<p>Taliban authorities have destroyed dozens of musical instruments, just days after closing beauty salons across Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Images shared showed a guitar, two other stringed instruments, a harmonium, and a tabla, as well as amplifiers and speakers being burnt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Promoting music causes moral corruption and playing it will cause the youth to go astray," Aziz al-Rahman al-Muhajir, the head of the Herat Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, said.</p>

<p>Most of the items were collected from wedding halls in the Herat province.</p>

<h2><strong>After banning music in public, they are now burning musical instruments</strong></h2>

<p>Taliban authorities have steadily imposed laws and regulations reflecting an austere vision of Islam — &nbsp;including banning playing music in public — since they seized power in August 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thousands of beauty salons were shut across the country after Taliban authorities deemed certain makeovers to be too costly, or un-Islamic, last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Women have borne the brunt of the new government regulations, and are not allowed in public unless wearing a hijab.</p>

<p>Teenage girls and women have been barred from schools and universities, and they are also prohibited from entering parks, playgrounds and gyms.</p>

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Taliban authorities have destroyed dozens of musical instruments, just days after closing beauty salons across Afghanistan. Images shared showed a guitar, two other stringed instruments, a harmonium, and a tabla, as well as amplifiers and speakers being burnt.

Taliban authorities have destroyed dozens of musical instruments, just days after closing beauty salons across Afghanistan. Images shared showed a guitar, two other stringed instruments, a harmonium, and a tabla, as well as amplifiers and speakers being burnt. "Promoting music causes moral corruption and playing it will cause the youth to go astray," Aziz al-Rahman al-Muhajir, the head of the Herat Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, said. Most of the items were collected from wedding halls in the Herat province. After banning music in public, they are now burning musical instruments Taliban authorities have steadily imposed laws and regulations reflecting an austere vision of Islam — including banning playing music in public — since they seized power in August 2021. Thousands of beauty salons were shut across the country after Taliban authorities deemed certain makeovers to be too costly, or un-Islamic, last week. Women have borne the brunt of the new government regulations, and are not allowed in public unless wearing a hijab. Teenage girls and women have been barred from schools and universities, and they are also prohibited from entering parks, playgrounds and gyms. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban officials burn dozens of instruments in bonfire

Women are being targeted in Asia and it is not just limited to Iran's crackdown on women's rights over the hijab. Taliban-ruled Afghanistan is becoming worse for women in the latest dictate.

Afghan women barred from taking taxis without burqa

<p>US House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul repeated the specifics of colossal failure of US-led invasion of Afghanistan that started in 2001 and ended with abrupt withdrawal of the American forces in August 2021. At a hearing about Biden administration’s planning for the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan, McCaul said that the idea of lowering the number of troops to 650 was "insane,” that "12,000 prisoners" including "suicide bombers" and "ISIS-K" were released from Bagram prison.</p>

<p>While confirming Pentagon's earlier reports of the US forces leaving "$7 billion of equipment" in Afghanistan, McCaul added that this left out equipment is being sold to the US adversaries and terrorist nations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Gravitas | Pentagon blast: Could artificial intelligence start a war?</strong></p>

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<p>Bagram was the centre of US operations in Afghanistan during its two-decade long presence in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This unconditional withdrawal, I call it unconditional surrender to the Taliban who now have taken over Afghanistan," he said.</p>

<p>"China now is there for God’s sake, and the lithium," he said. "China will probably get access to Bagram."</p>

<h2><strong>What all equipment US left in Afghanistan?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a Pentagon report, the United States gave a total of $18.6 billion of equipment to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) — that quickly collapsed as the US edged closer to its withdrawal from Afghanistan — between 2005 and August 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of that total, equipment worth $7.12 billion remained in Afghanistan after the US withdrawal was completed on August 30, 2021. It included aircraft, air-to-ground munitions, military vehicles, weapons, communications equipment and other materials.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-taliban-have-put-afghan-clock-back-to-1990s-autocracy-un-report-603152">Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report</a></strong></p>

<p>Aircraft worth $923.3 million remained in Afghanistan, according to a US defence department report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington&nbsp;left 78 aircraft procured for the government of Afghanistan at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport before the end of the withdrawal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These aircraft were reportedly demilitarised and rendered inoperable before the US military left, the report stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 9,524 air-to-ground munitions, valued at $6.54 million, remained in Afghanistan at the conclusion of the US military withdrawal. The "significant majority" of the "remaining aircraft munitions stock are non-precision munitions," the report claimed.</p>

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US House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul repeated the specifics of colossal failure of US-led invasion of Afghanistan that started in 2001 and ended with abrupt withdrawal of the American forces in August 2021.

US House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul repeated the specifics of colossal failure of US-led invasion of Afghanistan that started in 2001 and ended with abrupt withdrawal of the American forces in August 2021. At a hearing about Biden administration’s planning for the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan, McCaul said that the idea of lowering the number of troops to 650 was "insane,” that "12,000 prisoners" including "suicide bombers" and "ISIS-K" were released from Bagram prison. While confirming Pentagon's earlier reports of the US forces leaving "$7 billion of equipment" in Afghanistan, McCaul added that this left out equipment is being sold to the US adversaries and terrorist nations. Also read | Gravitas | Pentagon blast: Could artificial intelligence start a war? × Bagram was the centre of US operations in Afghanistan during its two-decade long presence in the country. "This unconditional withdrawal, I call it unconditional surrender to the Taliban who now have taken over Afghanistan," he said. "China now is there for God’s sake, and the lithium," he said. "China will probably get access to Bagram." What all equipment US left in Afghanistan? According to a Pentagon report, the United States gave a total of $18.6 billion of equipment to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) — that quickly collapsed as the US edged closer to its withdrawal from Afghanistan — between 2005 and August 2021. Of that total, equipment worth $7.12 billion remained in Afghanistan after the US withdrawal was completed on August 30, 2021. It included aircraft, air-to-ground munitions, military vehicles, weapons, communications equipment and other materials. Also read | Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report Aircraft worth $923.3 million remained in Afghanistan, according to a US defence department report. Washington left 78 aircraft procured for the government of Afghanistan at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport before the end of the withdrawal. These aircraft were reportedly demilitarised and rendered inoperable before the US military left, the report stated. A total of 9,524 air-to-ground munitions, valued at $6.54 million, remained in Afghanistan at the conclusion of the US military withdrawal. The "significant majority" of the "remaining aircraft munitions stock are non-precision munitions," the report claimed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US surrendered unconditionally to Taliban in Afghanistan: House committee chairman

Almost a year after the Tariq Taliban Pakistan or the TTP called off a truce that was agreed upon with the Pakistani government in June 2022 the country has doubled down on its January 2023 stalls. Pakistan is not willing to engage with the TTP in talks and Pakistan has once again categorically stated that it will not hold any talks with the TTP nor will such a dialogue be held in the future.

Homegrown terror haunts Pakistan

From banning schools and Universities, education to closing the doors of gyms, salons and parks and most other spaces for women the new rulers of Afghanistan are on a spree of making new rules. This time they're turning their gaze onto men and what they do and what clothes they wear. The latest Target of the Taliban's new dress code is a necktie.

Neckties become a new target of Taliban

<p>In their latest disdain towards western clothing, Taliban have expressed apprehension over neckties, claiming that they resemble&nbsp;a Christian cross and called for a total ban in the country.</p>

<p>Talking to reporters on July 26, Mohammad Hashim Shaheed Wror, head of the Invitation and Guidance Directorate, a department that seeks to guide people along proper Islamic lines, said that wearing neckties is against the Sharia law.</p>

<p>“Sometimes, when I go to hospitals and other areas, an Afghan Muslim engineer or doctor uses a necktie,” Mohammad Hashim Shaheed Wror said in speech broadcast by Tolo TV.</p>

<p>He said that the symbolism of the tie “is obvious in Islam”.</p>

<p>“What is a tie? It is the cross. It is ordered in Sharia that you should break it and eliminate it,” he was quoted as saying.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Video: Mohammad Hashim Shaheed Wror, General Director of the Invitation and Guidance Directorate (an independent body that determines religious policies within the interim govt), said that the necktie originated from the Christian cross and that it is “ordered in Shariah that you… <a href="https://t.co/UMHesWX6TM">pic.twitter.com/UMHesWX6TM</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Crackdown on westernised clothing&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ever since the Taliban came to power in August 2021, westernised clothing has been completely shunned by locals over fears of Taliban reprisal. However, some professionals can still be seen donning a collar and tie.</p>

<p>Though the militant organisation hasn’t imposed any dress rules for men, they have been cracking down those who are seen wearing dresses that deviate from traditional Afghan clothing.</p>

<p>Days after taking control of the country, there were media reports that Taliban fighters were reportedly flogging Afghan civilians in the streets for wearing 'westernised' clothing such as jeans.</p>

<p>Several young Afghans shared their ordeal on social media saying that they were beaten and whipped by members of the Taliban for wearing jeans after being accused of disrespecting Islam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For women, Taliban have ordered them to cover up with a hijab when out in public.</p>

<p>The dress rule, which covers all female students, teachers, and staff, states that they must wear an Islamic abaya robe and niqab that covers the hair, body, and most of the face.</p>

<p>The garments must be black&nbsp;and women must also wear gloves to ensure their hands are covered.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gyanvapi-survey-allahabad-hc-stays-asi-survey-of-mosque-premises-till-august-3-619969">Gyanvapi survey: Allahabad HC stays ASI survey of mosque premises till Aug 3</a></p>

<p>Women who did not faithfully observe the Taliban's strict interpretation of sharia law were publicly flogged or executed.</p>

<p>Sharia is a system of religious law drawn from the Quran and the hadiths -- the words or actions of the Prophet Mohammed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aung-san-suu-kyi-moved-to-house-arrest-amidst-ongoing-myanmar-crisis-619978">Aung San Suu Kyi moved to house arrest amidst ongoing Myanmar crisis</a></p>

<p>Under the Taliban's previous rule in the late 90s, men had to wear traditional robes while girls were forced to wear a burqa from the age of eight.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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In their latest disdain towards western clothing, Taliban have expressed apprehension over neckties, claiming that they resemble a Christian cross and called for a total ban in the country.

In their latest disdain towards western clothing, Taliban have expressed apprehension over neckties, claiming that they resemble a Christian cross and called for a total ban in the country. Talking to reporters on July 26, Mohammad Hashim Shaheed Wror, head of the Invitation and Guidance Directorate, a department that seeks to guide people along proper Islamic lines, said that wearing neckties is against the Sharia law. “Sometimes, when I go to hospitals and other areas, an Afghan Muslim engineer or doctor uses a necktie,” Mohammad Hashim Shaheed Wror said in speech broadcast by Tolo TV. He said that the symbolism of the tie “is obvious in Islam”. “What is a tie? It is the cross. It is ordered in Sharia that you should break it and eliminate it,” he was quoted as saying. Video: Mohammad Hashim Shaheed Wror, General Director of the Invitation and Guidance Directorate (an independent body that determines religious policies within the interim govt), said that the necktie originated from the Christian cross and that it is “ordered in Shariah that you… pic.twitter.com/UMHesWX6TM — TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) July 26, 2023 × Crackdown on westernised clothing Ever since the Taliban came to power in August 2021, westernised clothing has been completely shunned by locals over fears of Taliban reprisal. However, some professionals can still be seen donning a collar and tie. Though the militant organisation hasn’t imposed any dress rules for men, they have been cracking down those who are seen wearing dresses that deviate from traditional Afghan clothing. Days after taking control of the country, there were media reports that Taliban fighters were reportedly flogging Afghan civilians in the streets for wearing 'westernised' clothing such as jeans. Several young Afghans shared their ordeal on social media saying that they were beaten and whipped by members of the Taliban for wearing jeans after being accused of disrespecting Islam. For women, Taliban have ordered them to cover up with a hijab when out in public. The dress rule, which covers all female students, teachers, and staff, states that they must wear an Islamic abaya robe and niqab that covers the hair, body, and most of the face. The garments must be black and women must also wear gloves to ensure their hands are covered. Also read | Gyanvapi survey: Allahabad HC stays ASI survey of mosque premises till Aug 3 Women who did not faithfully observe the Taliban's strict interpretation of sharia law were publicly flogged or executed. Sharia is a system of religious law drawn from the Quran and the hadiths -- the words or actions of the Prophet Mohammed. Also read | Aung San Suu Kyi moved to house arrest amidst ongoing Myanmar crisis Under the Taliban's previous rule in the late 90s, men had to wear traditional robes while girls were forced to wear a burqa from the age of eight. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taliban’s latest jihad on western dress, say neckties ‘resemble’ Christian cross

<p>Nearly two years after the Pakistani deep state welcomed the Taliban's comeback to power in Afghanistan, the United Nations Security Council in its latest report said that the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan has "emboldened" Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan [TTP], resulting in an increase in cross-border attacks in Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It noted that there was evidence that several global terrorist entities are using the TTP as cover to evade restrictions of the Afghan Taliban, adding that greater restrictions over such groups could push them to join the Islamic State of Khorasan (ISKP).</p>

<p>The report claimed that in June 2023, some TTP operatives were relocated away from the Pak-Afghan border at a request from Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the TTP could become a regional threat if it continues enjoying the patronage of the Taliban, it says, adding that "one" member state noted that TTP was being aided by Al Qaeda Indian Subcontinent (AQIS).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How Pakistan's support to Taliban is haunting it now?</strong></h2>

<p>The ties between Afghan Taliban and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan have been forged in decades of war both inside Afghanistan and across the border in Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The leader of the TTP has sworn allegiance to the Taliban's so-called emir and says his group is part of the Taliban's Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-and-pakistani-taliban-collaborated-on-recent-attacks-targeting-pak-law-enforcement-583046">Afghanistan, Pakistani Taliban 'collaborated' on attacks targeting Pak law enforcement</a></strong></p>

<p>In recent years, the TTP is known to have garnered support from factions of Afghanistan's current Taliban rulers to aim its agenda of expanding Afghanistan's borders beyond the Durand Line, the internationally recognised Pakistan-Afghanistan border which Kabul deems invalid because it was created by British imperialists.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ayman al-Zawahiri successor still in Iran: UN report</strong></h2>

<p>The report while quoting assessments of "some member states" claims that Saif al-Adl, most likely to succeed Ayman al-Zawahiri, is still in Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further adds that the numerical strength of al-Qaeda Central in Afghanistan is between 30 to 60 members, while its fighters are estimated to be 400, reaching 2,000 with family members included. Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent has approximately 200 fighters.</p>

<p>The report further noted that Islamic State Khorasan (ISKP) continues to pose the most serious threat in Afghanistan and the wider region and beyond to Europe highlighting the group's recent high-profile attacks in Afghanistan against senior Taliban leaders.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pak accuses Afghan Taliban of harbouring TTP militants</strong></p>

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<p>It adds that Mawlawi Rajab, previously identified as ISKP leader, Shahab al-Muhajir's deputy, has been appointed as Head of external operations of ISKP.</p>

<p>The report termed the claim of one State member that Sanaullah Ghafari (Shahab al-Muhajir) was killed in June, as "not confirmed".</p>

<p>The report assessed that ISKP might pursue high-impact operations against Western countries and their interests abroad in the medium term, as evidenced by a recently disrupted attack in Strasbourg, France.</p>

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Nearly two years after the Pakistani deep state welcomed the Taliban's comeback to power in Afghanistan, the United Nations Security Council in its latest report said that the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan has "emboldened" Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan [TTP], resulting in an increase in cross-border attacks in Pakistan.

Nearly two years after the Pakistani deep state welcomed the Taliban's comeback to power in Afghanistan, the United Nations Security Council in its latest report said that the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan has "emboldened" Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan [TTP], resulting in an increase in cross-border attacks in Pakistan. It noted that there was evidence that several global terrorist entities are using the TTP as cover to evade restrictions of the Afghan Taliban, adding that greater restrictions over such groups could push them to join the Islamic State of Khorasan (ISKP). The report claimed that in June 2023, some TTP operatives were relocated away from the Pak-Afghan border at a request from Pakistan. However, the TTP could become a regional threat if it continues enjoying the patronage of the Taliban, it says, adding that "one" member state noted that TTP was being aided by Al Qaeda Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). How Pakistan's support to Taliban is haunting it now? The ties between Afghan Taliban and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan have been forged in decades of war both inside Afghanistan and across the border in Pakistan. The leader of the TTP has sworn allegiance to the Taliban's so-called emir and says his group is part of the Taliban's Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. Also read | Afghanistan, Pakistani Taliban 'collaborated' on attacks targeting Pak law enforcement In recent years, the TTP is known to have garnered support from factions of Afghanistan's current Taliban rulers to aim its agenda of expanding Afghanistan's borders beyond the Durand Line, the internationally recognised Pakistan-Afghanistan border which Kabul deems invalid because it was created by British imperialists. Ayman al-Zawahiri successor still in Iran: UN report The report while quoting assessments of "some member states" claims that Saif al-Adl, most likely to succeed Ayman al-Zawahiri, is still in Iran. It further adds that the numerical strength of al-Qaeda Central in Afghanistan is between 30 to 60 members, while its fighters are estimated to be 400, reaching 2,000 with family members included. Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent has approximately 200 fighters. The report further noted that Islamic State Khorasan (ISKP) continues to pose the most serious threat in Afghanistan and the wider region and beyond to Europe highlighting the group's recent high-profile attacks in Afghanistan against senior Taliban leaders. Also watch | Pak accuses Afghan Taliban of harbouring TTP militants × It adds that Mawlawi Rajab, previously identified as ISKP leader, Shahab al-Muhajir's deputy, has been appointed as Head of external operations of ISKP. The report termed the claim of one State member that Sanaullah Ghafari (Shahab al-Muhajir) was killed in June, as "not confirmed". The report assessed that ISKP might pursue high-impact operations against Western countries and their interests abroad in the medium term, as evidenced by a recently disrupted attack in Strasbourg, France. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan's support to Taliban regime emboldens terror inside its borders: UN report

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- One of the last few revenue streams available for Afghan women and the cherished space for socializing Beauty Parlours are now permanently closed following an order by the Taliban.

Taliban beauty salon ban comes into force, Afghan women lose another safe space

The Taliban government in Afghanistan which is known to be one of the most conservative voices in the country has come out with the new promise.

Taliban 2.0 fails girls, false promises show

<p>Across Afghanistan, thousands of beauty parlours closed down on Tuesday (July 25). One of the last few revenue streams available to Afghan women and a cherished space for socialising, beauty parlours in the South Asian nation are now permanently closed following an order by Afghanistan rulers Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This ban is the latest in a series of Taliban orders curtailing the already limited freedoms women had in Afghanistan, following the 2021 chaotic withdrawal of United States troops.</p>

<h2><strong>Women, employment and an economy in crisis&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, as per AFP, many salons in Kabul had already closed, while others attempted to stay open till the last possible minute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking to the new agency, one proprietor said that she had been forced to sign a declaration saying that she was shutting down her salon willingly, and would hand in her licence to operate.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-orders-closure-of-hair-and-beauty-salons-in-afghanistan-further-restricting-womens-rights-611826">Taliban order closure of hair and beauty salons in Afghanistan, further restricting women's rights</a></strong></p>

<p>"The scene was terrible — they came with military vehicles and guns," she said on the condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>"What can a woman do in the face of so much insistence and pressure?"</p>

<p>Reuters reports that as per industry estimates, the ban will lead to the closure of some 12,000 beauty businesses and around 60,000 women losing their jobs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN Secretary General's special representative in Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva told Reuters that the ban "will disproportionately impact female entrepreneurs, which is a setback for resilience, poverty reduction, and economic recovery."</p>

<p>As per the International Labor Organization (ILO),&nbsp;the ban will create a "significant" decrease in women's employment.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why beauty salons are important to Afghan women</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from the above-mentioned financial aspects, beauty salons in deeply patriarchal Afghanistan provided the women with a female-only space where they could meet outside their homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They served as a safe space where women could gather without a male chaperone, socialise and even prepare for celebrations like weddings.</p>

<h2><strong>The ban order</strong></h2>

<p>Taliban announced the ban on beauty salons last month. In June, the Taliban's Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced the forced closures, giving women a grace period to comply with the order.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-afghan-women-react-to-veiled-attempts-to-legitimise-talibans-rule-618494">Exclusive: Afghan women react to veiled attempts to legitimise Taliban's rule</a></strong></p>

<p>AFP reports that the ministry claimed that extravagant sums spent on beauty treatments like makeovers cause hardship for poor families. Labelling some treatments 'un-Islamic', it further said that too much make-up prevents women from proper ablutions for prayer.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Across Afghanistan, thousands of beauty parlours closed down on Tuesday (July 25). One of the last few revenue streams available to Afghan women and a cherished space for socialising, beauty parlours in the South Asian nation are now permanently closed following an order by Afghanistan rulers Taliban.

Across Afghanistan, thousands of beauty parlours closed down on Tuesday (July 25). One of the last few revenue streams available to Afghan women and a cherished space for socialising, beauty parlours in the South Asian nation are now permanently closed following an order by Afghanistan rulers Taliban. This ban is the latest in a series of Taliban orders curtailing the already limited freedoms women had in Afghanistan, following the 2021 chaotic withdrawal of United States troops. Women, employment and an economy in crisis On Tuesday, as per AFP, many salons in Kabul had already closed, while others attempted to stay open till the last possible minute. Talking to the new agency, one proprietor said that she had been forced to sign a declaration saying that she was shutting down her salon willingly, and would hand in her licence to operate. Also read | Taliban order closure of hair and beauty salons in Afghanistan, further restricting women's rights "The scene was terrible — they came with military vehicles and guns," she said on the condition of anonymity. "What can a woman do in the face of so much insistence and pressure?" Reuters reports that as per industry estimates, the ban will lead to the closure of some 12,000 beauty businesses and around 60,000 women losing their jobs. The UN Secretary General's special representative in Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva told Reuters that the ban "will disproportionately impact female entrepreneurs, which is a setback for resilience, poverty reduction, and economic recovery." As per the International Labor Organization (ILO), the ban will create a "significant" decrease in women's employment. Why beauty salons are important to Afghan women Apart from the above-mentioned financial aspects, beauty salons in deeply patriarchal Afghanistan provided the women with a female-only space where they could meet outside their homes. They served as a safe space where women could gather without a male chaperone, socialise and even prepare for celebrations like weddings. The ban order Taliban announced the ban on beauty salons last month. In June, the Taliban's Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced the forced closures, giving women a grace period to comply with the order. Also read | Exclusive: Afghan women react to veiled attempts to legitimise Taliban's rule AFP reports that the ministry claimed that extravagant sums spent on beauty treatments like makeovers cause hardship for poor families. Labelling some treatments 'un-Islamic', it further said that too much make-up prevents women from proper ablutions for prayer. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghan women lose another safe space as Taliban's beauty salon ban comes into force

Pakistan's military chief threatened the Taliban in Afghanistan with an "effective response" if it does not stop harbouring TTP militants who plot terror attacks in Pakistan. The statement came two days after 12 of its soldiers died in two attacks in Balochistan Province. Several militant groups including the Pakistani Taliban are active in Pakistan's Balochistan province, which borders Afghanistan. What will Afghanistan do next?

Pak accuses Afghan Taliban of harbouring TTP militants

-From friends to foes? Pakistan blames Afghanistan for the rise in terrorism it has seen. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harbouring the TTP -Will Rohingya Refugees living in Bangladesh ever be repatriated? -Afghan women take to streets to protest Taliban's ban on beauty salons -And meet a 21-year-old Pakistani mountaineer, Shehroze Kashif, who's out to beat huge odds. As he aims to scale all 14 peaks above 8000 metres. A WION exclusive. All this and much more on Inside South Asia with Dasuni Athauda

Pakistan blames Afghanistan for terrorism | Afghan women protest

The Afghanistan women are protesting against the Taliban for banning women’s beauty salons in Afghanistan as the regime continues to snatch away basic rights of Afghan women. Watch to know more.

Afghanistan women protest beauty parlour ban

Pakistan's military chief warned the Afghan Taliban on Friday of an "effective response" by his forces if they fail to stop harbouring militants who plot cross-border attacks from Afghanistan.

Pakistan senior official lands in Kabul, to raise concern over TTP

Pakistan officials blame Afghan, Taliban of harbouring TTP militants

Just a day after Pakistan Army raised concerns over the safe Heavens which it says banned Tehrik e Taliban, Pakistan is getting in Afghanistan. Taliban has now reacted saying it wants peaceful relations with all its neighbours including Pakistan. This comes after Pakistan's defence minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif asserted that the Afghan Taliban was not abiding by the Doha agreement.

Pakistan army raised concerns over terrorism from Afghanistan

Stop harbouring militants: Pak to Afghan Taliban amid uptick in attacks

Taliban's Haqqani network has backed Elon Musk & Twitter, lauding the platform for promoting 'freedom of speech'. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Taliban's Haqqani Network backs Twitter for promoting 'freedom of speech'

A new social media platform is taking the world by a storm. The latest app launched by meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg called threads has been pitched as a friendly rival to Twitter. The app has already garnered over 30 million users but the question being how significant is this new platform and what impact will it have on Twitter.

Twitter vs Threads: Taliban chooses side in Twitter-Meta battle

<p>In an unexpected development, a Taliban leader, Anas Haqqani, has expressed support for Elon Musk and praised Twitter for its commitment to freedom of speech. This comes at a time when Musk is engaged in a rivalry with Mark Zuckerberg, who recently launched the Twitter-rival Threads.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the Taliban leader say?</strong></h2>

<p>He commended Twitter for its freedom of speech and the public nature and credibility it offers. Comparing it to Meta's policies, he said that the Facebook owner restricts the Taliban leaders from freely sharing their views, and claimed that Twitter allows the group to communicate their message more openly and also reach a wider audience.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/within-24-hours-of-launch-right-wing-billionaire-satanists-joined-threads-report-613941">Within 24 hours of launch, hate speech &amp; misinformation spread across Zuckerberg's 'Threads':&nbsp;Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Taking to Twitter, Haqqani posted: "Twitter has two important advantages over other social media platforms. The first privilege is the freedom of speech. The second privilege is the public nature &amp; credibility of Twitter. Twitter doesn't have an intolerant policy like Meta. Other platforms cannot replace it."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Twitter has two important advantages over other social media platforms.<br />
The first privilege is the freedom of speech. The second privilege is the public nature &amp; credibility of Twitter. Twitter doesn't have an intolerant policy like Meta. Other platforms cannot replace it. <a href="https://t.co/oYQTI3hgfI">pic.twitter.com/oYQTI3hgfI</a></p>
— Anas Haqqani(انس حقاني) (@AnasHaqqani313) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasHaqqani313/status/1678395006279876609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Taliban, Meta and Twitter</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban maintains an active Twitter account under the username 'Islamic Emirate Afg'. It has about 35,000 followers, and enables the Afghanistan rulers to express themselves despite their many controversial and internationally condemned policies.</p>

<p>In contrast Meta, which owns Facebook, has effectively blocked the Taliban, deeming it to be a "Tier 1 designated terrorist organisation." The social media giant's stance on the Taliban is also evident in its search results.</p>

<p>When searching for the term "Taliban" on Facebook, users are greeted with a message warning about associating with dangerous individuals and organisations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-elon-musk-zuck-is-a-cuck-amid-intense-twitter-vs-threads-rivalry-613777">For Elon Musk, 'Zuck is a cuck', amid intense Twitter vs Threads rivalry</a></strong></p>

<p>"Are you sure you want to continue? The term you searched for is sometimes associated with activities of Dangerous Individuals and Organizations, which is not allowed on Facebook," reads the warning message.</p>

<p>As per India Today, Facebook has also implemented measures to limit or prevent Taliban-related content on its platform, aligning with its policies against such content.</p>

<h2><strong>What the people think about Twitter and Threads</strong></h2>

<p>Even as the Taliban leader endorses Twitter over Threads, the platform which is Zuckerberg's rival to Twitter, has seen significant success since its launch.</p>

<p>With over 100 million users within a short span of time, Threads has capitalised on its integration with Instagram.</p>

<p>Since Elon Musk took over Twitter, users are less than pleased. Under Musk's leadership, Twitter workforce has been reduced by 80 per cent and the implementation of changes favouring paid subscribers have sparked criticism.</p>

<p>This approach has raised concerns among users who feel that these changes have negatively impacted their experience on the platform.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In an unexpected development, a Taliban leader, Anas Haqqani, has expressed support for Elon Musk and praised Twitter for its commitment to freedom of speech. This comes at a time when Musk is engaged in a rivalry with Mark Zuckerberg, who recently launched the Twitter-rival Threads.

In an unexpected development, a Taliban leader, Anas Haqqani, has expressed support for Elon Musk and praised Twitter for its commitment to freedom of speech. This comes at a time when Musk is engaged in a rivalry with Mark Zuckerberg, who recently launched the Twitter-rival Threads. What did the Taliban leader say? He commended Twitter for its freedom of speech and the public nature and credibility it offers. Comparing it to Meta's policies, he said that the Facebook owner restricts the Taliban leaders from freely sharing their views, and claimed that Twitter allows the group to communicate their message more openly and also reach a wider audience. Also read | Within 24 hours of launch, hate speech & misinformation spread across Zuckerberg's 'Threads': Report Taking to Twitter, Haqqani posted: "Twitter has two important advantages over other social media platforms. The first privilege is the freedom of speech. The second privilege is the public nature & credibility of Twitter. Twitter doesn't have an intolerant policy like Meta. Other platforms cannot replace it." Twitter has two important advantages over other social media platforms. The first privilege is the freedom of speech. The second privilege is the public nature & credibility of Twitter. Twitter doesn't have an intolerant policy like Meta. Other platforms cannot replace it. pic.twitter.com/oYQTI3hgfI — Anas Haqqani(انس حقاني) (@AnasHaqqani313) July 10, 2023 × Taliban, Meta and Twitter The Taliban maintains an active Twitter account under the username 'Islamic Emirate Afg'. It has about 35,000 followers, and enables the Afghanistan rulers to express themselves despite their many controversial and internationally condemned policies. In contrast Meta, which owns Facebook, has effectively blocked the Taliban, deeming it to be a "Tier 1 designated terrorist organisation." The social media giant's stance on the Taliban is also evident in its search results. When searching for the term "Taliban" on Facebook, users are greeted with a message warning about associating with dangerous individuals and organisations. Also read | For Elon Musk, 'Zuck is a cuck', amid intense Twitter vs Threads rivalry "Are you sure you want to continue? The term you searched for is sometimes associated with activities of Dangerous Individuals and Organizations, which is not allowed on Facebook," reads the warning message. As per India Today, Facebook has also implemented measures to limit or prevent Taliban-related content on its platform, aligning with its policies against such content. What the people think about Twitter and Threads Even as the Taliban leader endorses Twitter over Threads, the platform which is Zuckerberg's rival to Twitter, has seen significant success since its launch. With over 100 million users within a short span of time, Threads has capitalised on its integration with Instagram. Since Elon Musk took over Twitter, users are less than pleased. Under Musk's leadership, Twitter workforce has been reduced by 80 per cent and the implementation of changes favouring paid subscribers have sparked criticism. This approach has raised concerns among users who feel that these changes have negatively impacted their experience on the platform. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Amid Threads rollout, Taliban leader says favours Twitter over Meta for 'freedom of speech'

New Satellite images claim to reveal that opium production has fallen drastically across Afghanistan. The Taliban say they have completely eliminated it. What's the truth?

Gravitas: Have the Taliban eliminated poppy cultivation?

<p>Afghanistan is notoriously famous for its opium poppy cultivation and harvest. Last year, a United Nations report stated that the 2022 opium crop in the nation was the most profitable in years with cultivation up by nearly a third.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The data was also significant as it was the first since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021. The hardline Islamist regime banned all cultivation of opium poppy and all narcotics under strict new laws in April 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But when the ban was announced, the world didn't take it seriously as there were concerns about the nation's dire economic state and the urgent need for financial resources, with the opium trade being a moneymaking source.</p>

<p>The recent trend shows how the Taliban adopted a relatively gradual approach to tackle the drug problem in the country, unlike how they implement sudden and harsh rules when it comes to women and their rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-halts-swedish-activities-in-afghanistan-over-heinous-act-of-quran-burning-614341">Taliban halt Swedish activities in Afghanistan over ‘heinous’ act of Quran burning</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The results show that the Taliban have been successful at least in this area as there's a significant drop in opium production in Afghanistan. It is a massive feat as the country supplies around 80 per cent of the world's opium. Let's get deeper into this trend to understand the current situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Satellite imagery and recent reports show an almost 80 per cent fall in the opium crop in the south and southwestern provinces of Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was also acknowledged by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in their latest World Drug Report, which highlighted the noteworthy development, but also warned against the attendant risks that this poses for drug smuggling and the increased use of synthetic drugs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On one side, it is a moment to commend the authorities to be able to curb the production of this illicit drug, but it is also essential to understand the implications of these developments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world must focus its attention on how the opium ban will affect Afghanistan and should decode both sides - the economy's and people's livelihoods and the Taliban's control of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-journalist-fired-for-asking-questions-to-pm-shehabz-sharif-about-freedom-of-expression-report-614376">Pak journalist fired for asking questions to PM Shehbaz Sharif about freedom of expression: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What is opium?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>For the unversed, opium is the essential ingredient for manufacturing the street drug heroin, and the class of medical prescription opioids which millions rely on for pain medication worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In countries such as the United States, opioids have also been increasingly abused, leading to widespread addiction issues. The trade of poppy tar, which is a psychoactive substance in heroin, is very lucrative worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Reduction of opium production in Afghanistan</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A report was published by Alcis, a British geographic data firm, in which it was mentioned that there has been a 99 per cent reduction in poppy farming in the southern province of Helmand, considered to be the heart of the opium industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>David Mansfield, who is an expert on Afghanistan's illicit economy and researcher on the Alcis report, predicted that at least 80 per cent of poppy production will be eradicated this year in the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why is it challenging?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The ban on opium cultivation will impact the farmers if this crisis hits the nation. Now, the Taliban will have to find an alternate source of revenue for the 450,000 people who would have been employed by the opium industry, as well as the $1.3 billion in predicted lost farm income.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban can be commended for&nbsp;its solid approach in&nbsp;tackling the drug issue in the country as it aspires to get global recognition but has it led to massive concerns for farmers?&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Taliban's history with opium production</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Analysts have said that the Taliban were mainly successful in eradicating poppy agriculture at the end of their first administration from 1996 to 2001. But when they were deposed by the US-led invasion in 2001, they began funding their resistance with a crop levy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2016, opium production generated over half of the Taliban fighters' earnings, a report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN said that by 2020, which was the last full year of the Western-backed government's authority, around 85 per cent of the world's opium was flowing out of Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, the opiate economy was expected to account for between 9 and 14 per cent of Afghanistan's GDP the following year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The southern districts of Kandahar and Helmand have long been the core of production. Last year, a grace period was agreed upon as the ban was announced when the harvest was underway. But after that, the laws have been implemented strictly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deputy counter-narcotics minister Abdul Haq Akhund Hamkar told news agency AFP that nearly three thousand hectares of poppy had been destroyed since the start of the season. The report was published this year in May. That figure is a fraction of the 233,000 hectares the UNODC estimated were harvested in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the news agency, Haji Qazi, who is Helmand's counter-narcotics chief, said that the ban "has been implemented to a great extent [without force]", because far less poppy was sown this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When the decree of the supreme leader was announced, most of the people accepted it," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Afghanistan is notoriously famous for its opium poppy cultivation and harvest. Last year, a United Nations report stated that the 2022 opium crop in the nation was the most profitable in years with cultivation up by nearly a third.

Afghanistan is notoriously famous for its opium poppy cultivation and harvest. Last year, a United Nations report stated that the 2022 opium crop in the nation was the most profitable in years with cultivation up by nearly a third. The data was also significant as it was the first since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021. The hardline Islamist regime banned all cultivation of opium poppy and all narcotics under strict new laws in April 2022. But when the ban was announced, the world didn't take it seriously as there were concerns about the nation's dire economic state and the urgent need for financial resources, with the opium trade being a moneymaking source. The recent trend shows how the Taliban adopted a relatively gradual approach to tackle the drug problem in the country, unlike how they implement sudden and harsh rules when it comes to women and their rights. Also read: Taliban halt Swedish activities in Afghanistan over ‘heinous’ act of Quran burning The results show that the Taliban have been successful at least in this area as there's a significant drop in opium production in Afghanistan. It is a massive feat as the country supplies around 80 per cent of the world's opium. Let's get deeper into this trend to understand the current situation. Satellite imagery and recent reports show an almost 80 per cent fall in the opium crop in the south and southwestern provinces of Afghanistan. It was also acknowledged by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in their latest World Drug Report, which highlighted the noteworthy development, but also warned against the attendant risks that this poses for drug smuggling and the increased use of synthetic drugs. On one side, it is a moment to commend the authorities to be able to curb the production of this illicit drug, but it is also essential to understand the implications of these developments. The world must focus its attention on how the opium ban will affect Afghanistan and should decode both sides - the economy's and people's livelihoods and the Taliban's control of the country. Also read: Pak journalist fired for asking questions to PM Shehbaz Sharif about freedom of expression: Report What is opium? For the unversed, opium is the essential ingredient for manufacturing the street drug heroin, and the class of medical prescription opioids which millions rely on for pain medication worldwide. In countries such as the United States, opioids have also been increasingly abused, leading to widespread addiction issues. The trade of poppy tar, which is a psychoactive substance in heroin, is very lucrative worldwide. Reduction of opium production in Afghanistan A report was published by Alcis, a British geographic data firm, in which it was mentioned that there has been a 99 per cent reduction in poppy farming in the southern province of Helmand, considered to be the heart of the opium industry. David Mansfield, who is an expert on Afghanistan's illicit economy and researcher on the Alcis report, predicted that at least 80 per cent of poppy production will be eradicated this year in the nation. Why is it challenging? The ban on opium cultivation will impact the farmers if this crisis hits the nation. Now, the Taliban will have to find an alternate source of revenue for the 450,000 people who would have been employed by the opium industry, as well as the $1.3 billion in predicted lost farm income. The Taliban can be commended for its solid approach in tackling the drug issue in the country as it aspires to get global recognition but has it led to massive concerns for farmers? Taliban's history with opium production Analysts have said that the Taliban were mainly successful in eradicating poppy agriculture at the end of their first administration from 1996 to 2001. But when they were deposed by the US-led invasion in 2001, they began funding their resistance with a crop levy. In 2016, opium production generated over half of the Taliban fighters' earnings, a report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said. The UN said that by 2020, which was the last full year of the Western-backed government's authority, around 85 per cent of the world's opium was flowing out of Afghanistan. Moreover, the opiate economy was expected to account for between 9 and 14 per cent of Afghanistan's GDP the following year. Watch this report: × The southern districts of Kandahar and Helmand have long been the core of production. Last year, a grace period was agreed upon as the ban was announced when the harvest was underway. But after that, the laws have been implemented strictly. Deputy counter-narcotics minister Abdul Haq Akhund Hamkar told news agency AFP that nearly three thousand hectares of poppy had been destroyed since the start of the season. The report was published this year in May. That figure is a fraction of the 233,000 hectares the UNODC estimated were harvested in 2022. As quoted by the news agency, Haji Qazi, who is Helmand's counter-narcotics chief, said that the ban "has been implemented to a great extent [without force]", because far less poppy was sown this season. "When the decree of the supreme leader was announced, most of the people accepted it," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: The Taliban's way of halting opium cultivation, trade. What lies ahead?

<p>Afghanistan's rulers Taliban on Tuesday said that all activities by Sweden in the nation must halt. The move comes a month after the burning of Quran outside a mosque in Sweden's capital Stockholm last month.</p>

<p>In a statement, Zabiullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the Taliban administration, said that the decision was taken due to the insult of the holy book and Muslim beliefs.</p>

<p>"After the insulting of the holy Quran and granting of permission for insulting of Muslim beliefs ...The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is ordering the stopping of all activities of Sweden in Afghanistan."</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedens-nato-bid-in-jeopardy-after-allowing-quran-burning-as-ankara-seethes-609948https://www.wionews.com/world/swedens-nato-bid-in-jeopardy-after-allowing-quran-burning-as-ankara-seethes-609948">Sweden’s NATO bid in jeopardy after allowing Quran burning as Ankara seethes</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the statement, the order will remain effective "until they (Sweden) apologise to the Muslims for this heinous act."</p>

<h2><strong>How will the decision impact Sweden?</strong></h2>

<p>As per a Reuters report, the order will likely affect the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan, a Swedish non-governmental organisation. The organisation has thousands of aid workers working throughout Afghanistan in different areas like health, education and rural development.</p>

<p>However, at this point this is just conjecture as the Taliban administration is yet to provide details on which organisations will be affected by the halt of Sweden activities in Afghanistan.</p>

<h2><strong>The halt's impact on Afghanistan</strong></h2>

<p>The nation which has been undergoing turbulence ever since the Taliban took over in 2021 will likely face duress due to the order.</p>

<p>Afghanistan’s aid sector has already been severely affected, hampered by a series of restrictions by the Taliban. These include restrictions on female aid workers, and their working with the United Nations.</p>

<h2><strong>Sweden and Afghanistan</strong></h2>

<p>Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan almost two years back in 2021, Sweden doesn't have an embassy in the South Asian nation.</p>

<h2><strong>The Quran burning incident</strong></h2>

<p>Last month, a 37-year-old Iraqi living in Sweden who was identified as Salwan Momika stomped on the Muslim holy book Quran and set several pages alight outside a Stockholm mosque.</p>

<p>The Quran burning coincided with the start of the holy Eid al-Adha holiday and also the end of the annual hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, and triggered widespread anger globally, especially in Muslim dominated nations like Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-police-allow-quran-burning-protest-outside-stockholms-main-mosque-609615">Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque</a></strong></p>

<p>As per reports, in line with free speech protections, Momika was granted permission by the Swedish police following a court order. However, later, noting that the man had burnt pages from the Islamic holy book very close to the mosque, Swedish authorities said they had opened an investigation over "agitation against an ethnic group".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Afghanistan's rulers Taliban on Tuesday said that all activities by Sweden in the nation must halt. The move comes a month after the burning of Quran outside a mosque in Sweden's capital Stockholm last month.

Afghanistan's rulers Taliban on Tuesday said that all activities by Sweden in the nation must halt. The move comes a month after the burning of Quran outside a mosque in Sweden's capital Stockholm last month. In a statement, Zabiullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the Taliban administration, said that the decision was taken due to the insult of the holy book and Muslim beliefs. "After the insulting of the holy Quran and granting of permission for insulting of Muslim beliefs ...The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is ordering the stopping of all activities of Sweden in Afghanistan." Also read | Sweden’s NATO bid in jeopardy after allowing Quran burning as Ankara seethes According to the statement, the order will remain effective "until they (Sweden) apologise to the Muslims for this heinous act." How will the decision impact Sweden? As per a Reuters report, the order will likely affect the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan, a Swedish non-governmental organisation. The organisation has thousands of aid workers working throughout Afghanistan in different areas like health, education and rural development. However, at this point this is just conjecture as the Taliban administration is yet to provide details on which organisations will be affected by the halt of Sweden activities in Afghanistan. The halt's impact on Afghanistan The nation which has been undergoing turbulence ever since the Taliban took over in 2021 will likely face duress due to the order. Afghanistan’s aid sector has already been severely affected, hampered by a series of restrictions by the Taliban. These include restrictions on female aid workers, and their working with the United Nations. Sweden and Afghanistan Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan almost two years back in 2021, Sweden doesn't have an embassy in the South Asian nation. The Quran burning incident Last month, a 37-year-old Iraqi living in Sweden who was identified as Salwan Momika stomped on the Muslim holy book Quran and set several pages alight outside a Stockholm mosque. The Quran burning coincided with the start of the holy Eid al-Adha holiday and also the end of the annual hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, and triggered widespread anger globally, especially in Muslim dominated nations like Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Also read | Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque As per reports, in line with free speech protections, Momika was granted permission by the Swedish police following a court order. However, later, noting that the man had burnt pages from the Islamic holy book very close to the mosque, Swedish authorities said they had opened an investigation over "agitation against an ethnic group". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban halt Swedish activities in Afghanistan over ‘heinous’ act of Quran burning

Taliban has successfully managed to halt the age-old opium trade in its valleys hoping to fill the void by venturing into tourism. According to reports, after 20 years of successive Western-backed governments failing to eradicate opium agriculture, it appears that the interim government led by the Taliban may have succeeded in achieving what their predecessors could not.

Taliban-ruled Afghanistan looks to replace opium dependence

<p>A 31-year-old man of Afghanistan origin, who worked as an interpreter with the US army before the Taliban takeover, was shot dead in Virginia shortly after he finished up a late night Lyft shift. &nbsp;The man, named Nasrat Ahmad Yar, was found by police in an unconscious condition, wounded by a gunshot. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was so happy he got a new car because he could take care of his family," his best friend Rahim Amini was quoted as saying by the local media. "His wife asked him to stay home but he said, 'I have to pay rent. I don't have that much money. I have to work,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Nasrat served as an interpreter alongside US army</strong></h2>

<p>Nasrat was on Taliban target since he helped the US Army while serving as an official interpreter. After the fall of the Afghanistan government in 2021, he escaped along with his family only to arrive in Pennsylvania. However, he soon left the place as he felt unsafe there, and instead relocated to Virginia.</p>

<p>Retired Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Butler confirmed that he could have been targeted by the Taliban had he stayed back there. “He was most certainly a marked man if he stayed," he said, adding that "He served this country a great deal more than I did. I did 42 months in combat but that was nowhere near what he had."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan</strong></p>

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<p>Butler closely worked with Nasrat while he served in Camp Vance of the Bagram Airfield for two of his deployments. He last saw Ahmad Yar in Pennsylvania in 2022 and helped start his immigration process before the Taliban takeover.</p>

<h2><strong>Donation page set up for the deceased Afghan</strong></h2>

<p>The local Afghan community has set up a donation page for Nasrat, who was the sole provider for his wife and four children and still sending money to his family back home in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>A GoFundMe page has also been created to help his family left behind.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sco-member-states-call-for-inclusive-government-in-afghanistan-612027"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;SCO member states call for inclusive government in Afghanistan</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, police have obtained CCTV footage of the area where Nasrat was fatally shot, which shows four kids running from the scene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You just killed him,” one of the children said as they ran.</p>

<p>“He was reaching, bro,” another replied.</p>

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A 31-year-old man of Afghanistan origin, who worked as an interpreter with the US army before the Taliban takeover, was shot dead in Virginia shortly after he finished up a late night Lyft shift.

A 31-year-old man of Afghanistan origin, who worked as an interpreter with the US army before the Taliban takeover, was shot dead in Virginia shortly after he finished up a late night Lyft shift. The man, named Nasrat Ahmad Yar, was found by police in an unconscious condition, wounded by a gunshot. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. "He was so happy he got a new car because he could take care of his family," his best friend Rahim Amini was quoted as saying by the local media. "His wife asked him to stay home but he said, 'I have to pay rent. I don't have that much money. I have to work,” he added. Nasrat served as an interpreter alongside US army Nasrat was on Taliban target since he helped the US Army while serving as an official interpreter. After the fall of the Afghanistan government in 2021, he escaped along with his family only to arrive in Pennsylvania. However, he soon left the place as he felt unsafe there, and instead relocated to Virginia. Retired Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Butler confirmed that he could have been targeted by the Taliban had he stayed back there. “He was most certainly a marked man if he stayed," he said, adding that "He served this country a great deal more than I did. I did 42 months in combat but that was nowhere near what he had." Watch: US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan × Butler closely worked with Nasrat while he served in Camp Vance of the Bagram Airfield for two of his deployments. He last saw Ahmad Yar in Pennsylvania in 2022 and helped start his immigration process before the Taliban takeover. Donation page set up for the deceased Afghan The local Afghan community has set up a donation page for Nasrat, who was the sole provider for his wife and four children and still sending money to his family back home in Afghanistan. A GoFundMe page has also been created to help his family left behind. Also read: SCO member states call for inclusive government in Afghanistan Meanwhile, police have obtained CCTV footage of the area where Nasrat was fatally shot, which shows four kids running from the scene. “You just killed him,” one of the children said as they ran. “He was reaching, bro,” another replied. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Afghanistan man who served as interpreter for US army shot dead in Virginia

The Taliban are banning women’s beauty salons in Afghanistan as the regime continues to snatch away basic rights of Afghan women. Molly Gambhir tells you more

Gravitas: Taliban ban women’s beauty salons in Afghanistan

<p>Taliban have&nbsp;given Afghan women one month to shut down beauty and hair salons. In its latest crackdown on women's access to public places, the Taliban administration's morality ministry has ordered that these women-run establishments must be shut.</p>

<h2><strong>The diktat</strong></h2>

<p>As per Bloomberg, in a text message on Tuesday, the Tabilan's Ministry of Vice and Virtue said that "all beauty salons operated by women in Kabul and other provinces should be banned immediately and follow our order."</p>

<p>The message also warned that those found violating the order would "face legal action".</p>

<p>Speaking to BBC, a spokesman from the Vice and Virtue Ministry&nbsp;said that&nbsp;starting&nbsp;July 2&nbsp;— when they were initially informed about the decision — businesses have been given a one-month deadline to comply.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-taliban-is-helping-us-to-end-al-qaeda-610829">Taliban govt in Afghanistan is helping US to 'end' Al-Qaeda: President Joe Biden</a></strong></p>

<p>The Taliban government has not provided an explanation for the ban on beauty salons or offered any alternatives for women once they are closed. This latest move further curtails women's rights and reflects the ongoing challenges faced by women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.</p>

<p>Talking to Bloomberg, Jamila Afghan, an Afghan women’s rights activist who fled Afghanistan and now lives in Turkey, said that the latest ban "will affect thousands of makeup artists and close hundreds of beauty shops nationwide."</p>

<p>"The Taliban don’t consider women as human beings but as a commodity to own and oppress," she remarked.</p>

<h2><strong>Beauty parlours and the Taliban rulers</strong></h2>

<p>The closure of beauty salons is part of a broader range of measures imposed by the Taliban during their previous rule from 1996 to 2001.</p>

<p>However, after the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, the salons reopened and operated until the Taliban regained power two years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-publicly-executes-murder-suspect-second-since-takeover-606443">Taliban publicly execute murder suspect, second since takeover</a></strong></p>

<p>Since the Afghan rulers took over the nation, shop windows were often covered, and images of women outside salons were spray-painted to conceal their faces.</p>

<h2><strong>Other bans or restrictions on women</strong></h2>

<p>BBC reported&nbsp;that since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, women's freedom&nbsp;has&nbsp;progressively diminished. They have been barred from attending schools, gyms, and parks, and were recently banned from working for the United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban has also enforced strict dress codes, mandating that women only expose their eyes and requiring them to be accompanied by a male relative when travelling more than 72 kilometres (48 miles).</p>

<p>According to Bloomberg, currently working in hospitals as nurses and doctors is the only job&nbsp;women are allowed to perform in the nation. The ever-increasing restrictions have reportedly forced women to secretly work from home as teachers and makeup artists.</p>

<h2><strong>International condemnation</strong></h2>

<p>The international community, including foreign governments and the United Nations, has repeatedly condemned the Taliban's restrictions on women. However, despite the widespread international condemnation and protests by women and activists advocating for their rights, the group has continued to impose these restrictions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Taliban have given Afghan women one month to shut down beauty and hair salons. In its latest crackdown on women's access to public places, the Taliban administration's morality ministry has ordered that these women-run establishments must be shut.

Taliban have given Afghan women one month to shut down beauty and hair salons. In its latest crackdown on women's access to public places, the Taliban administration's morality ministry has ordered that these women-run establishments must be shut. The diktat As per Bloomberg, in a text message on Tuesday, the Tabilan's Ministry of Vice and Virtue said that "all beauty salons operated by women in Kabul and other provinces should be banned immediately and follow our order." The message also warned that those found violating the order would "face legal action". Speaking to BBC, a spokesman from the Vice and Virtue Ministry said that starting July 2 — when they were initially informed about the decision — businesses have been given a one-month deadline to comply. Also read | Taliban govt in Afghanistan is helping US to 'end' Al-Qaeda: President Joe Biden The Taliban government has not provided an explanation for the ban on beauty salons or offered any alternatives for women once they are closed. This latest move further curtails women's rights and reflects the ongoing challenges faced by women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. Talking to Bloomberg, Jamila Afghan, an Afghan women’s rights activist who fled Afghanistan and now lives in Turkey, said that the latest ban "will affect thousands of makeup artists and close hundreds of beauty shops nationwide." "The Taliban don’t consider women as human beings but as a commodity to own and oppress," she remarked. Beauty parlours and the Taliban rulers The closure of beauty salons is part of a broader range of measures imposed by the Taliban during their previous rule from 1996 to 2001. However, after the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, the salons reopened and operated until the Taliban regained power two years ago. Also read | Taliban publicly execute murder suspect, second since takeover Since the Afghan rulers took over the nation, shop windows were often covered, and images of women outside salons were spray-painted to conceal their faces. Other bans or restrictions on women BBC reported that since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, women's freedom has progressively diminished. They have been barred from attending schools, gyms, and parks, and were recently banned from working for the United Nations. The Taliban has also enforced strict dress codes, mandating that women only expose their eyes and requiring them to be accompanied by a male relative when travelling more than 72 kilometres (48 miles). According to Bloomberg, currently working in hospitals as nurses and doctors is the only job women are allowed to perform in the nation. The ever-increasing restrictions have reportedly forced women to secretly work from home as teachers and makeup artists. International condemnation The international community, including foreign governments and the United Nations, has repeatedly condemned the Taliban's restrictions on women. However, despite the widespread international condemnation and protests by women and activists advocating for their rights, the group has continued to impose these restrictions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban order closure of hair and beauty salons in Afghanistan, further restricting women's rights

The Taliban Administration has ordered beauty salons in Afghanistan to shut down. This is part of Morality Ministries' move to shrink women's access to public spaces. Foreign governments and UN officials have condemned the growing restrictions on women under the Taliban's rule. A spokesperson from the Prevention of Vice and Propagation of Virtue said that the deadline for shutting down sellers is one month.

Afghanistan: Taliban to shut down beauty salons

<p>US President Joe Biden said that Washington is getting the help from Afghanistan's Taliban government to 'end' Al-Qaeda threat. Biden's seemingly off-the-cuff remark contradicts a UN report released last month that said&nbsp;Taliban maintains "strong and symbiotic" ties with Al-Qaeda, and that Osama bin Laden's terror group "is rebuilding operational capability" on Afghan soil.</p>

<p>Biden was leaving a press conference on Friday on the US Supreme Court's decision to block his student debt relief programme when a reporter asked if he admitted to mistakes during the withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.</p>

<p>"No, no. All the evidence is coming back," he replied, according to a White House transcript.</p>

<p>"Do you remember what I said about Afghanistan? I said al Qaeda would not be there. I said it wouldn't be there. I said we'd get help from the Taliban. What's happening now? What's going on? Read your press. I was right."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-taliban-have-put-afghan-clock-back-to-1990s-autocracy-un-report-603152">Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report</a></strong></p>

<p>The question was prompted by a US state department <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/both-trump-and-biden-responsible-for-talibans-takeover-of-afghanistan-us-state-department-610768">report released</a> on Friday which blamed both Trump and Biden administrations for chaos that followed during the final weeks of US withdrawal from Afghanistan and subsequent takeover of power by Taliban hardliners.</p>

<p>Meanwhile on Saturday, Afghanistan's Taliban government&nbsp;seized on Biden's comment.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/a-paranoid-president-us-abandonment-new-report-reveals-why-afghan-forces-collapsed-after-us-withdrawal-566832">A 'paranoid' president, US 'abandonment'— new report on why Afghan forces collapsed after American withdrawal</a></strong></p>

<p>"We consider remarks by US President Joe Biden about non-existence of armed groups in Afghanistan as acknowledgement of reality," the ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p>"It refutes the recent report by UN Sanctions Monitoring Team alleging the presence &amp; operation of over twenty armed groups in Afghanistan."</p>

<p>Earlier, a UN report said there were indications armed groups such as Al-Qaeda were rebuilding in the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals</strong></p>

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<p>"The link between the Taliban and both Al-Qaeda and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains strong and symbiotic," it said.</p>

<p>"A range of terrorist groups have greater freedom of manoeuvre under the Taliban de facto authorities. They are making good use of this, and the threat of terrorism is rising in both Afghanistan and the region.</p>

<p>The report highlighted that terrorist groups are now able to freely operate under the Taliban's authority in Afghanistan, and thus posing a significant threat of terrorism in the country and the wider region.</p>

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US President Joe Biden said that Washington is getting the help from Afghanistan's Taliban government to 'end' Al-Qaeda threat. Biden's seemingly off-the-cuff remark contradicts a UN report released last month that said Taliban maintains "strong and symbiotic" ties with Al-Qaeda, and that Osama bin Laden's terror group "is rebuilding operational capability" on Afghan soil.

US President Joe Biden said that Washington is getting the help from Afghanistan's Taliban government to 'end' Al-Qaeda threat. Biden's seemingly off-the-cuff remark contradicts a UN report released last month that said Taliban maintains "strong and symbiotic" ties with Al-Qaeda, and that Osama bin Laden's terror group "is rebuilding operational capability" on Afghan soil. Biden was leaving a press conference on Friday on the US Supreme Court's decision to block his student debt relief programme when a reporter asked if he admitted to mistakes during the withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. "No, no. All the evidence is coming back," he replied, according to a White House transcript. "Do you remember what I said about Afghanistan? I said al Qaeda would not be there. I said it wouldn't be there. I said we'd get help from the Taliban. What's happening now? What's going on? Read your press. I was right." Also read | Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report The question was prompted by a US state department report released on Friday which blamed both Trump and Biden administrations for chaos that followed during the final weeks of US withdrawal from Afghanistan and subsequent takeover of power by Taliban hardliners. Meanwhile on Saturday, Afghanistan's Taliban government seized on Biden's comment. Also read | A 'paranoid' president, US 'abandonment'— new report on why Afghan forces collapsed after American withdrawal "We consider remarks by US President Joe Biden about non-existence of armed groups in Afghanistan as acknowledgement of reality," the ministry said in a statement. "It refutes the recent report by UN Sanctions Monitoring Team alleging the presence & operation of over twenty armed groups in Afghanistan." Earlier, a UN report said there were indications armed groups such as Al-Qaeda were rebuilding in the country. Also watch | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals × "The link between the Taliban and both Al-Qaeda and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains strong and symbiotic," it said. "A range of terrorist groups have greater freedom of manoeuvre under the Taliban de facto authorities. They are making good use of this, and the threat of terrorism is rising in both Afghanistan and the region. The report highlighted that terrorist groups are now able to freely operate under the Taliban's authority in Afghanistan, and thus posing a significant threat of terrorism in the country and the wider region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taliban govt in Afghanistan is helping US to 'end' Al-Qaeda: President Joe Biden

<p>In a scathing indictment of the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan crisis during the final set of events that led to Taliban’s takeover of power in 2021, the US State Department confirmed Washington’s bureaucratic sluggishness as a significant reason behind the chaos that gripped West’s evacuation from Afghanistan and successive fall of democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government.</p>

<p>The 21-page report highlighted that both former President Donald Trump and President Biden failed to grasp the consequences of a US military withdrawal on the stability of the erstwhile Afghan government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report repeats the points noted by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/a-paranoid-president-us-abandonment-new-report-reveals-why-afghan-forces-collapsed-after-us-withdrawal-566832">US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR)</a> in March 2023, that&nbsp;Biden administration's withdrawal process was "abrupt and uncoordinated—in particular, the withdrawal of contractor support for the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF)."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/a-paranoid-president-us-abandonment-new-report-reveals-why-afghan-forces-collapsed-after-us-withdrawal-566832">A 'paranoid' president, US 'abandonment'— new report on why Afghan forces collapsed after American withdrawal</a></strong></p>

<p>The US reportedly had standard diplomatic rotations in Afghanistan weeks before August 2021, which resulted in diplomats who had only been in the country for a short time being responsible for the US evacuation as Kabul collapsed to the Taliban, report revealed.</p>

<h2><strong>Consequences for Biden</strong></h2>

<p>The&nbsp;report appears set to provide ammunition to Biden's critics, as it sheds light on his handling of the crisis that ultimately handed Afghanistan over to the Taliban. The repercussions included the loss of unspecified Afghan lives, as well as the deaths of at least 13 US service members.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US did not consider worst-case scenario: State Dept</strong></h2>

<p>Among its findings, the report notes that while the US military had been planning a full evacuation of Kabul for some time before it began in mid-August 2021, the State Department's involvement in the planning process was hindered by a lack of clarity regarding who had the lead role.</p>

<p>According to the report, senior US officials failed to give sufficient consideration to worst-case scenarios before the collapse of the Afghan government in August 2021.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals</strong></p>

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<p>The US withdrawal from Afghanistan culminated in a chaotic and deadly two-week evacuation from Kabul's airport in August 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tens of thousands who had assisted the American war effort since its invasion after 9/11 attacks were left behind in a process marked by chaos and violence. This included a suicide bombing by the Islamic State that killed 13 US troops and approximately 170 Afghans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The evacuation began with the swift return of thousands of US troops to Kabul after most had been previously withdrawn. In an agreement arranged hastily, Taliban forces provided security to US troops outside Kabul’s international airport, while US troops managed the airfield and attempted to determine who should be evacuated.</p>

<p>In only 30 days, the Taliban captured all 34 provinces in Afghanistan—33 of the 34 within a 10-day period starting on August 6, 2021. By August 15, 2021, the Taliban did chilling &nbsp;"victory rounds" in Kabul to mark their return to power. By this time, President Ghani fled the country and the United States completed its military withdrawal, giving away the fate of over 40 million Afghan citizens to Taliban hardliners.</p>

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In a scathing indictment of the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan crisis during the final set of events that led to Taliban’s takeover of power in 2021, the US State Department confirmed Washington’s bureaucratic sluggishness as a significant reason behind the chaos that gripped West’s evacuation from Afghanistan and successive fall of democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government.

In a scathing indictment of the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan crisis during the final set of events that led to Taliban’s takeover of power in 2021, the US State Department confirmed Washington’s bureaucratic sluggishness as a significant reason behind the chaos that gripped West’s evacuation from Afghanistan and successive fall of democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government. The 21-page report highlighted that both former President Donald Trump and President Biden failed to grasp the consequences of a US military withdrawal on the stability of the erstwhile Afghan government. The report repeats the points noted by the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) in March 2023, that Biden administration's withdrawal process was "abrupt and uncoordinated—in particular, the withdrawal of contractor support for the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF)." Also read | A 'paranoid' president, US 'abandonment'— new report on why Afghan forces collapsed after American withdrawal The US reportedly had standard diplomatic rotations in Afghanistan weeks before August 2021, which resulted in diplomats who had only been in the country for a short time being responsible for the US evacuation as Kabul collapsed to the Taliban, report revealed. Consequences for Biden The report appears set to provide ammunition to Biden's critics, as it sheds light on his handling of the crisis that ultimately handed Afghanistan over to the Taliban. The repercussions included the loss of unspecified Afghan lives, as well as the deaths of at least 13 US service members. US did not consider worst-case scenario: State Dept Among its findings, the report notes that while the US military had been planning a full evacuation of Kabul for some time before it began in mid-August 2021, the State Department's involvement in the planning process was hindered by a lack of clarity regarding who had the lead role. According to the report, senior US officials failed to give sufficient consideration to worst-case scenarios before the collapse of the Afghan government in August 2021. Also watch | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals × The US withdrawal from Afghanistan culminated in a chaotic and deadly two-week evacuation from Kabul's airport in August 2021. Tens of thousands who had assisted the American war effort since its invasion after 9/11 attacks were left behind in a process marked by chaos and violence. This included a suicide bombing by the Islamic State that killed 13 US troops and approximately 170 Afghans. The evacuation began with the swift return of thousands of US troops to Kabul after most had been previously withdrawn. In an agreement arranged hastily, Taliban forces provided security to US troops outside Kabul’s international airport, while US troops managed the airfield and attempted to determine who should be evacuated. In only 30 days, the Taliban captured all 34 provinces in Afghanistan—33 of the 34 within a 10-day period starting on August 6, 2021. By August 15, 2021, the Taliban did chilling "victory rounds" in Kabul to mark their return to power. By this time, President Ghani fled the country and the United States completed its military withdrawal, giving away the fate of over 40 million Afghan citizens to Taliban hardliners. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Both Trump and Biden responsible for Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan: US state department

Taliban authorities in Afghanistan’s Kandahar province ordered female aid workers this week to stop work on a refugee project, according to an official letter, reinforcing rules against women working despite exemptions sought by some organisations.

Taliban bans female aid workers in kandahar

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