Taliban will be removed from the&nbsp;list of banned terrorist organisations,&nbsp;three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency said on Monday (May 27).

Moscow has for years encouraged relations with the Taliban, holding multiple rounds of talks and boosting trade with Afghanistan despite international sanctions.&nbsp;

"We're taking the same approach as Kazakhstan and removing the Taliban from our list of terrorist groups," RIA Novosti quoted Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as saying.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-calls-deadly-israeli-strike-on-rafah-tragic-accident-amid-international-outcry-726065">Netanyahu calls deadly Israeli strike on Rafah ‘tragic accident’ amid outcry</a>

Recently, Kazakhstan also removed the Taliban from its list of banned organisations.&nbsp;

While this move might strengthen diplomatic ties between Afghanistan and Russia, it doesn't constitute formal recognition of the Taliban government, which they refer to as the 'Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan'.

Taliban seized power in 2021 from a US-backed government. They have enforced an extreme form of Islamic law that effectively bans women from public life.

"They are the existent power. We are not indifferent to Afghanistan. And above all, our allies in Central Asia are not indifferent," Lavrov said.&nbsp;

According to state media reports, Russia also invited Taliban representatives to its flagship Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egyptian-soldier-killed-after-exchange-of-fire-with-israeli-forces-near-rafah-crossing-reports-725985">Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops</a>

The event, once hailed as the bedrock of Russia's economic ties with the West, now seems overshadowed by Russia's years of cultivating connections with the Taliban.

The head of US forces in Afghanistan claimed in 2018 that Moscow was providing weapons to the group -- accusations Moscow denied at the time.

Notably, the Taliban has been designated a terrorist organisation in Russia since 2003. &nbsp;

Russia's own history with Afghanistan is filled with tension. In the 1980s, the Soviet Union waged a brutal decade-long war to support a pro-Kremlin government against mujahideen insurgents.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban will be removed from the list of banned terrorist organisations, three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency said on Monday (May 27).

Taliban will be removed from the list of banned terrorist organisations, three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency said on Monday (May 27). Moscow has for years encouraged relations with the Taliban, holding multiple rounds of talks and boosting trade with Afghanistan despite international sanctions. "We're taking the same approach as Kazakhstan and removing the Taliban from our list of terrorist groups," RIA Novosti quoted Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as saying. Also read: Netanyahu calls deadly Israeli strike on Rafah ‘tragic accident’ amid outcry Recently, Kazakhstan also removed the Taliban from its list of banned organisations. While this move might strengthen diplomatic ties between Afghanistan and Russia, it doesn't constitute formal recognition of the Taliban government, which they refer to as the 'Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan'. Taliban seized power in 2021 from a US-backed government. They have enforced an extreme form of Islamic law that effectively bans women from public life. "They are the existent power. We are not indifferent to Afghanistan. And above all, our allies in Central Asia are not indifferent," Lavrov said. According to state media reports, Russia also invited Taliban representatives to its flagship Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum. Also read: Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops The event, once hailed as the bedrock of Russia's economic ties with the West, now seems overshadowed by Russia's years of cultivating connections with the Taliban. The head of US forces in Afghanistan claimed in 2018 that Moscow was providing weapons to the group -- accusations Moscow denied at the time. Notably, the Taliban has been designated a terrorist organisation in Russia since 2003. Russia's own history with Afghanistan is filled with tension. In the 1980s, the Soviet Union waged a brutal decade-long war to support a pro-Kremlin government against mujahideen insurgents. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to delist Taliban as terrorist group: Report

A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females.

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The heroic women of Afghanistan out on the streets of Herat today to protest against the Taliban’s BAN on female students going to university. They scream “cowards” at the Taliban. 
 
The Taliban fire water canons at the protesters. <a href="https://t.co/9O34xFFbf6">pic.twitter.com/9O34xFFbf6</a>
— Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) <a href="https://twitter.com/NasimiShabnam/status/1606626868567937024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Hundreds of Afghan women have taken to the streets to protest against the Taliban's decision. Protest marches in Afghanistan echoed with slogans like 'education is our right' and 'The Taliban are cowards.'&nbsp;

A few days after the Taliban banned women from pursuing higher education, they have recently also shut the doors for them to work in non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-male-students-walk-out-of-exam-halls-as-taliban-bans-university-education-for-afghan-women-546234">Male students walk out of exam halls as Taliban ban university education for Afghan women</a>

Abdel Rahman Habib, ministry of economy spokesperson, declared that women are no more allowed to work for any international or national NGO. He mentioned that the Taliban sent a letter to the NGOs assessing a prohibition 'until further notice.' According to him, women not wearing a hijab and disobeying the Sharia law are&nbsp;the prime reason behind the action.&nbsp;

Taliban's decision to ban female students from universities triggered a global uproar. The Taliban&nbsp;however reason&nbsp;that women conversate with male peers in colleges and do not follow the appropriate Islamic dress code. Higher education minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem implemented the ban with 'immediate effect' on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Nadeem said, "they dress like they were going to a wedding."

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Suicide Blast: 1 policeman dead, 4 injured in attack; TTP claims responsibility

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Amid the protests, the Taliban has arrested five women in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital. They have also arrested three journalists. A day after the ban, guards barred hundreds of women from entering educational institutions.&nbsp;

Taliban has already banned women from most secondary schools. United Nations and many&nbsp;countries have condemned the Taliban's decision to deprive women of their educational rights.&nbsp;

Male students in Afghanistan universities have also protested in solidarity with their female counterparts. Many professors resigned after the decision, and male students walked out of exam halls as a sign of protest.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females.

A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females. The heroic women of Afghanistan out on the streets of Herat today to protest against the Taliban’s BAN on female students going to university. They scream “cowards” at the Taliban. The Taliban fire water canons at the protesters. pic.twitter.com/9O34xFFbf6 — Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) December 24, 2022 × Hundreds of Afghan women have taken to the streets to protest against the Taliban's decision. Protest marches in Afghanistan echoed with slogans like 'education is our right' and 'The Taliban are cowards.' A few days after the Taliban banned women from pursuing higher education, they have recently also shut the doors for them to work in non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Also read | Male students walk out of exam halls as Taliban ban university education for Afghan women Abdel Rahman Habib, ministry of economy spokesperson, declared that women are no more allowed to work for any international or national NGO. He mentioned that the Taliban sent a letter to the NGOs assessing a prohibition 'until further notice.' According to him, women not wearing a hijab and disobeying the Sharia law are the prime reason behind the action. Taliban's decision to ban female students from universities triggered a global uproar. The Taliban however reason that women conversate with male peers in colleges and do not follow the appropriate Islamic dress code. Higher education minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem implemented the ban with 'immediate effect' on Tuesday. Nadeem said, "they dress like they were going to a wedding." Watch | Pakistan Suicide Blast: 1 policeman dead, 4 injured in attack; TTP claims responsibility Amid the protests, the Taliban has arrested five women in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital. They have also arrested three journalists. A day after the ban, guards barred hundreds of women from entering educational institutions. Taliban has already banned women from most secondary schools. United Nations and many countries have condemned the Taliban's decision to deprive women of their educational rights. Male students in Afghanistan universities have also protested in solidarity with their female counterparts. Many professors resigned after the decision, and male students walked out of exam halls as a sign of protest. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Taliban use water cannon on Afghan women opposing prohibition on university education

Women in Afghanistan will be denied entry to amusement parks in the country, the Taliban government's "morality police" ordered on Wednesday.

The ban adds to a series of gender-oppressive measures imposed by the Taliban-led government after it dethroned the democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul last August, followed by a chaotic exit of the last US forces stationed there in operative capacity since the aftermath of September 11, 2001 attacks.&nbsp;

What do we know so far?

A spokesperson for Afghanistan's Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice (MPVPV) said on Wednesday that women would not be allowed to enter amusement parks.&nbsp;

Two park operators were quoted as saying by the Reuters news agency that the Taliban had directed them not to allow women to enter their parks.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-women-stopped-from-entering-parks-in-kabul-as-taliban-issues-new-diktat-532788">Afghanistan: Women stopped from entering parks in Kabul as Taliban issues new diktat</a>

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Earlier, the Taliban-led administration had directed the amusement park businesses that their parks must be segregated according to gender, with some days reserved exclusively for women. This rule also ran its jurisdiction to all public parks, including open spaces, and public baths.&nbsp;

The Taliban government did not clarify how the restrictions would work alongside this previous order.&nbsp;

New rule part of curtailment of women's freedoms in Afghanistan

One of the first acts of Afghanistan's Taliban government, once the hardliner group became the undisputed leadership entity of Afghanistan, was to deprive girls of getting a secondary education.

The government also did not keep its promise of opening all girls' high schools in March.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-women-stopped-from-entering-parks-in-kabul-as-taliban-issues-new-diktat-532788">Woman in Afghanistan commits suicide before Taliban could stone her</a>

The Taliban government had also directed the women they must&nbsp;not leave their homes without a male relative and must cover their faces.&nbsp;

Women have been removed from public service positions except where they cannot be filled by men in education, health, and some elements of policing.&nbsp;

A United Nations report in August pointed out that "the increasingly dangerous and hopeless situation for women and girls has contributed to a reported increase of suicides among women."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Women in Afghanistan will be denied entry to amusement parks in the country, the Taliban government's "morality police" ordered on Wednesday. The ban adds to a series of gender-oppressive measures imposed by the Taliban-led government after it dethroned the democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul last August, followed by a chaotic exit of the last US forces stationed there in operative capacity since the aftermath of September 11, 2001 attacks.

Women in Afghanistan will be denied entry to amusement parks in the country, the Taliban government's "morality police" ordered on Wednesday. The ban adds to a series of gender-oppressive measures imposed by the Taliban-led government after it dethroned the democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul last August, followed by a chaotic exit of the last US forces stationed there in operative capacity since the aftermath of September 11, 2001 attacks. What do we know so far? A spokesperson for Afghanistan's Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice (MPVPV) said on Wednesday that women would not be allowed to enter amusement parks. Two park operators were quoted as saying by the Reuters news agency that the Taliban had directed them not to allow women to enter their parks. WATCH | Afghanistan: Women stopped from entering parks in Kabul as Taliban issues new diktat × Earlier, the Taliban-led administration had directed the amusement park businesses that their parks must be segregated according to gender, with some days reserved exclusively for women. This rule also ran its jurisdiction to all public parks, including open spaces, and public baths. The Taliban government did not clarify how the restrictions would work alongside this previous order. New rule part of curtailment of women's freedoms in Afghanistan One of the first acts of Afghanistan's Taliban government, once the hardliner group became the undisputed leadership entity of Afghanistan, was to deprive girls of getting a secondary education. The government also did not keep its promise of opening all girls' high schools in March. ALSO READ | Woman in Afghanistan commits suicide before Taliban could stone her The Taliban government had also directed the women they must not leave their homes without a male relative and must cover their faces. Women have been removed from public service positions except where they cannot be filled by men in education, health, and some elements of policing. A United Nations report in August pointed out that "the increasingly dangerous and hopeless situation for women and girls has contributed to a reported increase of suicides among women." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghanistan: Taliban issue fresh order, now ban women's entry to amusement parks

Days before the first anniversary of the hardline Islamists' return to power, Taliban fighters forcefully dispersed a rare gathering in the Afghan capital on Saturday by beating protesting women and firing into the air.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/zawahiris-body-not-found-says-taliban-506489">Taliban</a>&nbsp;have reversed the slight advancements gained by women throughout the two decades of US operations in Afghanistan since taking power on August 15 last year.

An AFP correspondent said that some 40 women marched in front of the education ministry building in Kabul while chanting "food, work, and freedom," but the fighters dispersed them by firing into the air.

Taliban fighters followed and clubbed some female demonstrators with their rifle butts after they sought safety in adjacent stores.

The demonstrators carried a banner which read "August 15 is a black day" as they demanded rights to work and political participation.&nbsp;"Justice, justice. We're fed up with ignorance," they chanted, many not wearing face veils.

"Unfortunately, the Taliban from the intelligence service came and fired in the air," said Zholia Parsi, one of the organisers of the march.&nbsp;"They dispersed the girls, tore our banners and confiscated the mobile phones of many girls."

An AFP correspondent witnessed the women&nbsp;being physically assaulted by Taliban fighters.

'Making women invisible'&nbsp;

After taking control last year, the Taliban had promised a gentler version of the strict Islamist rule that characterised their first term in power from 1996 to 2001.

But in order to conform to the movement's severe interpretation of Islam, numerous limitations have already been put in place, particularly for women.

Many government occupations are no longer open to women, and tens of thousands of girls have been excluded from secondary education. Additionally, women are now only permitted to visit the public gardens and parks in the capital on days when men are not present. Long distance solo travel is also no longer permitted.

Hibatullah Akhundzada, the head of the Taliban and the country's ultimate authority, commanded women to completely cover themselves in public, including their faces, preferably with an all-encompassing burqa.

The Taliban regime has received harsh criticism from the UN and human rights organisations for its treatment of women.

Richard Bennett, the UN's special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, told reporters in Kabul during a visit in May that these measures display a "pattern of absolute gender segregation and are intended to make women invisible in the community."

At first, a few Afghan ladies protested modestly by pushing back against the limits. However, the Taliban quickly apprehended the ringleaders and imprisoned them without charge while maintaining their innocence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch |&nbsp;UN: Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis is the world's worst

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Days before the first anniversary of the hardline Islamists' return to power, Taliban fighters forcefully dispersed a rare gathering in the Afghan capital on Saturday by beating protesting women and firing into the air.

Days before the first anniversary of the hardline Islamists' return to power, Taliban fighters forcefully dispersed a rare gathering in the Afghan capital on Saturday by beating protesting women and firing into the air. The Taliban have reversed the slight advancements gained by women throughout the two decades of US operations in Afghanistan since taking power on August 15 last year. An AFP correspondent said that some 40 women marched in front of the education ministry building in Kabul while chanting "food, work, and freedom," but the fighters dispersed them by firing into the air. Taliban fighters followed and clubbed some female demonstrators with their rifle butts after they sought safety in adjacent stores. The demonstrators carried a banner which read "August 15 is a black day" as they demanded rights to work and political participation. "Justice, justice. We're fed up with ignorance," they chanted, many not wearing face veils. "Unfortunately, the Taliban from the intelligence service came and fired in the air," said Zholia Parsi, one of the organisers of the march. "They dispersed the girls, tore our banners and confiscated the mobile phones of many girls." An AFP correspondent witnessed the women being physically assaulted by Taliban fighters. 'Making women invisible' After taking control last year, the Taliban had promised a gentler version of the strict Islamist rule that characterised their first term in power from 1996 to 2001. But in order to conform to the movement's severe interpretation of Islam, numerous limitations have already been put in place, particularly for women. Many government occupations are no longer open to women, and tens of thousands of girls have been excluded from secondary education. Additionally, women are now only permitted to visit the public gardens and parks in the capital on days when men are not present. Long distance solo travel is also no longer permitted. Hibatullah Akhundzada, the head of the Taliban and the country's ultimate authority, commanded women to completely cover themselves in public, including their faces, preferably with an all-encompassing burqa. The Taliban regime has received harsh criticism from the UN and human rights organisations for its treatment of women. Richard Bennett, the UN's special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, told reporters in Kabul during a visit in May that these measures display a "pattern of absolute gender segregation and are intended to make women invisible in the community." At first, a few Afghan ladies protested modestly by pushing back against the limits. However, the Taliban quickly apprehended the ringleaders and imprisoned them without charge while maintaining their innocence. (With inputs from agencies) Watch | UN: Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis is the world's worst

Taliban fighters fire in air, assault women to halt their protest in Kabul

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;announced on Sunday a&nbsp;ban&nbsp;on the cultivation of narcotics in Afghanistan, the world's biggest opium producer.

"As per the decree of the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, all Afghans are informed that from now on, cultivation of poppy has been strictly prohibited across the country," according to an order from the&nbsp;Taliban's supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada.

"If anyone violates the decree, the crop will be destroyed immediately and the violator will be treated according to the Sharia law," the order, announced at a news conference by the Ministry of Interior in Kabul, said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-will-recognise-taliban-regime-when-conditions-are-ripe-report-467395">China will recognise Taliban regime ‘when conditions are ripe’: Report</a>

The order said the production, use or transportation of other narcotics was also&nbsp;banned.

Drug control has been one major demand of the international community of the Islamist group, which took over the country in August and is seeking formal international recognition in order to wind back sanctions that are severely hampering&nbsp;banking, business and development.

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;banned poppy growing towards the end of their last rule in 2000 as they sought international legitimacy, but faced a popular backlash and later mostly changed their stance, according to experts.

Afghanistan's opium production - which the United Nations estimated was worth $1.4 billion at its height in 2017 - has increased in recent months, farmers and&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;members told Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/world-bank-suspends-projects-in-afghanistan-after-taliban-prohibit-girls-from-school-466909">World Bank suspends projects in Afghanistan after Taliban prohibit girls from school</a>

The country's dire economic situation has prompted residents of south-eastern provinces to grow the illicit crop that could bring them faster and higher returns than legal crops such as wheat.

Taliban&nbsp;sources told Reuters they were anticipating tough resistance from some elements within the group against the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;on poppy and that there had been a surge in the number of farmers cultivating poppy in recent months.

A farmer in Helmand who spoke on condition of anonymity said that in recent weeks prices of poppy had already more than doubled on rumours the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;would&nbsp;ban&nbsp;its cultivation. But he added that he needed to grow poppy to support his family.

"Other crops are just not profitable," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Taliban issue new diktat

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&nbsp;

The Taliban announced on Sunday a ban on the cultivation of narcotics in Afghanistan, the world's biggest opium producer. "As per the decree of the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, all Afghans are informed that from now on, cultivation of poppy has been strictly prohibited across the country," according to an order from the Taliban's supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada.

The Taliban announced on Sunday a ban on the cultivation of narcotics in Afghanistan, the world's biggest opium producer. "As per the decree of the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, all Afghans are informed that from now on, cultivation of poppy has been strictly prohibited across the country," according to an order from the Taliban's supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada. "If anyone violates the decree, the crop will be destroyed immediately and the violator will be treated according to the Sharia law," the order, announced at a news conference by the Ministry of Interior in Kabul, said. Also read | China will recognise Taliban regime ‘when conditions are ripe’: Report The order said the production, use or transportation of other narcotics was also banned. Drug control has been one major demand of the international community of the Islamist group, which took over the country in August and is seeking formal international recognition in order to wind back sanctions that are severely hampering banking, business and development. The Taliban banned poppy growing towards the end of their last rule in 2000 as they sought international legitimacy, but faced a popular backlash and later mostly changed their stance, according to experts. Afghanistan's opium production - which the United Nations estimated was worth $1.4 billion at its height in 2017 - has increased in recent months, farmers and Taliban members told Reuters. Also read | World Bank suspends projects in Afghanistan after Taliban prohibit girls from school The country's dire economic situation has prompted residents of south-eastern provinces to grow the illicit crop that could bring them faster and higher returns than legal crops such as wheat. Taliban sources told Reuters they were anticipating tough resistance from some elements within the group against the ban on poppy and that there had been a surge in the number of farmers cultivating poppy in recent months. A farmer in Helmand who spoke on condition of anonymity said that in recent weeks prices of poppy had already more than doubled on rumours the Taliban would ban its cultivation. But he added that he needed to grow poppy to support his family. "Other crops are just not profitable," he said. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Taliban issue new diktat

Taliban ban poppy cultivation in Afghanistan

From Beijing Olympics to Indo-Pak series: When politics and sports collided

Afghanistan was hit severely when the Taliban regime took over from the government, early this year, which created havoc across the country. The troubled nation saw the huge impact of the takeover from the Taliban outfit with severe unrest as many people decided to leave their homeland and fly to another country, in order to start from scratch.&nbsp;

As a result, the athletes have also suffered, mainly the female sports personalities in the country. As the Taliban regime remains firm on their stance that women of the country won't indulge in sports, the Afghanistan cricket team faced the brunt of it as their forthcoming maiden Test versus Australia -- scheduled to be held in November, 2021&nbsp;in Hobart -- got postponed by the Australian Cricket Board.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/epic-aakash-chopra-reacts-as-pakistani-actor-accuses-bcci-of-fixing-india-vs-afghanistan-t20-wc-clash-426574">EPIC! Aakash Chopra reacts as Pakistani actor accuses BCCI of 'fixing' India vs Afghanistan T20 WC clash</a>

Cricket Australia in a statement said, “Following extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders, Cricket Australia and the Afghanistan Cricket Board have agreed to postpone the inaugural men’s Test match against Afghanistan which was set to be played in Hobart on November 27.”

“CA is committed to supporting growing the game for women and men in Afghanistan and around the world, however, given the present uncertainty, CA felt it necessary to postpone the Test match until a later time when the situation is clearer,” the board said.

“CA looks forward to hosting Afghanistan players in the BBL (Big Bash League) this season, who are great ambassadors for the game, and to hosting both the Afghanistan women’s and men’s team in the not too distant future,” it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-professor-to-fruit-seller-a-life-with-dignity-in-afghanistan-424155">ALSO READ |&nbsp;From professor to fruit seller : a life with dignity in Afghanistan</a>

Following the unfortunate turn of events,&nbsp;Dad Mohammad Nawak, Spokesperson, Afghan National Olympic Committee revealed -- in an interaction with www.wionnews.com's Anas Mallick, -- what the new government policy is towards women's sport and will they be allowed to participate and flourish for the country.&nbsp;

Recently we saw postponement by the Australian Cricket team under the pretext that the new govt. is not allowing (Afghan) women's cricket team to prevail. What is the new govt's policy in regards to women's sports. Will they be allowed participation?

We are trying our best that with regards to women sports, whatever Islam and Islamic Emirates policy says, we want to go ahead on the same path. And we are trying our best to ensure that there would be no discrimination and we want to be away from any discrimination. And we are trying our best to make a system for the women that is beyond any nationality, language or area for sports.

Given that all eyes are on Afghanistan regarding how their women athletes are allowed to function in the coming years, there might be reforms in place to involve them so that the sporting fraternity do not shun the troubled country completely going forward (as done by CA with regard to the one-off Test).

What does the future hold for the women athletes in Afghanistan? It remains unclear as of now. Only time will have all the answers...

Afghanistan was hit severely when the Taliban regime took over from the government, early this year, which created havoc across the country. The troubled nation saw the huge impact of the takeover from the Taliban outfit with severe unrest as many people decided to leave their homeland and fly to another country, in order to start from scratch.

Afghanistan was hit severely when the Taliban regime took over from the government, early this year, which created havoc across the country. The troubled nation saw the huge impact of the takeover from the Taliban outfit with severe unrest as many people decided to leave their homeland and fly to another country, in order to start from scratch. As a result, the athletes have also suffered, mainly the female sports personalities in the country. As the Taliban regime remains firm on their stance that women of the country won't indulge in sports, the Afghanistan cricket team faced the brunt of it as their forthcoming maiden Test versus Australia -- scheduled to be held in November, 2021 in Hobart -- got postponed by the Australian Cricket Board. ALSO READ | EPIC! Aakash Chopra reacts as Pakistani actor accuses BCCI of 'fixing' India vs Afghanistan T20 WC clash Cricket Australia in a statement said, “Following extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders, Cricket Australia and the Afghanistan Cricket Board have agreed to postpone the inaugural men’s Test match against Afghanistan which was set to be played in Hobart on November 27.” “CA is committed to supporting growing the game for women and men in Afghanistan and around the world, however, given the present uncertainty, CA felt it necessary to postpone the Test match until a later time when the situation is clearer,” the board said. “CA looks forward to hosting Afghanistan players in the BBL (Big Bash League) this season, who are great ambassadors for the game, and to hosting both the Afghanistan women’s and men’s team in the not too distant future,” it added. ALSO READ | From professor to fruit seller : a life with dignity in Afghanistan Following the unfortunate turn of events, Dad Mohammad Nawak, Spokesperson, Afghan National Olympic Committee revealed -- in an interaction with www.wionnews.com's Anas Mallick, -- what the new government policy is towards women's sport and will they be allowed to participate and flourish for the country. Recently we saw postponement by the Australian Cricket team under the pretext that the new govt. is not allowing (Afghan) women's cricket team to prevail. What is the new govt's policy in regards to women's sports. Will they be allowed participation? We are trying our best that with regards to women sports, whatever Islam and Islamic Emirates policy says, we want to go ahead on the same path. And we are trying our best to ensure that there would be no discrimination and we want to be away from any discrimination. And we are trying our best to make a system for the women that is beyond any nationality, language or area for sports. Given that all eyes are on Afghanistan regarding how their women athletes are allowed to function in the coming years, there might be reforms in place to involve them so that the sporting fraternity do not shun the troubled country completely going forward (as done by CA with regard to the one-off Test). What does the future hold for the women athletes in Afghanistan? It remains unclear as of now. Only time will have all the answers...

As Australia-Afghanistan Test gets postponed, ANOC's spokesperson sheds light on women athletes' future

Maulvi Hamdullah Mukhlis, a key Taliban member is among those killed in Tuesday's Kabul military hospital, reports said.&nbsp;

Mukhlis was the head of Kabul's military corps and also one of the first senior Taliban commanders to enter the abandoned presidential palace when the city fell to the group in August.&nbsp;

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Maulvi Hamdullah Mukhlis, the Taliban commander who was among the First ones to enter the Afghan Presidential Palace on 15th August when the Taliban took charge of Kabul, is among those who have been killed in the attack at the military hospital today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>
— Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick/status/1455558474629361669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, at least 19 people were killed and another 50 were wounded in the attack on a military hospital in Kabul.&nbsp;

Tuesday's attack was the latest assault in a series of assaults to rock Afghanistan since the Taliban seized power.&nbsp;The attack was carried out by a suicide bomber who detonated his explosives near the entrance of the sprawling site. Following this, gunmen broke into the hospital grounds, firing their weapons there.

Although no organisation has claimed responsibility for the attack, it is suspected that the Islamic State is behind the attack on the 400-bed hospital, as the operation was typical of the complex attacks mounted by ISIS.&nbsp;

The plot to attack the hospital in Kabul's 15th district was foiled and four of the attackers were killed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/19-dead-in-attack-on-kabul-military-hospital-gunmen-killed-says-taliban-426066">19 dead in attack on Kabul military hospital; gunmen killed, says Taliban</a>

Assailants at the hospital aimed to attack civilians, doctors, and patients, but the Islamic Emirate's vigilante forces targeted and knocked them off their feet before they reached their target, says the Taliban.&nbsp;

Reportedly the attack on the hospital was contained within 15 minutes, with the attackers killed at the hospital's entrance and courtyard.

Although no one was injured inside the hospital, two women, one child, two Mujahideen and four others were martyred outside.

In light of the recent attacks, concerns have grown outside Afghanistan about the country becoming a haven for militant groups, as it was when an al Qaeda terrorist group attacked the United States in 2001.

Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Two blasts hit Kabul's military hospital, all four attackers killed

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-two-blasts-hit-kabuls-military-hospital-all-four-attackers-killed-426194/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United Nations mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), along with countries including Pakistan, condemned the attack.

"Attacks targeting medical personnel and civilians seeking treatment are violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. Those responsible need to be held to account," UNAMA said in a tweet.

The concern has been worsened by a spiralling economic crisis that has threatened millions with poverty as winter approaches and left thousands of former fighters with no employment.

The abrupt withdrawal of international support following the Taliban victory has brought Afghanistan`s fragile economy to the brink of collapse just as a severe drought has threatened millions with hunger.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maulvi Hamdullah Mukhlis, a key Taliban member is among those killed in Tuesday's Kabul military hospital, reports said. Mukhlis was the head of Kabul's military corps and also one of the first senior Taliban commanders to enter the abandoned presidential palace when the city fell to the group in August.

Maulvi Hamdullah Mukhlis, a key Taliban member is among those killed in Tuesday's Kabul military hospital, reports said. Mukhlis was the head of Kabul's military corps and also one of the first senior Taliban commanders to enter the abandoned presidential palace when the city fell to the group in August. Maulvi Hamdullah Mukhlis, the Taliban commander who was among the First ones to enter the Afghan Presidential Palace on 15th August when the Taliban took charge of Kabul, is among those who have been killed in the attack at the military hospital today. #Afghanistan — Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) November 2, 2021 × According to reports, at least 19 people were killed and another 50 were wounded in the attack on a military hospital in Kabul. Tuesday's attack was the latest assault in a series of assaults to rock Afghanistan since the Taliban seized power. The attack was carried out by a suicide bomber who detonated his explosives near the entrance of the sprawling site. Following this, gunmen broke into the hospital grounds, firing their weapons there. Although no organisation has claimed responsibility for the attack, it is suspected that the Islamic State is behind the attack on the 400-bed hospital, as the operation was typical of the complex attacks mounted by ISIS. The plot to attack the hospital in Kabul's 15th district was foiled and four of the attackers were killed. Also read | 19 dead in attack on Kabul military hospital; gunmen killed, says Taliban Assailants at the hospital aimed to attack civilians, doctors, and patients, but the Islamic Emirate's vigilante forces targeted and knocked them off their feet before they reached their target, says the Taliban. Reportedly the attack on the hospital was contained within 15 minutes, with the attackers killed at the hospital's entrance and courtyard. Although no one was injured inside the hospital, two women, one child, two Mujahideen and four others were martyred outside. In light of the recent attacks, concerns have grown outside Afghanistan about the country becoming a haven for militant groups, as it was when an al Qaeda terrorist group attacked the United States in 2001. Watch | Afghanistan: Two blasts hit Kabul's military hospital, all four attackers killed The United Nations mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), along with countries including Pakistan, condemned the attack. "Attacks targeting medical personnel and civilians seeking treatment are violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. Those responsible need to be held to account," UNAMA said in a tweet. The concern has been worsened by a spiralling economic crisis that has threatened millions with poverty as winter approaches and left thousands of former fighters with no employment. The abrupt withdrawal of international support following the Taliban victory has brought Afghanistan`s fragile economy to the brink of collapse just as a severe drought has threatened millions with hunger. (With inputs from agencies)

Key Taliban member killed in Afghanistan military hospital attack

He couldn't hop on a plane and buy his freedom amid the chaos of Taliban takeover of Kabul in August.

So, he stayed.

The fear of losing&nbsp;life was so grave that he had walked for days straight, climbed rocky mountains and braved the unforgiving weather. Since Panjshir&nbsp;fell—last ray of hope, we reckon—he has been hiding from what he calls 'a prison-like' Taliban administration.

His family, scattered. His independence, long gone.

In an exclusive interview with WION from an undisclosed location in Afghanistan, a fiesty ***Aamir tells us the story of life under Taliban regime&nbsp;and the uncertainty that lurks.

 
WION: You tried but couldn't flee Afghanistan and now you and the rest of your family is hiding at different locations. And, as you say, Taliban has taken over your family home. What forbade you from leaving Afghanistan and why did it get especially bad for you and your family?

 
AAMIR: Yes, we had tried to flee from Kabul since our family, especially my father and my brother, were engaged directly with the native forces as military officers. During the evacuation, we tried to flee from Afghanistan. But, unfortunately, we couldn't do that. Since the Taliban took control of Kabul city, we have been in Panjshir Valley alongside the resistance forces of the Pakistani drones’ interference in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-in-panjshir-final-hours-before-the-fall-411190">Panjshir Valley</a>. The resistance forces defended initially, so we left (Panjshir), we came back to Kabul, and now we are hiding inside Kabul city. Each member of the family is living in separate areas. If one is to be captured by the Taliban, then the rest of us could get informed. And now, living under Taliban is very difficult. It is like a prison, whole country is like prisoners who are inside a jail. If you go on in the city, you may recognise you're living in the city of zombies. So, we are trying somehow to manage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-exclusive-life-under-taliban-living-in-the-land-of-zombies-416292">WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’</a>

WION: You are a self-proclaimed supporter of the resistance movement and have sought refuge in Kabul after leaving Panjshir for obvious reasons. How did you make that journey and why was it important for you to be part of the resistance?

 
AAMIR: I have been a part of the resistance forces and I have been supporting—and I am still supporting. After Panjshir fell, we made our journey (back) to Kabul city. We climbed up the mountains from Dara district, and then descended to Nejrab district and from there, it was one-and-a-half day walking distance to reach Kabul city. It was around 80 kms. Yes, it was quite difficult and we made the journey. We came to Kabul. Life is quite difficult here. We are all hiding, both men and women of the family, with our relatives and friends. Living in Kabul is horrible; it’s terrifying under this state (of) terrorism. It is very disgusting that we live in such a country and we lost a democracy like we (once) had, unfortunately.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-wion-exclusive--afghan-actor-warina-hussain-i-dont-blame-women-who-have-taken-up-arms-in-afghanistan-409865">WION exclusive | Afghan actor Warina Hussain: I don't blame women who have taken up arms in Afghanistan</a>

WION: The female members of your family--and even female friends--must be terrified. How are they getting by?

 
AAMIR: Yes, some of my female family members like my siblings, or my wife or my friends whom I had who were working with the private or governmental organisations, have been restricted to not go to their jobs or to the academic areas like universities or schools. So I think removing female employees or half of the society will lead Afghanistan again to 90s of the Taliban regime. So, mainly the Taliban is keen to establish male-dominance kind of governance in Afghanistan. And this is really sad for open-minded people like us. And, we are losing mostly like a lot of educated people. I think the female or the woman situation in Afghanistan is very bad. And they are in the process of being removed from the society. And their engagement in government sector or private sector--media or wherever--they have been working and now they are restricted not to go.

 
WION: You mentioned your family members have served different embassies over the years and now they are hiding away. How's life for them?

 
AAMIR: My family members work with embassies. All (of) my family members who have been in charge of security and protection of all embassies inside Kabul city for a very long period of time, we couldn't flee from Kabul (and) now we are in a very high risk of dismissal: all the family members. And we are being called by the Taliban, ‘this family (referring to his clan) or that group of people are servants of the ignorant inside of Aghanistan.’ So, this is making our lives extremely difficult and the family members are living under a very, very high mental pressure. Most of the family members, who directly worked with the forces and the embassies, are now in very deep depression and mental health problems. So living under Taliban, with such a background, is making life very difficult in Kabul.

 
WION: You mentioned studying in India for a good number of years. How was that experience for you? What is the main difference between both the countries you observed during your stay?

 
AAMIR: I have done my bachelor's and master's both in India. So the thing I observed in India is that it is a highly diverse country with many religions, many ethnicities and many languages. So they were living side by side with each other. And they're trying to make their nation great. And&nbsp;if I compare, then you will see that&nbsp;Afghanistan is also a highly diverse country. People who are Muslims, who are Hindus, and Jewish are living inside Afghanistan. But, the problem in Afghanistan is, a fundamentalist part or a group of Muslims are coming and taking control of Afghanistan with violence. And...inside Afghanistan, there is an ethnic war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-watch--wion-exclusive-afghan-pop-star-aryana-sayeed-im-grateful-to-be-alive-i-was-talibans-target-408549">Watch | WION exclusive: Afghan pop star Aryana Sayeed: I'm grateful to be alive, I was Taliban's target</a>

 
WION: Also, have you received any support or words of encouragement from your Indian friends?

 
AAMIR: Yes, I'm in touch. And my Indian friends are consistently calling me and texting me. And they're asking about how the situation is going on here. They're asking about my life, and about what I'm doing here. And especially my classmates, my teachers, my college friends, and even the friends I used to meet at coffee shops in India. And I'm really thankful to the people of India, especially my friends who have been in touch with me and who have been calling me and texting all the time. From the time Taliban took control till now, every day they are in touch with me, they're asking about me, and they're just requesting me to take care of myself and to be in touch with them. Thank you so much, India.

 
***The name of the interviewee has been changed and other information withheld for security reasons.&nbsp;

Check out the full interaction here:

&nbsp;

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He couldn't hop on a plane and buy his freedom amid the chaos of Taliban takeover of Kabul in August. So, he stayed. The fear of losing life was so grave that he had walked for days straight, climbed rocky mountains and braved the unforgiving weather.

He couldn't hop on a plane and buy his freedom amid the chaos of Taliban takeover of Kabul in August. So, he stayed. The fear of losing life was so grave that he had walked for days straight, climbed rocky mountains and braved the unforgiving weather. Since Panjshir fell—last ray of hope, we reckon—he has been hiding from what he calls 'a prison-like' Taliban administration. His family, scattered. His independence, long gone. In an exclusive interview with WION from an undisclosed location in Afghanistan, a fiesty ***Aamir tells us the story of life under Taliban regime and the uncertainty that lurks. WION: You tried but couldn't flee Afghanistan and now you and the rest of your family is hiding at different locations. And, as you say, Taliban has taken over your family home. What forbade you from leaving Afghanistan and why did it get especially bad for you and your family? AAMIR: Yes, we had tried to flee from Kabul since our family, especially my father and my brother, were engaged directly with the native forces as military officers. During the evacuation, we tried to flee from Afghanistan. But, unfortunately, we couldn't do that. Since the Taliban took control of Kabul city, we have been in Panjshir Valley alongside the resistance forces of the Pakistani drones’ interference in Panjshir Valley. The resistance forces defended initially, so we left (Panjshir), we came back to Kabul, and now we are hiding inside Kabul city. Each member of the family is living in separate areas. If one is to be captured by the Taliban, then the rest of us could get informed. And now, living under Taliban is very difficult. It is like a prison, whole country is like prisoners who are inside a jail. If you go on in the city, you may recognise you're living in the city of zombies. So, we are trying somehow to manage. Also read: WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’ WION: You are a self-proclaimed supporter of the resistance movement and have sought refuge in Kabul after leaving Panjshir for obvious reasons. How did you make that journey and why was it important for you to be part of the resistance? AAMIR: I have been a part of the resistance forces and I have been supporting—and I am still supporting. After Panjshir fell, we made our journey (back) to Kabul city. We climbed up the mountains from Dara district, and then descended to Nejrab district and from there, it was one-and-a-half day walking distance to reach Kabul city. It was around 80 kms. Yes, it was quite difficult and we made the journey. We came to Kabul. Life is quite difficult here. We are all hiding, both men and women of the family, with our relatives and friends. Living in Kabul is horrible; it’s terrifying under this state (of) terrorism. It is very disgusting that we live in such a country and we lost a democracy like we (once) had, unfortunately. WION exclusive | Afghan actor Warina Hussain: I don't blame women who have taken up arms in Afghanistan WION: The female members of your family--and even female friends--must be terrified. How are they getting by? AAMIR: Yes, some of my female family members like my siblings, or my wife or my friends whom I had who were working with the private or governmental organisations, have been restricted to not go to their jobs or to the academic areas like universities or schools. So I think removing female employees or half of the society will lead Afghanistan again to 90s of the Taliban regime. So, mainly the Taliban is keen to establish male-dominance kind of governance in Afghanistan. And this is really sad for open-minded people like us. And, we are losing mostly like a lot of educated people. I think the female or the woman situation in Afghanistan is very bad. And they are in the process of being removed from the society. And their engagement in government sector or private sector--media or wherever--they have been working and now they are restricted not to go. WION: You mentioned your family members have served different embassies over the years and now they are hiding away. How's life for them? AAMIR: My family members work with embassies. All (of) my family members who have been in charge of security and protection of all embassies inside Kabul city for a very long period of time, we couldn't flee from Kabul (and) now we are in a very high risk of dismissal: all the family members. And we are being called by the Taliban, ‘this family (referring to his clan) or that group of people are servants of the ignorant inside of Aghanistan.’ So, this is making our lives extremely difficult and the family members are living under a very, very high mental pressure. Most of the family members, who directly worked with the forces and the embassies, are now in very deep depression and mental health problems. So living under Taliban, with such a background, is making life very difficult in Kabul. WION: You mentioned studying in India for a good number of years. How was that experience for you? What is the main difference between both the countries you observed during your stay? AAMIR: I have done my bachelor's and master's both in India. So the thing I observed in India is that it is a highly diverse country with many religions, many ethnicities and many languages. So they were living side by side with each other. And they're trying to make their nation great. And if I compare, then you will see that Afghanistan is also a highly diverse country. People who are Muslims, who are Hindus, and Jewish are living inside Afghanistan. But, the problem in Afghanistan is, a fundamentalist part or a group of Muslims are coming and taking control of Afghanistan with violence. And...inside Afghanistan, there is an ethnic war. Watch | WION exclusive: Afghan pop star Aryana Sayeed: I'm grateful to be alive, I was Taliban's target WION: Also, have you received any support or words of encouragement from your Indian friends? AAMIR: Yes, I'm in touch. And my Indian friends are consistently calling me and texting me. And they're asking about how the situation is going on here. They're asking about my life, and about what I'm doing here. And especially my classmates, my teachers, my college friends, and even the friends I used to meet at coffee shops in India. And I'm really thankful to the people of India, especially my friends who have been in touch with me and who have been calling me and texting all the time. From the time Taliban took control till now, every day they are in touch with me, they're asking about me, and they're just requesting me to take care of myself and to be in touch with them. Thank you so much, India. ***The name of the interviewee has been changed and other information withheld for security reasons. Check out the full interaction here:

WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’

Angelina Jolie to Prince Harry: Celebrities who have visited war-torn Afghanistan over the years

A nightmare has begun for the women in Afghanistan who are now struggling to find their voice in the new Taliban-ruled country. While the terrorist group claims they are going to give more freedom to women this time, the women tell a different story.<o:p></o:p>

Shabnam Dawran, an Afghan female anchor who works for a TV station RTA Pashto, was denied entry into her office citing regime change as a reason.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-several-killed-amid-firing-by-taliban-and-stampede-during-rally-in-asadabad-406687" hreflang="en">LIVE Afghanistan: Several killed amid firing by Taliban during rally</a></h2>

<o:p></o:p>

Dawran tried entering her office during her usual shift hours and was also carrying her ID badge. However, she was not allowed to enter the office premises.

"I went to RTA but they told me that the regime has changed. you are not allowed, go home,"&nbsp;she said in a video.

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This is the stark reality of women rights "within Islamic law". Meet <a href="https://twitter.com/shabnamdawran?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shabnamdawran</a>, TV presenter turned away by Taliban as she tried to work today. Despite wearing a hijab &amp; carrying correct ID, she was told: "The regime has changed. You are not allowed in here. Go home". <a href="https://t.co/y1imIAM6Yp">pic.twitter.com/y1imIAM6Yp</a>
— Ash Alexander-Cooper OBE (@ashalexcooper) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashalexcooper/status/1427956358696083457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Her video has revealed the truth behind Taliban’s lies.

The group has claimed that it will be giving more freedom to women in this new term of their rule in the country.

Taliban has claimed that it will allow women to step outside to go to the market without a male escort, study, go to work or reveal their ankles this time.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

However, the women in the country have revealed a different reality. Shabnam Dawran’s video shows that the reality is very different from what the Taliban is showing the world. This video has also reminded the world about the Taliban’s rule in the country before 2001.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-unleash-its-wicked-face-open-fire-women-and-children-beaten-at-kabul-airport-406855">WATCH&nbsp;</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-unleash-its-wicked-face-open-fire-women-and-children-beaten-at-kabul-airport-406855/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At that time, the Taliban carried out public executions, stoned women and gave them less to no rights of freedom.

Some women have also claimed that they were sent back from their banking job by Taliban insurgents a little before the group took over the capital city.

It was also reported by local media that Taliban have asked for a list of women who are above the age of 15 and widow, so that those women can be converted into 'wives' of Taliban members.

A nightmare has begun for the women in Afghanistan who are now struggling to find their voice in the new Taliban-ruled country. While the terrorist group claims they are going to give more freedom to women this time, the women tell a different story.

A nightmare has begun for the women in Afghanistan who are now struggling to find their voice in the new Taliban-ruled country. While the terrorist group claims they are going to give more freedom to women this time, the women tell a different story. Shabnam Dawran, an Afghan female anchor who works for a TV station RTA Pashto, was denied entry into her office citing regime change as a reason. LIVE Afghanistan: Several killed amid firing by Taliban during rally Dawran tried entering her office during her usual shift hours and was also carrying her ID badge. However, she was not allowed to enter the office premises. "I went to RTA but they told me that the regime has changed. you are not allowed, go home," she said in a video. This is the stark reality of women rights "within Islamic law". Meet @shabnamdawran, TV presenter turned away by Taliban as she tried to work today. Despite wearing a hijab & carrying correct ID, she was told: "The regime has changed. You are not allowed in here. Go home". pic.twitter.com/y1imIAM6Yp — Ash Alexander-Cooper OBE (@ashalexcooper) August 18, 2021 × Her video has revealed the truth behind Taliban’s lies. The group has claimed that it will be giving more freedom to women in this new term of their rule in the country. Taliban has claimed that it will allow women to step outside to go to the market without a male escort, study, go to work or reveal their ankles this time. However, the women in the country have revealed a different reality. Shabnam Dawran’s video shows that the reality is very different from what the Taliban is showing the world. This video has also reminded the world about the Taliban’s rule in the country before 2001. WATCH At that time, the Taliban carried out public executions, stoned women and gave them less to no rights of freedom. Some women have also claimed that they were sent back from their banking job by Taliban insurgents a little before the group took over the capital city. It was also reported by local media that Taliban have asked for a list of women who are above the age of 15 and widow, so that those women can be converted into 'wives' of Taliban members.

Taliban takeover: Afghan anchor reveals she was sent back from office because of 'regime change'

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In the face of increasing Taliban victories in Afghanistan, the US Embassy in Kabul has once again encouraged American citizens to leave the country "immediately."

It's the second such security notice in less than a week, asking US citizens to leave immediately.&nbsp;

“The US Embassy urges US citizens to leave Afghanistan immediately using available commercial flight options,” it said in a statement.

As the Taliban continued their onslaught, capturing key cities and capitals and inflicting blow after blow to the Afghan government, army, and the US and its partners who trained Afghan forces, the embassy issued its alarm.&nbsp;

The embassy is offering repatriation loans to citizens who cannot afford to purchase an airline ticket.

The White House had set September 11, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that sparked America's longest conflict, as the deadline for pulling all troops out of the region, but it was moved forward last month.

On Thursday, the Taliban took control of Afghanistan's third-largest city and a crucial provincial capital near Kabul

Herat is the Taliban's largest victory yet, having captured 11 of Afghanistan's 34 provincial capitals in a week-long assault.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the face of increasing Taliban victories in Afghanistan, the US Embassy in Kabul has once again encouraged American citizens to leave the country "immediately.

In the face of increasing Taliban victories in Afghanistan, the US Embassy in Kabul has once again encouraged American citizens to leave the country "immediately." It's the second such security notice in less than a week, asking US citizens to leave immediately. “The US Embassy urges US citizens to leave Afghanistan immediately using available commercial flight options,” it said in a statement. As the Taliban continued their onslaught, capturing key cities and capitals and inflicting blow after blow to the Afghan government, army, and the US and its partners who trained Afghan forces, the embassy issued its alarm. The embassy is offering repatriation loans to citizens who cannot afford to purchase an airline ticket. The White House had set September 11, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that sparked America's longest conflict, as the deadline for pulling all troops out of the region, but it was moved forward last month. On Thursday, the Taliban took control of Afghanistan's third-largest city and a crucial provincial capital near Kabul Herat is the Taliban's largest victory yet, having captured 11 of Afghanistan's 34 provincial capitals in a week-long assault. (With inputs from agencies)

US Embassy urges Americans to leave Afghanistan immediately

The Taliban took over Herat, Afghanistan's third-largest city, on Thursday and also seized another key district capital just 150 kilometres (95 miles) from Kabul.

A senior security source from Herat told AFP that government forces and administration officials had retreated to an army barracks outside the city.

"We had to leave the city in order to prevent further destruction," he said.

A Taliban spokesman, however, tweeted "soldiers laid down their arms and joined the Mujahideen".

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An AFP correspondent had earlier filmed the Taliban flag flying over the police headquarters in Herat, while the insurgents tweeted "the enemy fled... Dozens of military vehicles, weapons and ammunition fell into the hands of the Mujahideen".

Further details of the Taliban's presence in the city were not immediately available, but it has been under siege for weeks.

Herat -- about 150 kilometres from the Iranian border -- is home to veteran warlord Ismail Khan, who for weeks has been rallying his forces to make a stand against the Taliban.

Earlier, the interior ministry confirmed the fall of Ghazni, which lies along the major Kabul-Kandahar highway and serves as a gateway between the capital and militant strongholds in the south.

"The enemy took control," spokesman Mirwais Stanikzai said in a message to media, adding later the city's governor had been arrested by Afghan security forces.

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Pro-Taliban Twitter feeds showed a video of him being escorted out of Ghazni by Taliban fighters and sent on his way in a convoy, prompting speculation in the capital that the government was angered with how easily the provincial administration capitulated.

As security forces retreated across the country, Kabul handed a proposal to Taliban negotiators in Qatar offering a power-sharing deal in return for an end to the fighting, according to a member of the government's team in Doha who asked not to be named.

A second negotiator, Ghulam Farooq Majroh, said the Taliban had been given an offer about a "government of peace" without providing more specifics.

Authorities in Kabul have now effectively lost most of northern and western Afghanistan and are left holding a scattered archipelago of contested cities also dangerously at risk.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/young-afghan-general-takes-fight-against-taliban-to-social-media-404880" hreflang="en">Young Afghan general takes fight against Taliban to social media</a>

'No leverage'

The conflict has escalated dramatically since May, when US-led forces began the final stage of a troop withdrawal due to end later this month following a 20-year occupation.

The loss of Ghazni piles more pressure on the country's already overstretched airforce, needed to bolster Afghanistan's dispersed security forces who have increasingly been cut off from reinforcements by road.

Pro-Taliban social media accounts also boasted of the vast spoils of war their fighters had recovered in recent days, posting photos of armoured vehicles, heavy weapons, and even a drone seized by the insurgents at abandoned Afghan military bases.

In less than a week the insurgents have taken 10 provincial capitals and encircled the biggest city in the north, the traditional anti-Taliban bastion of Mazar-i-Sharif.

Fighting was also raging in Kandahar and Lashkar Gah -- pro-Taliban heartlands in the south.

An official in Lashkar Gah said Taliban fighters were inching closer to government positions after a massive car bomb badly damaged the city's police headquarters Wednesday evening.&nbsp;

Prison raids

The blast forced local police to retreat to the governor's office, while around 40 of their colleagues and one senior commander surrendered to the Taliban.

And in Kandahar, the Taliban said they had overrun the heavily fortified jail, saying "hundreds of prisoners were released and taken to safety".

The Taliban frequently target prisons to release incarcerated fighters and replenish their ranks.

The loss of the prison is a further ominous sign for the country's second city, which has been besieged for weeks by the Taliban.&nbsp;

Kandahar was once the stronghold of the Taliban -- whose forces coalesced in the eponymously named province in the early 1990s -- and its capture would serve as both a tactical and psychological victory for the militants.

Hundreds of thousands have been displaced by the fighting that has enveloped the country.

In recent days, Kabul has been swamped by the displaced, who have begun camping out in parks and other public spaces, sparking a fresh humanitarian crisis in the already overtaxed capital. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In Washington, defence officials appeared to be grappling with the spiralling situation but insisted that Afghan security forces were still holding their ground.

"What we're seeing, a deteriorating security situation, we've been nothing but candid about that," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters Wednesday. &nbsp;

"But there are places and there are times, including today, where Afghan forces in the field are putting up a fight."

The Taliban took over Herat, Afghanistan's third-largest city, on Thursday and also seized another key district capital just 150 kilometres (95 miles) from Kabul.

The Taliban took over Herat, Afghanistan's third-largest city, on Thursday and also seized another key district capital just 150 kilometres (95 miles) from Kabul. A senior security source from Herat told AFP that government forces and administration officials had retreated to an army barracks outside the city. "We had to leave the city in order to prevent further destruction," he said. A Taliban spokesman, however, tweeted "soldiers laid down their arms and joined the Mujahideen". Also read | Trump blames Biden for 'unacceptable' Taliban surge in Afghanistan An AFP correspondent had earlier filmed the Taliban flag flying over the police headquarters in Herat, while the insurgents tweeted "the enemy fled... Dozens of military vehicles, weapons and ammunition fell into the hands of the Mujahideen". Further details of the Taliban's presence in the city were not immediately available, but it has been under siege for weeks. Herat -- about 150 kilometres from the Iranian border -- is home to veteran warlord Ismail Khan, who for weeks has been rallying his forces to make a stand against the Taliban. Earlier, the interior ministry confirmed the fall of Ghazni, which lies along the major Kabul-Kandahar highway and serves as a gateway between the capital and militant strongholds in the south. "The enemy took control," spokesman Mirwais Stanikzai said in a message to media, adding later the city's governor had been arrested by Afghan security forces. Also read | Ghani government replaces army chief as Taliban's surge continues Pro-Taliban Twitter feeds showed a video of him being escorted out of Ghazni by Taliban fighters and sent on his way in a convoy, prompting speculation in the capital that the government was angered with how easily the provincial administration capitulated. As security forces retreated across the country, Kabul handed a proposal to Taliban negotiators in Qatar offering a power-sharing deal in return for an end to the fighting, according to a member of the government's team in Doha who asked not to be named. A second negotiator, Ghulam Farooq Majroh, said the Taliban had been given an offer about a "government of peace" without providing more specifics. Authorities in Kabul have now effectively lost most of northern and western Afghanistan and are left holding a scattered archipelago of contested cities also dangerously at risk. Also read | Young Afghan general takes fight against Taliban to social media 'No leverage' The conflict has escalated dramatically since May, when US-led forces began the final stage of a troop withdrawal due to end later this month following a 20-year occupation. The loss of Ghazni piles more pressure on the country's already overstretched airforce, needed to bolster Afghanistan's dispersed security forces who have increasingly been cut off from reinforcements by road. Pro-Taliban social media accounts also boasted of the vast spoils of war their fighters had recovered in recent days, posting photos of armoured vehicles, heavy weapons, and even a drone seized by the insurgents at abandoned Afghan military bases. In less than a week the insurgents have taken 10 provincial capitals and encircled the biggest city in the north, the traditional anti-Taliban bastion of Mazar-i-Sharif. Fighting was also raging in Kandahar and Lashkar Gah -- pro-Taliban heartlands in the south. An official in Lashkar Gah said Taliban fighters were inching closer to government positions after a massive car bomb badly damaged the city's police headquarters Wednesday evening. Prison raids The blast forced local police to retreat to the governor's office, while around 40 of their colleagues and one senior commander surrendered to the Taliban. And in Kandahar, the Taliban said they had overrun the heavily fortified jail, saying "hundreds of prisoners were released and taken to safety". The Taliban frequently target prisons to release incarcerated fighters and replenish their ranks. The loss of the prison is a further ominous sign for the country's second city, which has been besieged for weeks by the Taliban. Kandahar was once the stronghold of the Taliban -- whose forces coalesced in the eponymously named province in the early 1990s -- and its capture would serve as both a tactical and psychological victory for the militants. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced by the fighting that has enveloped the country. In recent days, Kabul has been swamped by the displaced, who have begun camping out in parks and other public spaces, sparking a fresh humanitarian crisis in the already overtaxed capital. In Washington, defence officials appeared to be grappling with the spiralling situation but insisted that Afghan security forces were still holding their ground. "What we're seeing, a deteriorating security situation, we've been nothing but candid about that," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters Wednesday. "But there are places and there are times, including today, where Afghan forces in the field are putting up a fight."

Taliban take Herat as Afghan forces retreat; insurgents capture gateway Ghazni

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

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

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

Taliban capture first Afghan provincial capital in blow to government

After an agreed ceasefire of three days, violent clashes resumed between the Taliban and the Afghanistan security forces on Sunday.

A few days ago, the two sides had agreed to a ceasefire for three days with respect to the Eid al-Fitr holiday. However, immediately after the ceasefire period ended, the Taliban group started shooting in the early hours of Sunday.

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"The fighting started early today and is still ongoing," Attaullah Afghan, head of the Helmand provincial council was quoted by the news agency, AFP. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Taliban fighters attacked security checkpoints towards the outskirts of Lashkar Gah, towards the south of the country.

As per local reports, nearly 21 Taliban fighters have been killed till now, Helmand governor's office confirmed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blast-in-kabul-mosque-kills-12-worshippers-shattering-eid-ceasefire-calm-385004" hreflang="en">Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm</a>

However, Taliban claims it was the Afghan security forces that started the attack. "They (Afghan forces) started the operation... do not put the blame on us," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told AFP.

Although the two sides had agreed to a ceasefire, a deadly mosque blast had jolted the country, killing 12 people who had gathered to offer their prayers.

The violence in the country has increased since the US started recalling its forces as part of an agreement with the Taliban group.

After an agreed ceasefire of three days, violent clashes resumed between the Taliban and the Afghanistan security forces on Sunday. A few days ago, the two sides had agreed to a ceasefire for three days with respect to the Eid al-Fitr holiday.

After an agreed ceasefire of three days, violent clashes resumed between the Taliban and the Afghanistan security forces on Sunday. A few days ago, the two sides had agreed to a ceasefire for three days with respect to the Eid al-Fitr holiday. However, immediately after the ceasefire period ended, the Taliban group started shooting in the early hours of Sunday. Also read | Warring Afghan sides discuss peace talks as deadly blast hits mosque "The fighting started early today and is still ongoing," Attaullah Afghan, head of the Helmand provincial council was quoted by the news agency, AFP. Taliban fighters attacked security checkpoints towards the outskirts of Lashkar Gah, towards the south of the country. As per local reports, nearly 21 Taliban fighters have been killed till now, Helmand governor's office confirmed. Also read | Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm However, Taliban claims it was the Afghan security forces that started the attack. "They (Afghan forces) started the operation... do not put the blame on us," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told AFP. Although the two sides had agreed to a ceasefire, a deadly mosque blast had jolted the country, killing 12 people who had gathered to offer their prayers. The violence in the country has increased since the US started recalling its forces as part of an agreement with the Taliban group.

Afghanistan: Taliban resumes shooting as ceasefire ends

Taliban and Afghan government forces clashed across Afghanistan even as the long-awaited peace talks in Doha started on Saturday underscoring the uphill challenge of settling a 19-year insurgency.

Talks between the two sides were to begin shortly after a US-Taliban agreement in February, but began only over the weekend after months of delays, caused in part by continuing Taliban offensives in the war-torn country.

Representatives from a number of countries who spoke at the inauguration of the peace talks called on the Taliban to announce an immediate ceasefire before negotiators sat down to find a way to end decades of war in Afghanistan.

But to no avail.

The Taliban did not say anything about a possible ceasefire at the ceremony.

"With the start of intra-Afghan talks we were expecting the Taliban to reduce the number of their attacks, but unfortunately their attacks are still going in high numbers," Fawad Aman, a spokesman for the Afghan defence ministry, said.

Aman said that, on Friday, the eve of the inauguration of the talks, the Taliban had carried out 18 attacks against government forces and installations across the country, inflicting heavy casualties.

Taliban attacks on Saturday night were confirmed by officials in the provinces of Kapsia and Kunduz.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement that the insurgent group attacked a convoy of Afghan forces that had arrived to launch an operation along a key highway in Kunduz. He added that security forces carried out air and artillery strikes on Saturday night in the provinces of Baghlan and Jowzjan.

Taliban and Afghan government forces clashed across Afghanistan even as the long-awaited peace talks in Doha started on Saturday underscoring the uphill challenge of settling a 19-year insurgency.

Taliban and Afghan government forces clashed across Afghanistan even as the long-awaited peace talks in Doha started on Saturday underscoring the uphill challenge of settling a 19-year insurgency. Talks between the two sides were to begin shortly after a US-Taliban agreement in February, but began only over the weekend after months of delays, caused in part by continuing Taliban offensives in the war-torn country. Representatives from a number of countries who spoke at the inauguration of the peace talks called on the Taliban to announce an immediate ceasefire before negotiators sat down to find a way to end decades of war in Afghanistan. But to no avail. The Taliban did not say anything about a possible ceasefire at the ceremony. "With the start of intra-Afghan talks we were expecting the Taliban to reduce the number of their attacks, but unfortunately their attacks are still going in high numbers," Fawad Aman, a spokesman for the Afghan defence ministry, said. Aman said that, on Friday, the eve of the inauguration of the talks, the Taliban had carried out 18 attacks against government forces and installations across the country, inflicting heavy casualties. Taliban attacks on Saturday night were confirmed by officials in the provinces of Kapsia and Kunduz. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement that the insurgent group attacked a convoy of Afghan forces that had arrived to launch an operation along a key highway in Kunduz. He added that security forces carried out air and artillery strikes on Saturday night in the provinces of Baghlan and Jowzjan.

Afghan forces, Taliban continue to clash even as historic peace talks start

Amid scenes of chaos, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani urged thousands of prominent people in a gathering to help him decide the fate of about 400 Taliban prisoners, which includes those involved in serious crimes.&nbsp;

Ghani said these words as he opened three-day Loya Jirga, a traditional assembly of tribal elders and other stakeholders sometimes organised to take a call on controversial issues.&nbsp;

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Chaotic scenes witnessed in the Afghanistan Council after an independent parliamentarian, Belqis Roshan, was assaulted following her criticism of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani (<a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashrafghani</a>) over the release of Taliban prisoners <a href="https://t.co/0uUiryVWgN">pic.twitter.com/0uUiryVWgN</a>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-grand-assembly-gathers-to-decide-fate-of-taliban-prisoners-318807">Afghan grand assembly gathers to decide fate of Taliban prisoners</a>

The release of these Taliban terrorists, some of whom are also facing the death penalty, didn't go down well with Roshan Belqis, an independent lawmaker, who criticised Loya Jirga and Ghani for deliberations.&nbsp;

As Ghani began speaking, she stood up and displayed a banner that read: "Redeeming Taliban is national treason."

Belqis was asked to leave and then as she began running with the banner, she was chased down by a pro-Talibani leader Nasimah Niazi, who brutally pushed her towards the floor.

The Afghan government has already released about 5,000 Talibani prisoners but is struggling to make a call on remaining 400 prisoners, some of which are accused of gruesome crimes.

As per an earlier agreement signed between the terror group and the US, the release of Talibani inmates is a pre-condition for intra-Afghan talks.

Ghani, during his address, suggested that the prisoners should be released, if talks need to go ahead.

"If they are not freed, not only would they continue the war but they would intensify it. But it was not possible to release them without consulting the nation," the Afghan president said.&nbsp;

However, he said he would endorse any decision taken by the assembly.&nbsp;

Amid scenes of chaos, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani urged thousands of prominent people in a gathering to help him decide the fate of about 400 Taliban prisoners, which includes those involved in serious crimes.

Amid scenes of chaos, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani urged thousands of prominent people in a gathering to help him decide the fate of about 400 Taliban prisoners, which includes those involved in serious crimes. Ghani said these words as he opened three-day Loya Jirga, a traditional assembly of tribal elders and other stakeholders sometimes organised to take a call on controversial issues. Chaotic scenes witnessed in the Afghanistan Council after an independent parliamentarian, Belqis Roshan, was assaulted following her criticism of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) over the release of Taliban prisoners pic.twitter.com/0uUiryVWgN — WION (@WIONews) August 7, 2020 × Also read | Afghan grand assembly gathers to decide fate of Taliban prisoners The release of these Taliban terrorists, some of whom are also facing the death penalty, didn't go down well with Roshan Belqis, an independent lawmaker, who criticised Loya Jirga and Ghani for deliberations. As Ghani began speaking, she stood up and displayed a banner that read: "Redeeming Taliban is national treason." Belqis was asked to leave and then as she began running with the banner, she was chased down by a pro-Talibani leader Nasimah Niazi, who brutally pushed her towards the floor. The Afghan government has already released about 5,000 Talibani prisoners but is struggling to make a call on remaining 400 prisoners, some of which are accused of gruesome crimes. As per an earlier agreement signed between the terror group and the US, the release of Talibani inmates is a pre-condition for intra-Afghan talks. Ghani, during his address, suggested that the prisoners should be released, if talks need to go ahead. "If they are not freed, not only would they continue the war but they would intensify it. But it was not possible to release them without consulting the nation," the Afghan president said. However, he said he would endorse any decision taken by the assembly.

Chaos erupts as Afghanistan holds meeting to decide fate of Talibani prisoners

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