In Taliban 2.0's Afghanistan, women who had escaped the clutches of their abusive partners through divorce are being forced to return to their ex-husbands. Before the Taliban took over in 2021, women in the country were slowly and steadily gaining some semblance of rights; one of them was to divorce their abusive husbands. 
 
However, just as their right&nbsp;to education was&nbsp;taken away, new reports indicate that Afghan women's right to legal separate from abusive partners is also being snatched away. An AFP report further adds that previously divorced women are being forced to return to their ex-husbands, into homes where they face constant physical abuse.

One case cited in the report is that of a 40-year-old Afghan woman, who, along with her eight children, has been forced into hiding after the Taliban tore up her divorce decree. She had divorced her husband during the US-backed government regime.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;After education and employment, Taliban target private life

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However, once the Taliban took over, her husband claimed he was forced into a divorce and due to this, the current government's commanders forced her to return to the abusive marriage. Since then,&nbsp;she "endured a new round of beatings"&nbsp; at the hands of her husband, was locked away in the house, with her hands broken and fingers cracked.

To escape the beatings and the abuse, the woman, along with her six daughters and two sons, fled the&nbsp;home and had to assume fictitious names.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/one-killed-five-injured-after-bomb-explodes-during-award-ceremony-in-afghanistan-570888">One killed, five injured after bomb explodes during award ceremony in Afghanistan</a>

Similar cases are being reported from all over the country. 
 
In the country, nine of 10 women as per the UN Afghanistan mission face physical, sexual or psychological violence from their partner.

Speaking to AFP, Nazifa, a lawyer who previously handled around 100 divorce cases for abused wives, says women once used to blame their fate for whatever happened to them. But as awareness grew, they realised separating from abusive husbands was an option.

Now, under the Taliban, divorces are limited to when a husband was a classified drug addict or has left the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-taliban-governor-of-balkh-province-killed-in-blast-say-police-570177">Afghanistan: Taliban governor of Balkh province killed in suicide attack; IS claims responsibility</a>

"But in cases of domestic violence or when a husband does not agree to a divorce, then the court is not granting them," she added.

Since the closing of the Ministry of Women's Affairs and the Human Rights Commission, shelters that once supported abused women have closed.

Talking to AFP, a Taliban official said authorities would look into such cases where previously divorced women were being forced to return to their ex-husbands.

"If we receive such complaints, we will investigate them according to sharia," said Inayatullah, spokesman for the Taliban supreme court.

When asked about whether the Taliban would acknowledge divorces granted under the previous government, he remarked: "This is an important and complex issue." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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In Taliban 2.0's Afghanistan, women who had escaped the clutches of their abusive partners through divorce are being forced to return to their ex-husbands. Before the Taliban took over in 2021, women in the country were slowly and steadily gaining some semblance of rights; one of them was to divorce their abusive husbands.

In Taliban 2.0's Afghanistan, women who had escaped the clutches of their abusive partners through divorce are being forced to return to their ex-husbands. Before the Taliban took over in 2021, women in the country were slowly and steadily gaining some semblance of rights; one of them was to divorce their abusive husbands. However, just as their right to education was taken away, new reports indicate that Afghan women's right to legal separate from abusive partners is also being snatched away. An AFP report further adds that previously divorced women are being forced to return to their ex-husbands, into homes where they face constant physical abuse. One case cited in the report is that of a 40-year-old Afghan woman, who, along with her eight children, has been forced into hiding after the Taliban tore up her divorce decree. She had divorced her husband during the US-backed government regime. Watch | After education and employment, Taliban target private life However, once the Taliban took over, her husband claimed he was forced into a divorce and due to this, the current government's commanders forced her to return to the abusive marriage. Since then, she "endured a new round of beatings" at the hands of her husband, was locked away in the house, with her hands broken and fingers cracked. To escape the beatings and the abuse, the woman, along with her six daughters and two sons, fled the home and had to assume fictitious names. Also read | One killed, five injured after bomb explodes during award ceremony in Afghanistan Similar cases are being reported from all over the country. In the country, nine of 10 women as per the UN Afghanistan mission face physical, sexual or psychological violence from their partner. Speaking to AFP, Nazifa, a lawyer who previously handled around 100 divorce cases for abused wives, says women once used to blame their fate for whatever happened to them. But as awareness grew, they realised separating from abusive husbands was an option. Now, under the Taliban, divorces are limited to when a husband was a classified drug addict or has left the country. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban governor of Balkh province killed in suicide attack; IS claims responsibility "But in cases of domestic violence or when a husband does not agree to a divorce, then the court is not granting them," she added. Since the closing of the Ministry of Women's Affairs and the Human Rights Commission, shelters that once supported abused women have closed. Talking to AFP, a Taliban official said authorities would look into such cases where previously divorced women were being forced to return to their ex-husbands. "If we receive such complaints, we will investigate them according to sharia," said Inayatullah, spokesman for the Taliban supreme court. When asked about whether the Taliban would acknowledge divorces granted under the previous government, he remarked: "This is an important and complex issue." (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 cancel all divorces, force women to go back into the clutches of abusive ex-husbands

A Taliban governor has been killed in a suicide attack in the Afghan province of Balkh. The governor, Mohammad Dawod Muzammil, was in his office during the blast. Who is targeting the Taliban and why? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas | Afghanistan: Extreme forces rise to take on the Taliban. Here's all you need to know

At least one person was killed and five injured after a bomb exploded during an award ceremony for journalists in Afghanistan’s Mazar-e-Sharif city on Saturday.

The explosion took place at the Tabian Farhang centre in the capital of Balkh province, where journalists had gathered for an award function at 11 am, Mohammad Asif Waziri, the Taliban-appointed spokesman for Balkh police, said, according to AP news agency.

According to TOLOnews, a number of reporters, religious clerics, and local officials participated in the conference.

It is unclear who was responsible for the blast, but it is believed that the regional affiliate of the Islamic State group — known as the Islamic State in Khorasan Province — may have been responsible for the blast.

The Afghan forces arrived in the area and transferred wounded people to hospitals. &nbsp;

The officials are yet to disclose the identity of the victims, but local reports suggested that all the injured were journalists.

A reporter for Aryana News television station, Najeeb Faryad, said he felt like something hit him in the back, followed by a deafening sound before he fell to the ground.

It came two days after a bomb in Mazar-e-Sharif killed there, including Balkh’s provincial governor Daud Muzmal, while four were wounded.

Taliban authorities said that they were already investigating the Thursday explosion and added that the governor of Afghanistan's southern province of Kandahar will temporarily run Balkh.

Supreme Spiritual Leader Haibatullah Akhundzada is expected to select a new governor for the northern province, an important trade hub with Central Asia, spokesman Haji Zaid told Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least one person was killed and five injured after a bomb exploded during an award ceremony for journalists in Afghanistan’s Mazar-e-Sharif city on Saturday. The explosion took place at the Tabian Farhang centre in the capital of Balkh province, where journalists had gathered for an award function at 11 am, Mohammad Asif Waziri, the Taliban-appointed spokesman for Balkh police, said, according to AP news agency.

At least one person was killed and five injured after a bomb exploded during an award ceremony for journalists in Afghanistan’s Mazar-e-Sharif city on Saturday. The explosion took place at the Tabian Farhang centre in the capital of Balkh province, where journalists had gathered for an award function at 11 am, Mohammad Asif Waziri, the Taliban-appointed spokesman for Balkh police, said, according to AP news agency. According to TOLOnews, a number of reporters, religious clerics, and local officials participated in the conference. It is unclear who was responsible for the blast, but it is believed that the regional affiliate of the Islamic State group — known as the Islamic State in Khorasan Province — may have been responsible for the blast. The Afghan forces arrived in the area and transferred wounded people to hospitals. The officials are yet to disclose the identity of the victims, but local reports suggested that all the injured were journalists. A reporter for Aryana News television station, Najeeb Faryad, said he felt like something hit him in the back, followed by a deafening sound before he fell to the ground. It came two days after a bomb in Mazar-e-Sharif killed there, including Balkh’s provincial governor Daud Muzmal, while four were wounded. Taliban authorities said that they were already investigating the Thursday explosion and added that the governor of Afghanistan's southern province of Kandahar will temporarily run Balkh. Supreme Spiritual Leader Haibatullah Akhundzada is expected to select a new governor for the northern province, an important trade hub with Central Asia, spokesman Haji Zaid told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

One killed, five injured after bomb explodes during award ceremony in Afghanistan

The Taliban governor of Balkh province in Afghanistan was killed in a suicide attack on Thursday (March 9). Mohammad Dawood Muzammil, the killed Talibani, was known for fighting against Islamic State jihadists.

The suicide attack took place a day after he met top government officials visiting from Afghan capital of Kabul. The attack's responsibility was claimed by the&nbsp;Islamic State group.

Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021. The violence across the country has dramatically dropped since Taliban regained power, but the security situation has again deteriorated since as IS has carried out several attacks.

"Two people, including Mohammad Dawood Muzammil, the governor of Balkh, have been killed in an explosion this morning," local police spokesman Asif Waziri told AFP, adding that the blast happened on the second floor of his office, in the provincial capital Mazar-i-Sharif.

"It was a suicide attack. We don't have information as to how the suicide bomber reached the office of the governor," he said, adding that two people were also wounded.

The explosion happened moments after the governor arrived in his office, said Khairuddin, who was wounded in the incident and in a hospital in Mazar-i-Sharif.

"There was a bang. I fell on the ground," he told AFP, adding that he witnessed a friend lose a hand in the blast. 
Authorities deployed extra security at the governorate, who forbade journalists from taking photos, an AFP correspondent reported from near the site of the blast.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Taliban governor of Balkh province in Afghanistan was killed in a suicide attack on Thursday (March 9). Mohammad Dawood Muzammil, the killed Talibani, was known for fighting against Islamic State jihadists.

The Taliban governor of Balkh province in Afghanistan was killed in a suicide attack on Thursday (March 9). Mohammad Dawood Muzammil, the killed Talibani, was known for fighting against Islamic State jihadists. The suicide attack took place a day after he met top government officials visiting from Afghan capital of Kabul. The attack's responsibility was claimed by the Islamic State group. Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021. The violence across the country has dramatically dropped since Taliban regained power, but the security situation has again deteriorated since as IS has carried out several attacks. "Two people, including Mohammad Dawood Muzammil, the governor of Balkh, have been killed in an explosion this morning," local police spokesman Asif Waziri told AFP, adding that the blast happened on the second floor of his office, in the provincial capital Mazar-i-Sharif. "It was a suicide attack. We don't have information as to how the suicide bomber reached the office of the governor," he said, adding that two people were also wounded. The explosion happened moments after the governor arrived in his office, said Khairuddin, who was wounded in the incident and in a hospital in Mazar-i-Sharif. "There was a bang. I fell on the ground," he told AFP, adding that he witnessed a friend lose a hand in the blast. Authorities deployed extra security at the governorate, who forbade journalists from taking photos, an AFP correspondent reported from near the site of the blast. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Afghanistan: Taliban governor of Balkh province dies in suicide attack

The governor of Taliban-ruled Afghanistan’s Balkh province was killed in a blast at his office on Thursday (March 9) morning. Governor Mohammad Dawood Muzammil and one other person were killed in a suicide attack. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack.

“Two people, including Mohammad Dawood Muzammil, the governor of Balkh, have been killed in an explosion this morning on the second floor of his office, in the provincial capital Mazar-i-Sharif,” police spokesman Asif Waziri told&nbsp;AFP.

“It was a suicide attack. We don’t have information as to how the suicide bomber reached the office of the governor,” he said, adding that two people were also wounded.

The incident occurred at around 9:30 am when the governor arrived at his office from home.

“When the governor was coming to his office, the man blew himself up in the office. The governor and a local man were martyred. A mujahid along with another civilian was injured,” said officials as per Dawn.&nbsp;No group claimed responsibility for the attack. 
 
Taliban government spokesperson&nbsp;Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted that Muzammil was&nbsp;martyred in an explosion by the ‘enemies of Islam’ and investigation is under way.&nbsp;

Mohammad Dawood Muzammil is one of the highest-ranking Taliban officials to be killed in such a circumstance since the group took over Afghanistan in 2021. Muzammil was initially appointed as the governor of the eastern province of Nangarhar where he led the fight against the Islamic State before he was moved to Balkh last year.&nbsp;

Muzammil's death comes a day after he met two deputy prime ministers and other senior officials visiting Balkh&nbsp;to review a major irrigation project in northern Afghanistan, a government statement said, AFP reported.&nbsp; 
 
The fatal attack on the Balkh governor also comes a day after provincial Taliban authorities claimed they had killed eight ‘rebels and kidnappers’ in Mazar-e Sharif, the Balkh provincial capital&nbsp;but&nbsp;had not specified&nbsp;the name of the ‘rebel’ group to which the individuals were allegedly affiliated to.

Violence across Afghanistan has dramatically dropped since the Taliban came to power. However, the security situation in the war-torn country has again deteriorated with the Islamic State claiming several deadly attacks.

Several attacks have rocked the Balkh province, some claimed by the Islamic State. In December last year, a roadside bomb killed seven petroleum company employees aboard a bus in&nbsp;Mazar-i-Sharif city of the province. Also in December, 19 people were killed and 24 injured&nbsp;by a blast at a madrassa in Aybak, southeast of the city.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The governor of Taliban-ruled Afghanistan’s Balkh province was killed in a blast at his office on Thursday (March 9) morning. Governor Mohammad Dawood Muzammil and one other person were killed in a suicide attack.

The governor of Taliban-ruled Afghanistan’s Balkh province was killed in a blast at his office on Thursday (March 9) morning. Governor Mohammad Dawood Muzammil and one other person were killed in a suicide attack. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack. “Two people, including Mohammad Dawood Muzammil, the governor of Balkh, have been killed in an explosion this morning on the second floor of his office, in the provincial capital Mazar-i-Sharif,” police spokesman Asif Waziri told AFP. “It was a suicide attack. We don’t have information as to how the suicide bomber reached the office of the governor,” he said, adding that two people were also wounded. The incident occurred at around 9:30 am when the governor arrived at his office from home. “When the governor was coming to his office, the man blew himself up in the office. The governor and a local man were martyred. A mujahid along with another civilian was injured,” said officials as per Dawn. No group claimed responsibility for the attack. Taliban government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted that Muzammil was martyred in an explosion by the ‘enemies of Islam’ and investigation is under way. Mohammad Dawood Muzammil is one of the highest-ranking Taliban officials to be killed in such a circumstance since the group took over Afghanistan in 2021. Muzammil was initially appointed as the governor of the eastern province of Nangarhar where he led the fight against the Islamic State before he was moved to Balkh last year. Muzammil's death comes a day after he met two deputy prime ministers and other senior officials visiting Balkh to review a major irrigation project in northern Afghanistan, a government statement said, AFP reported. The fatal attack on the Balkh governor also comes a day after provincial Taliban authorities claimed they had killed eight ‘rebels and kidnappers’ in Mazar-e Sharif, the Balkh provincial capital but had not specified the name of the ‘rebel’ group to which the individuals were allegedly affiliated to. Violence across Afghanistan has dramatically dropped since the Taliban came to power. However, the security situation in the war-torn country has again deteriorated with the Islamic State claiming several deadly attacks. Several attacks have rocked the Balkh province, some claimed by the Islamic State. In December last year, a roadside bomb killed seven petroleum company employees aboard a bus in Mazar-i-Sharif city of the province. Also in December, 19 people were killed and 24 injured by a blast at a madrassa in Aybak, southeast of the city. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghanistan: Taliban governor of Balkh province killed in suicide attack; IS claims responsibility

US Army veterans as well as active-service members on Wednesday gave a powerful and emotional testimony before Congress, dubbing the haphazard retreat of the forces by the US government a 'catastrophe'.

US Army veterans as well as active-service members on Wednesday gave a powerful and emotional testimony before Congress, dubbing the haphazard retreat of the forces by the US government a 'catastrophe'. The Republicans have initiated the hearings to examine the handling of the Afghanistan 'pull-out' by the Biden administration. Former Marine Sgt. Tyler Vargas-Andrews, one of the first to testify could be seen crying as he said the American troops were unprepared for the pull-out, especially after the Taliban took over the capital city of Kabul. Vargas-Andrews was tasked with protecting the Kabul airport when two suicide bombers set themselves off, killing over 170 Afghans and 13 US servicemen and women. "Plain and simple, we were ignored. My body was overwhelmed from the trauma of the blast. My abdomen had been ripped open. Every inch of my exposed body took ball bearings and shrapnel," said the former US Marine. "There was an inexcusable lack of accountability and negligence. I see the faces of all of those we could not save, those we left behind," he added. Read more: Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban? Marine Tyler Vargas-Andrews breaks down while testifying today on the Biden administration’s disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal. He said he and others spotted the suspected Kabul airport bomber before the bombing and asked their commander if they could engage, but were never… https://t.co/Fpuvvaz1Sm pic.twitter.com/V95VqJ33mM — Kristina Wong 🇺🇸 (@kristina_wong) March 8, 2023 × Other soldiers also spoke about the mental and physical toll the withdrawal had on them and their peers. Retired Lt Col David Scott Mann took the stand after Vargas-Andrews and informed the panel that one of his friends that served in Afghanistan could not cope with the trauma and took his own life. "He just couldn't find his way out of the darkness of that moral injury." The veteran called out America for building a reputation where it left allies in the lurch in the face of decimation and destruction. “America is building a nasty reputation for multi-generational systemic abandonment of our allies where we leave a smouldering human refuse from the Montagnards of Vietnam to the Kurds in Syria, Wednesday was the first of what is expected to be a series of hearings to expose the Biden administration by the GOP. The US intelligence failed to anticipate the timeline of the Taliban taking over Kabul which resulted in the chaotic situation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sobbing US soldiers recount the 'horrors' of catastrophic withdrawal from Afghanistan before Congress

Afghan universities reopened on Monday after a winter break, but only men returned to class with a ban by the Taliban authorities on women in higher education still in force.

Afghan colleges reopen, only men allowed!

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan continues to mistreat women, and now hundreds of them risk prosecution for adultery after the government deemed their divorces invalid, which also renders their second marriage illegitimate. The announcement, which comes after the regime deprived Afghan women of their work and educational opportunities, is yet another blow to their rights.

After education and employment, Taliban target private life

Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have freed an academic who was detained for a month&nbsp;after he protested against the regime's ban on women's education. The academic's aide confirmed his release to news agency AFP on Monday (March 6). Ismail Mashal, the academic who is a veteran journalism lecturer tore up his degree certficates on live TV in December to protest against the Taliban's treatment of women. The clip had gone viral in Afghanistan.

He was detained in February after domestic channels showed him carting books around Kabul and offering them to passersby.

Mashal was released on Sunday after more than a month in detention, aide Farid Fazli said.

"I can confirm that he was released yesterday. He is fine and in good health," Fazli told AFP.

"However, he is not in a condition to talk at the moment."

Mashal's release comes as universities across Afghanistan reopened on Monday after a winter break, but only for men as women remained barred from attending class.

After taking over Afghanistan quickly as the US-led coalition left the country, the Taliban sought to project a soft image and had even indicated that women's education would continue. However, as month passed the regime increasingly imposed social restrictions on women. This has caused global outrage but has did little to deter the Taliban.

Mashal, a lecturer for more than a decade, was in February "mercilessly beaten and taken away in a very disrespectful manner by members of the Islamic Emirate," referring to the Taliban government, according to Fazli.&nbsp;

The detention of activists like Mashal "instils fears in the community and has a chilling effect on the overall enjoyment of fundamental freedoms," the UN special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, told the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have freed an academic who was detained for a month after he protested against the regime's ban on women's education. The academic's aide confirmed his release to news agency AFP on Monday (March 6).

Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have freed an academic who was detained for a month after he protested against the regime's ban on women's education. The academic's aide confirmed his release to news agency AFP on Monday (March 6). Ismail Mashal, the academic who is a veteran journalism lecturer tore up his degree certficates on live TV in December to protest against the Taliban's treatment of women. The clip had gone viral in Afghanistan. He was detained in February after domestic channels showed him carting books around Kabul and offering them to passersby. Mashal was released on Sunday after more than a month in detention, aide Farid Fazli said. "I can confirm that he was released yesterday. He is fine and in good health," Fazli told AFP. "However, he is not in a condition to talk at the moment." Mashal's release comes as universities across Afghanistan reopened on Monday after a winter break, but only for men as women remained barred from attending class. After taking over Afghanistan quickly as the US-led coalition left the country, the Taliban sought to project a soft image and had even indicated that women's education would continue. However, as month passed the regime increasingly imposed social restrictions on women. This has caused global outrage but has did little to deter the Taliban. Mashal, a lecturer for more than a decade, was in February "mercilessly beaten and taken away in a very disrespectful manner by members of the Islamic Emirate," referring to the Taliban government, according to Fazli. The detention of activists like Mashal "instils fears in the community and has a chilling effect on the overall enjoyment of fundamental freedoms," the UN special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, told the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Taliban free academic who protested ban on women's education

After a high-level Pakistani delegation visited Kabul last month, reports said Afghan Taliban have proposed a 'resettlement plan' for the banned TTP members. The plan involves disarming the TTP and relocating its members from border areas.

Afghan Taliban propose 'resettlement plan' for TTP: Report

Universities opened across Afghanistan on Monday but a peculiar sight showed the dystopia of our times. Only the male students could be seen walking down the halls as women students remained barred from entering the premises to pursue education.

Universities opened across Afghanistan on Monday but a peculiar sight showed the dystopia of our times. Only the male students could be seen walking down the halls as women students remained barred from entering the premises to pursue education. “According to a decision by the Supreme Council for Higher Education, studies of the male students at governmental higher education institutions in the colder provinces will officially start from [March 6] of the current year," read a statement by the Taliban’s Ministry of Higher Education. Universities and schools in Afghanistan go on a winter break in nearly 24 provinces every year. Up until last year, women were allowed to continue with their education but the Taliban 2.0, soon reverted to its default settings. "It's heartbreaking to see boys going to the university while we have to stay at home. This is gender discrimination against girls because Islam allows us to pursue higher education. Nobody should stop us from learning, " 22-year-old Rahela, a university student was quoted as saying by AFP. In December last year, the Taliban authorities sent a letter to all public and private colleges announcing the indefinite ban on Afghan girls attending educational institutions. The reason cited for the ban was that women students had failed to appropriately observe gender-based religious restrictions. "You all are informed to implement the mentioned order of suspending the education of females until further notice," read the letter. WATCH | Afghanistan: Taliban fighters enforce university ban; Afghan women deprived of basic human rights × Not only colleges and universities are shut down for the female sex, but the Taliban has also dropped shutters on secondary schools for female students. Whenever the international community confronts the Taliban about its stance, the authorities remark that the ban is temporary. According to prominent human rights groups, the Taliban is the only country in the world where women and little girls are barred from entering educational as well as work institutions. Read more: Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus However, the explicit mention of 'only males' in the reopening circular suggests that the Taliban is not looking to go back on its decision any time soon. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Universities reopen in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan but without female students

The UK government has been facing increasing pressure over the delay in the release of the next phase of the Afghan citizens’ resettlement scheme (ACRS ) for hundreds of Afghanistan journalists who supported the West’s mission in the Islamic country.

An estimated 200 Afghan journalists have fled to Iran and Pakistan after the Taliban took over Afghanistan and imposed their own interpretation of Sharia law that bans women from working, reports the Guardian newspaper.

Apart from the UK, Germany, France and Kosovo are among the other countries that have offered refuge to a number of at-risk stranded journalists.

These journalists have expressed frustration against the UK government for not acting fast enough amidst reports that they are being targeted as their visas expire.

According to reports, last month, a number of Afghan journalists were arrested in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, and their phones, laptops and cameras were seized.

Eight Afghan journalists who worked for the BBC recently had their UK visa applications reopened after legal action against the Home Office.

In light of these incidents, a coalition of press freedom and free expression organisations, including the Index on Censorship, the National Union of Journalists, PEN International and English PEN, wrote to home secretary Suella Braverman this weekend asking why details of the next phase of the ACRS have yet to be revealed.

The Editor-at-large of Index on Censorship, Martin Bright, said they have received a number of relocation demands from Afghan journalists in Afghanistan,&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;and Iran who had been offered no reassurance.

“Without clarification on progress for ACRS, there is little if any support that can be provided, and this leaves the journalists vulnerable to threats of disappearance, violence, arrest, imprisonment and assassination,” said Bright.

The ACRS was conceived in August 2021, in the months of the Taliban takeover, under the auspices of then prime minister Boris Johnson.

It was officially launched in January 2022 for those already evacuated, with&nbsp;a second “pathway”&nbsp;later opened for refugees in neighbouring countries such as Pakistan and Iran.

After evacuating contractors who worked for institutions like the British Council on priority, a third pathway is planned to fully open this year, with journalists expected to be among its priority groups, though no details are yet available, reports Guardian.

A government source told the newspaper that more information on this “will be set out in due course”.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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The UK government has been facing increasing pressure over the delay in the release of the next phase of the Afghan citizens’ resettlement scheme (ACRS ) for hundreds of Afghanistan journalists who supported the West’s mission in the Islamic country.

The UK government has been facing increasing pressure over the delay in the release of the next phase of the Afghan citizens’ resettlement scheme (ACRS ) for hundreds of Afghanistan journalists who supported the West’s mission in the Islamic country. An estimated 200 Afghan journalists have fled to Iran and Pakistan after the Taliban took over Afghanistan and imposed their own interpretation of Sharia law that bans women from working, reports the Guardian newspaper. Apart from the UK, Germany, France and Kosovo are among the other countries that have offered refuge to a number of at-risk stranded journalists. These journalists have expressed frustration against the UK government for not acting fast enough amidst reports that they are being targeted as their visas expire. According to reports, last month, a number of Afghan journalists were arrested in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, and their phones, laptops and cameras were seized. Eight Afghan journalists who worked for the BBC recently had their UK visa applications reopened after legal action against the Home Office. In light of these incidents, a coalition of press freedom and free expression organisations, including the Index on Censorship, the National Union of Journalists, PEN International and English PEN, wrote to home secretary Suella Braverman this weekend asking why details of the next phase of the ACRS have yet to be revealed. The Editor-at-large of Index on Censorship, Martin Bright, said they have received a number of relocation demands from Afghan journalists in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran who had been offered no reassurance. “Without clarification on progress for ACRS, there is little if any support that can be provided, and this leaves the journalists vulnerable to threats of disappearance, violence, arrest, imprisonment and assassination,” said Bright. The ACRS was conceived in August 2021, in the months of the Taliban takeover, under the auspices of then prime minister Boris Johnson. It was officially launched in January 2022 for those already evacuated, with a second “pathway” later opened for refugees in neighbouring countries such as Pakistan and Iran. After evacuating contractors who worked for institutions like the British Council on priority, a third pathway is planned to fully open this year, with journalists expected to be among its priority groups, though no details are yet available, reports Guardian. A government source told the newspaper that more information on this “will be set out in due course”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK govt faces ire of rights groups over delay in relocation of stranded Afghan journalists

Taliban welcomed the Indian announcement for Afghanistan in the Union Budget 2023-24, which was presented on Wednesday by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. New Delhi announced a development assistance of Rs 200 crore ($24.3 million) for the country in the budget, which was the same amount announced in last year’s budget as well.&nbsp;

Taliban's Suhail Shaheen told WION, "We appreciate development assistance for Afghanistan by India. It will contribute to boosting relations and trust between the two countries."&nbsp;

Notably, India has continued its support to&nbsp;Afghanistan for the second year in a row since the Taliban's takeover of Kabul, despite not recognising the regime. Taliban took over the country in August 2021.&nbsp;

New Delhi has several times emphasised the historic links with the Afghan people and also sent consignments of wheat, vaccines and humanitarian support to the country.&nbsp;

In the Indian Union budget presented in the Parliament on Wednesday, the development partnership portfolio got 32.40% of the total budget for the Ministry of External Affairs. The largest share of India's aid portfolio is towards Bhutan of Rs 2400 crore, which is around 41.04% of MEA's development assistance. MEA has been allocated Rs 18,050&nbsp;crore in this year's budget, which is 4.64% higher than last year.&nbsp;

Shaheen noted, "There were various projects in Afghanistan which were being funded by India. If India resumes work on these projects, it will contribute to boosting relations between the two countries and eliminating distrust." India has taken responsibility for building the Afghan parliament and the India-Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat province.&nbsp;

Shaheen, who once was part of the Taliban's negotiating team for the intra-Afghan talks, said, "The people of Afghanistan are currently facing poverty and unemployment and need reconstruction and development projects more than ever."&nbsp;

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Taliban welcomed the Indian announcement for Afghanistan in the Union Budget 2023-24, which was presented on Wednesday by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. New Delhi announced a development assistance of Rs 200 crore ($24.

Taliban welcomed the Indian announcement for Afghanistan in the Union Budget 2023-24, which was presented on Wednesday by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. New Delhi announced a development assistance of Rs 200 crore ($24.3 million) for the country in the budget, which was the same amount announced in last year’s budget as well. Taliban's Suhail Shaheen told WION, "We appreciate development assistance for Afghanistan by India. It will contribute to boosting relations and trust between the two countries." Notably, India has continued its support to Afghanistan for the second year in a row since the Taliban's takeover of Kabul, despite not recognising the regime. Taliban took over the country in August 2021. New Delhi has several times emphasised the historic links with the Afghan people and also sent consignments of wheat, vaccines and humanitarian support to the country. In the Indian Union budget presented in the Parliament on Wednesday, the development partnership portfolio got 32.40% of the total budget for the Ministry of External Affairs. The largest share of India's aid portfolio is towards Bhutan of Rs 2400 crore, which is around 41.04% of MEA's development assistance. MEA has been allocated Rs 18,050 crore in this year's budget, which is 4.64% higher than last year. Shaheen noted, "There were various projects in Afghanistan which were being funded by India. If India resumes work on these projects, it will contribute to boosting relations between the two countries and eliminating distrust." India has taken responsibility for building the Afghan parliament and the India-Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat province. Shaheen, who once was part of the Taliban's negotiating team for the intra-Afghan talks, said, "The people of Afghanistan are currently facing poverty and unemployment and need reconstruction and development projects more than ever." 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 welcome India’s funds announcement for Afghanistan in Budget 2023-24

A total of 110 students graduated from the Taliban's jihadist school in the Balkh province of Afghanistan, a report by Afghanistan International said on Tuesday (January 31) citing the Bakhtar News Agency. The report said as per public statements made by the Taliban's education minister, the Islamic Emirate will establish three to 10 such schools in each district of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

An order attributed to the Taliban's Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada divulged more details about the formation and expenses of the jihadist schools. The order said that each school will have 10 teachers and eight staff members, adding 500-1,000 students will be trained each semester. A salary scale of 15,000 to 25,000&nbsp; Afghan Afghani&nbsp;(the currency of Afghanistan)&nbsp;has been approved for the staff members. The students, meanwhile, 150 Afghani&nbsp;per day.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-the-face-of-a-savage-winter-un-pleads-with-taliban-for-exemptions-to-female-aid-workers-557426">In the face of a 'savage' winter, UN pleads with Taliban for exemptions to female aid workers</a>

The Afghanistan International report also said that the jihadist schools' salaries are not comparable to public school teachers’ salaries, adding that a public school teacher, with an undergraduate degree, receives only 9,000 Afghani as salary.&nbsp;

In August this year, the Taliban will mark two years of being the ruling administration in Afghanistan. In recent times, the Islamic Emirate has faced global condemnation over the restrictions imposed on females- the latest being a ban on university education and prohibiting Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) from working with Afghan women.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (February 1), the United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced new visa restrictions against the Taliban in response to the bans. "I am taking action today to impose additional visa restrictions on certain current or former Taliban members, members of non-state security groups, and other individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, repressing women and girls in Afghanistan," Blinken said in a statement, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals

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And on Tuesday, Martin Griffiths, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator at the United Nations (UN) said that following his recent discussions with the Taliban, they would create a set of written guidelines to allow aid groups to operate with female staff in more areas with certainty in coming weeks.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference, Griffiths said, "We were told that guidelines are being developed by the Taliban authorities, which would allegedly provide the role of functioning of women in humanitarian operations," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"Let's see if these guidelines do come through. Let's see if they are beneficial. Let's see what space there is for the essential and central role of women in our humanitarian operations. Everybody has opinions as to whether it's going to work or not. Our view is that the message has clearly been delivered. Women are central, essential workers in the humanitarian sector in addition to having rights, and we need to see them back to work," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A total of 110 students graduated from the Taliban's jihadist school in the Balkh province of Afghanistan, a report by Afghanistan International said on Tuesday (January 31) citing the Bakhtar News Agency.

A total of 110 students graduated from the Taliban's jihadist school in the Balkh province of Afghanistan, a report by Afghanistan International said on Tuesday (January 31) citing the Bakhtar News Agency. The report said as per public statements made by the Taliban's education minister, the Islamic Emirate will establish three to 10 such schools in each district of Afghanistan. An order attributed to the Taliban's Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada divulged more details about the formation and expenses of the jihadist schools. The order said that each school will have 10 teachers and eight staff members, adding 500-1,000 students will be trained each semester. A salary scale of 15,000 to 25,000 Afghan Afghani (the currency of Afghanistan) has been approved for the staff members. The students, meanwhile, 150 Afghani per day. ALSO READ | In the face of a 'savage' winter, UN pleads with Taliban for exemptions to female aid workers The Afghanistan International report also said that the jihadist schools' salaries are not comparable to public school teachers’ salaries, adding that a public school teacher, with an undergraduate degree, receives only 9,000 Afghani as salary. In August this year, the Taliban will mark two years of being the ruling administration in Afghanistan. In recent times, the Islamic Emirate has faced global condemnation over the restrictions imposed on females- the latest being a ban on university education and prohibiting Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) from working with Afghan women. On Wednesday (February 1), the United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced new visa restrictions against the Taliban in response to the bans. "I am taking action today to impose additional visa restrictions on certain current or former Taliban members, members of non-state security groups, and other individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, repressing women and girls in Afghanistan," Blinken said in a statement, news agency AFP reported. ALSO WATCH | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals × And on Tuesday, Martin Griffiths, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator at the United Nations (UN) said that following his recent discussions with the Taliban, they would create a set of written guidelines to allow aid groups to operate with female staff in more areas with certainty in coming weeks. Addressing a press conference, Griffiths said, "We were told that guidelines are being developed by the Taliban authorities, which would allegedly provide the role of functioning of women in humanitarian operations," news agency Reuters reported. "Let's see if these guidelines do come through. Let's see if they are beneficial. Let's see what space there is for the essential and central role of women in our humanitarian operations. Everybody has opinions as to whether it's going to work or not. Our view is that the message has clearly been delivered. Women are central, essential workers in the humanitarian sector in addition to having rights, and we need to see them back to work," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghanistan: 110 graduate from Taliban's jihadist school in Balkh province, says report

Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have "beaten and detained" a professor who protested against the ban on women's education, he said on Friday (February 3).&nbsp;Ismail Mashal tore up his degrees on live television in protest against the globally criticised ban. In a report by the news agency AFP, Mashal's aide Farid Ahmad Fazli was quoted as saying that the academic was "mercilessly beaten".&nbsp;

Fazli said that the professor, who has worked as a lecturer for more than 10 years at three Kabul universities, was taken away in a very disrespectful manner by members of "the Islamic Emirate", the Taliban government.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-ahmadi-mosque-in-pakistans-karachi-desecrated-by-unknown-attackers-558647">Ahmadi mosque in Pakistan's Karachi desecrated by unknown attackers</a>

In the viral video, veteran journalism lecturer Mashal had said, "From today, I don't need these diplomas any more because this country is no place for an education. If my sister and my mother can't study, then I don't accept this education."

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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Ismail Mashal a university professor who became bookseller under Taliban regime. He burned his educational credentials on a live tv debate in protest to Taliban ban on women's education. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Let_her_learn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Let_her_learn</a> <a href="https://t.co/OuF1VMMc1b">pic.twitter.com/OuF1VMMc1b</a>
— Gawharshad Media (@GawharshadMedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/GawharshadMedia/status/1620796163258720256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Here's the old video:

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University professor Ismail Mashal to cut his bachelor's and master’s degrees on a live television program in response to the Taliban's recent order (Ban on women's education in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetHerLearn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetHerLearn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetAfghanGirlsLearn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetAfghanGirlsLearn</a> <a href="https://t.co/bA5QyALQBV">pic.twitter.com/bA5QyALQBV</a>
— Saeedullah Safi (@SaeedullahSafi7) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaeedullahSafi7/status/1607736431849648129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Initially, there was no confirmation of Mashal's detention, but later a Taliban official confirmed the detention. Abdul Haq Hammad, who is the director of the Ministry of Information and Culture, tweeted: "Teacher Mashal had indulged in provocative actions against the system for some time. The security agencies took him for investigation."&nbsp;

Mashal tore his academic degree and certificates on local Tolonews in December. The incident was shared multiple times on social media forums and also got media attention globally.&nbsp;

Fazli said that Mashal was arrested on Thursday despite having "committed no crime" and he was giving free books to women and men. He said that the professor is still in detention and we don't know where he is being held.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have "beaten and detained" a professor who protested against the ban on women's education, he said on Friday (February 3). Ismail Mashal tore up his degrees on live television in protest against the globally criticised ban.

Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have "beaten and detained" a professor who protested against the ban on women's education, he said on Friday (February 3). Ismail Mashal tore up his degrees on live television in protest against the globally criticised ban. In a report by the news agency AFP, Mashal's aide Farid Ahmad Fazli was quoted as saying that the academic was "mercilessly beaten". Fazli said that the professor, who has worked as a lecturer for more than 10 years at three Kabul universities, was taken away in a very disrespectful manner by members of "the Islamic Emirate", the Taliban government. ALSO READ | Ahmadi mosque in Pakistan's Karachi desecrated by unknown attackers In the viral video, veteran journalism lecturer Mashal had said, "From today, I don't need these diplomas any more because this country is no place for an education. If my sister and my mother can't study, then I don't accept this education." Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Ismail Mashal a university professor who became bookseller under Taliban regime. He burned his educational credentials on a live tv debate in protest to Taliban ban on women's education. #Let_her_learn pic.twitter.com/OuF1VMMc1b — Gawharshad Media (@GawharshadMedia) February 1, 2023 × Here's the old video: University professor Ismail Mashal to cut his bachelor's and master’s degrees on a live television program in response to the Taliban's recent order (Ban on women's education in #Afghanistan). #LetHerLearn #LetAfghanGirlsLearn pic.twitter.com/bA5QyALQBV — Saeedullah Safi (@SaeedullahSafi7) December 27, 2022 × Initially, there was no confirmation of Mashal's detention, but later a Taliban official confirmed the detention. Abdul Haq Hammad, who is the director of the Ministry of Information and Culture, tweeted: "Teacher Mashal had indulged in provocative actions against the system for some time. The security agencies took him for investigation." Mashal tore his academic degree and certificates on local Tolonews in December. The incident was shared multiple times on social media forums and also got media attention globally. Fazli said that Mashal was arrested on Thursday despite having "committed no crime" and he was giving free books to women and men. He said that the professor is still in detention and we don't know where he is being held. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghanistan: Taliban detain professor who tore up his degrees to protest ban on women's education

In Afghanistan, the acting deputy prime minister for economic affairs said in a statement on Sunday (February 19) that the Taliban administration is going to convert former foreign military bases into special economic zones for businesses.&nbsp;

As quoted by news agency Reuters, acting deputy PM Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said in the statement that the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has decided after careful consideration that the administration should take control of the remaining military bases of the foreign forces.&nbsp;

As per the report, he added a pilot plan would begin to convert bases in the capital Kabul and in the northern Balkh province.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/conspiracy-to-control-muslim-population-taliban-ban-use-of-contraceptives-call-it-western-agenda-563622">‘Conspiracy to control Muslim population’: Taliban ban use of contraceptives, call it 'western agenda'</a>&nbsp;

Last year in December, the acting commerce minister had told the news agency that his ministry was working on the plan for former American bases.&nbsp;

It had mentioned that and would submit it to both the economic committee led by Mullah Baradar and to the cabinet for approval.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistan Foreign Affairs Minister Bilawal Bhutto blames Afghanistan for terror in country&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan in 2021 and foreign troops withdrew after 20 years of war, the economy of the nation is in a dire state. Global aid agencies have warned of a severe humanitarian crisis.&nbsp;

The crisis deepened when major donors had halted their support for the country by freezing funds in immediate response to the takeover. Afghanistan also faced challenges of drought caused by global warming and natural disaster such as an earthquake.&nbsp;

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In Afghanistan, the acting deputy prime minister for economic affairs said in a statement on Sunday (February 19) that the Taliban administration is going to convert former foreign military bases into special economic zones for businesses.

In Afghanistan, the acting deputy prime minister for economic affairs said in a statement on Sunday (February 19) that the Taliban administration is going to convert former foreign military bases into special economic zones for businesses. As quoted by news agency Reuters, acting deputy PM Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said in the statement that the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has decided after careful consideration that the administration should take control of the remaining military bases of the foreign forces. As per the report, he added a pilot plan would begin to convert bases in the capital Kabul and in the northern Balkh province. ALSO READ | ‘Conspiracy to control Muslim population’: Taliban ban use of contraceptives, call it 'western agenda' Last year in December, the acting commerce minister had told the news agency that his ministry was working on the plan for former American bases. It had mentioned that and would submit it to both the economic committee led by Mullah Baradar and to the cabinet for approval. WATCH | Pakistan Foreign Affairs Minister Bilawal Bhutto blames Afghanistan for terror in country × Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan in 2021 and foreign troops withdrew after 20 years of war, the economy of the nation is in a dire state. Global aid agencies have warned of a severe humanitarian crisis. The crisis deepened when major donors had halted their support for the country by freezing funds in immediate response to the takeover. Afghanistan also faced challenges of drought caused by global warming and natural disaster such as an earthquake. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghanistan: Taliban to convert former foreign bases into special economic zones

Police in Pakistan’s Northwest region bordering Afghanistan are seeing standing in defence against the Islamic insurgence who were trying to attack the country’s military.

Pakistan Taliban re-emerges as potential threat amid economic crisis

5 days on, the Torkham border crossing along the Durand line remains shut. The Taliban & Islamabad are yet to resolve the issue. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas | Torkham Border: Pakistan & Taliban fail to reach consensus

Tensions have escalated between Afghanistan and Pakistan after the border crossing closed. Now, a High-level Pak delegation visits Afghanistan to resolve tensions. Watch here.

Pakistan’s defence and spy chiefs discuss security with Taliban

Pakistan's Defence Minister and spy Chief held talks with the Taliban officials in Kabul and they discussed ways to counter the threat of terrorism. This comes just days after Pakistan blamed Afghan Taliban of harbouring terrorists from its homegrown version of the extremist group.

Pakistan delegation meets Taliban officials, discuss TTP threats

After a U.S. court ruled that victims of 9/11 terror attacks cannot seize the $ 3.5 billion in in frozen funds belonging to the Afghanistan Central Bank, Taliban have demanded that Washington should return the assets to the company.

U.S. court ruling on frozen Afghan bank assets, Taliban demands U.S. to return them

A line that separates Pakistan from Afghanistan is in turmoil as both sides trade fire, this is been happening for quite some time now and the hostilities refuse to seize. The latest flare-up unfolded on the Torkham border.

TTP & Taliban: Pakistan's twin challenges; How Pakistan can't fight on two fronts?

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan is planning to convert for former foreign military bases into special economic zones to promote economic activities. Acting deputy prime minister for economic affairs Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar held a cabinet meeting in Kabul to discuss plans with officials. Watch to know more.

Taliban plans to turn Foreign Military Bases into Special Economic Zones

Taliban 2.0 promised t be different when it overtook Afghanistan, they promised they would be more considerate and would be more inclusive on issues like women's rights. But the new rulers of Afghanistan have methodically trampled all such rights but now they have done something different. Watch the video to know more.

Taliban against birth control medicines as they ban condoms

Taliban have banned the use of contraceptives&nbsp;in Afghanistan, claiming that it is part of a western conspiracy to control the Muslim population.&nbsp;According to the Guardian newspaper, in two main cities—the capital Kabul and Mazar-i-Sharif—the members of the militant organisation have issued a gag ordering pharmacies to dispose of all birth control medicines and devices.&nbsp;

Apart from that, there have been reports Taliban fighters have been going door-to-door and threatening midwives to desist from distributing child control medicines.

“They came to my store twice with guns and threatened me not to keep contraceptive pills for sale. They are regularly checking every pharmacy in Kabul and we have stopped selling the products,” said a store owner in the city.

Women-led Afghan outlet Rukhshana Media, quoting sources, claimed that Afghanistan has stopped importing contraceptives, and as result, they are being bought in secret from private sellers. In effect, their price has skyrocketed.&nbsp;

Though an official notification in this regard is yet to be issued by Afghanistan's Public Health Ministry, the Guardian quoting sources reported that they were informed by Taliban enforcers in Kabul that “contraceptive use and family planning is a western agenda”.

“Items such as birth control pills and Depo-Provera injections are not allowed to be kept in the pharmacy since the start of this month, and we are too afraid to sell the existing stock,” a pharmacist in Kabul was quoted as saying.

The ban on contraceptives is part of the latest attack on women’s rights by the Taliban who have been implementing anti-women policies since their ascension in August 2021.

Women have already been prevented from accessing higher education, forced to quit jobs and restricted to leave their homes. Restricting contraceptives will be a significant blow to a country with an already fragile healthcare system.&nbsp;One in every 14 Afghan women&nbsp;dies&nbsp;of causes related to pregnancy and it is one of the most&nbsp;dangerous countries in the world to give birth.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taliban have banned the use of contraceptives in Afghanistan, claiming that it is part of a western conspiracy to control the Muslim population. According to the Guardian newspaper, in two main cities—the capital Kabul and Mazar-i-Sharif—the members of the militant organisation have issued a gag ordering pharmacies to dispose of all birth control medicines and devices.

Taliban have banned the use of contraceptives in Afghanistan, claiming that it is part of a western conspiracy to control the Muslim population. According to the Guardian newspaper, in two main cities—the capital Kabul and Mazar-i-Sharif—the members of the militant organisation have issued a gag ordering pharmacies to dispose of all birth control medicines and devices. Apart from that, there have been reports Taliban fighters have been going door-to-door and threatening midwives to desist from distributing child control medicines. “They came to my store twice with guns and threatened me not to keep contraceptive pills for sale. They are regularly checking every pharmacy in Kabul and we have stopped selling the products,” said a store owner in the city. Women-led Afghan outlet Rukhshana Media, quoting sources, claimed that Afghanistan has stopped importing contraceptives, and as result, they are being bought in secret from private sellers. In effect, their price has skyrocketed. Though an official notification in this regard is yet to be issued by Afghanistan's Public Health Ministry, the Guardian quoting sources reported that they were informed by Taliban enforcers in Kabul that “contraceptive use and family planning is a western agenda”. “Items such as birth control pills and Depo-Provera injections are not allowed to be kept in the pharmacy since the start of this month, and we are too afraid to sell the existing stock,” a pharmacist in Kabul was quoted as saying. The ban on contraceptives is part of the latest attack on women’s rights by the Taliban who have been implementing anti-women policies since their ascension in August 2021. Women have already been prevented from accessing higher education, forced to quit jobs and restricted to leave their homes. Restricting contraceptives will be a significant blow to a country with an already fragile healthcare system. One in every 14 Afghan women dies of causes related to pregnancy and it is one of the most dangerous countries in the world to give birth. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Conspiracy to control Muslim population’: Taliban ban use of contraceptives, call it 'western agenda'

Pakistan's Taliban is warned of more attacks against the law enforcement officers just a day after four people were killed when a suicide squad had stormed into a police compound in Karachi.

Karachi Terror Attack aftermath: Reports say major security lapses identified

Terrorists stormed a police compound in Pakistan's Port city of Karachi yesterday, killing three security force members and injuring more than 19 people.

Pakistan Taliban claims attack in Karachi | Pakistan

While Afghan women continue to struggle under Taliban rule, a top diplomat from the United States has triggered social media outrage with a tweet that has been called "appalling" by many who criticised her. Karen Decker, the Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan, has now apologised for the post in which she referred to the "Black Girl Magic" movement. "Are Afghans familiar with Black Girl Magic and the movement it inspired? Do Afghan girls need a similar movement? What about Afghan Women?' 'Teach me, ready to learn. @Beyonce @lizzo @ReginaKing, (sic)," she had tweeted.&nbsp;

Her suggestion for Afghan women to draw inspiration from Beyonce and others even as the Taliban administration continues to shut them out of schools and workplaces did not go well. "Sometimes our best intentions go awry because we haven’t listened enough or don’t truly understand others’ lived experience. My efforts to celebrate courageous African Americans this month fall in that category. I apologize to any and all who I may have offended or hurt. (sic)," she wrote on Twitter as the apology followed the barrage of criticism. Violation of rights of the women in the South Asian country has been a matter of concern ever since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. &nbsp;The United Nations and world leaders have been vocal about women and girls not being treated as equals in the country despite the Taliban's assurance of change.&nbsp;

Outpouring of anger

Meanwhile, one of the many posts that were put out amid anger against Karen's tweet were: "Allow me to introduce you to America’s idiot of the day #USAmbKabul Karen Decker. &nbsp;Apparently, all we should know is that Abraham Lincoln “did some stuff”. Ms Decker, we salute you, a true moron through and through. (sic)."&nbsp;

The Black Girl Movement a couple of years ago was meant to spark conversation on the social identity of women of colour. &nbsp;People on social media questioned the comparison of the two situations by the diplomat. A user posted screenshots of the now-deleted tweets, saying: "Karen Decker, the Biden Admin’s Chargés d'affaires to Taliban-led Afghanistan, has deleted these bizarre tweets. (sic)" &nbsp;

"This Tweet is too weird, too personal, to have resulted from some kind of collective effort at DEI. This is a window into the actual mind of Karen Decker. It's remarkable. A rare document of how this all comes together in the strange minds of the people who rule us. (sic)," read another post that gave an idea of social media sentiments.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stands-with-afghanistan-in-time-of-need-says-nsa-ajit-doval-at-moscow-talks-560135">India stands with Afghanistan in time of need, says NSA Ajit Doval at Moscow talks</a> 
&nbsp;

This was not the only tweet by the US diplomat that drew anger. On former US president Abraham Lincoln's birthday, she wrote on Twitter: "Abe Lincoln born today in 1809. He did some stuff. It's also NAACP day, home of grassroots activism, inclusive communities and making sure Black voices are heard. What does that look like for Afghans struggling to be heard? #BlackHistoryMonth @NAACP @LincolnsCottage. (sic)"&nbsp;

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While Afghan women continue to struggle under Taliban rule, a top diplomat from the United States has triggered social media outrage with a tweet that has been called "appalling" by many who criticised her.

While Afghan women continue to struggle under Taliban rule, a top diplomat from the United States has triggered social media outrage with a tweet that has been called "appalling" by many who criticised her. Karen Decker, the Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan, has now apologised for the post in which she referred to the "Black Girl Magic" movement. "Are Afghans familiar with Black Girl Magic and the movement it inspired? Do Afghan girls need a similar movement? What about Afghan Women?' 'Teach me, ready to learn. @Beyonce @lizzo @ReginaKing, (sic)," she had tweeted. Her suggestion for Afghan women to draw inspiration from Beyonce and others even as the Taliban administration continues to shut them out of schools and workplaces did not go well. "Sometimes our best intentions go awry because we haven’t listened enough or don’t truly understand others’ lived experience. My efforts to celebrate courageous African Americans this month fall in that category. I apologize to any and all who I may have offended or hurt. (sic)," she wrote on Twitter as the apology followed the barrage of criticism. Violation of rights of the women in the South Asian country has been a matter of concern ever since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. The United Nations and world leaders have been vocal about women and girls not being treated as equals in the country despite the Taliban's assurance of change. Outpouring of anger Meanwhile, one of the many posts that were put out amid anger against Karen's tweet were: "Allow me to introduce you to America’s idiot of the day #USAmbKabul Karen Decker. Apparently, all we should know is that Abraham Lincoln “did some stuff”. Ms Decker, we salute you, a true moron through and through. (sic)." The Black Girl Movement a couple of years ago was meant to spark conversation on the social identity of women of colour. People on social media questioned the comparison of the two situations by the diplomat. A user posted screenshots of the now-deleted tweets, saying: "Karen Decker, the Biden Admin’s Chargés d'affaires to Taliban-led Afghanistan, has deleted these bizarre tweets. (sic)" "This Tweet is too weird, too personal, to have resulted from some kind of collective effort at DEI. This is a window into the actual mind of Karen Decker. It's remarkable. A rare document of how this all comes together in the strange minds of the people who rule us. (sic)," read another post that gave an idea of social media sentiments. Also read: India stands with Afghanistan in time of need, says NSA Ajit Doval at Moscow talks This was not the only tweet by the US diplomat that drew anger. On former US president Abraham Lincoln's birthday, she wrote on Twitter: "Abe Lincoln born today in 1809. He did some stuff. It's also NAACP day, home of grassroots activism, inclusive communities and making sure Black voices are heard. What does that look like for Afghans struggling to be heard? #BlackHistoryMonth @NAACP @LincolnsCottage. (sic)" 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.

'Best intentions go awry...': US envoy's apology over tweet on Afghan women

The Taliban raided an Islamic State hideout in Kabul overnight. According to a Taliban spokesperson, the raid was said to have targeted Islamic State militants who were responsible for the recent organised attacks in Kabul recently.

Taliban targets Islamic State hideout in Kabul, kills IS fighters in raid

Major differences have emerged within the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan, experts said , after a senior official described the country’s situation as “intolerable” over the weekend.

Taliban Internal minister stokes controversy

Since August 2021, thousands of Afghans who helped the British forces against the Taliban, remain stranded and at a potential risk from the Taliban. According to a new reports by the MPs, this is because of the failures of the UK government in their settlement schemes.

Afghans who helped UK forces remain stranded by UK, Defence Ministry says 6,600 people relocated

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