Three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-police-chief-along-with-3-bodyguard-killed-in-taliban-ambush-262472">Taliban</a> commanders part of a swap between prisoners for two western hostages have landed in Qatar, Reuters reported today.

This swap can be attributed to the efforts made by Afghan government to conduct direct talks with the Taliban. The latter have always referred to the Afghan government as an illegitimate puppet regime.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-still-holding-western-hostages-spokesman-262471">hostages held by the Taliban</a> include an American named Kevin King and an Australian named Timothy Weeks. They're both university professors slated to be released today.

"Our three prisoners had been freed on Monday night," said one of the sources, a senior Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he was not authorised to speak publicly about the deal.

"Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar", the source added.

This swap came in the aftermath of an announcement on November 12 by President Ashraf Ghani. He had said that Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two Taliban commanders.&nbsp;

An earlier swap was scheduled but was later cancelled as the Taliban abruptly shifted their hostages to a new location as the commanders were unable to land in Qatar.

The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale militant attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan.

King and Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exchange-of-prisoners-between-taliban-afghan-government-yet-to-take-place-262209">They appeared in a hostage video</a> a year later looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release.

There has been no word from the Afghan government as well as the United States embassy in Kabul.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Three Taliban commanders part of a swap between prisoners for two western hostages have landed in Qatar, Reuters reported today. This swap can be attributed to the efforts made by Afghan government to conduct direct talks with the Taliban.

Three Taliban commanders part of a swap between prisoners for two western hostages have landed in Qatar, Reuters reported today. This swap can be attributed to the efforts made by Afghan government to conduct direct talks with the Taliban. The latter have always referred to the Afghan government as an illegitimate puppet regime. The hostages held by the Taliban include an American named Kevin King and an Australian named Timothy Weeks. They're both university professors slated to be released today. "Our three prisoners had been freed on Monday night," said one of the sources, a senior Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he was not authorised to speak publicly about the deal. "Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar", the source added. This swap came in the aftermath of an announcement on November 12 by President Ashraf Ghani. He had said that Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two Taliban commanders. An earlier swap was scheduled but was later cancelled as the Taliban abruptly shifted their hostages to a new location as the commanders were unable to land in Qatar. The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale militant attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan. King and Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors. They appeared in a hostage video a year later looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release. There has been no word from the Afghan government as well as the United States embassy in Kabul. (With inputs from Reuters)

Taliban commanders slated to be swapped for Western hostages arrive in Qatar

A police chief of Takhar`s Warsaj district and his three bodyguards were killed in a Taliban ambush on Takhar-Baghlan highway here on Friday morning.

The incident took place when the Mohammad Afzal along with his bodyguards was heading towards Kabul province, Tolo News reported citing a spokesman for the Baghlan police chief.

Taliban has claimed the responsibility of the attack.

A police chief of Takhar`s Warsaj district and his three bodyguards were killed in a Taliban ambush on Takhar-Baghlan highway here on Friday morning. The incident took place when the Mohammad Afzal along with his bodyguards was heading towards Kabul province, Tolo News reported citing a spokesman for the Baghlan police chief.

A police chief of Takhar`s Warsaj district and his three bodyguards were killed in a Taliban ambush on Takhar-Baghlan highway here on Friday morning. The incident took place when the Mohammad Afzal along with his bodyguards was heading towards Kabul province, Tolo News reported citing a spokesman for the Baghlan police chief. Taliban has claimed the responsibility of the attack.

Afghanistan: Police chief along with 3 bodyguard killed in Taliban ambush

A Taliban spokesman said Thursday the insurgents were still holding two Western hostages, as officials stayed tight-lipped over the outcome of an apparent prisoner swap announced by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani earlier this week.

Ghani announced on Tuesday that his government would "conditionally" release three high-ranking Taliban insurgents, including Anas Haqqani, brother to the leader of the eponymous Haqqani Network, one of the Taliban's deadliest and most feared factions.&nbsp;

He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages -- an Australian and an American -- but noted that their health had been deteriorating and that their release would help pave the way for peace negotiations.&nbsp;

Two days later, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed to AFP that no swap had yet taken place.

"The three people have not been handed over to us, and we have not freed our prisoners yet," he said.&nbsp;

The reasons for the delay were not clear. Afghan officials remained tight-lipped Thursday, and the Australian foreign office has said it will not provide a "running commentary" on the process.

The US ambassador had initially welcomed Ghani's statement, but officials have given no further information since.

Waheed Muzhda, who served as an official in the Taliban's 1996-2001 regime, said the swap still could happen, but suggested the delay could be an issue of trust.&nbsp;

"The concern is that there will be a tweet by Trump or another American official to say the deal is off, as it happened in the case of peace talks," he told AFP.

Earlier this year, the Taliban and the US were on the verge of a deal that would have seen Washington begin withdrawing troops in return for security guarantees from the insurgents.&nbsp;

Many had hoped the deal would pave the way for direct talks between Kabul and the Taliban, which most analysts agree is the only way to achieve a lasting peace in Afghanistan.

However, US President Donald Trump abruptly called off the talks in September, days before the deal was widely expected to have been signed.

Muzhda said the insurgents were insisting that Haqqani and the two other prisoners be delivered in to their custody first -- potentially in Qatar, where they maintain a political office -- before releasing the hostages.

A bomb blast in Kabul on Wednesday which killed 12 people could also have been an effort to sabotage the deal, he said. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the blast.

A Taliban spokesman said Thursday the insurgents were still holding two Western hostages, as officials stayed tight-lipped over the outcome of an apparent prisoner swap announced by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani earlier this week.

A Taliban spokesman said Thursday the insurgents were still holding two Western hostages, as officials stayed tight-lipped over the outcome of an apparent prisoner swap announced by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani earlier this week. Ghani announced on Tuesday that his government would "conditionally" release three high-ranking Taliban insurgents, including Anas Haqqani, brother to the leader of the eponymous Haqqani Network, one of the Taliban's deadliest and most feared factions. He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages -- an Australian and an American -- but noted that their health had been deteriorating and that their release would help pave the way for peace negotiations. Two days later, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed to AFP that no swap had yet taken place. "The three people have not been handed over to us, and we have not freed our prisoners yet," he said. The reasons for the delay were not clear. Afghan officials remained tight-lipped Thursday, and the Australian foreign office has said it will not provide a "running commentary" on the process. The US ambassador had initially welcomed Ghani's statement, but officials have given no further information since. Waheed Muzhda, who served as an official in the Taliban's 1996-2001 regime, said the swap still could happen, but suggested the delay could be an issue of trust. "The concern is that there will be a tweet by Trump or another American official to say the deal is off, as it happened in the case of peace talks," he told AFP. Earlier this year, the Taliban and the US were on the verge of a deal that would have seen Washington begin withdrawing troops in return for security guarantees from the insurgents. Many had hoped the deal would pave the way for direct talks between Kabul and the Taliban, which most analysts agree is the only way to achieve a lasting peace in Afghanistan. However, US President Donald Trump abruptly called off the talks in September, days before the deal was widely expected to have been signed. Muzhda said the insurgents were insisting that Haqqani and the two other prisoners be delivered in to their custody first -- potentially in Qatar, where they maintain a political office -- before releasing the hostages. A bomb blast in Kabul on Wednesday which killed 12 people could also have been an effort to sabotage the deal, he said. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the blast.

Taliban still holding Western hostages: Spokesman

The prisoner exchange between the Taliban group and the Afghan government has not happened yet, a source close to the group told Sputnik. 
 
President Ashraf Ghani on Monday announced that the government would release Anas Haqqani, Abdul Rashid and Haji Mali Khan in exchange for two lecturers of an American University. 
 
According to the source, the Taliban prisoners were brought to Qatar, but had yet to be handed over to the group. 
 
Asadullah Wahid, a lecturer at Kabul University who had gone to Qatar for a meeting with the Taliban leaders, told Sputnik that the United States did not want the exchange to be covered by the media. 
 
"They [the prisoners] have not been handed over to the Taliban, but there is information that the Taliban prisoners have arrived in Qatar," Wahid said, confirming the information gathered from the Taliban source. 
 
The lecturers will be transferred to Pakistan first, and then to Qatar for exchange. 
 
The scholars hail from the United States and Australia.

The prisoner exchange between the Taliban group and the Afghan government has not happened yet, a source close to the group told Sputnik. President Ashraf Ghani on Monday announced that the government would release Anas Haqqani, Abdul Rashid and Haji Mali Khan in exchange for two lecturers of an American University.

The prisoner exchange between the Taliban group and the Afghan government has not happened yet, a source close to the group told Sputnik. President Ashraf Ghani on Monday announced that the government would release Anas Haqqani, Abdul Rashid and Haji Mali Khan in exchange for two lecturers of an American University. According to the source, the Taliban prisoners were brought to Qatar, but had yet to be handed over to the group. Asadullah Wahid, a lecturer at Kabul University who had gone to Qatar for a meeting with the Taliban leaders, told Sputnik that the United States did not want the exchange to be covered by the media. "They [the prisoners] have not been handed over to the Taliban, but there is information that the Taliban prisoners have arrived in Qatar," Wahid said, confirming the information gathered from the Taliban source. The lecturers will be transferred to Pakistan first, and then to Qatar for exchange. The scholars hail from the United States and Australia.

Exchange of prisoners between Taliban, Afghan government yet to take place

Two Western hostages of the Taliban, who are expected to be freed in a prisoner swap for three militants, will be released only when the insurgents "reach their destination", a spokesman for the Islamist group said Wednesday.

The fate of the American and Australian hostages -- both professors at the American University in Kabul when they were kidnapped in 2016 -- remained unclear a day after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced the exchange.&nbsp;

"When our captives reach their destination, the American University professors will be released," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told AFP on Wednesday.

He did not specify what that destination would be.&nbsp;

Afghan authorities declined to comment further on Wednesday, while the US embassy in Kabul said it had no further information after its ambassador had welcomed the news a day earlier.

Australia's foreign ministry said it did not want to give a "running commentary" on the process.&nbsp;

"We sincerely appreciate President Ghani’s concern for Tim Weeks and Kevin King, and hope the Taliban immediately releases the hostages," a spokesperson said.

Ghani said Tuesday that three prisoners -- including Anas Haqqani, brother to the leader of one of the Taliban's most feared factions -- would be freed.

The move was in apparent exchange for the release of the two Western hostages, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks.

But Ghani did not say when or where any swap would take place.

Mujahid said he "cannot confirm" if the Taliban prisoners had already been released. They were last known to have been detained by Afghan authorities in Bagram prison, north of Kabul.&nbsp;

Ghani had hinted on Tuesday that they could be released outside the country, stating that after consulting with international partners including Washington "we have made sure that the release of these three prisoners would not reinforce the enemy's frontlines or increase their attacks".

King and Weeks were kidnapped by gunmen wearing military uniforms in the heart of Kabul in August, 2016.

They later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health.

On Tuesday, Ghani noted that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists".

Anas Haqqani is the son of Jalaluddin Haqqani, founder of the eponymous Taliban affiliate which is one of the top US targets in the region.

His brother Sirajuddin now leads the Haqqani Network and is deputy head of the Taliban.&nbsp;

Afghan authorities accuse Anas of a being a high-level player in the network. The Taliban has long demanded his release, insisting he is a student.&nbsp;

The other two Taliban prisoners to be released are Haji Mali Khan, believed to be the uncle of Sirajuddin Haqqani, and Abdul Rashid, said to be the brother of Mohammad Nabi Omari, a member of the Taliban's political office in Qatar.

Two Western hostages of the Taliban, who are expected to be freed in a prisoner swap for three militants, will be released only when the insurgents "reach their destination", a spokesman for the Islamist group said Wednesday.

Two Western hostages of the Taliban, who are expected to be freed in a prisoner swap for three militants, will be released only when the insurgents "reach their destination", a spokesman for the Islamist group said Wednesday. The fate of the American and Australian hostages -- both professors at the American University in Kabul when they were kidnapped in 2016 -- remained unclear a day after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced the exchange. "When our captives reach their destination, the American University professors will be released," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told AFP on Wednesday. He did not specify what that destination would be. Afghan authorities declined to comment further on Wednesday, while the US embassy in Kabul said it had no further information after its ambassador had welcomed the news a day earlier. Australia's foreign ministry said it did not want to give a "running commentary" on the process. "We sincerely appreciate President Ghani’s concern for Tim Weeks and Kevin King, and hope the Taliban immediately releases the hostages," a spokesperson said. Ghani said Tuesday that three prisoners -- including Anas Haqqani, brother to the leader of one of the Taliban's most feared factions -- would be freed. The move was in apparent exchange for the release of the two Western hostages, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks. But Ghani did not say when or where any swap would take place. Mujahid said he "cannot confirm" if the Taliban prisoners had already been released. They were last known to have been detained by Afghan authorities in Bagram prison, north of Kabul. Ghani had hinted on Tuesday that they could be released outside the country, stating that after consulting with international partners including Washington "we have made sure that the release of these three prisoners would not reinforce the enemy's frontlines or increase their attacks". King and Weeks were kidnapped by gunmen wearing military uniforms in the heart of Kabul in August, 2016. They later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health. On Tuesday, Ghani noted that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists". Anas Haqqani is the son of Jalaluddin Haqqani, founder of the eponymous Taliban affiliate which is one of the top US targets in the region. His brother Sirajuddin now leads the Haqqani Network and is deputy head of the Taliban. Afghan authorities accuse Anas of a being a high-level player in the network. The Taliban has long demanded his release, insisting he is a student. The other two Taliban prisoners to be released are Haji Mali Khan, believed to be the uncle of Sirajuddin Haqqani, and Abdul Rashid, said to be the brother of Mohammad Nabi Omari, a member of the Taliban's political office in Qatar.

Uncertainty over fate of western hostages, Taliban prisoners

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced Tuesday that three high-ranking Taliban prisoners would be released, in an apparent exchange for two Western hostages who were kidnapped by the insurgents in 2016.

The three Taliban prisoners include Anas Haqqani, who was seized in 2014 and whose older brother is the deputy Taliban leader and head of the Haqqani network, a notorious Taliban affiliate.

"We have decided to conditionally release three Taliban prisoners who... have been in Bagram prison in the custody of the Afghan government for some time," Ghani said in an announcement at the presidential palace.

He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages, an Australian and an American, and it was not clear when or where they would be freed.

But Ghani noted in his speech that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists".

He added that the release of the two professors would "pave the way" for the start of unofficial direct talks between his government and the Taliban, who long have refused to negotiate with Ghani's administration.&nbsp;

Ghani, flanked by his top security advisors, said the decision to release the three Taliban prisoners had been "very hard and necessary".

In August 2016, gunmen wearing military uniforms kidnapped two professors of the American University of Afghanistan in the heart of Kabul.

The two, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks, later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health.

The elite American University of Afghanistan opened in 2006 and has attracted a number of faculty members from Western countries.

The US and the Australian embassies in Kabul declined to provide immediate comment. American University also did not comment.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced Tuesday that three high-ranking Taliban prisoners would be released, in an apparent exchange for two Western hostages who were kidnapped by the insurgents in 2016.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced Tuesday that three high-ranking Taliban prisoners would be released, in an apparent exchange for two Western hostages who were kidnapped by the insurgents in 2016. The three Taliban prisoners include Anas Haqqani, who was seized in 2014 and whose older brother is the deputy Taliban leader and head of the Haqqani network, a notorious Taliban affiliate. "We have decided to conditionally release three Taliban prisoners who... have been in Bagram prison in the custody of the Afghan government for some time," Ghani said in an announcement at the presidential palace. He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages, an Australian and an American, and it was not clear when or where they would be freed. But Ghani noted in his speech that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists". He added that the release of the two professors would "pave the way" for the start of unofficial direct talks between his government and the Taliban, who long have refused to negotiate with Ghani's administration. Ghani, flanked by his top security advisors, said the decision to release the three Taliban prisoners had been "very hard and necessary". In August 2016, gunmen wearing military uniforms kidnapped two professors of the American University of Afghanistan in the heart of Kabul. The two, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks, later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health. The elite American University of Afghanistan opened in 2006 and has attracted a number of faculty members from Western countries. The US and the Australian embassies in Kabul declined to provide immediate comment. American University also did not comment.

Afghanistan to release senior Taliban prisoners in apparent swap

At least four judges were killed on Thursday in an ambush in Afghanistan`s Logar province.

According to the police officials, an ambush occurred in the Mohammad Agha district as the judges were returning home from their weekly holiday, Tolo News reported.

The official also stated that the Taliban is responsible for the attack.

But the terrorist organisation has not responded to the comment.

The police further added that an investigation is underway for more details.

At least four judges were killed on Thursday in an ambush in Afghanistan`s Logar province. According to the police officials, an ambush occurred in the Mohammad Agha district as the judges were returning home from their weekly holiday, Tolo News reported.

At least four judges were killed on Thursday in an ambush in Afghanistan`s Logar province. According to the police officials, an ambush occurred in the Mohammad Agha district as the judges were returning home from their weekly holiday, Tolo News reported. The official also stated that the Taliban is responsible for the attack. But the terrorist organisation has not responded to the comment. The police further added that an investigation is underway for more details.

Four judges killed in Afghanistan's Logar province

US Congressional report on Afghan Affairs has specifically mentioned that Pakistan has been playing 'an active but negative role' in Afghanistan while simultaneously, is fearful of strategic encirclement by India.

In its latest report on Afghanistan, the independent and bipartisan Congressional Research Service (CRS) identified Pakistan as the most important neighbour of Afghanistan. Pakistan, it said, has played an active, and by many accounts, a negative role in Afghan affairs for decades.

"Pakistan's security services maintain ties to Afghan insurgent groups, most notably the Haqqani Network, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) that has become an official, the semi-autonomous component of the Taliban," CRS, which periodically prepares reports on issues of importance for Congressmen for them to make informed decisions, said.

Pakistan is concerned about the strategic encirclement by India as New Delhi is establishing strong relations with Central Asian countries.

"India's diplomatic and commercial presence in Afghanistan and US rhetorical support for it exacerbates Pakistani fears of encirclement. Indian interest in Afghanistan stems largely from India's broader regional rivalry with Pakistan, which impedes Indian efforts to establish stronger and more direct commercial and political relations with Central Asia," the CRS said in its latest report on Afghanistan released on November 1.

The US&nbsp;officials have long identified militant safe havens in Pakistan as a threat to security in Afghanistan, though some Pakistani officials dispute that charge and note the Taliban's increased territorial control within Afghanistan itself, the report said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-chief-of-staff-summoned-to-testify-in-impeachment-probe-260220">President Donald Trump</a>, it added, has also accused Pakistan of "housing the very terrorists that we are fighting."

"Pakistan may view a weak and destabilised Afghanistan as preferable to a strong, unified Afghan state (particularly one led by an ethnic Pashtun-dominated government in Kabul; Pakistan has a large and restive Pashtun minority)," the CRS said.

However, instability in Afghanistan could rebound to Pakistan's detriment; Pakistan has struggled with indigenous Islamist militants of its own, the report added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-set-to-attend-afghanistan-peace-talks-in-russia-257851">Afghanistan-Pakistan</a> relations are further complicated by the presence of over a million Afghan refugees in Pakistan, as well a long-running and ethnically tinged dispute over their shared 1,600-mile border.

In his August 2017 speech, the US President did encourage India to play a greater role in Afghan economic development.

The CRS said insurgent and terrorist groups have demonstrated considerable capabilities in 2019, throwing into sharp relief the daunting security challenges that the Afghan government and its US and international partners face.

At the same time, prospects for a negotiated settlement, driven by direct US-Taliban talks, are uncertain in light of the September 2019 cancellation of those negotiations and the Taliban's continued refusal to talk to the Afghan government, it said.

However, a potential collapse of the Afghan military and/or the government that commands it could have significant implications for the United States, particularly given the nature of negotiated security arrangements, the report warned.

Regardless of how likely the Taliban would be to gain full control over all or even most of the country, the breakdown of social order and the fracturing of the country into fiefdoms controlled by paramilitary commanders and their respective militias may be plausible, even probable, it added.

US Congressional report on Afghan Affairs has specifically mentioned that Pakistan has been playing 'an active but negative role' in Afghanistan while simultaneously, is fearful of strategic encirclement by India.

US Congressional report on Afghan Affairs has specifically mentioned that Pakistan has been playing 'an active but negative role' in Afghanistan while simultaneously, is fearful of strategic encirclement by India. In its latest report on Afghanistan, the independent and bipartisan Congressional Research Service (CRS) identified Pakistan as the most important neighbour of Afghanistan. Pakistan, it said, has played an active, and by many accounts, a negative role in Afghan affairs for decades. "Pakistan's security services maintain ties to Afghan insurgent groups, most notably the Haqqani Network, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) that has become an official, the semi-autonomous component of the Taliban," CRS, which periodically prepares reports on issues of importance for Congressmen for them to make informed decisions, said. Pakistan is concerned about the strategic encirclement by India as New Delhi is establishing strong relations with Central Asian countries. "India's diplomatic and commercial presence in Afghanistan and US rhetorical support for it exacerbates Pakistani fears of encirclement. Indian interest in Afghanistan stems largely from India's broader regional rivalry with Pakistan, which impedes Indian efforts to establish stronger and more direct commercial and political relations with Central Asia," the CRS said in its latest report on Afghanistan released on November 1. The US officials have long identified militant safe havens in Pakistan as a threat to security in Afghanistan, though some Pakistani officials dispute that charge and note the Taliban's increased territorial control within Afghanistan itself, the report said. President Donald Trump, it added, has also accused Pakistan of "housing the very terrorists that we are fighting." "Pakistan may view a weak and destabilised Afghanistan as preferable to a strong, unified Afghan state (particularly one led by an ethnic Pashtun-dominated government in Kabul; Pakistan has a large and restive Pashtun minority)," the CRS said. However, instability in Afghanistan could rebound to Pakistan's detriment; Pakistan has struggled with indigenous Islamist militants of its own, the report added. Afghanistan-Pakistan relations are further complicated by the presence of over a million Afghan refugees in Pakistan, as well a long-running and ethnically tinged dispute over their shared 1,600-mile border. In his August 2017 speech, the US President did encourage India to play a greater role in Afghan economic development. The CRS said insurgent and terrorist groups have demonstrated considerable capabilities in 2019, throwing into sharp relief the daunting security challenges that the Afghan government and its US and international partners face. At the same time, prospects for a negotiated settlement, driven by direct US-Taliban talks, are uncertain in light of the September 2019 cancellation of those negotiations and the Taliban's continued refusal to talk to the Afghan government, it said. However, a potential collapse of the Afghan military and/or the government that commands it could have significant implications for the United States, particularly given the nature of negotiated security arrangements, the report warned. Regardless of how likely the Taliban would be to gain full control over all or even most of the country, the breakdown of social order and the fracturing of the country into fiefdoms controlled by paramilitary commanders and their respective militias may be plausible, even probable, it added.

Pakistan fearful of strategic encirclement by India: US report on Afghan affairs

At least five Taliban terrorists were killed by Afghan police in an operation launched in Shena Qala village of Barak-e-Barak district in Afghanistan.

Five Taliban members were killed in an operation carried by special police forces in central Logar province on Monday, Tolo News reported.

The police officials also seized weapons during the operation in Barak-e-Barak.

So far, the Taliban has not commented on the Afghan police operation.

Meanwhile, Afghan security forces found two Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) in the Jaghatu district of Ghazni province and safely detonated them.

&nbsp;

At least five Taliban terrorists were killed by Afghan police in an operation launched in Shena Qala village of Barak-e-Barak district in Afghanistan. Five Taliban members were killed in an operation carried by special police forces in central Logar province on Monday, Tolo News reported.

At least five Taliban terrorists were killed by Afghan police in an operation launched in Shena Qala village of Barak-e-Barak district in Afghanistan. Five Taliban members were killed in an operation carried by special police forces in central Logar province on Monday, Tolo News reported. The police officials also seized weapons during the operation in Barak-e-Barak. So far, the Taliban has not commented on the Afghan police operation. Meanwhile, Afghan security forces found two Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) in the Jaghatu district of Ghazni province and safely detonated them.

Five Taliban terrorists killed in Afghanistan's Logar province

At least nine members of Afghan security forces were killed and eight were injured in clashes with Taliban fighters in northeastern Afghanistan, media reported Sunday, citing local officials. 
 
The attack took place in the Nusai District in the northeastern province of Badakhshan early Saturday morning, according to the Afghan TOLOnews broadcaster. 
 
Officials said that fighting was still ongoing and that the militants were close to the district’s government compound. If reinforcements are not sent, they said, "the district may fall into the hands of the Taliban." 
 
The Taliban, in turn, claimed responsibility for the attack. 
 
Afghanistan has been suffering a prolonged confrontation between government forces and the militants of the radical Taliban movement, which had previously captured significant territory in rural areas of the country and launched attacks on large cities. Afghan National Defense and Security Forces regularly conduct joint counterterrorism operations across the country.

At least nine members of Afghan security forces were killed and eight were injured in clashes with Taliban fighters in northeastern Afghanistan, media reported Sunday, citing local officials.

At least nine members of Afghan security forces were killed and eight were injured in clashes with Taliban fighters in northeastern Afghanistan, media reported Sunday, citing local officials. The attack took place in the Nusai District in the northeastern province of Badakhshan early Saturday morning, according to the Afghan TOLOnews broadcaster. Officials said that fighting was still ongoing and that the militants were close to the district’s government compound. If reinforcements are not sent, they said, "the district may fall into the hands of the Taliban." The Taliban, in turn, claimed responsibility for the attack. Afghanistan has been suffering a prolonged confrontation between government forces and the militants of the radical Taliban movement, which had previously captured significant territory in rural areas of the country and launched attacks on large cities. Afghan National Defense and Security Forces regularly conduct joint counterterrorism operations across the country.

Nine Afghan security officers killed in Taliban ambush

US-backed Afghan paramilitary groups operating with impunity are summarily executing civilians during botched nighttime raids and are responsible for the disappearances of suspects, a rights group said Thursday.

The secretive militias, whose support from America's Central Intelligence Agency is originally rooted in the Soviet-Afghan war of the 1980s, have long hunted the Taliban across Afghanistan and have seen increasing activity as the war against the insurgents intensifies.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) documented 14 cases from late 2017 to mid-2019 in which it said CIA-backed "strike groups" committed serious abuses during night raids, such as one in the southeastern province of Paktia in which a paramilitary unit killed 11 men, including eight who were home for the Eid holidays.

In many cases, the raids, usually in Taliban-controlled areas, were accompanied by airstrikes that "indiscriminately or disproportionately" killed civilians, HRW said in a report.

Sometimes, troops detained men and didn't tell families where they were being held.

Night raids, where special forces troops blast doors and rush a building under the cover of darkness, are a popular tactic that combines surprise, overwhelming firepower and night-vision equipment to stun occupants.

"In ramping up <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/11-taliban-terrorists-killed-9-wounded-in-afghanistans-jawzjan-province-258383">operations against the Taliban</a>, the CIA has enabled abusive Afghan forces to commit atrocities including extrajudicial executions and disappearances," said Patricia Gossman, the report author and HRW's associate Asia director.

"In case after case, these forces have simply shot people in their custody and consigned entire communities to the terror of abusive night raids and indiscriminate airstrikes."

Afghan authorities and US forces have increased the use of paramilitary groups to combat a resurgent Taliban that has been hammering Afghanistan's beleaguered national security forces.

Part of the National Directorate of Security (NDS), paramilitary forces do not fall under normal command chains and therefore, have less oversight.

Speaking to HRW, one diplomat referred to them as "death squads."

Afghan militias have largely been recruited, trained, equipped, and overseen by the CIA, according to the rights watchdog.

Ties date back to the 1980s, when the CIA was funnelling money and equipment to Afghan rebels and mujahideen fighting Soviet troops.

After a lull during the Taliban regime in the 1990s, the CIA re-established ties with warlords and militias fighting the insurgency following the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The CIA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

According to the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), a US government watchdog, Afghan special forces conducted 2,531 ground operations from January–September this year, more than the total of 2,365 for all of 2018.

A<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-3000-afghan-civilians-killed-or-wounded-this-year-un-report-239373"> UN report </a>earlier this month found an unprecedented number of civilians was killed or wounded in Afghanistan from July to September this year.

The tally,1,174 deaths and 3,139 injured from July 1 until September 30, represents a 42 per cent increase over the same period last year.

US-backed Afghan paramilitary groups operating with impunity are summarily executing civilians during botched nighttime raids and are responsible for the disappearances of suspects, a rights group said Thursday.

US-backed Afghan paramilitary groups operating with impunity are summarily executing civilians during botched nighttime raids and are responsible for the disappearances of suspects, a rights group said Thursday. The secretive militias, whose support from America's Central Intelligence Agency is originally rooted in the Soviet-Afghan war of the 1980s, have long hunted the Taliban across Afghanistan and have seen increasing activity as the war against the insurgents intensifies. Human Rights Watch (HRW) documented 14 cases from late 2017 to mid-2019 in which it said CIA-backed "strike groups" committed serious abuses during night raids, such as one in the southeastern province of Paktia in which a paramilitary unit killed 11 men, including eight who were home for the Eid holidays. In many cases, the raids, usually in Taliban-controlled areas, were accompanied by airstrikes that "indiscriminately or disproportionately" killed civilians, HRW said in a report. Sometimes, troops detained men and didn't tell families where they were being held. Night raids, where special forces troops blast doors and rush a building under the cover of darkness, are a popular tactic that combines surprise, overwhelming firepower and night-vision equipment to stun occupants. "In ramping up operations against the Taliban, the CIA has enabled abusive Afghan forces to commit atrocities including extrajudicial executions and disappearances," said Patricia Gossman, the report author and HRW's associate Asia director. "In case after case, these forces have simply shot people in their custody and consigned entire communities to the terror of abusive night raids and indiscriminate airstrikes." Afghan authorities and US forces have increased the use of paramilitary groups to combat a resurgent Taliban that has been hammering Afghanistan's beleaguered national security forces. Part of the National Directorate of Security (NDS), paramilitary forces do not fall under normal command chains and therefore, have less oversight. Speaking to HRW, one diplomat referred to them as "death squads." Afghan militias have largely been recruited, trained, equipped, and overseen by the CIA, according to the rights watchdog. Ties date back to the 1980s, when the CIA was funnelling money and equipment to Afghan rebels and mujahideen fighting Soviet troops. After a lull during the Taliban regime in the 1990s, the CIA re-established ties with warlords and militias fighting the insurgency following the September 11, 2001 attacks. The CIA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. According to the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), a US government watchdog, Afghan special forces conducted 2,531 ground operations from January–September this year, more than the total of 2,365 for all of 2018. A UN report earlier this month found an unprecedented number of civilians was killed or wounded in Afghanistan from July to September this year. The tally,1,174 deaths and 3,139 injured from July 1 until September 30, represents a 42 per cent increase over the same period last year.

Afghan militias killing civilians with impunity: Human Rights Watch

Afghan army's airstrike in Afghanistan's Zabul province on Tuesday killed at least 47 Taliban terrorists and injured 15 others.

According to an army spokesperson, foreign troops aimed at the terrorist hideouts in Shinki and Nawbahar districts killing the district governor designated by the Taliban reported Sputnik.

Additionally, the strikes in Arghandab and Shah Wali Kot districts of Kandahar lead to the destruction of 10 mines.

Meanwhile, in another strike launched on Taliban bases in Gizab district of the Uruzgan province, 11 terrorists were killed.&nbsp;

Afghan army's airstrike in Afghanistan's Zabul province on Tuesday killed at least 47 Taliban terrorists and injured 15 others. According to an army spokesperson, foreign troops aimed at the terrorist hideouts in Shinki and Nawbahar districts killing the district governor designated by the Taliban reported Sputnik.

Afghan army's airstrike in Afghanistan's Zabul province on Tuesday killed at least 47 Taliban terrorists and injured 15 others. According to an army spokesperson, foreign troops aimed at the terrorist hideouts in Shinki and Nawbahar districts killing the district governor designated by the Taliban reported Sputnik. Additionally, the strikes in Arghandab and Shah Wali Kot districts of Kandahar lead to the destruction of 10 mines. Meanwhile, in another strike launched on Taliban bases in Gizab district of the Uruzgan province, 11 terrorists were killed.

Airstrikes in southeast Afghanistan kill 47 terrorists: Military spokesperson

A police checkpoint has collapsed in Afghanistan's northern Kunduz province after a clash between law enforcers and the Taliban terrorist group, in which five soldiers have been killed, Hayatullah Amiri, the head of Kunduz's Khanabad district, told Sputnik on Wednesday.

"The district's Akhtar Tapi area [police] checkpoint collapsed last night during a fierce battle with the Taliban, five soldiers [were] killed and eight others soldiers the Taliban took to an unknown place," Amiri said.

According to Amiri, the attack was carried out by the Taliban's Red Group military unit. Terrorists seized weapons and equipment from the checkpoint, the official went on to say.

The Taliban assumed responsibility for the attack, saying that five soldiers were killed and eight others detained.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A police checkpoint has collapsed in Afghanistan's northern Kunduz province after a clash between law enforcers and the Taliban terrorist group, in which five soldiers have been killed, Hayatullah Amiri, the head of Kunduz's Khanabad district, told Sputnik on Wednesday.

A police checkpoint has collapsed in Afghanistan's northern Kunduz province after a clash between law enforcers and the Taliban terrorist group, in which five soldiers have been killed, Hayatullah Amiri, the head of Kunduz's Khanabad district, told Sputnik on Wednesday. "The district's Akhtar Tapi area [police] checkpoint collapsed last night during a fierce battle with the Taliban, five soldiers [were] killed and eight others soldiers the Taliban took to an unknown place," Amiri said. According to Amiri, the attack was carried out by the Taliban's Red Group military unit. Terrorists seized weapons and equipment from the checkpoint, the official went on to say. The Taliban assumed responsibility for the attack, saying that five soldiers were killed and eight others detained.

5 soldiers killed in Afghanistan's north in clash with Taliban

The United States on Monday welcomed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-invites-taliban-representatives-for-intra-afghan-conference-in-beijing-257677">China's proposal</a> to host a fresh meeting bringing together Afghan officials and the Taliban, after President Donald Trump abruptly ended talks with the insurgents.

The Taliban last week said that China invited a delegation to talks in Beijing, the second such meeting after a dialogue in Qatar in July that was co-arranged with Germany.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-delegation-met-us-envoy-during-visit-to-islamabad-253681">Zalmay Khalilzad</a>, the US special envoy on Afghan peace, met with his colleagues from China, Russia and Pakistan last week in Moscow, where the four countries renewed support for a "comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement."

The four countries "welcomed the Chinese proposal to host the next intra-Afghan meeting in Beijing," said a joint statement released Monday by the United States.

The talks will include "a wide range of political figures" including "representatives of the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, other Afghan leaders and the Taliban," it said.

There was however some confusion about when the talks might take place.

The Taliban last week said the conference would happen October 29-30, but on Monday an insurgent spokesman denied a report that said a Taliban delegation was in Beijing.

The Taliban have refused to negotiate formally with the Kabul government, but the Beijing and Doha gatherings are seen as fostering dialogue and planting the seeds of an eventual brokered solution.

Khalilzad negotiated for a year with the Taliban, reaching an agreement under which the United States would withdraw troops and end its longest war.

But Trump last month ended the talks, withdrawing an invitation he said he extended to the Taliban to meet near Washington, citing the killing of a US soldier.

The United States has frequently tried to blunt the global influence of China and Russia, but Khalilzad has frequently consulted with the two on his search for Afghan peace.

China shares a 76-kilometer&nbsp;border with Afghanistan and has voiced concern about a spread of Islamic extremism, while the Soviet Union in the 1980s led a disastrous intervention in the country against Islamic guerrillas then backed by Washington

For the second time, the three powers opted to include Pakistan, which was the main backer of the Taliban's 1996-2001 regime and maintains contacts with the fighters.

&nbsp;

The United States on Monday welcomed China's proposal to host a fresh meeting bringing together Afghan officials and the Taliban, after President Donald Trump abruptly ended talks with the insurgents.

The United States on Monday welcomed China's proposal to host a fresh meeting bringing together Afghan officials and the Taliban, after President Donald Trump abruptly ended talks with the insurgents. The Taliban last week said that China invited a delegation to talks in Beijing, the second such meeting after a dialogue in Qatar in July that was co-arranged with Germany. Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy on Afghan peace, met with his colleagues from China, Russia and Pakistan last week in Moscow, where the four countries renewed support for a "comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement." The four countries "welcomed the Chinese proposal to host the next intra-Afghan meeting in Beijing," said a joint statement released Monday by the United States. The talks will include "a wide range of political figures" including "representatives of the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, other Afghan leaders and the Taliban," it said. There was however some confusion about when the talks might take place. The Taliban last week said the conference would happen October 29-30, but on Monday an insurgent spokesman denied a report that said a Taliban delegation was in Beijing. The Taliban have refused to negotiate formally with the Kabul government, but the Beijing and Doha gatherings are seen as fostering dialogue and planting the seeds of an eventual brokered solution. Khalilzad negotiated for a year with the Taliban, reaching an agreement under which the United States would withdraw troops and end its longest war. But Trump last month ended the talks, withdrawing an invitation he said he extended to the Taliban to meet near Washington, citing the killing of a US soldier. The United States has frequently tried to blunt the global influence of China and Russia, but Khalilzad has frequently consulted with the two on his search for Afghan peace. China shares a 76-kilometer border with Afghanistan and has voiced concern about a spread of Islamic extremism, while the Soviet Union in the 1980s led a disastrous intervention in the country against Islamic guerrillas then backed by Washington For the second time, the three powers opted to include Pakistan, which was the main backer of the Taliban's 1996-2001 regime and maintains contacts with the fighters.

US welcomes proposed intra-Afghan talks in China

The Taliban should call a one-month ceasefire to prove they still control their forces, Afghanistan's national security advisor said Tuesday, amid signs the US wants to rekindle talks with the insurgents.

Hamdullah Mohib, a strong critic of earlier US-Taliban negotiations that excluded his government, said the Taliban no longer operate as a cohesive body and some commanders may have joined the Islamic State group.

"If the Taliban really want peace, they should prove how much control they have over their commanders and how much they really obey their commands," Mohib said at a press conference.

"Our suggestion is for a one-month ceasefire, followed by negotiations."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/on-again-off-again-erratic-history-of-talks-with-the-taliban-248439">On again, off again: Erratic history of US talks with the Taliban</a>

Observers have sometimes questioned whether there is a disconnect between the Taliban's political wing, based in Doha, and its military commanders in Afghanistan.

The insurgents have repeatedly rebuffed previous calls for a ceasefire, but last year they downed weapons for a historic, three-day truce.

Mohib, Afghanistan's former ambassador to the US, said any future negotiations should include his government, as well as Pakistan, which has long been accused of backing the Taliban.

"Pakistan should provide a guarantee that they will not support the Taliban or other groups like them and not give them safe havens," he said.

Pakistan denies it supports the Taliban.

The US spent the past year pushing for a deal with the Taliban that would have seen the Pentagon pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in return for security guarantees.&nbsp;

But President Donald Trump cancelled talks last month as Taliban attacks continued, including one that killed a US soldier.&nbsp;

Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy leading talks for Washington, has since spoken informally with Taliban officials in Pakistan, raising the possibility Washington seeks to resume dialogue.

Khalilzad was in Kabul on Sunday and visited Islamabad again Monday, though it was unclear if he spoke to Taliban officials on that visit.

Mohib in March infuriated the Trump administration by suggesting Afghan-born Khalilzad wanted to install a caretaker government and make himself "viceroy".

Even though Trump has declared the Taliban talks "dead", Khalilzad has continued criss-crossing the globe to build international consensus on a potential deal with the Taliban and an eventual end to America's longest war.

On Monday, he welcomed a proposal from China to host a fresh meeting bringing together Afghan officials and the Taliban, and last week the US and Europe issued a joint statement saying: "Sustainable peace can only be achieved through a negotiated political settlement."

The Taliban should call a one-month ceasefire to prove they still control their forces, Afghanistan's national security advisor said Tuesday, amid signs the US wants to rekindle talks with the insurgents.

The Taliban should call a one-month ceasefire to prove they still control their forces, Afghanistan's national security advisor said Tuesday, amid signs the US wants to rekindle talks with the insurgents. Hamdullah Mohib, a strong critic of earlier US-Taliban negotiations that excluded his government, said the Taliban no longer operate as a cohesive body and some commanders may have joined the Islamic State group. "If the Taliban really want peace, they should prove how much control they have over their commanders and how much they really obey their commands," Mohib said at a press conference. "Our suggestion is for a one-month ceasefire, followed by negotiations." Also read: On again, off again: Erratic history of US talks with the Taliban Observers have sometimes questioned whether there is a disconnect between the Taliban's political wing, based in Doha, and its military commanders in Afghanistan. The insurgents have repeatedly rebuffed previous calls for a ceasefire, but last year they downed weapons for a historic, three-day truce. Mohib, Afghanistan's former ambassador to the US, said any future negotiations should include his government, as well as Pakistan, which has long been accused of backing the Taliban. "Pakistan should provide a guarantee that they will not support the Taliban or other groups like them and not give them safe havens," he said. Pakistan denies it supports the Taliban. The US spent the past year pushing for a deal with the Taliban that would have seen the Pentagon pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in return for security guarantees. But President Donald Trump cancelled talks last month as Taliban attacks continued, including one that killed a US soldier. Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy leading talks for Washington, has since spoken informally with Taliban officials in Pakistan, raising the possibility Washington seeks to resume dialogue. Khalilzad was in Kabul on Sunday and visited Islamabad again Monday, though it was unclear if he spoke to Taliban officials on that visit. Mohib in March infuriated the Trump administration by suggesting Afghan-born Khalilzad wanted to install a caretaker government and make himself "viceroy". Even though Trump has declared the Taliban talks "dead", Khalilzad has continued criss-crossing the globe to build international consensus on a potential deal with the Taliban and an eventual end to America's longest war. On Monday, he welcomed a proposal from China to host a fresh meeting bringing together Afghan officials and the Taliban, and last week the US and Europe issued a joint statement saying: "Sustainable peace can only be achieved through a negotiated political settlement."

Taliban should call ceasefire to prove control of forces: Official

Representatives of Pakistan, China, and Russia on Friday called on the US and the Taliban to return to the negotiation table at the earliest and reach an agreement with an aim to end the 18-year long war in Afghanistan.

The discussion in this regard was held during the four-party consultations between representatives of US, China, Pakistan and Russia on the Afghan peace process, reported Radio Pakistan.

According to a joint statement released at the end of the meeting held in Moscow, the participants committed to working with Afghanistan and the Taliban to reach a comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement between the two so as to end strife in the country.

Russia, China and Pakistan expressed their support for the earliest resumption of the negotiation process and an agreement between the US and the Taliban, which will pave the way for launching intra-Afghan talks.

They reaffirmed that any peace agreement must include protection for the rights of all Afghans.

Following nine rounds of peace talks held in Qatar`s capital city of Doha, the US and the Taliban had reached upon an agreement "in principle".

The negotiations, however, were called off in the aftermath of several Taliban-led terror attacks in Kabul that left scores dead, including a US soldier.&nbsp;

Representatives of Pakistan, China, and Russia on Friday called on the US and the Taliban to return to the negotiation table at the earliest and reach an agreement with an aim to end the 18-year long war in Afghanistan.

Representatives of Pakistan, China, and Russia on Friday called on the US and the Taliban to return to the negotiation table at the earliest and reach an agreement with an aim to end the 18-year long war in Afghanistan. The discussion in this regard was held during the four-party consultations between representatives of US, China, Pakistan and Russia on the Afghan peace process, reported Radio Pakistan. According to a joint statement released at the end of the meeting held in Moscow, the participants committed to working with Afghanistan and the Taliban to reach a comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement between the two so as to end strife in the country. Russia, China and Pakistan expressed their support for the earliest resumption of the negotiation process and an agreement between the US and the Taliban, which will pave the way for launching intra-Afghan talks. They reaffirmed that any peace agreement must include protection for the rights of all Afghans. Following nine rounds of peace talks held in Qatar`s capital city of Doha, the US and the Taliban had reached upon an agreement "in principle". The negotiations, however, were called off in the aftermath of several Taliban-led terror attacks in Kabul that left scores dead, including a US soldier.

China, Russia, Pakistan call for early resumption of US-Taliban peace talks

Pakistan Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mohammad Faisal on Wednesday announced that Islamabad will take part in the upcoming Afghan Peace talks scheduled to be held in Moscow.

"Pakistan had participated in the first round of four-party talks in Beijing in July this year," Faisal said at a media briefing as quoted by the News International.

Meanwhile, the United States' Defence Secretary Mark Esper on Sunday visited Kabul with the aim of reaching a peace agreement with Afghanistan.

In September, an agreement was reached "in principle" to withdraw over 5,000 troops from Afghanistan in exchange for guarantees by the Taliban.

However, US President Donald Trump called off the peace negotiations, citing the September 6 Kabul car bombing carried out by the terrorist group, which claimed 12 lives, including an American soldier.

Pakistan Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mohammad Faisal on Wednesday announced that Islamabad will take part in the upcoming Afghan Peace talks scheduled to be held in Moscow.

Pakistan Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mohammad Faisal on Wednesday announced that Islamabad will take part in the upcoming Afghan Peace talks scheduled to be held in Moscow. "Pakistan had participated in the first round of four-party talks in Beijing in July this year," Faisal said at a media briefing as quoted by the News International. Meanwhile, the United States' Defence Secretary Mark Esper on Sunday visited Kabul with the aim of reaching a peace agreement with Afghanistan. In September, an agreement was reached "in principle" to withdraw over 5,000 troops from Afghanistan in exchange for guarantees by the Taliban. However, US President Donald Trump called off the peace negotiations, citing the September 6 Kabul car bombing carried out by the terrorist group, which claimed 12 lives, including an American soldier.

Islamabad set to attend Afghanistan peace talks in Russia

China on Tuesday invited International Energy Agency (IEA) delegation led by Taliban leader M. Baradar Akhund to take part in the upcoming intra-Afghan conference to be held in Beijing.

"China invited the IEA delegation led by M. Baradar Akhund to participate in the conference. The meeting will be a continuation of Moscow and Qatar conferences," wrote Zabihullah, official spokesperson of the Taliban on Twitter.

"All attendees shall participate in an individual capacity and present personal views about finding a resolution to the Afghan issue," Zabihullah said.

Earlier in the day, Akhund also known as M. Abdul Gani Baradar, along with his delegation met with China's Special Representative for Afghanistan Deng Xijun and the Ambassador of China to Qatar.

Both the sides discussed upcoming intra-Afghan conference in Beijing and the ongoing peace process between the US and the Taliban. Ever since US President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled months-long talks between US officials and the Taliban, the terrorist group has approached various countries to make a breakthrough in the peace process.

Taliban has escalated its offensive after the collapse of talks. It has carried out various suicide bombings in several provinces of the country.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

China on Tuesday invited International Energy Agency (IEA) delegation led by Taliban leader M. Baradar Akhund to take part in the upcoming intra-Afghan conference to be held in Beijing.

China on Tuesday invited International Energy Agency (IEA) delegation led by Taliban leader M. Baradar Akhund to take part in the upcoming intra-Afghan conference to be held in Beijing. "China invited the IEA delegation led by M. Baradar Akhund to participate in the conference. The meeting will be a continuation of Moscow and Qatar conferences," wrote Zabihullah, official spokesperson of the Taliban on Twitter. "All attendees shall participate in an individual capacity and present personal views about finding a resolution to the Afghan issue," Zabihullah said. Earlier in the day, Akhund also known as M. Abdul Gani Baradar, along with his delegation met with China's Special Representative for Afghanistan Deng Xijun and the Ambassador of China to Qatar. Both the sides discussed upcoming intra-Afghan conference in Beijing and the ongoing peace process between the US and the Taliban. Ever since US President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled months-long talks between US officials and the Taliban, the terrorist group has approached various countries to make a breakthrough in the peace process. Taliban has escalated its offensive after the collapse of talks. It has carried out various suicide bombings in several provinces of the country.

China invites Taliban representatives for intra-Afghan conference in Beijing

US Defence Secretary Mark Esper made a surprise visit to Afghanistan yesterday in a bid to revive talks with the Taliban after President Donald Trump broke off negotiations last month which was aimed at ending America's longest war.

Mark Esper made a surprise visit to Afghanistan

Local media on Thursday reported that the Special Forces of the National Directorate of Security (NDS) killed Salahuddin alias Ibrahimi, a facilitator of Taliban explosions in the northeastern Afghan province of Takhar.

The Special Forces identified and eliminated Salahuddin in the city of Taloqan before he could carry out a string of targeted attacks against the tribal leaders, reported Sputnik.

As per local media reports, NDS Special Forces have also arrested a group of 9 Taliban terrorists during a separate operation in Takhar province.

The Taliban is yet to comment on the operations carried out in the province by the security forces.

The Taliban has been waging war against the Afghan government for years, challenging stability and security in the region. As a result of political turmoil, groups such as the Islamic State and al-Qaeda have spread across the country.

Throughout 2019, the Taliban held talks with the United States, but the attempts to work out a peaceful agreement, which would see foreign troops leave Afghanistan, have not been successful so far.

Local media on Thursday reported that the Special Forces of the National Directorate of Security (NDS) killed Salahuddin alias Ibrahimi, a facilitator of Taliban explosions in the northeastern Afghan province of Takhar.

Local media on Thursday reported that the Special Forces of the National Directorate of Security (NDS) killed Salahuddin alias Ibrahimi, a facilitator of Taliban explosions in the northeastern Afghan province of Takhar. The Special Forces identified and eliminated Salahuddin in the city of Taloqan before he could carry out a string of targeted attacks against the tribal leaders, reported Sputnik. As per local media reports, NDS Special Forces have also arrested a group of 9 Taliban terrorists during a separate operation in Takhar province. The Taliban is yet to comment on the operations carried out in the province by the security forces. The Taliban has been waging war against the Afghan government for years, challenging stability and security in the region. As a result of political turmoil, groups such as the Islamic State and al-Qaeda have spread across the country. Throughout 2019, the Taliban held talks with the United States, but the attempts to work out a peaceful agreement, which would see foreign troops leave Afghanistan, have not been successful so far.

Afghan forces kill facilitator of Taliban explosions in Takhar province

Chairman of Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) Pipeline Corporation Murad Amanov on Wednesday met Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and apprised him about the progress in the Trans-Afghanistan project.

Qureshi assured the delegation about the government`s commitment to ensure early implementation of the TAPI Gas project and promote cooperation in the energy sector with Turkmenistan.

Energy is important for advancing the domestic economy, therefore, the government is paying special attention to the energy sector for economic development, he said.

Meanwhile, Amanov told the foreign minister that talks between Pakistan and TAPI Company are underway successfully for the finalization of this agreement by the host government. Qureshi said that ensuring the safety of oil and gas supply is our top priority.

The TAPI gas pipeline project is expected to be completed by 2022 in Pakistan.&nbsp;

The TAPI project, supported by the United States and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has been supported by Turkmenistan since the 1990s. But the initiation of the project was delayed due to issues related to the instability in the region, especially in Afghanistan.

The ADB is acting as the facilitator and coordinator for the project. It is proposed to lay a 56-inch diameter and 1,680-kilometre pipeline with a capacity of transporting 33 billion cubic meters (BCM) of natural gas per annum from Turkmenistan through Afghanistan and Fazilka near the India-Pakistan border, Geo News reported.

The pipeline will run through areas of southern Afghanistan largely controlled by the Taliban.&nbsp;

Chairman of Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) Pipeline Corporation Murad Amanov on Wednesday met Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and apprised him about the progress in the Trans-Afghanistan project.

Chairman of Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) Pipeline Corporation Murad Amanov on Wednesday met Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and apprised him about the progress in the Trans-Afghanistan project. Qureshi assured the delegation about the government`s commitment to ensure early implementation of the TAPI Gas project and promote cooperation in the energy sector with Turkmenistan. Energy is important for advancing the domestic economy, therefore, the government is paying special attention to the energy sector for economic development, he said. Meanwhile, Amanov told the foreign minister that talks between Pakistan and TAPI Company are underway successfully for the finalization of this agreement by the host government. Qureshi said that ensuring the safety of oil and gas supply is our top priority. The TAPI gas pipeline project is expected to be completed by 2022 in Pakistan. The TAPI project, supported by the United States and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has been supported by Turkmenistan since the 1990s. But the initiation of the project was delayed due to issues related to the instability in the region, especially in Afghanistan. The ADB is acting as the facilitator and coordinator for the project. It is proposed to lay a 56-inch diameter and 1,680-kilometre pipeline with a capacity of transporting 33 billion cubic meters (BCM) of natural gas per annum from Turkmenistan through Afghanistan and Fazilka near the India-Pakistan border, Geo News reported. The pipeline will run through areas of southern Afghanistan largely controlled by the Taliban.

TAPI Chairman meets Pakistan Foreign Minister, apprises him of project progress

The Taliban on Wednesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-two-security-personnel-killed-in-explosion-in-laghman-province-256216">claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing near police headquarters</a> that claimed the lives of two members of the Afghan Security Forces and injured 26 other people in Afghanistan's eastern province of Laghman. 
 
The incident occurred at around 6 am (local time) when a suicide bomber set off explosives in a truck in the Alishing district, Tolo news reported. 
 
The district governor's compound and a madrasa were close to the blast site, local officials said, adding that among those injured include twenty civilians and six members of the Afghan Security Forces. 
 
The injured have been taken to the nearby hospital for treatment. 
 
An eyewitness said the blast also damaged nearby buildings. 
 
Over the past few months, Afghanistan has witnessed waves of terror attacks. 
 
United States President Donald Trump had called off the peace talks with the Taliban after the group had claimed the responsibility for the Kabul terror attack.

The Taliban on Wednesday claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing near police headquarters that claimed the lives of two members of the Afghan Security Forces and injured 26 other people in Afghanistan's eastern province of Laghman.

The Taliban on Wednesday claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing near police headquarters that claimed the lives of two members of the Afghan Security Forces and injured 26 other people in Afghanistan's eastern province of Laghman. The incident occurred at around 6 am (local time) when a suicide bomber set off explosives in a truck in the Alishing district, Tolo news reported. The district governor's compound and a madrasa were close to the blast site, local officials said, adding that among those injured include twenty civilians and six members of the Afghan Security Forces. The injured have been taken to the nearby hospital for treatment. An eyewitness said the blast also damaged nearby buildings. Over the past few months, Afghanistan has witnessed waves of terror attacks. United States President Donald Trump had called off the peace talks with the Taliban after the group had claimed the responsibility for the Kabul terror attack.

Taliban claim responsibility of attack that killed two policemen in Afghanistan

At least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-poonch-district-indian-army-is-retaliating-256030">seven Taliban terrorists were killed and eight others arrested during military operations in Wardak and Paktika</a> provinces in eastern Afghanistan, local media reported on Wednesday.

The Afghan Special Forces also destroyed caches of weapons in the two provinces, the military officials told the Khaama news outlet.

Taliban have not yet commented on the operations.

The Taliban has been waging war against the Afghan government for years, challenging stability and security in the region. As a result of political turmoil, radical groups such as the Islamic State and al-Qaeda have spread across the country.

Throughout 2019, the Taliban held talks with the United States, but the attempts to hammer out a peaceful agreement, which would see foreign troops leave Afghanistan, have not been successful so far.

At least seven Taliban terrorists were killed and eight others arrested during military operations in Wardak and Paktika provinces in eastern Afghanistan, local media reported on Wednesday.

At least seven Taliban terrorists were killed and eight others arrested during military operations in Wardak and Paktika provinces in eastern Afghanistan, local media reported on Wednesday. The Afghan Special Forces also destroyed caches of weapons in the two provinces, the military officials told the Khaama news outlet. Taliban have not yet commented on the operations. The Taliban has been waging war against the Afghan government for years, challenging stability and security in the region. As a result of political turmoil, radical groups such as the Islamic State and al-Qaeda have spread across the country. Throughout 2019, the Taliban held talks with the United States, but the attempts to hammer out a peaceful agreement, which would see foreign troops leave Afghanistan, have not been successful so far.

Seven Taliban terrorists killed, eight arrested in Eastern Afghanistan

Like assembling a 1,500-year-old jigsaw puzzle, conservators at the National Museum of Afghanistan are restoring the country's Buddhist history that the Taliban tried to erase.

Afghan museum recreates Buddhist history, one broken piece at a time

At least nine terrorists from the Taliban and the Islamic State (IS) were killed in Afghanistan following a series of airstrikes.

Quoting military officials, Khaama Press reported that the airstrikes took place in the eastern province of Nangarhar, where a total of five ISIS terrorists were killed.

Four Taliban operatives, meanwhile, were killed in Afghanistan's central Wardak province, as per media reports which cited officials.

The Afghan government forces have been fighting the Taliban for almost two decades, with all the peace initiatives have failed so far.

The ongoing instability has resulted in the rise of other terrorist groups across the country, including the ISIS.

At least nine terrorists from the Taliban and the Islamic State (IS) were killed in Afghanistan following a series of airstrikes. Quoting military officials, Khaama Press reported that the airstrikes took place in the eastern province of Nangarhar, where a total of five ISIS terrorists were killed.

At least nine terrorists from the Taliban and the Islamic State (IS) were killed in Afghanistan following a series of airstrikes. Quoting military officials, Khaama Press reported that the airstrikes took place in the eastern province of Nangarhar, where a total of five ISIS terrorists were killed. Four Taliban operatives, meanwhile, were killed in Afghanistan's central Wardak province, as per media reports which cited officials. The Afghan government forces have been fighting the Taliban for almost two decades, with all the peace initiatives have failed so far. The ongoing instability has resulted in the rise of other terrorist groups across the country, including the ISIS.

Airstrikes kill nine Taliban, Islamic State terrorists in Afghanistan

Despite the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-islamabad-high-court-rejects-plea-to-drop-terrorism-charges-against-pervez-musharraf-254918">Pakistan</a> government's claim of its successes in the tribal regions, the former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-erstwhile-federally-administered-tribal-area-to-witness-first-election-237240">Federally Administered Tribal Areas</a> (FATA) remain the prime hideout of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) which has announced its resurgence in the area through IED blasts and warnings which directly threaten women and children.

While Operation Zarb-e-Azb in 2014 led to the decline of the terror outfit, in recent times, reports related to the TTP have resurfaced, according to Kunwar Khuldune Shahid for The Diplomat.

Shahid quoted various examples of TTP operatives who have been arrested from various populous cities in Pakistan, including Faisalabad and Gujranwala recently.

Not only has the TTP targeted checkpoints in the tribal regions with IED blasts, but it had also sent out a chilling warning in August, barring the residents in Miranshah from listening to music, demanding a ban on women stepping out without a male accomplice and a ban on polio vaccinations.

"We remind you [residents] that similar statements issued by<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-vows-to-continue-attack-on-us-troop-until-peace-deal-is-sealed-254214"> Taliban</a> several times in the past had fallen on deaf ears, but this time we are going to take to task those who violate the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/enemy-fabricated-propaganda-says-taliban-as-it-denies-killing-of-south-asia-region-al-qaeda-chief-asim-umar-in-afghanistan-254669">Taliban</a> order," Shahid quoted the message issued by TTP as saying.

"There will be no use of DJs, neither inside the house nor in open fields and those ignoring the warning will be responsible for consequences," it added.

The terror outfit has also warned health workers against administering polio drops to children. This spells bad news for Pakistan which has seen a resurgence of the poliovirus, with at least 72 people being diagnosed with the infectious disease this year alone, as per local media reports.

The TTP rebound comes despite the military operations by Pakistan which have been highly criticised. The regional resentment against the military has been embodied by the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) -- a political party -- which sheds light on the shortcomings of the military offences and brings to the front issues which continue to plague the locals, including enforced disappearances and fake encounters by the state.

The PTM, led by Manzoor Pashteen, contested the polls held in tribal regions on July 20. Widespread claims of the polling process being influenced by Islamabad were bolstered after two PTM leaders were arrested in the run-up to the polling.

According to Shahid, the arrests were "emblematic of the double-edged sword that military operations in the tribal areas present".

"Despite the reduction in terror incidents, the manner in which the military operations have been carried out in the region has invited criticism from various political leaders, activists, and others," Shahid wrote.

The writer also claimed that despite Pakistan's claims of the reduction in terror attacks in tribal regions, the fact that the military operations have led to the displacement of over a million people from the former FATA is not recognised. No action has been taken over it either.

"As the state looks to silence criticism of its military operations in the tribal areas, the TTP appears to have resurfaced in North Waziristan. Observers find a strategic connection between the TTP`s return to the limelight and the state`s plans for the tribal areas," Shahid wrote.

Quoting Ayesha Siddiqa, the author of `Military Inc.: Inside Pakistan`s Military Economy`, Shahid pointed out that the PTM was trying to bring attention to the connection between the Pakistan military and TTP.

"There is nothing odd about [the TTP resurfacing in the tribal areas] because that`s a relationship that [the] Pakistan military has always had. The PTM was constantly trying to draw attention towards this," Siddiqa wrote, as per Shahid.

"The Taliban are there because the Army has allowed it. I fear the day Americans leave the Taliban in charge of Afghanistan. Pakistan will suffer the most," she added.

"They continue to get the needed strategic support. Yes, the PTM challenged the strategic space and status of the tribal areas, and [as a result] the TTP was pushed back. [Yet] the area continues to be a space for all proxy wars like Afghanistan and in future maybe Kashmir," said tribal activist and blogger Mona Aurangzeb, according to Shahid.

"As we can see from the development in regional politics [that] the American good guys are now the Taliban. The TTP will be instrumental in future Afghan settlement too," Aurangzeb added.

A senior military personnel believes that the TTP`s rise has been influenced by the Afghan Taliban, Shahid wrote.

"The TTP is targeting Pakistani Army personnel in the tribal areas. They are being bolstered by the Afghan Taliban, who want to show their power in territories on both sides of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border to influence the current negotiations with the US," he quoted a senior Army official posted in the tribal areas as saying.

"Also, the Islamist State`s presence in the region is largely made up of former Pakistan Taliban splinter groups. By propping up the TTP, the Afghan Taliban want to weaken [ISIS] as well, and tell Washington that they are the only group that needs to be kept in mind while discussing the future for Afghanistan," the official also said.

The sentiment is echoed by Lieutenant-General Talat Masood, the former secretary of Pakistan`s Ministry of Defense Production.&nbsp;

According to Masood, the "TTP leadership is based in Afghanistan and enjoys the `direct or indirect` patronage of the Afghan Taliban," Shahid further added.

"The Pakistani Taliban are enjoying support and security in Afghanistan. The TTP will increase its presence in the tribal areas -- which they are literally governing -- and will target other areas of Pakistan as well," Masood stated.

The Lieutenant-General added that it`s not in the interests of Pakistan to support the Afghan Taliban.

"They shouldn`t let the Afghan Taliban become a dominant presence in Afghanistan, because that will have serious ramifications for Pakistan. [The TTP`s reemergence] is evidence of that," Shahid quoted Masood as saying.

Despite the Pakistan government's claim of its successes in the tribal regions, the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) remain the prime hideout of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) which has announced its resurgence in the area through IED blasts and warnings which directly threaten women and children.

Despite the Pakistan government's claim of its successes in the tribal regions, the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) remain the prime hideout of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) which has announced its resurgence in the area through IED blasts and warnings which directly threaten women and children. While Operation Zarb-e-Azb in 2014 led to the decline of the terror outfit, in recent times, reports related to the TTP have resurfaced, according to Kunwar Khuldune Shahid for The Diplomat. Shahid quoted various examples of TTP operatives who have been arrested from various populous cities in Pakistan, including Faisalabad and Gujranwala recently. Not only has the TTP targeted checkpoints in the tribal regions with IED blasts, but it had also sent out a chilling warning in August, barring the residents in Miranshah from listening to music, demanding a ban on women stepping out without a male accomplice and a ban on polio vaccinations. "We remind you [residents] that similar statements issued by Taliban several times in the past had fallen on deaf ears, but this time we are going to take to task those who violate the Taliban order," Shahid quoted the message issued by TTP as saying. "There will be no use of DJs, neither inside the house nor in open fields and those ignoring the warning will be responsible for consequences," it added. The terror outfit has also warned health workers against administering polio drops to children. This spells bad news for Pakistan which has seen a resurgence of the poliovirus, with at least 72 people being diagnosed with the infectious disease this year alone, as per local media reports. The TTP rebound comes despite the military operations by Pakistan which have been highly criticised. The regional resentment against the military has been embodied by the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) -- a political party -- which sheds light on the shortcomings of the military offences and brings to the front issues which continue to plague the locals, including enforced disappearances and fake encounters by the state. The PTM, led by Manzoor Pashteen, contested the polls held in tribal regions on July 20. Widespread claims of the polling process being influenced by Islamabad were bolstered after two PTM leaders were arrested in the run-up to the polling. According to Shahid, the arrests were "emblematic of the double-edged sword that military operations in the tribal areas present". "Despite the reduction in terror incidents, the manner in which the military operations have been carried out in the region has invited criticism from various political leaders, activists, and others," Shahid wrote. The writer also claimed that despite Pakistan's claims of the reduction in terror attacks in tribal regions, the fact that the military operations have led to the displacement of over a million people from the former FATA is not recognised. No action has been taken over it either. "As the state looks to silence criticism of its military operations in the tribal areas, the TTP appears to have resurfaced in North Waziristan. Observers find a strategic connection between the TTP`s return to the limelight and the state`s plans for the tribal areas," Shahid wrote. Quoting Ayesha Siddiqa, the author of `Military Inc.: Inside Pakistan`s Military Economy`, Shahid pointed out that the PTM was trying to bring attention to the connection between the Pakistan military and TTP. "There is nothing odd about [the TTP resurfacing in the tribal areas] because that`s a relationship that [the] Pakistan military has always had. The PTM was constantly trying to draw attention towards this," Siddiqa wrote, as per Shahid. "The Taliban are there because the Army has allowed it. I fear the day Americans leave the Taliban in charge of Afghanistan. Pakistan will suffer the most," she added. "They continue to get the needed strategic support. Yes, the PTM challenged the strategic space and status of the tribal areas, and [as a result] the TTP was pushed back. [Yet] the area continues to be a space for all proxy wars like Afghanistan and in future maybe Kashmir," said tribal activist and blogger Mona Aurangzeb, according to Shahid. "As we can see from the development in regional politics [that] the American good guys are now the Taliban. The TTP will be instrumental in future Afghan settlement too," Aurangzeb added. A senior military personnel believes that the TTP`s rise has been influenced by the Afghan Taliban, Shahid wrote. "The TTP is targeting Pakistani Army personnel in the tribal areas. They are being bolstered by the Afghan Taliban, who want to show their power in territories on both sides of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border to influence the current negotiations with the US," he quoted a senior Army official posted in the tribal areas as saying. "Also, the Islamist State`s presence in the region is largely made up of former Pakistan Taliban splinter groups. By propping up the TTP, the Afghan Taliban want to weaken [ISIS] as well, and tell Washington that they are the only group that needs to be kept in mind while discussing the future for Afghanistan," the official also said. The sentiment is echoed by Lieutenant-General Talat Masood, the former secretary of Pakistan`s Ministry of Defense Production. According to Masood, the "TTP leadership is based in Afghanistan and enjoys the `direct or indirect` patronage of the Afghan Taliban," Shahid further added. "The Pakistani Taliban are enjoying support and security in Afghanistan. The TTP will increase its presence in the tribal areas -- which they are literally governing -- and will target other areas of Pakistan as well," Masood stated. The Lieutenant-General added that it`s not in the interests of Pakistan to support the Afghan Taliban. "They shouldn`t let the Afghan Taliban become a dominant presence in Afghanistan, because that will have serious ramifications for Pakistan. [The TTP`s reemergence] is evidence of that," Shahid quoted Masood as saying.

With threats to women and children, Pakistani Taliban resurfaces

The leader of Al-Qaeda's South Asian branch was killed in a US-Afghan joint raid in southern Afghanistan last month, Afghan officials confirmed Tuesday.

Asim Umar, who led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/south-asia-region-al-qaeda-chief-killed-in-afghanistan-officials-254579">Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent </a>(AQIS) from its inception in 2014, was killed during a raid September 23 on a Taliban compound in the Musa Qala district of Helmand province.

The Afghan Taliban denied that Umar had died, calling the report "enemy fabricated propaganda" meant to hide having hit a wedding party that had "only caused heavy civilian losses".&nbsp;

"Tens of ordinary civilian Afghans including those participating in a wedding ceremony" were killed and wounded, it said in an English-language statement published by SITE Intelligence, which monitors jihadist activities worldwide.

Afghanistan's National Directorate of Security said Umar was a Pakistani citizen, though some reports claim he was born in India.

He "was #killed along with six other AQIS members, most of them Pakistani", the NDS said on Twitter, adding that Umar had been "embedded" with the Taliban.

Watch: 18 years of US war in Afghanistan; America's longest war in its history

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The raid was part of a lengthy and confusing overnight operation on September 22-23, for which the United States provided air support.

Authorities said they would investigate reports that 40 civilians, including children, were killed in an airstrike during the operation.

The NDS said that among the six other AQIS members killed in the raid was a man identified as "Raihan", a courier for Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri.

US Forces-Afghanistan declined to comment.

Under a stalled withdrawal plan negotiated between the United States and the Taliban, Washington agreed to pull troops from Afghanistan if the insurgents abided by security guarantees and cut all ties with Al-Qaeda.

The United States and the Taliban had been negotiating for a year to reach a deal that would have cut US forces in Afghanistan and may have paved the way to a reduction in violence, but President Donald Trump scuttled that agreement last month, citing Taliban violence.

Even if the deal had been finalised, observers doubted whether the Taliban would ever really separate from Al-Qaeda.

The United States invaded Afghanistan after the Taliban refused to hand over Al-Qaeda's leader Osama bin Laden following the September 11, 2001 attacks against the US.&nbsp;

The middle-aged Umar was relatively unknown when he was picked to lead the newly created AQIS in 2014.&nbsp;

The jihadist branch was established to try to rouse fighters in India, Bangladesh and Myanmar.

An Afghan Taliban source said in 2014 that Umar had for some years worked with the Punjabi Taliban, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) chapter in Pakistan's most populous province, before linking up with Al-Qaeda.

A Pakistani intelligence official also said Umar had travelled to Syria, though it was not possible to confirm this.

The leader of Al-Qaeda's South Asian branch was killed in a US-Afghan joint raid in southern Afghanistan last month, Afghan officials confirmed Tuesday. Asim Umar, who led Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) from its inception in 2014, was killed during a raid September 23 on a Taliban compound in the Musa Qala district of Helmand province.

The leader of Al-Qaeda's South Asian branch was killed in a US-Afghan joint raid in southern Afghanistan last month, Afghan officials confirmed Tuesday. Asim Umar, who led Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) from its inception in 2014, was killed during a raid September 23 on a Taliban compound in the Musa Qala district of Helmand province. The Afghan Taliban denied that Umar had died, calling the report "enemy fabricated propaganda" meant to hide having hit a wedding party that had "only caused heavy civilian losses". "Tens of ordinary civilian Afghans including those participating in a wedding ceremony" were killed and wounded, it said in an English-language statement published by SITE Intelligence, which monitors jihadist activities worldwide. Afghanistan's National Directorate of Security said Umar was a Pakistani citizen, though some reports claim he was born in India. He "was #killed along with six other AQIS members, most of them Pakistani", the NDS said on Twitter, adding that Umar had been "embedded" with the Taliban. Watch: 18 years of US war in Afghanistan; America's longest war in its history × The raid was part of a lengthy and confusing overnight operation on September 22-23, for which the United States provided air support. Authorities said they would investigate reports that 40 civilians, including children, were killed in an airstrike during the operation. The NDS said that among the six other AQIS members killed in the raid was a man identified as "Raihan", a courier for Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. US Forces-Afghanistan declined to comment. Under a stalled withdrawal plan negotiated between the United States and the Taliban, Washington agreed to pull troops from Afghanistan if the insurgents abided by security guarantees and cut all ties with Al-Qaeda. The United States and the Taliban had been negotiating for a year to reach a deal that would have cut US forces in Afghanistan and may have paved the way to a reduction in violence, but President Donald Trump scuttled that agreement last month, citing Taliban violence. Even if the deal had been finalised, observers doubted whether the Taliban would ever really separate from Al-Qaeda. The United States invaded Afghanistan after the Taliban refused to hand over Al-Qaeda's leader Osama bin Laden following the September 11, 2001 attacks against the US. The middle-aged Umar was relatively unknown when he was picked to lead the newly created AQIS in 2014. The jihadist branch was established to try to rouse fighters in India, Bangladesh and Myanmar. An Afghan Taliban source said in 2014 that Umar had for some years worked with the Punjabi Taliban, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) chapter in Pakistan's most populous province, before linking up with Al-Qaeda. A Pakistani intelligence official also said Umar had travelled to Syria, though it was not possible to confirm this.

'Enemy fabricated propaganda', says Taliban as it denies killing of South Asia region Al-Qaeda chief Asim Umar in Afghanistan

Despite pulling off a safer presidential election than expected, Afghanistan looks headed for a prolonged period of political uncertainty, with the two front-runners claiming victory before ballots are tallied and signalling they would not accept defeat.

The situation echoes 2014, when candidates Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah alleged massive fraud by each other, forcing the United States to broker an awkward power-sharing arrangement that made Ghani president. Both men, front-runners again, say they would not accept a similar arrangement this time.

At the same time, Taliban insurgents rule more of the country than at any time since they were ousted from power nearly two decades ago, and have refused to accept the legitimacy of what they call a puppet US-backed government.

The unity government between the two candidates holds power until the winner is selected and takes office.

Results are expected on October&nbsp;19. If neither man wins over half the votes, a runoff would take place.

"There is a serious risk of an extended political crisis and divisive battle over the outcome, while the Taliban remain effectively unified," said Colin Cookman, a program officer with the US Institute of Peace, who has analysed Afghan politics since 2008.

Petr Stepanek, ambassador of the Czech Republic to Afghanistan, said the second round of voting possibly would not be held until spring, prolonging the uncertainty.

"The election commission can say, 'the weather is bad' and postpone it for a couple of months," Stepanek said. "Then we will have a weak government. A lame duck."

About 4,500 complaints have been filed since the September 28 election, providing possible ammunition for the loser to reject the results. The Independent Election Commission said on Sunday that some biometric verification machines were lost.

Turnout was an estimated 2.6 million votes, about one-quarter of eligible voters, following threats by the Taliban against voting stations.

Negotiations about withdrawing US troops in exchange for Taliban security guarantees broke down in September, although the two sides held exploratory talks in Islamabad last week.

The next step would be negotiations between the Taliban and Afghan government about a ceasefire and the Taliban's future role. The militant group has so far rejected any talks with the government.

Little to complain about

The Ghani camp has dismissed fears of a prolonged political stalemate.

This election included more checks and balances than ever to prevent fraud, leaving Abdullah little to complain about if he loses, said Daoud Sultanzoy, a senior Ghani campaign leader.

He said he believes Ghani dominated Afghanistan's cities and eroded Abdullah's support in northern areas, giving him a comfortable first-ballot win.

"The process is the most transparent we've ever used," Sultanzoy said. "Somebody has to put (Abdullah) in his place. Enough is enough."

Asked if Ghani would accept an Abdullah victory, Sultanzoy said that possibility was "far-fetched."

Abdullah is equally certain that his coalition of ethnic Hazaras, Tajiks, Uzbeks and some Pashtuns has made him a winner, said his spokesman, Mujib Rahman Rahimi.

However, the Abdullah camp is concerned about numerous irregularities, such as improbably high turnouts in insecure areas. Abdullah would accept defeat if the election is clean and only biometrically verified votes are counted, Rahimi said, adding that he has confidence in the commission.

But Abdullah will not accept a tainted vote, he said.

"He commands the real power in Afghanistan," Rahimi said. "If he comes out 'no' (to the result) the country will collapse. We should not go that direction, that is our hope."

Diplomats, speaking anonymously because of the sensitivity of the situation, said the more confusion that overhangs the Afghan government, the easier it will be for the Taliban to fill the vacuum. Recent foreign visits by the Taliban may help legitimize the group, they say.

In Islamabad last week, Taliban members hugged Pakistan's foreign minister and exchanged gifts before the cameras. The Taliban - which calls itself the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan - then raised issues that are the usual domain of government, such as the plight of Afghan refugees in Pakistan.

The visits are "normal political activities" planned long ago, and are no attempt to fill a leadership vacuum, said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid.

He added that the political uncertainty in Kabul is of no concern since the Taliban considers the election illegitimate.

Despite pulling off a safer presidential election than expected, Afghanistan looks headed for a prolonged period of political uncertainty, with the two front-runners claiming victory before ballots are tallied and signalling they would not accept defeat.

Despite pulling off a safer presidential election than expected, Afghanistan looks headed for a prolonged period of political uncertainty, with the two front-runners claiming victory before ballots are tallied and signalling they would not accept defeat. The situation echoes 2014, when candidates Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah alleged massive fraud by each other, forcing the United States to broker an awkward power-sharing arrangement that made Ghani president. Both men, front-runners again, say they would not accept a similar arrangement this time. At the same time, Taliban insurgents rule more of the country than at any time since they were ousted from power nearly two decades ago, and have refused to accept the legitimacy of what they call a puppet US-backed government. The unity government between the two candidates holds power until the winner is selected and takes office. Results are expected on October 19. If neither man wins over half the votes, a runoff would take place. "There is a serious risk of an extended political crisis and divisive battle over the outcome, while the Taliban remain effectively unified," said Colin Cookman, a program officer with the US Institute of Peace, who has analysed Afghan politics since 2008. Petr Stepanek, ambassador of the Czech Republic to Afghanistan, said the second round of voting possibly would not be held until spring, prolonging the uncertainty. "The election commission can say, 'the weather is bad' and postpone it for a couple of months," Stepanek said. "Then we will have a weak government. A lame duck." About 4,500 complaints have been filed since the September 28 election, providing possible ammunition for the loser to reject the results. The Independent Election Commission said on Sunday that some biometric verification machines were lost. Turnout was an estimated 2.6 million votes, about one-quarter of eligible voters, following threats by the Taliban against voting stations. Negotiations about withdrawing US troops in exchange for Taliban security guarantees broke down in September, although the two sides held exploratory talks in Islamabad last week. The next step would be negotiations between the Taliban and Afghan government about a ceasefire and the Taliban's future role. The militant group has so far rejected any talks with the government. Little to complain about The Ghani camp has dismissed fears of a prolonged political stalemate. This election included more checks and balances than ever to prevent fraud, leaving Abdullah little to complain about if he loses, said Daoud Sultanzoy, a senior Ghani campaign leader. He said he believes Ghani dominated Afghanistan's cities and eroded Abdullah's support in northern areas, giving him a comfortable first-ballot win. "The process is the most transparent we've ever used," Sultanzoy said. "Somebody has to put (Abdullah) in his place. Enough is enough." Asked if Ghani would accept an Abdullah victory, Sultanzoy said that possibility was "far-fetched." Abdullah is equally certain that his coalition of ethnic Hazaras, Tajiks, Uzbeks and some Pashtuns has made him a winner, said his spokesman, Mujib Rahman Rahimi. However, the Abdullah camp is concerned about numerous irregularities, such as improbably high turnouts in insecure areas. Abdullah would accept defeat if the election is clean and only biometrically verified votes are counted, Rahimi said, adding that he has confidence in the commission. But Abdullah will not accept a tainted vote, he said. "He commands the real power in Afghanistan," Rahimi said. "If he comes out 'no' (to the result) the country will collapse. We should not go that direction, that is our hope." Diplomats, speaking anonymously because of the sensitivity of the situation, said the more confusion that overhangs the Afghan government, the easier it will be for the Taliban to fill the vacuum. Recent foreign visits by the Taliban may help legitimize the group, they say. In Islamabad last week, Taliban members hugged Pakistan's foreign minister and exchanged gifts before the cameras. The Taliban - which calls itself the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan - then raised issues that are the usual domain of government, such as the plight of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. The visits are "normal political activities" planned long ago, and are no attempt to fill a leadership vacuum, said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. He added that the political uncertainty in Kabul is of no concern since the Taliban considers the election illegitimate.

Afghanistan braces for political uncertainty in election's wake

U.S.-Taliban on table talks, 3 Indians set to release who got abducted by Taliban last year. Watch this video to know more.

U.S.-Taliban on table talks, 3 Indians set to release who got abducted by Taliban last year

The Taliban on Sunday vowed to continue attacking US troops in Afghanistan until a peace deal is sealed.

"Until there is no agreement with the US we will continue the attacks on US troops, and we do not talk to the Kabul administration under the government`s title and we have denied such talks before," Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the militant group, told Sputnik.

Peace talks between the United States and the Taliban that would have seen US forces withdrawn in return for promises that the militants would not give safe haven to foreign terrorists broke off last month over a bombing in Kabul that killed a US serviceman.

New talks on Afghan peace have been underway between the Taliban and Pakistan, although the Afghan government did not endorse them.

The Taliban regard the administration in Kabul as a US puppet and have denied them credibility.

Daud Sultanzoy, a former adviser to an Afghan president, told Sputnik that countries involved in the peace talks needed to build confidence with the rest of the participants and criticized "parallel" efforts at bringing stability to the war-torn country. 
&nbsp;

The Taliban on Sunday vowed to continue attacking US troops in Afghanistan until a peace deal is sealed. "Until there is no agreement with the US we will continue the attacks on US troops, and we do not talk to the Kabul administration under the government`s title and we have denied such talks before," Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the militant group, told Sputnik.

The Taliban on Sunday vowed to continue attacking US troops in Afghanistan until a peace deal is sealed. "Until there is no agreement with the US we will continue the attacks on US troops, and we do not talk to the Kabul administration under the government`s title and we have denied such talks before," Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the militant group, told Sputnik. Peace talks between the United States and the Taliban that would have seen US forces withdrawn in return for promises that the militants would not give safe haven to foreign terrorists broke off last month over a bombing in Kabul that killed a US serviceman. New talks on Afghan peace have been underway between the Taliban and Pakistan, although the Afghan government did not endorse them. The Taliban regard the administration in Kabul as a US puppet and have denied them credibility. Daud Sultanzoy, a former adviser to an Afghan president, told Sputnik that countries involved in the peace talks needed to build confidence with the rest of the participants and criticized "parallel" efforts at bringing stability to the war-torn country.

Taliban vows to continue attack on US troop until peace deal is sealed

Afghanistan's war cost 13-year-old shoe shiner Hameedullah his education. Poverty forced Sabir, 11, to flee home and sell dried fruits on Kabul's streets. Niyamathullah, 9, hangs out in a park, looking for work.

Such is the lot of many a child in Afghanistan, which this week passes another sombre milestone. On Monday, the conflict turned 18, meaning every single Afghan child now has known only war.

"Peace is like a dream to us in Afghanistan," said Mohammad Mobin, a 17-year-old Kabul high schooler. "Afghanistan can develop only if we have peace."

On October 7, 2001, the United States launched air strikes against Afghanistan, following the September 11 attacks conducted by Al-Qaeda that killed nearly 3,000 people in the US.

The Taliban, who had refused to hand over Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, were toppled within weeks, but the ensuing insurgent conflict has dragged on ever since and become the longest war in US history.

Violence has only worsened in recent years, disproportionately impacting children.

"Since we were born, we have had no peace in our country, it has only been fighting and conflict," said Sayed Ibrahim, an 18-year-old medical student in Kabul.

The UN published a report last week saying that from 2015 to 2018, researchers studying the plight of Afghan kids documented more than 14,000 grave violations against them throughout the country, marking a sharp increase from the previous four years.

"Imagine turning 18 having known nothing but conflict and war throughout your entire childhood and formative years," said Onno van Manen, country director for Save the Children in Afghanistan.

"Life in Afghanistan means living in daily fear of explosions, missing school because it's too unsafe and not knowing if your parents or siblings will make it home."

The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) says the number of attacks against Afghan schools tripled last year compared to 2017. By the end of 2018, more than 1,000 Afghan schools had been shut due to conflict.

"I don't study because I have no money, I have to make money to support my family," said Sabir, an 11-year-old boy who fled his home province of Ghazni to sell peanuts, sunflower seeds and dried fruits in central Kabul.&nbsp;

"We have to go to school and get an education. We can end fighting through education."

'No proper jobs'

The 2001 invasion did herald some enduring improvements for many young Afghans -- particularly girls, who had been banned from receiving an education under the Taliban.&nbsp;

In Kabul and other urban centres, schools and universities flourished, and an entire generation of children now has never known Taliban rule.

But the economy remains so weak that poorer families often yank their kids from school and send them to hustle for extra cash on dangerous streets.

Jobs for many youths are so scarce they have few options but to try to emigrate, or join the Taliban or other insurgent groups who pay a regular wage.

During a recent visit to a busy park in downtown Kabul, nine-year-old Niyamathullah told AFP he would do anything for work -- sell gum, wash cars, run errands.&nbsp;

Hameedullah, the 13-year-old shoe shiner, said he would have stayed in school but needed to raise money for his family.

"There is no peace, the fighting is ongoing, there are no proper jobs for us," he said.

"I would like to go to school, get an education and work for my country."

According to the UN Population Fund, 42 per cent of Afghanistan's population is aged under 14. UNICEF says more than 3.7 million children are currently out of school -- most of them girls.

The US and the Taliban had spent the past year negotiating a deal that could have led to talks between the Islamists and the Afghan government -- and an eventual ceasefire -- but President Donald Trump scuttled the agreement at the last moment, citing concerns over Taliban violence.&nbsp;

Afghanistan's war cost 13-year-old shoe shiner Hameedullah his education. Poverty forced Sabir, 11, to flee home and sell dried fruits on Kabul's streets. Niyamathullah, 9, hangs out in a park, looking for work.

Afghanistan's war cost 13-year-old shoe shiner Hameedullah his education. Poverty forced Sabir, 11, to flee home and sell dried fruits on Kabul's streets. Niyamathullah, 9, hangs out in a park, looking for work. Such is the lot of many a child in Afghanistan, which this week passes another sombre milestone. On Monday, the conflict turned 18, meaning every single Afghan child now has known only war. "Peace is like a dream to us in Afghanistan," said Mohammad Mobin, a 17-year-old Kabul high schooler. "Afghanistan can develop only if we have peace." On October 7, 2001, the United States launched air strikes against Afghanistan, following the September 11 attacks conducted by Al-Qaeda that killed nearly 3,000 people in the US. The Taliban, who had refused to hand over Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, were toppled within weeks, but the ensuing insurgent conflict has dragged on ever since and become the longest war in US history. Violence has only worsened in recent years, disproportionately impacting children. "Since we were born, we have had no peace in our country, it has only been fighting and conflict," said Sayed Ibrahim, an 18-year-old medical student in Kabul. The UN published a report last week saying that from 2015 to 2018, researchers studying the plight of Afghan kids documented more than 14,000 grave violations against them throughout the country, marking a sharp increase from the previous four years. "Imagine turning 18 having known nothing but conflict and war throughout your entire childhood and formative years," said Onno van Manen, country director for Save the Children in Afghanistan. "Life in Afghanistan means living in daily fear of explosions, missing school because it's too unsafe and not knowing if your parents or siblings will make it home." The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) says the number of attacks against Afghan schools tripled last year compared to 2017. By the end of 2018, more than 1,000 Afghan schools had been shut due to conflict. "I don't study because I have no money, I have to make money to support my family," said Sabir, an 11-year-old boy who fled his home province of Ghazni to sell peanuts, sunflower seeds and dried fruits in central Kabul. "We have to go to school and get an education. We can end fighting through education." 'No proper jobs' The 2001 invasion did herald some enduring improvements for many young Afghans -- particularly girls, who had been banned from receiving an education under the Taliban. In Kabul and other urban centres, schools and universities flourished, and an entire generation of children now has never known Taliban rule. But the economy remains so weak that poorer families often yank their kids from school and send them to hustle for extra cash on dangerous streets. Jobs for many youths are so scarce they have few options but to try to emigrate, or join the Taliban or other insurgent groups who pay a regular wage. During a recent visit to a busy park in downtown Kabul, nine-year-old Niyamathullah told AFP he would do anything for work -- sell gum, wash cars, run errands. Hameedullah, the 13-year-old shoe shiner, said he would have stayed in school but needed to raise money for his family. "There is no peace, the fighting is ongoing, there are no proper jobs for us," he said. "I would like to go to school, get an education and work for my country." According to the UN Population Fund, 42 per cent of Afghanistan's population is aged under 14. UNICEF says more than 3.7 million children are currently out of school -- most of them girls. The US and the Taliban had spent the past year negotiating a deal that could have led to talks between the Islamists and the Afghan government -- and an eventual ceasefire -- but President Donald Trump scuttled the agreement at the last moment, citing concerns over Taliban violence.

'Peace is like a dream': Afghan generation knows only conflict as war turns 18

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