denying the claims.&nbsp;
"Bagram is controlled by the Islamic Emirate (Taliban), not China. Chinese troops are not present here, nor do we have any such pact with any country,&rdquo; it said.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-trump-claims-china-controls-bagram-air-base-pledges-to-reclaim-it-9030025">US President Trump claims China controls Bagram air base, pledges to reclaim it</a>

US president reinstated that the US will keep the big Air Force base, which is just an hour away from where China makes its nuclear weapons. WORLD

As US President Donald Trump has once again claimed of China occupying the Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan, the major military airfield has come under the spotlight. Trump has also stressed that the US is going to keep the airbase. Earlier this month, as well as today, the US president reinstated that the US will keep the big Air Force base, which is just an hour away from where China makes its nuclear weapons. He also said that the US cannot give up on one of the biggest airbases in the world, among the strongest and longest runways anywhere in the world. Also read: 'You know who occupies it, CHINA': Trump stresses US will keep Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan Story of Bagram Airbase Bagram Airbase is a major military airfield, located in the Parwan province of Afghanistan. The largest air base in Afghanistan lies about 60 km north of Kabul in the Parwan province. It has a significant strategic importance as it has served major US and NATO military operations in Afghanistan for many years. The airbase was built by the Soviet Union in 1950 and the USSR had control over it during the early days of the Cold War. During the Soviet-Afghan war, the airbase was fortified and started lodging military personnel from the USSR. The US came in the picturee in 1959, when then US President Dwight Eisenhower paid a visit to Afghanistan and landed in Bagram. WATCH | Afghanistan: Taliban rejects Chinese presence as Trump vows bagram takeover In 1990, the Soviets withdrew from Afghanistan, and the airbase was left abandoned. It then became the frontline between the Taliban and the Northern Alliance military. However, during the conflict, the airbase was severely damaged. Later in 2001 after the 9/11 terror attack, the US and its Western allies took over the Afghan airfield. For the next 20 years, they controlled the Bagram airbase, claiming that they were using it for America's "War on terrorism". In 2020, the US and the Taliban signed a deal to withdraw international forces from Afghanistan by May 2021. The last American aircraft took off from the Kabul airport on August 30, 2021, and the US forces vacated Bagram on July 2. The airbase formally was handed over to the Taliban on August 15. The base is currently under Taliban control, however, the US has been stressing that China made the entry into Afghanistan's airbase after they left. Earlier this year in March, Trump made similar claims of China making its nuclear missiles, an hour away from the airbase. To this, the Taliban issued a statement denying the claims. "Bagram is controlled by the Islamic Emirate (Taliban), not China. Chinese troops are not present here, nor do we have any such pact with any country,” it said. WATCH | US President Trump claims China controls Bagram air base, pledges to reclaim it

Trump wants to play US vs China over Bagram Airbase: Story of military airfield in Afghanistan that Biden left in 2021

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump-0">Donald Trump</a> said that the United States will keep Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan, stressing, "We will not give it up."
Trump was addressing the US troops at the Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, in view of American air capability in the region.&nbsp;
"Russia Ukraine would have never started, October 7th would have never happened...We wouldn't have had the disaster of Afghanistan...but we were getting out with dignity and strength," Trump said.&nbsp;
He stressed that it is just an hour away from China, claiming that China occupies it.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-nuclear-deal-getting-close-military-strike-may-be-averted-9070951">Trump says Iran nuclear deal 'getting close,' military strike may be averted</a>
"We are going to keep Bagram Airbase, we are not going to give that up because its one hour away from China. You know who occupies it now, China," he added.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Sadly, over the last four years, we saw a collapse in Afghanistan. And what happened on October 7th, the war in Ukraine, violence unleashed by wokeness and weakness.&rdquo;
Trump was addressing the Al-Udeid Air Base, which was the major stage ground during the US wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, housing around 8,000 US troops.&nbsp;
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The US president stressed that he would never hesitate to wield American power if required to defend the US or its partners.
&ldquo;As president, my priority is to end conflicts, not start them, but I will never hesitate to wield American power if it&rsquo;s necessary to defend the United States of America or our partners,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;And this is one of our great partners right here&rdquo; in Qatar.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/largest-order-of-jets-in-boeing-history-what-is-the-200-bn-deal-between-us-aerospace-and-qatar-airways-us-president-donald-trump-qatar-emir-9069551">'Largest order of jets in Boeing history': What is the $200 bn deal between US aerospace and Qatar Airways</a>

"We are going to keep Bagram Airbase, we are not going to give that up because its one hour away from China. You know who occupies it now, China," he said. WORLD

US President Donald Trump said that the United States will keep Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan, stressing, "We will not give it up." Trump was addressing the US troops at the Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, in view of American air capability in the region. "Russia Ukraine would have never started, October 7th would have never happened...We wouldn't have had the disaster of Afghanistan...but we were getting out with dignity and strength," Trump said. He stressed that it is just an hour away from China, claiming that China occupies it. Also read: Trump says Iran nuclear deal 'getting close,' military strike may be averted "We are going to keep Bagram Airbase, we are not going to give that up because its one hour away from China. You know who occupies it now, China," he added. “Sadly, over the last four years, we saw a collapse in Afghanistan. And what happened on October 7th, the war in Ukraine, violence unleashed by wokeness and weakness.” Trump was addressing the Al-Udeid Air Base, which was the major stage ground during the US wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, housing around 8,000 US troops. Also read: 'Qatar-a-Lago' banner seen near Trump's Palm beach home amid controversy over $400-mn Qatari jet: See pics The US president stressed that he would never hesitate to wield American power if required to defend the US or its partners. “As president, my priority is to end conflicts, not start them, but I will never hesitate to wield American power if it’s necessary to defend the United States of America or our partners,” Trump said. “And this is one of our great partners right here” in Qatar. Also read: 'Largest order of jets in Boeing history': What is the $200 bn deal between US aerospace and Qatar Airways

'You know who occupies it, CHINA': Trump stresses US will keep Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan

Amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan and both the country's actions against each other in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, New Delhi's point-person on Afghanistan Anand Prakash held talks with Taliban's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. They discussed political and trade issues and the Afghan&nbsp;foreign minister emphasised the expansion of political and economic relations with India. Just a day after the meeting, the Taliban issued a statement saying that Afghanistan is &ldquo;no threat to India.&rdquo;
With India-Pakistan ties at the brink of collapsing, and trade routes shut, New Delhi and Kabul attempt to build trust in what could be an uncertain future for Afghanistan amid geopolitical rivalry between two nuclear armed-nations.
<h2>Why Afghanistan might bear the burnt of worsening Indo-Pak relations?</h2>
Afghanistan, in the past, has been caught in the crossfire between India and Pakistan. As per reports, during the Kargil war when the Taliban was close to Islamabad, India supported anti-Taliban forces (Northern Alliance), escalating proxy dynamics. After the Uri attack in 2016, India became more vocal about cross-border terrorism, including in Afghanistan. Similarly, after the 2019 Pulwama attack, India increased intelligence cooperation with Afghan authorities intending to keep an eye on the activities of Pakistan-based terror organisation, reports suggest.
With the fallout of India-Pakistan relations, Afghanistan fears regional polarisation as its soil can be used for proxy activities by Pakistan-based terrorist organisations like Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) or Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). It is a tricky situation in Afghanistan as it cannot take sides amid the big geopolitical rivalry, even as it might be the biggest loser with its stability at stake.
India has viewed the Taliban with scepticism due to its historical links with Pakistan&rsquo;s ISI and past hostility. Scrutinising the Taliban and its activities will be among the top priorities for the intelligence agencies and Kabul is aware of this. It would not want its territory to be used as a base for anti-India groups inviting the ire of New Delhi. There's also a fear of American-made weapons making their way to J&amp;K from Afghanistan. As per reports, these weapons were found in Pulwama in 2017-2018 and in areas of Kishtwar-Kathua in 2022-2024. Taking the cue, the Taliban was quick to condemn the Pahalgam terror attack, adding that "such incidents undermine efforts to ensure regional security and stability." India, meanwhile, is likely to take a dual-track approach in its ties with Kabul - New Delhi will engage selectively for strategic presence while preparing for increased security risks if Pakistan tries to exploit Afghan territory.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-fighter-jet-worth-60-million-lost-at-sea-after-it-fell-off-aircraft-carrier-during-houthi-attack-9013905">US Navy fighter jet worth $60 million lost at sea after it fell off aircraft carrier during Houthi attack</a>
<h2>Afghan trade affected due to Indo-Pak fallout</h2>
The geographical dependence of Kabul on Pakistan for trade with India becomes another drawback amid the India-Pakistan fallout. India has shut the Attari border with Pakistan - it was used for a large portion of Afghan exports and imports to/from India. Now, Afghanistan has limited alternatives, such as the Chabahar Port in Iran, which India has helped develop to bypass Pakistan. However, Chabahar is still under-utilized and more expensive, making it a less viable full replacement in the short term. Additionally, India and Pakistan tensions will hamper regional cooperation through SAARC or other trade frameworks, isolating Afghanistan and reducing its access to broader South Asian markets. Thus, Afghanistan&rsquo;s already fragile economy might be harmed further due to higher costs, delays and regional isolation. Apart from trade, Kabul would also not want the halting of humanitarian aid (food, medical supplies) by India.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-live-india-slams-pakistan-over-pahalgam-terror-attack-all-updates-9012721">Pahalgam Terror Attack LIVE: Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif's X profile 'withheld' in India after ban on Pak's YT channels</a>
<h2>Pressure on Taliban from Pakistan?</h2>
The Taliban will also face pressure from the Pakistani side as Pak-based terrorist groups might try to reconnect with Taliban factions. If Kabul aligns with New Delhi, Pakistan would resort to airstrikes similar to what they did in December 2024 in the name of targeting the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan&nbsp; (TTP), which is ideologically aligned with the Afghan Taliban but is viewed as a direct threat by Islamabad. Kabul also fears that ISI's covert support to anti-Taliban elements will destabilise their government. Moreover, the future of millions of Afghan refugees in Pakistan also hangs by a thread in the current situation.&nbsp;
Nevertheless, for its quest to gain international legitimacy and to show itself as a party opposed to global terrorism, the Taliban has to avoid overt alignment with Pakistan&rsquo;s anti-India agenda. How the Taliban-led Afghanistan government balances the two nuclear-armed nations in the midst of this geopolitical rivalry remains to be seen.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/spooked-by-india-nawaz-sharif-warns-pakistan-pm-against-aggressive-position-after-pahalgam-terror-attack-9012835">'Spooked' by India? Nawaz Sharif warns Pakistan PM against "aggressive position" after Pahalgam terror attack</a>
<h2>Afghanistan and Taliban relations</h2>
India has not yet recognised the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and has been pitching for the formation of a truly inclusive government in Kabul besides insisting that Afghan soil must not be used for any terrorist activities against any country. New Delhi had withdrawn its officials from the embassy after the Taliban seized power in August 2021 following concerns over their security. In June 2022, India re-established its diplomatic presence in Kabul by deploying a "technical team" to its embassy in the Afghan capital. Besides this, India has also been pitching for providing unimpeded humanitarian aid to Afghanistan to address the unfolding humanitarian crisis in the country.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/i-think-it-has-been-misinterpreted-pak-defence-minister-takes-u-turn-from-imminent-military-incursion-remarks-says-havent-said-anything-9013132">'It has been misinterpreted': Pak defence minister takes U-turn from 'imminent' military incursion remark, says 'haven't said anything...'</a>
&nbsp;

World | How the Taliban-led Afghanistan government balances the two nuclear-armed nations amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan after Pahalgam terror attack  remains to be seen.

Amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan and both the country's actions against each other in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, New Delhi's point-person on Afghanistan Anand Prakash held talks with Taliban's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. They discussed political and trade issues and the Afghan foreign minister emphasised the expansion of political and economic relations with India. Just a day after the meeting, the Taliban issued a statement saying that Afghanistan is “no threat to India.” With India-Pakistan ties at the brink of collapsing, and trade routes shut, New Delhi and Kabul attempt to build trust in what could be an uncertain future for Afghanistan amid geopolitical rivalry between two nuclear armed-nations. Why Afghanistan might bear the burnt of worsening Indo-Pak relations? Afghanistan, in the past, has been caught in the crossfire between India and Pakistan. As per reports, during the Kargil war when the Taliban was close to Islamabad, India supported anti-Taliban forces (Northern Alliance), escalating proxy dynamics. After the Uri attack in 2016, India became more vocal about cross-border terrorism, including in Afghanistan. Similarly, after the 2019 Pulwama attack, India increased intelligence cooperation with Afghan authorities intending to keep an eye on the activities of Pakistan-based terror organisation, reports suggest. With the fallout of India-Pakistan relations, Afghanistan fears regional polarisation as its soil can be used for proxy activities by Pakistan-based terrorist organisations like Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) or Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). It is a tricky situation in Afghanistan as it cannot take sides amid the big geopolitical rivalry, even as it might be the biggest loser with its stability at stake. India has viewed the Taliban with scepticism due to its historical links with Pakistan’s ISI and past hostility. Scrutinising the Taliban and its activities will be among the top priorities for the intelligence agencies and Kabul is aware of this. It would not want its territory to be used as a base for anti-India groups inviting the ire of New Delhi. There's also a fear of American-made weapons making their way to J&K from Afghanistan. As per reports, these weapons were found in Pulwama in 2017-2018 and in areas of Kishtwar-Kathua in 2022-2024. Taking the cue, the Taliban was quick to condemn the Pahalgam terror attack, adding that "such incidents undermine efforts to ensure regional security and stability." India, meanwhile, is likely to take a dual-track approach in its ties with Kabul - New Delhi will engage selectively for strategic presence while preparing for increased security risks if Pakistan tries to exploit Afghan territory. Read More | US Navy fighter jet worth $60 million lost at sea after it fell off aircraft carrier during Houthi attack Afghan trade affected due to Indo-Pak fallout The geographical dependence of Kabul on Pakistan for trade with India becomes another drawback amid the India-Pakistan fallout. India has shut the Attari border with Pakistan - it was used for a large portion of Afghan exports and imports to/from India. Now, Afghanistan has limited alternatives, such as the Chabahar Port in Iran, which India has helped develop to bypass Pakistan. However, Chabahar is still under-utilized and more expensive, making it a less viable full replacement in the short term. Additionally, India and Pakistan tensions will hamper regional cooperation through SAARC or other trade frameworks, isolating Afghanistan and reducing its access to broader South Asian markets. Thus, Afghanistan’s already fragile economy might be harmed further due to higher costs, delays and regional isolation. Apart from trade, Kabul would also not want the halting of humanitarian aid (food, medical supplies) by India. Read More | Pahalgam Terror Attack LIVE: Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif's X profile 'withheld' in India after ban on Pak's YT channels Pressure on Taliban from Pakistan? The Taliban will also face pressure from the Pakistani side as Pak-based terrorist groups might try to reconnect with Taliban factions. If Kabul aligns with New Delhi, Pakistan would resort to airstrikes similar to what they did in December 2024 in the name of targeting the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which is ideologically aligned with the Afghan Taliban but is viewed as a direct threat by Islamabad. Kabul also fears that ISI's covert support to anti-Taliban elements will destabilise their government. Moreover, the future of millions of Afghan refugees in Pakistan also hangs by a thread in the current situation. Nevertheless, for its quest to gain international legitimacy and to show itself as a party opposed to global terrorism, the Taliban has to avoid overt alignment with Pakistan’s anti-India agenda. How the Taliban-led Afghanistan government balances the two nuclear-armed nations in the midst of this geopolitical rivalry remains to be seen. Read More | 'Spooked' by India? Nawaz Sharif warns Pakistan PM against "aggressive position" after Pahalgam terror attack Afghanistan and Taliban relations India has not yet recognised the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and has been pitching for the formation of a truly inclusive government in Kabul besides insisting that Afghan soil must not be used for any terrorist activities against any country. New Delhi had withdrawn its officials from the embassy after the Taliban seized power in August 2021 following concerns over their security. In June 2022, India re-established its diplomatic presence in Kabul by deploying a "technical team" to its embassy in the Afghan capital. Besides this, India has also been pitching for providing unimpeded humanitarian aid to Afghanistan to address the unfolding humanitarian crisis in the country. Read More | 'It has been misinterpreted': Pak defence minister takes U-turn from 'imminent' military incursion remark, says 'haven't said anything...'

India, Taliban hold talks in Kabul: Why Afghanistan might bear the brunt of worsening India-Pakistan relations

The Taliban leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, said on Sunday that democracy has come to an end in Afghanistan and there was no need for Western laws at all since sharia was already in effect. &ldquo;Democracy has come to an end in Afghanistan, and sharia is in effect,&rdquo; said Akhundzada during a sermon marking Eid ul-Fitr in Kandahar&rsquo;s Eidgah Mosque. &ldquo;There is no need for laws that originate from the West. We will create our own laws,&rdquo; Akhundzada said, speaking in Pashto while emphasising the importance of Islamic laws.
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Akhundzada also criticised the West, saying &lsquo;non-believers&rsquo; had united against Muslims and that the U.S. and others were united in their hostility toward Islam, citing the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. He added that those who supported democracy were trying to create a divide between the people of Afghanistan and the Taliban government. The 50-minute audio of Akhundzada&rsquo;s message was published on X by the Taliban government&rsquo;s chief spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmars-military-dropped-bombs-3-hours-after-quake-devastation-un-slams-junta-8907065" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Myanmar&rsquo;s military dropped bombs 3 hours after quake devastation; UN slams junta</a>
Akhundzada has taken a stronger hand in directing policy since the Taliban regained control of the country in 2021 even though some officials had initially promised a more moderate rule.
The Taliban&rsquo;s interpretation of sharia has led to several bans on Afghan women and girls, prohibiting them from education, many jobs, and public spaces. These measures have drawn a flak and isolated the Taliban on the world stage, although they have succeeded in establishing diplomatic ties with countries including China and the United&nbsp;Arab Emirates.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/done-with-cost-cutting-elon-musk-to-exit-doge-in-may-8905029" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;Done with cost cutting&rsquo;: Elon Musk to exit DOGE in May?</a> Some senior figures in the Afghanistan administration, though, criticise the Taliban leadership&rsquo;s decision-making and concentration of power, but there is no challenge to the latter&rsquo;s authority. Some Taliban want more engagement with the international community and seek the scrapping of harsh policies to get more outside support. In recent months, however, there has been increased engagement between the Taliban and the U.S. under President Donald Trump, mostly because of prisoner exchanges and releases.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | South Asia | Afghanistan: Akhundzada also criticised the West, saying ‘non-believers’ had united against Muslims and that the U.S. and others were united in their hostility toward Islam, citing the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

The Taliban leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, said on Sunday that democracy has come to an end in Afghanistan and there was no need for Western laws at all since sharia was already in effect. “Democracy has come to an end in Afghanistan, and sharia is in effect,” said Akhundzada during a sermon marking Eid ul-Fitr in Kandahar’s Eidgah Mosque. “There is no need for laws that originate from the West. We will create our own laws,” Akhundzada said, speaking in Pashto while emphasising the importance of Islamic laws. Also read | Firm with China link faces inquiry after Bangkok skyscraper collapse in quake Akhundzada also criticised the West, saying ‘non-believers’ had united against Muslims and that the U.S. and others were united in their hostility toward Islam, citing the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. He added that those who supported democracy were trying to create a divide between the people of Afghanistan and the Taliban government. The 50-minute audio of Akhundzada’s message was published on X by the Taliban government’s chief spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid. Also read | Myanmar’s military dropped bombs 3 hours after quake devastation; UN slams junta Akhundzada has taken a stronger hand in directing policy since the Taliban regained control of the country in 2021 even though some officials had initially promised a more moderate rule. The Taliban’s interpretation of sharia has led to several bans on Afghan women and girls, prohibiting them from education, many jobs, and public spaces. These measures have drawn a flak and isolated the Taliban on the world stage, although they have succeeded in establishing diplomatic ties with countries including China and the United Arab Emirates. Also read | ‘Done with cost cutting’: Elon Musk to exit DOGE in May? Some senior figures in the Afghanistan administration, though, criticise the Taliban leadership’s decision-making and concentration of power, but there is no challenge to the latter’s authority. Some Taliban want more engagement with the international community and seek the scrapping of harsh policies to get more outside support. In recent months, however, there has been increased engagement between the Taliban and the U.S. under President Donald Trump, mostly because of prisoner exchanges and releases. (With inputs from agencies)

Democracy dead and sharia in effect, we don’t need Western laws: Taliban leader Akhundzada

Taliban authorities on Thursday freed US citizen George Glezmann after more than two years of detention, in a deal brokered by Qatar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced.
The release was announced after the Taliban government's foreign minister hosted US hostage envoy Adam Boehler and other US officials in the Afghan capital.
"Today, after two and a half years of captivity in Afghanistan, Delta Airlines mechanic George Glezmann is on his way to be reunited with his wife, Aleksandra," Rubio said in a statement.
"George's release is a positive and constructive step. &nbsp;It is also a reminder that other Americans are still detained in Afghanistan," he added.
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Glezmann was en route to Qatar, a source with knowledge of the release told AFP.
Ahead of the announcement, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi hosted Boehler, who was accompanied by Washington's former envoy to Kabul, Zalmay Khalilzad, the ministry said.
"Today is a good day," Khalilzad said on X.&nbsp;
The Taliban authorities decided to free Glezmann on "humanitarian grounds" and as a "goodwill gesture".
The prisoner release reflects "Afghanistan's readiness to genuinely engage all sides, particularly the United States of America, on the basis of mutual respect and interests", a foreign ministry statement said.
The US delegation was the first from Washington since US President Donald Trump took office in January, foreign ministry spokesman Hafiz Zia Ahmad told AFP.
Contacts between the two sides since the Taliban returned to power in 2021 has usually taken place in third countries.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-spying-on-millions-of-citizens-using-90000-cctv-cameras-report-8765923">Afghanistan Taliban spying on millions of citizens using 90,000 CCTV cameras - Report</a>
<h2>'New chapter'</h2>
Taliban authorities announced late last month the arrest of a Chinese-American woman on February 1 in the province of Bamiyan, a tourist attraction west of Kabul known for its giant Buddhas until they were destroyed in 2001 by the Taliban.&nbsp;
Officials have refused to detail the reasons for her arrest.&nbsp;
At least one other American, Mahmood Habibi, is detained in Afghanistan.
In July, Kabul announced it was in discussions with Washington over a prisoner exchange.
The talks took place in Qatar during an international conference that brought together UN representatives, Taliban authorities, and envoys for Afghanistan -- generally those based in neighbouring countries or within the region.
In January, two Americans detained in Afghanistan -- Ryan Corbett and William McKenty -- were freed in exchange for an Afghan fighter, Khan Mohammed, who was convicted of narco-terrorism in the United States.&nbsp;
Two weeks later, a Canadian former soldier, David Lavery, was released after more than two months held in Afghanistan, in a deal brokered by Qatar.
Trump signed a peace deal with the Taliban authorities during his first term in office and, following his re-election, the Kabul government expressed hopes for a "new chapter" with Washington.
The government in Kabul is not recognised by any country, but several including Russia, China and Turkey have kept their embassies open in the Afghan capital.
Delegations from these countries, both diplomatic and economic, make frequent visits to Kabul.&nbsp;
The Taliban government also reports less frequent visits from Western officials, notably British and Norwegian.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The release was announced after the Taliban government's foreign minister hosted US hostage envoy Adam Boehler and other US officials in the Afghan capital.

Taliban authorities on Thursday freed US citizen George Glezmann after more than two years of detention, in a deal brokered by Qatar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced. The release was announced after the Taliban government's foreign minister hosted US hostage envoy Adam Boehler and other US officials in the Afghan capital. "Today, after two and a half years of captivity in Afghanistan, Delta Airlines mechanic George Glezmann is on his way to be reunited with his wife, Aleksandra," Rubio said in a statement. "George's release is a positive and constructive step. It is also a reminder that other Americans are still detained in Afghanistan," he added. Also read: US porn star Whitney Wright 'visits' Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Who is she? Glezmann was en route to Qatar, a source with knowledge of the release told AFP. Ahead of the announcement, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi hosted Boehler, who was accompanied by Washington's former envoy to Kabul, Zalmay Khalilzad, the ministry said. "Today is a good day," Khalilzad said on X. The Taliban authorities decided to free Glezmann on "humanitarian grounds" and as a "goodwill gesture". The prisoner release reflects "Afghanistan's readiness to genuinely engage all sides, particularly the United States of America, on the basis of mutual respect and interests", a foreign ministry statement said. The US delegation was the first from Washington since US President Donald Trump took office in January, foreign ministry spokesman Hafiz Zia Ahmad told AFP. Contacts between the two sides since the Taliban returned to power in 2021 has usually taken place in third countries. Also read: Afghanistan Taliban spying on millions of citizens using 90,000 CCTV cameras - Report 'New chapter' Taliban authorities announced late last month the arrest of a Chinese-American woman on February 1 in the province of Bamiyan, a tourist attraction west of Kabul known for its giant Buddhas until they were destroyed in 2001 by the Taliban. Officials have refused to detail the reasons for her arrest. At least one other American, Mahmood Habibi, is detained in Afghanistan. In July, Kabul announced it was in discussions with Washington over a prisoner exchange. The talks took place in Qatar during an international conference that brought together UN representatives, Taliban authorities, and envoys for Afghanistan -- generally those based in neighbouring countries or within the region. In January, two Americans detained in Afghanistan -- Ryan Corbett and William McKenty -- were freed in exchange for an Afghan fighter, Khan Mohammed, who was convicted of narco-terrorism in the United States. Two weeks later, a Canadian former soldier, David Lavery, was released after more than two months held in Afghanistan, in a deal brokered by Qatar. Trump signed a peace deal with the Taliban authorities during his first term in office and, following his re-election, the Kabul government expressed hopes for a "new chapter" with Washington. The government in Kabul is not recognised by any country, but several including Russia, China and Turkey have kept their embassies open in the Afghan capital. Delegations from these countries, both diplomatic and economic, make frequent visits to Kabul. The Taliban government also reports less frequent visits from Western officials, notably British and Norwegian. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US citizen George Glezmann released by Taliban after more than two years

Twenty-nine people died in two provinces in Afghanistan due to hail and heavy rain, officials said Tuesday.&nbsp;
"Twenty-one people were killed and six others were injured" because of hail in western Farah province, said Mohammad Israel Sayar, head of the province's Disaster Management Department.
The victims are members of two families who had gone for a picnic, he said.
In southern Kandahar, the local disaster management department said in a statement that eight people&mdash;including women and children&mdash;were killed in several locations due to heavy rain.&nbsp;
"Today, four women who were busy washing clothes were swept away by floodwaters... and only one woman survived," the statement said.
It added that a child drowned in Kandahar while a roof collapsed on a family, killing one woman and three children.
Among the poorest countries in the world after decades of war, Afghanistan is particularly exposed to the effects of climate change, which scientists say is spurring extreme weather.
It is ranked as the country sixth most vulnerable to climate change.
Drought, floods, land degradation, and declining agricultural productivity are key threats, the UN development agency's representative in Afghanistan, Stephen Rodriques, said in 2023.&nbsp;
Flash floods in May last year killed hundreds and swamped swaths of agricultural land in Afghanistan, where 80 per cent of people depend on farming to survive.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

South Asia Afghanistan: Among the poorest countries in the world after decades of war, Afghanistan is particularly exposed to the effects of climate change, which scientists say is spurring extreme weather.

Twenty-nine people died in two provinces in Afghanistan due to hail and heavy rain, officials said Tuesday. "Twenty-one people were killed and six others were injured" because of hail in western Farah province, said Mohammad Israel Sayar, head of the province's Disaster Management Department. The victims are members of two families who had gone for a picnic, he said. In southern Kandahar, the local disaster management department said in a statement that eight people—including women and children—were killed in several locations due to heavy rain. "Today, four women who were busy washing clothes were swept away by floodwaters... and only one woman survived," the statement said. It added that a child drowned in Kandahar while a roof collapsed on a family, killing one woman and three children. Among the poorest countries in the world after decades of war, Afghanistan is particularly exposed to the effects of climate change, which scientists say is spurring extreme weather. It is ranked as the country sixth most vulnerable to climate change. Drought, floods, land degradation, and declining agricultural productivity are key threats, the UN development agency's representative in Afghanistan, Stephen Rodriques, said in 2023. Flash floods in May last year killed hundreds and swamped swaths of agricultural land in Afghanistan, where 80 per cent of people depend on farming to survive. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

29 dead due to hail, rain in Afghanistan

At least five people were killed and seven were injured, on Tuesday (Feb 11), when a suicide bomber laden with explosives, detonated outside a bank in northeastern Afghanistan, said the police.
The explosion occurred at 8:35 a.m. (0405 GMT) near the Kabul Bank branch in Kunduz province, claiming the lives of the bank's security guard and four others including civilians and Taliban security forces.
The seven people wounded in the blast targeted a queue who was waiting to collect their salaries from the bank in the city of Kunduz, the capital of Kunduz province.&nbsp;
"A suicide bomber, who had improvised explosive devices, detonated himself," said Jumadin Khaksar, police spokesman for Kunduz province.
He said that civil servants, civilians and members of the Taliban security forces were among those killed.&nbsp;
"The Kunduz Province Police Command is working with relevant organisations to find the perpetrators of the incident and bring them to justice."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-in-farewell-foreign-policy-speech-slams-president-elect-donald-trump-claims-america-stronger-on-world-stage-8619679">Also read: Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal</a>
In March 2024, a suicide bomber killed at least three people when he exploded a bomb outside a bank in the southern city of Kandahar, in an attack whose responsibility was claimed by the regional chapter of the Islamic State (IS).
No outfit has yet claimed responsibility for Tuesday's attack.
The number of explosions and suicide attacks has witnessed a significant declined since the Taliban ended their insurgency after seizing power in August 2021, ousting the US-backed government.
However, several groups, including IS, still remain a threat.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: In March 2024, a suicide bomber killed at least three people when he exploded a bomb outside a bank in the southern city of Kandahar, in an attack whose responsibility was claimed by the regional chapter of the Islamic State (IS).

At least five people were killed and seven were injured, on Tuesday (Feb 11), when a suicide bomber laden with explosives, detonated outside a bank in northeastern Afghanistan, said the police. The explosion occurred at 8:35 a.m. (0405 GMT) near the Kabul Bank branch in Kunduz province, claiming the lives of the bank's security guard and four others including civilians and Taliban security forces. The seven people wounded in the blast targeted a queue who was waiting to collect their salaries from the bank in the city of Kunduz, the capital of Kunduz province. "A suicide bomber, who had improvised explosive devices, detonated himself," said Jumadin Khaksar, police spokesman for Kunduz province. He said that civil servants, civilians and members of the Taliban security forces were among those killed. "The Kunduz Province Police Command is working with relevant organisations to find the perpetrators of the incident and bring them to justice." Also read: Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal In March 2024, a suicide bomber killed at least three people when he exploded a bomb outside a bank in the southern city of Kandahar, in an attack whose responsibility was claimed by the regional chapter of the Islamic State (IS). No outfit has yet claimed responsibility for Tuesday's attack. The number of explosions and suicide attacks has witnessed a significant declined since the Taliban ended their insurgency after seizing power in August 2021, ousting the US-backed government. However, several groups, including IS, still remain a threat. (With inputs from agencies)

Suicide bomber kills five outside bank in Afghanistan: Police

Police said Wednesday a Chinese national was killed in an attack in Afghanistan which the Islamic State group later claimed responsibility for, as the Taliban government attempts to project an image of security to encourage investment from Beijing.
The Chinese citizen was travelling on Tuesday evening in northern Takhar province bordering Tajikistan when he was killed by "unknown armed men", provincial police spokesman Mohammad Akbar Haqqani told AFP.
He said the man was travelling "for an unknown reason" and without informing security officials, who typically accompany Chinese nationals on trips in the country.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-in-farewell-foreign-policy-speech-slams-president-elect-donald-trump-claims-america-stronger-on-world-stage-8619679" rel="dofollow">Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal</a>
A translator travelling with the man was unharmed, Haqqani added.
The Islamic State (IS) group's regional chapter claimed responsibility for the attack later Wednesday, according to jihadist monitor SITE.&nbsp;
"The IS issued a communique... reporting that fighters fired at a vehicle carrying a 'communist Chinese' in Takhar, a province in which the group was last active in 2022," the monitor said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/xi-jinping-welcomes-taliban-ambassador-to-china-as-kabul-beijing-ties-move-forward-685428" rel="dofollow">Xi Jinping welcomes Taliban ambassador to China as Kabul-Beijing ties move forward</a>
Interior ministry spokesman Abdul Mateen Qani confirmed the details of the killing and said the Chinese citizen was a business owner with a contract to mine in Afghanistan.
China's embassy in Kabul did not immediately respond to a request for comment by AFP.
The Taliban government is touting Afghanistan's vast natural resources, largely untapped during two decades of war, as a lifeline for the ravaged economy and a lucrative opportunity for foreign speculators.
Despite lingering security concerns, neighbouring China is emerging as a potential investment partner.
Chinese and Afghan officials gathered in Kabul on Tuesday for an event marking 70 years of diplomatic ties.
"I would like to assure my Chinese friends that there is peace and security in Afghanistan," Deputy Foreign Minister Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai told attendees.
"We invite Chinese businessmen and investors to come and invest in Afghanistan with confidence," he said.
Security has drastically improved in Afghanistan since foreign troops withdrew in 2021 and the Taliban ended their insurgency as they swept back to power.
However, the regional chapter of IS regularly stages attacks on civilians, security forces, Taliban government officials, and foreigners in Afghanistan.
At least five Chinese nationals were wounded when gunmen stormed a Kabul hotel popular with Beijing businessmen in a 2022 attack claimed by IS.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Afghanistan: The Chinese citizen was travelling on Tuesday evening in northern Takhar province bordering Tajikistan when he was killed by "unknown armed men". 

Police said Wednesday a Chinese national was killed in an attack in Afghanistan which the Islamic State group later claimed responsibility for, as the Taliban government attempts to project an image of security to encourage investment from Beijing. The Chinese citizen was travelling on Tuesday evening in northern Takhar province bordering Tajikistan when he was killed by "unknown armed men", provincial police spokesman Mohammad Akbar Haqqani told AFP. He said the man was travelling "for an unknown reason" and without informing security officials, who typically accompany Chinese nationals on trips in the country. Also read: Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal A translator travelling with the man was unharmed, Haqqani added. The Islamic State (IS) group's regional chapter claimed responsibility for the attack later Wednesday, according to jihadist monitor SITE. "The IS issued a communique... reporting that fighters fired at a vehicle carrying a 'communist Chinese' in Takhar, a province in which the group was last active in 2022," the monitor said. Also read: Xi Jinping welcomes Taliban ambassador to China as Kabul-Beijing ties move forward Interior ministry spokesman Abdul Mateen Qani confirmed the details of the killing and said the Chinese citizen was a business owner with a contract to mine in Afghanistan. China's embassy in Kabul did not immediately respond to a request for comment by AFP. The Taliban government is touting Afghanistan's vast natural resources, largely untapped during two decades of war, as a lifeline for the ravaged economy and a lucrative opportunity for foreign speculators. Despite lingering security concerns, neighbouring China is emerging as a potential investment partner. Chinese and Afghan officials gathered in Kabul on Tuesday for an event marking 70 years of diplomatic ties. "I would like to assure my Chinese friends that there is peace and security in Afghanistan," Deputy Foreign Minister Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai told attendees. "We invite Chinese businessmen and investors to come and invest in Afghanistan with confidence," he said. Security has drastically improved in Afghanistan since foreign troops withdrew in 2021 and the Taliban ended their insurgency as they swept back to power. However, the regional chapter of IS regularly stages attacks on civilians, security forces, Taliban government officials, and foreigners in Afghanistan. At least five Chinese nationals were wounded when gunmen stormed a Kabul hotel popular with Beijing businessmen in a 2022 attack claimed by IS. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chinese national killed in attack in Afghanistan, ISIS claims responsibility

<div>
<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">New Delhi: Moscow has called for adding India to the Quad grouping on Afghanistan that currently has China, Pakistan, Iran and Russia.&nbsp;Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday (Jan 14) at a briefing: "It is more important to strengthen trust within the SCO [Shanghai Cooperation Organisation], within the format that is currently working on Afghanistan (Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran). We are confident that the inclusion of India would be the right step."&nbsp;</div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">The "Afghanistan Quad" last met at the foreign ministers' level in November of 2024 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Defence Minister Muhammad Asif were present at the meeting.&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody"> Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-trying-to-convert-quad-into-military-bloc-india-fully-aware-russias-lavrov-8621142">US trying to convert QUAD into military bloc, India 'fully aware': Russia's Lavrov</a></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody"> A joint statement after the meeting called for support for Afghanistan's "national sovereignty, political independence, unity, and territorial integrity."</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Afghan Quad on terrorism</h2>
Terrorism was a key issue that was discussed, with the joint statement expressing concerns over the "security situation related to terrorism in Afghanistan".
<div class="x_elementToProof">Significantly during the presser, Lavrov termed Pakistan a "victim of terrorism" and said for Islamabad to "fight against terrorism requires joining efforts with your Afghan neighbours, with India, with all SCO members, because Central Asia, Afghanistan and Pakistan are used by "bad people" to plan and implement their criminal plans.</div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof">SCO had an Afghanistan Contact Group which had all members including India, but the group has become defunct since Taliban took power in in 2021.</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">India's engagement with new Afghan regime</h2>
The Russian minister's comments are significant at a time when New Delhi has increased its engagement with the Taliban government in Kabul.&nbsp;
<div class="x_elementToProof">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-in-farewell-foreign-policy-speech-slams-president-elect-donald-trump-claims-america-stronger-on-world-stage-8619679">Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal</a></div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof">In early January, Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri and Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi met in Dubai and discussed Chabahar port and Indian humanitarian assistance among other issues.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">India had opened a "technical office" in Kabul in 2022 and since has had engagement with the Taliban government in Kabul, despite not recognising it.&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">India had first "shared the table" with Taliban under the Moscow Format on Afghanistan in 2018, which was represented at "non-official level" by two former Indian diplomats: Amar Sinha, who was India's ambassador to Afghanistan and TCA Raghavan, who was India's High Commissioner to Pakistan.</div>
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India news, World, South Asia: The "Afghanistan Quad" last met at the foreign ministers' level in November of 2024 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. 

New Delhi: Moscow has called for adding India to the Quad grouping on Afghanistan that currently has China, Pakistan, Iran and Russia. Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday (Jan 14) at a briefing: "It is more important to strengthen trust within the SCO [Shanghai Cooperation Organisation], within the format that is currently working on Afghanistan (Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran). We are confident that the inclusion of India would be the right step." The "Afghanistan Quad" last met at the foreign ministers' level in November of 2024 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Defence Minister Muhammad Asif were present at the meeting. Also read: US trying to convert QUAD into military bloc, India 'fully aware': Russia's Lavrov A joint statement after the meeting called for support for Afghanistan's "national sovereignty, political independence, unity, and territorial integrity." Afghan Quad on terrorism Terrorism was a key issue that was discussed, with the joint statement expressing concerns over the "security situation related to terrorism in Afghanistan". Significantly during the presser, Lavrov termed Pakistan a "victim of terrorism" and said for Islamabad to "fight against terrorism requires joining efforts with your Afghan neighbours, with India, with all SCO members, because Central Asia, Afghanistan and Pakistan are used by "bad people" to plan and implement their criminal plans. SCO had an Afghanistan Contact Group which had all members including India, but the group has become defunct since Taliban took power in in 2021. India's engagement with new Afghan regime The Russian minister's comments are significant at a time when New Delhi has increased its engagement with the Taliban government in Kabul. Also read: Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal In early January, Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri and Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi met in Dubai and discussed Chabahar port and Indian humanitarian assistance among other issues. India had opened a "technical office" in Kabul in 2022 and since has had engagement with the Taliban government in Kabul, despite not recognising it. India had first "shared the table" with Taliban under the Moscow Format on Afghanistan in 2018, which was represented at "non-official level" by two former Indian diplomats: Amar Sinha, who was India's ambassador to Afghanistan and TCA Raghavan, who was India's High Commissioner to Pakistan.

Lavrov calls for adding India to 'Afghan Quad' that currently has Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran

United States President Joe Biden's administration has been negotiating with Afghanistan to swap Americans detained in the country for at least one high-profile prisoner held in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Guantanamo+Bay" rel="dofollow">Guantanamo Bay </a>with alleged ties to former Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday.&nbsp;
The administration is seeking the return of three Americans seized in 2022, including Corbett, George Glezmann, and Mahmood Habibi, in exchange for Muhammad Rahim al-Afghani, according to the report.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-biden-order-release-of-911-terrorists-from-guantanamo-bay-know-the-truth-8598935">Did Biden order release of 9/11 terrorists from Guantanamo Bay? Know the truth</a>
However, neither the US State Department nor the White House responded to a request for comment on the report. Moreover, the Afghan Taliban also did not immediately respond.&nbsp;
Rahim was a senior aide in Al Qaeda, however, others have cast doubt on his role in the organisation, the US government said.&nbsp;
It further suggested that he was a courier and a translator and would not cause any threat to the US if released.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-weighs-using-guantanamo-bay-for-haitian-migrant-influx-699865" rel="dofollow">Also read: Biden administration weighs using Guantanamo Bay for Haitian migrant influx</a>
Meanwhile, the Taliban have acknowledged holding two Americas.&nbsp;
George Glezmann, a former airline mechanic, was taken prisoner in December 2022, while he was touring Afghanistan.&nbsp;
Ryan Corbett, on the contrary, had long lived in Afghanistan with his family, before the fall of the US-backed government. He was on a business trip when he was seized in August 2022.&nbsp;
The Taliban have refused to comment on whether they are holding a third American.&nbsp;
Sean Savett, a National Security Council spokesman, said the Biden administration had negotiated the return of more than 75 Americans held overseas.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-transfers-two-guantanamo-bay-detainees-abdul-rabbani-and-mohammed-rabbani-to-pakistan-565645" rel="dofollow">Also read: US transfers two Guantanamo Bay detainees, Abdul Rabbani and Mohammed Rabbani, to Pakistan</a>
Savett added that the officials were "working around the clock" to ensure the return of Glezmann, Corbett, and Habibi.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The administration will do so throughout the remainder of the term,&rdquo; he added.
Moreover, earlier, the Biden administration made an offer to secure the release of the three men on November 14 last year, according to the Wall Street Journal report.&nbsp;
Notably, the US Defence Department is legally required to notify Congress 30 days before a detainee is released from Guant&aacute;namo.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The administration is seeking return of three Americans seized in 2022, including Corbett, George Glezmann, and Mahmood Habibi, in exchange for Muhammad Rahim al-Afghani. 

United States President Joe Biden's administration has been negotiating with Afghanistan to swap Americans detained in the country for at least one high-profile prisoner held in Guantanamo Bay with alleged ties to former Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday. The administration is seeking the return of three Americans seized in 2022, including Corbett, George Glezmann, and Mahmood Habibi, in exchange for Muhammad Rahim al-Afghani, according to the report. Also read:Did Biden order release of 9/11 terrorists from Guantanamo Bay? Know the truth However, neither the US State Department nor the White House responded to a request for comment on the report. Moreover, the Afghan Taliban also did not immediately respond. Rahim was a senior aide in Al Qaeda, however, others have cast doubt on his role in the organisation, the US government said. It further suggested that he was a courier and a translator and would not cause any threat to the US if released. Also read: Biden administration weighs using Guantanamo Bay for Haitian migrant influx Meanwhile, the Taliban have acknowledged holding two Americas. George Glezmann, a former airline mechanic, was taken prisoner in December 2022, while he was touring Afghanistan. Ryan Corbett, on the contrary, had long lived in Afghanistan with his family, before the fall of the US-backed government. He was on a business trip when he was seized in August 2022. The Taliban have refused to comment on whether they are holding a third American. Sean Savett, a National Security Council spokesman, said the Biden administration had negotiated the return of more than 75 Americans held overseas. Also read: US transfers two Guantanamo Bay detainees, Abdul Rabbani and Mohammed Rabbani, to Pakistan Savett added that the officials were "working around the clock" to ensure the return of Glezmann, Corbett, and Habibi. “The administration will do so throughout the remainder of the term,” he added. Moreover, earlier, the Biden administration made an offer to secure the release of the three men on November 14 last year, according to the Wall Street Journal report. Notably, the US Defence Department is legally required to notify Congress 30 days before a detainee is released from Guantánamo. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden administration in talks with Taliban for release of Americans held in Afghanistan: Report

On Tuesday (December 24) night, Pakistani fighter jets carried out airstrikes on four locations in Afghanistan&rsquo;s eastern Paktika province, targeting camps linked to the banned group, Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). According to security officials, several suspected militants were killed or injured in the operation. The Afghan defence ministry, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), confirmed that Pakistani forces had carried out the airstrikes. However, the Afghan Taliban claimed that the attack also caused casualties among civilians, including children.&nbsp;
Sources revealed that the airstrikes targeted TTP camps in the Murgha and Laman areas of Bernal district. One of the camps was reportedly used by key figures, including Sher Zaman, also known as Mukhlis Yar, Commander Abu Hamza, Commander Akhtar Muhammad and the head of TTP&rsquo;s media wing, Umar Media.&nbsp;
This was reportedly the second time since March that Pakistan had carried out an attack targeting what it claims are hideouts of the Pakistani Taliban, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), in areas along the Afghan border. Pakistan often accuses the TTP of using Afghan territory as a base to plan and launch attacks on its soil. However, Afghanistan&rsquo;s government has denied these allegations.&nbsp;
The airstrikes happened on the same day that a Pakistani delegation, led by Special Representative Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq, visited Kabul. They met interim Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani and Foreign Minister Amir Muttaqi to restart diplomatic talks after a year-long break.&nbsp;
Pakistan has faced a rise in violence since the Pakistani Taliban (TTP), an ally of the Afghan Taliban, ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022. In 2023 alone, over 700 attacks claimed nearly 1,000 lives.&nbsp;
The Pakistani government blames the Afghan Taliban for giving shelter to the TTP. Over the years, Pakistan has tried different ways to control the TTP, such as holding talks, building a border fence with Afghanistan and urging the Afghan government to stop supporting the group. In October 2023, Pakistan expelled over 500,000 Afghan refugees and, in July 2024, a second phase began to expel another 800,000.&nbsp;
Pakistan has little control over the violence in its border areas with Afghanistan. It can no longer use its past support for the Taliban during the US war to stop the TTP. Pakistan is, thus, stuck in a problem it created itself. The Taliban leaders it supported during the 20-year war in Afghanistan are now protecting militant groups that attack Pakistan.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-launches-airstrike-in-afghanistan-civilians-suffer-no-official-confirmation-from-islamabad-786628" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pakistan launches overnight airstrike on Afghanistan, targets Taliban hideouts</a>
<h2>Cause of Conflict Between Former Allies&nbsp;</h2>
Pakistan and Afghanistan have had a troubled relationship in recent years, but the main issues&mdash;disputes over the border and violence across it&mdash;have been problems for a long time. Since Pakistan became independent, no Afghan government, including the current Taliban leadership, has accepted the official border, says Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center. Both countries have also accused each other for years of hiding militants who launch attacks across the border, according to TIME.com.&nbsp;
The Durand Line, a border drawn during colonial times, spans over 1,640 miles (2,640 km) and officially separates Pakistan from Afghanistan. However, Afghanistan has never accepted this border and the Taliban have taken an even tougher stance on the issue. This has led to several clashes between Taliban fighters and Pakistani soldiers working on border fencing, often causing the closure of key border crossings.&nbsp;
Border tensions have worsened because the Taliban have taken a more forceful stand on the issue, says Kugelman. The border runs through tribal areas mostly populated by Pashtuns, the largest ethnic group living on both sides. Pakistan has promised to finish building a barbed-wire fence along the internationally accepted border, but the Taliban argue that it divides families.&nbsp;
Now that the war in Afghanistan is over, the Taliban no longer rely on Pakistan for safe havens or wartime help. Instead, it is focussing on gaining more support within Afghanistan, where many people have always been suspicious of Pakistan&rsquo;s government. According to Kugelman, by criticizing Pakistan, the Taliban hope to win some favour from among the Afghan people.&nbsp;
<h2>Pressure From China Cause of Operation?&nbsp;</h2>
Officials from Pakistan told BBC that the country&rsquo;s new military operation is being carried out because of pressure from China. Many Chinese workers are involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects under the &lsquo;Belt and Road&rsquo; initiative. In March, a suicide bomber, who Pakistan claimed was an Afghan citizen, attacked their convoy in northwest Pakistan, killing five Chinese engineers.&nbsp;
China has a lot of influence over the Taliban because it can invest in Afghanistan, which is struggling under sanctions. Kugelman explains that, if China uses the promise of investment to persuade the Taliban to reduce militant activities both inside Afghanistan and across the border in Pakistan, it would benefit both China and Pakistan.&nbsp;
<h2>Pakistan&rsquo;s Ongoing Battle for Stability&nbsp;</h2>
The TTP was formed in 2007 as a group that brought together several hardline Sunni Islamist factions operating in Pakistan. This happened after Pakistan&rsquo;s military launched operations against al-Qaeda-linked militants in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).&nbsp;
Before merging with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2018, FATA covered 27,220 square kilometres along Pakistan&rsquo;s border with Afghanistan. The region was home to about 5 million people, mostly Pashtun tribes. It spanned a long, narrow strip with varying widths and included seven tribal agencies and six frontier regions. The region operated under a separate administrative system governed by colonial-era laws called the Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR), which gave significant authority to tribal elders while limiting the role of Pakistan&rsquo;s central government.&nbsp;
Known for its rugged terrain, tribal traditions and strategic location, FATA was historically challenging to govern due to its remote geography and the independence of its tribal communities. Following the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, the region became a hub for such militant groups as the Taliban and al-Qaeda. In 2018, FATA was merged with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), a province in Pakistan, to integrate it into the country&rsquo;s mainstream legal and administrative system. This merger aimed to improve governance, boost development and strengthen security in the region.&nbsp;
The TTP was formed under the leadership of Baitullah Mehsud, who is no longer alive. The group is based along the Pak-Afghan border. It is estimated that the TTP has a membership of around 30,000 to 35,000 fighters. While the TTP operates in regions populated by Pashtuns, it does not represent the Pashtun people as a whole. In fact, many Pashtuns oppose the TTP and have been victims of their violence.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-government-spokesperson-claims-46-killed-in-pakistans-overnight-strike-786677" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike</a>
The United Nations states that the main goal of the TTP is to overthrow Pakistan&rsquo;s elected government and replace it with an emirate&mdash;a government led by a religious leader or ruler under Islamic law&mdash;based on their strict interpretation of Islamic principles. The TTP has tried to weaken Pakistan by targeting the army and assassinating politicians. They have carried out many attacks, including suicide bombings, which have killed hundreds of soldiers, police officers and civilians.&nbsp;
The group has carried out some of the deadliest attacks in Pakistan, targeting such places as churches and schools. They were also behind the 2012 attack on Malala Yousafzai, who was shot for speaking out against their attempts to stop women from getting educated. Despite the attack, Malala survived and continued her campaign for education rights.&nbsp;
After the Afghan Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, it gave new confidence to the TTP, whose leaders and fighters are hiding in Afghanistan. Since November 2022, when the TTP broke a ceasefire with the Pakistani government, attacks on Pakistani soldiers and police have increased. The ceasefire had been agreed upon during talks hosted by Afghanistan&rsquo;s government in Kabul, but the discussions failed. In recent months, the TTP has carried out numerous attacks in Pakistan, killing and injuring many soldiers.&nbsp;
<h2>Roots of Conflict &amp; Strategic Advantage&nbsp;</h2>
The main demand of the TTP is to undo the merger of FATA with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province. This issue has remained a key focus for the group and they continue to push for it for several reasons. Although the TTP is not a single, unified group, its most influential faction has been the Mehsud group, mainly made up of Pashtuns, an ethnic community largely found in the FATA and KP regions of Pakistan.&nbsp;
The TTP uses the FATA regions to strengthen its operations and recruit new members because many local and migrant Pashtuns live in these areas. The TTP takes advantage of their unique political problems and dissatisfaction to gain support. Second, the FATA region gives the TTP a strategic advantage because of its location near the Afghan border. This allows the group to carry out cross-border operations and use Afghanistan as a safe hiding place. They also work with other militant groups, such as the Haqqani Network, taking advantage of shared ethnic and militant ties.&nbsp;

Pakistan has faced a rise in violence since the Pakistani Taliban (TTP), an ally of the Afghan Taliban, ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022. In 2023 alone, over 700 attacks claimed nearly 1,000 lives.

On Tuesday (December 24) night, Pakistani fighter jets carried out airstrikes on four locations in Afghanistan’s eastern Paktika province, targeting camps linked to the banned group, Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). According to security officials, several suspected militants were killed or injured in the operation. The Afghan defence ministry, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), confirmed that Pakistani forces had carried out the airstrikes. However, the Afghan Taliban claimed that the attack also caused casualties among civilians, including children. Sources revealed that the airstrikes targeted TTP camps in the Murgha and Laman areas of Bernal district. One of the camps was reportedly used by key figures, including Sher Zaman, also known as Mukhlis Yar, Commander Abu Hamza, Commander Akhtar Muhammad and the head of TTP’s media wing, Umar Media. This was reportedly the second time since March that Pakistan had carried out an attack targeting what it claims are hideouts of the Pakistani Taliban, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), in areas along the Afghan border. Pakistan often accuses the TTP of using Afghan territory as a base to plan and launch attacks on its soil. However, Afghanistan’s government has denied these allegations. The airstrikes happened on the same day that a Pakistani delegation, led by Special Representative Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq, visited Kabul. They met interim Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani and Foreign Minister Amir Muttaqi to restart diplomatic talks after a year-long break. Pakistan has faced a rise in violence since the Pakistani Taliban (TTP), an ally of the Afghan Taliban, ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022. In 2023 alone, over 700 attacks claimed nearly 1,000 lives. The Pakistani government blames the Afghan Taliban for giving shelter to the TTP. Over the years, Pakistan has tried different ways to control the TTP, such as holding talks, building a border fence with Afghanistan and urging the Afghan government to stop supporting the group. In October 2023, Pakistan expelled over 500,000 Afghan refugees and, in July 2024, a second phase began to expel another 800,000. Pakistan has little control over the violence in its border areas with Afghanistan. It can no longer use its past support for the Taliban during the US war to stop the TTP. Pakistan is, thus, stuck in a problem it created itself. The Taliban leaders it supported during the 20-year war in Afghanistan are now protecting militant groups that attack Pakistan. Also read | Pakistan launches overnight airstrike on Afghanistan, targets Taliban hideouts Cause of Conflict Between Former Allies Pakistan and Afghanistan have had a troubled relationship in recent years, but the main issues—disputes over the border and violence across it—have been problems for a long time. Since Pakistan became independent, no Afghan government, including the current Taliban leadership, has accepted the official border, says Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center. Both countries have also accused each other for years of hiding militants who launch attacks across the border, according to TIME.com. The Durand Line, a border drawn during colonial times, spans over 1,640 miles (2,640 km) and officially separates Pakistan from Afghanistan. However, Afghanistan has never accepted this border and the Taliban have taken an even tougher stance on the issue. This has led to several clashes between Taliban fighters and Pakistani soldiers working on border fencing, often causing the closure of key border crossings. Border tensions have worsened because the Taliban have taken a more forceful stand on the issue, says Kugelman. The border runs through tribal areas mostly populated by Pashtuns, the largest ethnic group living on both sides. Pakistan has promised to finish building a barbed-wire fence along the internationally accepted border, but the Taliban argue that it divides families. Now that the war in Afghanistan is over, the Taliban no longer rely on Pakistan for safe havens or wartime help. Instead, it is focussing on gaining more support within Afghanistan, where many people have always been suspicious of Pakistan’s government. According to Kugelman, by criticizing Pakistan, the Taliban hope to win some favour from among the Afghan people. Pressure From China Cause of Operation? Officials from Pakistan told BBC that the country’s new military operation is being carried out because of pressure from China. Many Chinese workers are involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects under the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative. In March, a suicide bomber, who Pakistan claimed was an Afghan citizen, attacked their convoy in northwest Pakistan, killing five Chinese engineers. China has a lot of influence over the Taliban because it can invest in Afghanistan, which is struggling under sanctions. Kugelman explains that, if China uses the promise of investment to persuade the Taliban to reduce militant activities both inside Afghanistan and across the border in Pakistan, it would benefit both China and Pakistan. Pakistan’s Ongoing Battle for Stability The TTP was formed in 2007 as a group that brought together several hardline Sunni Islamist factions operating in Pakistan. This happened after Pakistan’s military launched operations against al-Qaeda-linked militants in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). Before merging with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2018, FATA covered 27,220 square kilometres along Pakistan’s border with Afghanistan. The region was home to about 5 million people, mostly Pashtun tribes. It spanned a long, narrow strip with varying widths and included seven tribal agencies and six frontier regions. The region operated under a separate administrative system governed by colonial-era laws called the Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR), which gave significant authority to tribal elders while limiting the role of Pakistan’s central government. Known for its rugged terrain, tribal traditions and strategic location, FATA was historically challenging to govern due to its remote geography and the independence of its tribal communities. Following the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, the region became a hub for such militant groups as the Taliban and al-Qaeda. In 2018, FATA was merged with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), a province in Pakistan, to integrate it into the country’s mainstream legal and administrative system. This merger aimed to improve governance, boost development and strengthen security in the region. The TTP was formed under the leadership of Baitullah Mehsud, who is no longer alive. The group is based along the Pak-Afghan border. It is estimated that the TTP has a membership of around 30,000 to 35,000 fighters. While the TTP operates in regions populated by Pashtuns, it does not represent the Pashtun people as a whole. In fact, many Pashtuns oppose the TTP and have been victims of their violence. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike The United Nations states that the main goal of the TTP is to overthrow Pakistan’s elected government and replace it with an emirate—a government led by a religious leader or ruler under Islamic law—based on their strict interpretation of Islamic principles. The TTP has tried to weaken Pakistan by targeting the army and assassinating politicians. They have carried out many attacks, including suicide bombings, which have killed hundreds of soldiers, police officers and civilians. The group has carried out some of the deadliest attacks in Pakistan, targeting such places as churches and schools. They were also behind the 2012 attack on Malala Yousafzai, who was shot for speaking out against their attempts to stop women from getting educated. Despite the attack, Malala survived and continued her campaign for education rights. After the Afghan Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, it gave new confidence to the TTP, whose leaders and fighters are hiding in Afghanistan. Since November 2022, when the TTP broke a ceasefire with the Pakistani government, attacks on Pakistani soldiers and police have increased. The ceasefire had been agreed upon during talks hosted by Afghanistan’s government in Kabul, but the discussions failed. In recent months, the TTP has carried out numerous attacks in Pakistan, killing and injuring many soldiers. Roots of Conflict & Strategic Advantage The main demand of the TTP is to undo the merger of FATA with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province. This issue has remained a key focus for the group and they continue to push for it for several reasons. Although the TTP is not a single, unified group, its most influential faction has been the Mehsud group, mainly made up of Pashtuns, an ethnic community largely found in the FATA and KP regions of Pakistan. The TTP uses the FATA regions to strengthen its operations and recruit new members because many local and migrant Pashtuns live in these areas. The TTP takes advantage of their unique political problems and dissatisfaction to gain support. Second, the FATA region gives the TTP a strategic advantage because of its location near the Afghan border. This allows the group to carry out cross-border operations and use Afghanistan as a safe hiding place. They also work with other militant groups, such as the Haqqani Network, taking advantage of shared ethnic and militant ties.

Why Pakistan bombed four Afghan locations

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