A few days after the Taliban's first anniversary of gaining control over Afghanistan, a huge explosion rocked the capital city of Kabul. Reportedly, the bomb explosion took place in a mosque in the 17th security district of the city during evening prayers. At least 21 persons have been killed and several others injured in the blast. As per reports, the security situation&nbsp;around the attacked Kabul mosque is being closely monitored by the Taliban.

"A blast happened inside a mosque.... the blast has casualties, but the numbers are not clear yet,"&nbsp;Khalid Zadran, Kabul police spokesman was quoted as saying by the agencies soon after the incident.&nbsp;

<img alt="Afghanistan blast" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b875a8a9-83a0-4504-a64d-f9973fe91ec9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download%20%283%29_3.jpg" />

Families of victims of last night's explosion wait in front of an emergency hospital in&nbsp;Kabul, Afghanistan August 18, 2022. Photo credits: Reuters

An NGO providing emergency services to the victims&nbsp;took to Twitter to inform, "#Afghanistan #Kabul: 27 people received at our hospital so far following an explosion in the PD17 area. 5 children among them, including a 7-year-old."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a>: 27 people received at our hospital so far following an explosion in the PD17 area. 5 children among them, including a 7-year-old.
— EMERGENCY NGO (@emergency_ngo) <a href="https://twitter.com/emergency_ngo/status/1559947673968467970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Reuters claimed that the Imam of the mosque named&nbsp;Amir Mohammad Kabuli&nbsp;was among the people presumed dead in the blast. His picture has been doing the rounds on Afghan social media.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFG</a> Sheikh Amir Mohammad Kabuli was a known religious scholar in the Kabul region, he was killed in the blast inside the mosque 🕌 in Khair Khana area. According to multiple residents, at least 30 worshippers were killed and dozens were wounded. <a href="https://t.co/FrV00uiVM0">pic.twitter.com/FrV00uiVM0</a>
— BILAL SARWARY (@bsarwary) <a href="https://twitter.com/bsarwary/status/1559952082521792512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to TOLO News, an Afghan news outlet, which talked to&nbsp;Abdul Rahman Nafay, commander of PD13, the explosives for the blast were placed in a motorcycle.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-refuses-to-release-7-billion-afghan-funds-but-usaid-will-commit-40-million-for-girls-education-507658">US refuses to release $7bn frozen funds to Afghanistan, but commits to $150mn aid packages</a>

The investigation and rescue agencies had&nbsp;arrived on the spot,&nbsp;however, it was still not clear which terror outfit executed the attack.

It is pertinent to note that last week a prominent Afghan cleric named&nbsp;Rahimullah Haqqani, who supported female education, was also killed in a suicide bombing attack. At the time, the Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility of the attack.

"It's a very huge loss for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan," a Taliban official was quoted as saying afterwards.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A few days after the Taliban's first anniversary of gaining control over Afghanistan, a huge explosion rocked the capital city of Kabul. Reportedly, the bomb explosion took place in a mosque in the 17th security district of the city during evening prayers.

A few days after the Taliban's first anniversary of gaining control over Afghanistan, a huge explosion rocked the capital city of Kabul. Reportedly, the bomb explosion took place in a mosque in the 17th security district of the city during evening prayers. At least 21 persons have been killed and several others injured in the blast. As per reports, the security situation around the attacked Kabul mosque is being closely monitored by the Taliban. "A blast happened inside a mosque.... the blast has casualties, but the numbers are not clear yet," Khalid Zadran, Kabul police spokesman was quoted as saying by the agencies soon after the incident. Families of victims of last night's explosion wait in front of an emergency hospital in Kabul, Afghanistan August 18, 2022. Photo credits: Reuters An NGO providing emergency services to the victims took to Twitter to inform, "#Afghanistan #Kabul: 27 people received at our hospital so far following an explosion in the PD17 area. 5 children among them, including a 7-year-old." 🔴 #Afghanistan #Kabul: 27 people received at our hospital so far following an explosion in the PD17 area. 5 children among them, including a 7-year-old. — EMERGENCY NGO (@emergency_ngo) August 17, 2022 × Reuters claimed that the Imam of the mosque named Amir Mohammad Kabuli was among the people presumed dead in the blast. His picture has been doing the rounds on Afghan social media. #AFG Sheikh Amir Mohammad Kabuli was a known religious scholar in the Kabul region, he was killed in the blast inside the mosque 🕌 in Khair Khana area. According to multiple residents, at least 30 worshippers were killed and dozens were wounded. pic.twitter.com/FrV00uiVM0 — BILAL SARWARY (@bsarwary) August 17, 2022 × According to TOLO News, an Afghan news outlet, which talked to Abdul Rahman Nafay, commander of PD13, the explosives for the blast were placed in a motorcycle. Read More: US refuses to release $7bn frozen funds to Afghanistan, but commits to $150mn aid packages The investigation and rescue agencies had arrived on the spot, however, it was still not clear which terror outfit executed the attack. It is pertinent to note that last week a prominent Afghan cleric named Rahimullah Haqqani, who supported female education, was also killed in a suicide bombing attack. At the time, the Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility of the attack. "It's a very huge loss for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan," a Taliban official was quoted as saying afterwards. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Afghanistan: 21 feared dead in Kabul mosque bomb blast; tight Taliban security at site

In a major development, United States agency for International developments has announced three aid packages with $150 million. US has announced aid but refused to release frozen Afghan funds.

US announces $150 Mn aid for Afghanistan

After the assassination of al-Qaeda chief Ayman-al Zawahiri in Kabul, the Biden administration chose not to release any of the $7 billion of foreign assets held by Afghanistan’s central bank on US soil and has halted negotiations with the Taliban on the funds. But at the same time, in order to strengthen international assistance, USAID, the global humanitarian assistance arm of the US, has announced three aid packages worth $150 million for Afghanistan.

This week marks the one-year somber anniversary of the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Following the militant group’s announcement of banning girls from attending schools after sixth grade, this investment is the most recent one to upgrade different sectors in the country. The USAID will give $30 million to the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, for the betterment of Afghan women. An amount of $40 million will go to United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the remaining $80 million to Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-in-order-to-address-near-universal-poverty-ngos-demand-assets-to-be-unfrozen-507113">Afghanistan: In order to address 'near-universal poverty' NGOs demand assets to be unfrozen</a>

Biden administration officials cited that Zawahiri’s living safely in Afghanistan, until the drone strike killed him, played a significant role in the decision to freeze funds. This decision also dashes expectations for an economic resurgence in the country. 
 
In conversation with WSJ, US Representative for Afghanistan Thomas West said that the Taliban’s hiding the al-Qaeda chief underlines deep concerns the country has regarding the flow of funds to the terrorist group. When further asked about whether the group can obtain aid for people, the representative responded that the authorities don’t see the group as being responsible enough for managing the assets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/secret-schools-afghan-girls-defy-taliban-take-huge-risks-to-keep-studying-506597">Secret schools: Afghan girls defy Taliban, take huge risks to continue studies</a>

In the past, US President Joe Biden stated that he intends to give the families of 9/11 victims half of the $7 billion fund and the remaining to a trust fund for humanitarian relief to the Afghan people. However, considering that it would ultimately be the Taliban delivering the aid, this option seems out of the relevance line. However, critics have criticised Biden’s decision stating it was an unfair collective punishment for the Afghans. 
 
However, it seems as&nbsp;if the US is now trying to normalise relations with the Taliban. The latest engagements made by the US in form of aid are being looked at as an engagement and reach out to the Taliban to bring the relation&nbsp;back on track.

But now one question arises can the Biden administration after the Zawahiri’s killing go further? The US would want further information on this. On the other hand, the Taliban apparently be seeking recognition and a bailout from its financial crisis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

After the assassination of al-Qaeda chief Ayman-al Zawahiri in Kabul, the Biden administration chose not to release any of the $7 billion of foreign assets held by Afghanistan’s central bank on US soil and has halted negotiations with the Taliban on the funds.

After the assassination of al-Qaeda chief Ayman-al Zawahiri in Kabul, the Biden administration chose not to release any of the $7 billion of foreign assets held by Afghanistan’s central bank on US soil and has halted negotiations with the Taliban on the funds. But at the same time, in order to strengthen international assistance, USAID, the global humanitarian assistance arm of the US, has announced three aid packages worth $150 million for Afghanistan. This week marks the one-year somber anniversary of the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Following the militant group’s announcement of banning girls from attending schools after sixth grade, this investment is the most recent one to upgrade different sectors in the country. The USAID will give $30 million to the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, for the betterment of Afghan women. An amount of $40 million will go to United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the remaining $80 million to Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). Also read | Afghanistan: In order to address 'near-universal poverty' NGOs demand assets to be unfrozen Biden administration officials cited that Zawahiri’s living safely in Afghanistan, until the drone strike killed him, played a significant role in the decision to freeze funds. This decision also dashes expectations for an economic resurgence in the country. In conversation with WSJ, US Representative for Afghanistan Thomas West said that the Taliban’s hiding the al-Qaeda chief underlines deep concerns the country has regarding the flow of funds to the terrorist group. When further asked about whether the group can obtain aid for people, the representative responded that the authorities don’t see the group as being responsible enough for managing the assets. Also read | Secret schools: Afghan girls defy Taliban, take huge risks to continue studies In the past, US President Joe Biden stated that he intends to give the families of 9/11 victims half of the $7 billion fund and the remaining to a trust fund for humanitarian relief to the Afghan people. However, considering that it would ultimately be the Taliban delivering the aid, this option seems out of the relevance line. However, critics have criticised Biden’s decision stating it was an unfair collective punishment for the Afghans. However, it seems as if the US is now trying to normalise relations with the Taliban. The latest engagements made by the US in form of aid are being looked at as an engagement and reach out to the Taliban to bring the relation back on track. But now one question arises can the Biden administration after the Zawahiri’s killing go further? The US would want further information on this. On the other hand, the Taliban apparently be seeking recognition and a bailout from its financial crisis. (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.

US refuses to release $7bn frozen funds to Afghanistan, but commits to $150mn aid packages

+ 100 days in Afghanistan: A WION ground report + The transition from a Republic to an Emirate + Follow WION as we show how Kabul fell in 2021 + Over 144,000 minutes of ground-breaking reportage

100 days in Afghanistan: A WION ground report

A group of 32 Afghan and international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) are pleading with the international community not to abandon the people of Afghanistan one year after the Taliban took control of the country. Instead, they want the international community to address the causes of the country's economic crisis, defend human rights, and increase humanitarian aid.

They demand a clear roadmap that will result in the restoration of the fundamental functions of the Afghan central bank and the release of Afghanistan's assets that have been frozen abroad, primarily in the US, out of concern that the deep ideological stalemate between the Taliban and the international community is consigning millions of Afghans to squalor. The NGOs demand the release of printed Afghan banknotes that are now being held in Poland but are urgently needed.

As a result of the west's reluctance to lift sanctions until the Taliban established a more representative government, allowed girls to return to secondary school, and permitted independent control of the Afghan central bank, discussions on the release of the central bank's assets have been ongoing for months. In a statement released on Sunday, the European Union restated these general requests.

Also read |&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/afghanistan-under-taliban-narrated-by-an-afghan-woman-507027">Afghanistan under Taliban: Narrated by an Afghan woman</a>

Most of the major organisations present in the nation are represented by the 32 NGOs, which state: "In the last 12 months, millions of Afghans have experienced a fresh wave of adversity, including widespread hunger, unemployment, and almost universal poverty. Ninety-five percent of people lack access to sufficient food. Girls and women suffer more than males do.

Families are reportedly being pushed to make unthinkable decisions in order to survive, according to NGOs working on the ground.

As reported by the Guardian, One of the NGOs that has signed the declaration, the International Rescue Committee, has an advocacy coordinator in Afghanistan named Samira Sayed Rahman. She said: "On a recent journey to the south and south-east, I saw a healthcare system in collapse. In recent months, hospitals have not had enough cash to pay their employees. They lack the funds to purchase drugs and medical supplies. They lack the resources to purchase equipment. Afghan doctors and nurses are operating a large portion of the healthcare system out of goodwill. That model cannot be maintained. Many are attempting to flee.

Asuntha Charles, the national director of World Vision Afghanistan, said: “The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is cataclysmic, and children – as ever in crises like this – are on the frontlines. Over 4 million children are out of school, the majority of them girls, and more than 1.1 million are engaged in child labour. I have met families forced to sell their children, as young as three years old, simply to survive. As the world’s attention drifts, Afghans are falling deeper into catastrophe. We cannot turn our backs on them now.”

The International Rescue Committee's director for Afghanistan, Vicki Aken, stated: "The country's economic collapse is what has caused this crisis. The decisions made last year to isolate the Taliban, such as the freezing of foreign funds, the grounding of the banking system, and the suspension of development assistance that funded the majority of government services, have had a disastrous effect. Extreme poverty is worsening food insecurity, decreasing demand for goods, driving Afghan businesses out of business, and leading to increased unemployment.

At the end of July in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Thomas West, the US special representative for Afghanistan, and Brian Nelson, the under-secretary of the Treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence, met with Taliban representatives to discuss the conditions for the release of $3.5 billion (£2.9 billion) in Afghan central bank assets that are currently held in the US. The Biden administration has controversially set aside an additional $3.5 billion to aid 9/11 terror attack victims.

Noor Ahmad Agha, a US-designated global terrorist, was appointed by the Taliban as the central bank's deputy governor, which has angered the west. The US has pushed for the establishment of a body that is separate from the central bank to supervise the management of any repatriated assets.

The NGOs stress in their statement that "appropriate protections should be in place" if the bank's reserves are returned, without going into further detail.

The Afghan currency has suffered a severe depreciation as a result of the bank's inability to access the cash, driving up import prices and threatening to bring the banking system to its knees, making it difficult for people to access their savings and receive their paychecks.

The NGOs also urge donors and international financial organisations to distribute the remaining cash in the Afghan Reconstruction Trust Fund, which is overseen by the World Bank, as well as to increase the role of NGOs in the fund.

The disbursement of $793 million in two instalments to other long-term projects outside of the Taliban's authority was authorised by the management committee of the fund in June. The NGOs assert that Afghan civil society organisations, particularly those run by women both inside and outside the nation, must also have access to money and support.

"Hard-won advances over the past 20 years are swiftly being undone, as women and girls are systematically eliminated from public life," Human Rights Watch researcher Fereshta Abbasi said. They are no longer able to exercise their rights to freedom of movement, work, or education. The tremendous sense of abandonment and helplessness that permeates the women I meet with makes them feel resentful. Their cries must be heard by us.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH |&nbsp;One year of Taliban regime: A year of grave human rights violation?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/one-year-of-taliban-regime-a-year-of-grave-human-rights-violation-507058/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A group of 32 Afghan and international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) are pleading with the international community not to abandon the people of Afghanistan one year after the Taliban took control of the country.

A group of 32 Afghan and international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) are pleading with the international community not to abandon the people of Afghanistan one year after the Taliban took control of the country. Instead, they want the international community to address the causes of the country's economic crisis, defend human rights, and increase humanitarian aid. They demand a clear roadmap that will result in the restoration of the fundamental functions of the Afghan central bank and the release of Afghanistan's assets that have been frozen abroad, primarily in the US, out of concern that the deep ideological stalemate between the Taliban and the international community is consigning millions of Afghans to squalor. The NGOs demand the release of printed Afghan banknotes that are now being held in Poland but are urgently needed. As a result of the west's reluctance to lift sanctions until the Taliban established a more representative government, allowed girls to return to secondary school, and permitted independent control of the Afghan central bank, discussions on the release of the central bank's assets have been ongoing for months. In a statement released on Sunday, the European Union restated these general requests. Also read | Afghanistan under Taliban: Narrated by an Afghan woman Most of the major organisations present in the nation are represented by the 32 NGOs, which state: "In the last 12 months, millions of Afghans have experienced a fresh wave of adversity, including widespread hunger, unemployment, and almost universal poverty. Ninety-five percent of people lack access to sufficient food. Girls and women suffer more than males do. Families are reportedly being pushed to make unthinkable decisions in order to survive, according to NGOs working on the ground. As reported by the Guardian, One of the NGOs that has signed the declaration, the International Rescue Committee, has an advocacy coordinator in Afghanistan named Samira Sayed Rahman. She said: "On a recent journey to the south and south-east, I saw a healthcare system in collapse. In recent months, hospitals have not had enough cash to pay their employees. They lack the funds to purchase drugs and medical supplies. They lack the resources to purchase equipment. Afghan doctors and nurses are operating a large portion of the healthcare system out of goodwill. That model cannot be maintained. Many are attempting to flee. Asuntha Charles, the national director of World Vision Afghanistan, said: “The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is cataclysmic, and children – as ever in crises like this – are on the frontlines. Over 4 million children are out of school, the majority of them girls, and more than 1.1 million are engaged in child labour. I have met families forced to sell their children, as young as three years old, simply to survive. As the world’s attention drifts, Afghans are falling deeper into catastrophe. We cannot turn our backs on them now.” The International Rescue Committee's director for Afghanistan, Vicki Aken, stated: "The country's economic collapse is what has caused this crisis. The decisions made last year to isolate the Taliban, such as the freezing of foreign funds, the grounding of the banking system, and the suspension of development assistance that funded the majority of government services, have had a disastrous effect. Extreme poverty is worsening food insecurity, decreasing demand for goods, driving Afghan businesses out of business, and leading to increased unemployment. At the end of July in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Thomas West, the US special representative for Afghanistan, and Brian Nelson, the under-secretary of the Treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence, met with Taliban representatives to discuss the conditions for the release of $3.5 billion (£2.9 billion) in Afghan central bank assets that are currently held in the US. The Biden administration has controversially set aside an additional $3.5 billion to aid 9/11 terror attack victims. Noor Ahmad Agha, a US-designated global terrorist, was appointed by the Taliban as the central bank's deputy governor, which has angered the west. The US has pushed for the establishment of a body that is separate from the central bank to supervise the management of any repatriated assets. The NGOs stress in their statement that "appropriate protections should be in place" if the bank's reserves are returned, without going into further detail. The Afghan currency has suffered a severe depreciation as a result of the bank's inability to access the cash, driving up import prices and threatening to bring the banking system to its knees, making it difficult for people to access their savings and receive their paychecks. The NGOs also urge donors and international financial organisations to distribute the remaining cash in the Afghan Reconstruction Trust Fund, which is overseen by the World Bank, as well as to increase the role of NGOs in the fund. The disbursement of $793 million in two instalments to other long-term projects outside of the Taliban's authority was authorised by the management committee of the fund in June. The NGOs assert that Afghan civil society organisations, particularly those run by women both inside and outside the nation, must also have access to money and support. "Hard-won advances over the past 20 years are swiftly being undone, as women and girls are systematically eliminated from public life," Human Rights Watch researcher Fereshta Abbasi said. They are no longer able to exercise their rights to freedom of movement, work, or education. The tremendous sense of abandonment and helplessness that permeates the women I meet with makes them feel resentful. Their cries must be heard by us. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH | One year of Taliban regime: A year of grave human rights violation?

Afghanistan: In order to address 'near-universal poverty' NGOs demand assets to be unfrozen

August 15 also marks the return of Taliban in Afghanistan. It was on this day in 2021, when the Taliban seized control of Kabul. A year since that dramatic day, how have things changed in Afghanistan? Watch this report by Palki Sharma to find out.

Gravitas: 1 year of Taliban rule in Afghanistan

Since the fall of Kabul over one year ago to the Taliban, Afghan refugees in UK are still struggling to form new lives. For many families, these difficulties are compounded by trauma from years of conflict, along with anxieties over loved ones still in Afghanistan.

Afghan refugees relocated to UK still struggling to rebuild lives

What are the key events that have taken place in Afghanistan since Taliban takeover?

In Afghanistan, the Taliban marked a year in power on Monday, a year since sending the economy into a tailspin and fundamentally transforming the country. The Taliban marked the day with small-scale celebrations even as a country deals with several issues including increasing poverty and a reduced role of women across the country.

Taliban mark one year with celebrations even as a country deals with poverty, reduced role of women

With more than 3 million people displaced, Afghans are the third-largest refugee community in the world. Thousands of them were evacuated from Kabul as US-led forces completed a hasty withdrawal. One year on, how are those refugees coping with their new life? Mariam Wardak tells you.

South Asia Diary: Afghan refugees struggle to rebuild their lives

The UN has described Afghanistan as the worst humanitarian crisis on the planet. At least 23 million Afghans, including 3.2 million children, are at risk of malnutrition. Mariam Wardak gets you a report.

South Asia Diary: Afghan humanitarian crisis spirals out of control

The Taliban are systematically erasing women from public life. Afghan girls are barred from attending schools and women are denied government jobs. Mariam Wardak tells you how the Taliban wiped out 20 years of women's rights in one year.

South Asia Diary: Taliban erase Afghan women from public life

The new Taliban regime is re-packaging the regressive policies of the first Taliban regime in the late 1990s. Mariam Wardak brings you 5 reasons why the Taliban are unchanged.

South Asia Diary: Myth of Taliban 2.0 busted

The Taliban marked the first anniversary of its return to power in Afghanistan following a turbulent year that saw women's rights crushed and a humanitarian crisis worsen. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Taliban mark turbulent first year in power

On the one year anniversary of the Taliban rule, the Foreign Affairs Committee of Republicans are getting closer to releasing their report on America's evacuation from Afghanistan.

House REPs to issue report on US withdrawal, scathing report on Afghan drawdown

The Taliban took over Afghanistan and captured the Kabul Presidential Palace. After weeks of violent clashes across the country, it was a rapid takeover that ended in a hasty withdrawal of western troops from the country.

1 year of Taliban rule, hold small victory parades; fear, violence, misery take over Afghans

August 15th is a day of pride, valor and victory for India, but for Afghanistan, it is a day of defeat and the fall of their country as a nation and the shackles of the Taliban.

WION Dispatch: Taliban completes one year of power in Afghanistan

Taliban marked the first anniversary of their return to power in Afghanistan. A turbulent year wherein women's rights were crushed and humanitarian crisis worsened.

Afghanistan: Women devoid of the right to education, illegal underground schools prop-up in Kabul

August 15th 2021 is a date which is etched in the memories of all Afghans across the world. It was a nightmare to witness the fall of the Afghan Republic and our flag - the symbol of our identity within the international community.

One year down the road and majority of Afghans have still not come to terms with everything that happened post August 2021. Personally, I still struggle to comprehend the events that unfolded and eventually, led to the fall of Kabul, my homeland.

Conflict has been synonymous with Afghanistan’s name for the past four decades. Globally, Afghanistan is commonly associated with terrorism, war and opium. No one cared to look beyond the stereotypical, generalized notions about my homeland. I am not saying those projections were all false, but they weren’t entirely true. Afghanistan has so much more to offer.

Here we are on 15th of August 2022, marking the one-year anniversary of Kabul’s fall and victory of the IEA forces in Afghanistan. While we all know how the political transition happened and what unfolded afterwards, it is much more important to understand the serious implications this transition brought for the millions of common Afghans - especially women and girls.

A roller coaster of emotions took over us. Dread, pain, grief, loss and uncertainty eclipsed our hopes. The trauma will continue to haunt us for years to come and perhaps, only perseverance and time will heal us.

With the fall of the republic and the establishment of the new regime, the public sector took a big hit. While the system already faced a number of challenges, political transition just made it worse. Sectors such as healthcare, education and economy were severely crippled and continue to struggle till date.

Access to education is considered one of the most vital rights for a child and every nation must ensure that all children get an equal opportunity to quality education.

However, the prohibition on teenage girls to go back to school is the perfect example of how political chaos has deprived Afghan girls from their basic right to education for over 330 days (and counting).

The Twitter hashtag #LetAfghanGirlsLearn has been trending for months on different social media platforms while, on the other hand we have some INGOs and local NGOs who have been trying to advocate and appeal to the world and current authorities in Afghanistan in order to provoke a change regarding this issue. However, there are no actual results.

Every day my teenage cousins ask me whether they would ever go back to school? Whether they will be able to fulfil their aspirations? Unfortunately, I have no answers for them. I feel absolutely helpless thinking about the millions of other deprived girls.

With each passing day, the world is failing Afghan girls by choosing to be silent. In my opinion, no good will ever come to a country where girls are denied their right to education.

Following the collapse of the previous government, I still remember the mayhem one could witness outside banks after 15th of August 2021. Everyone was just trying to rush to the banks and get their money out because they knew that they would lose all their savings if the banking system collapsed.

Unfortunately, there is not much of an improvement for the Afghan economy. Even after a year the economy is only plummeting and deepening the already existing humanitarian crisis.

In the initial days post 15th of August 2021, there was a huge liquidity crisis across the country which crippled the banking system and to further add to our miseries, Afghanistan’s foreign currency reserves were frozen as well. Additionally, Afghanistan was a country highly dependent on foreign funding for its survival so with the fall of the republic and the halt in funding from donor countries, the situation worsened.

People across Afghanistan have plunged into deeper levels of poverty over the past year and the situation remains dire. Almost 97% of families are struggling to provide enough food for their children (Save the Children, August 2022) and this inch-meal we are getting poorer in all respects.

Furthermore, it is not only the banking system, but also the healthcare system and other basic public services that are being affected and will jeopardize the lives of millions of Afghans.

We are in a deep humanitarian crisis.

Most importantly, let us be mindful to acknowledge that the fate was my country is nothing but a manufactured catastrophe.

Sadly, there has also been a significant brain drain since the Taliban came to power, I am certain that majority will return to Afghanistan if and when the conditions are stable. No one wishes to leave their home and stay away by choice.

Like me, there are many in Afghanistan who chose to stay back and are yearning for a better future. It is inspiring to see many Afghan-led initiatives such as PenPath, Charmaghz, Ehtesab, LEARN AFG and many more who continue to bring the best out of the worst conditions for us.

May the Afghan spirit never cease to exist!

The author is a postgraduate scholar pursuing International Relations, with a specialization in Peace &amp; Diplomacy from Kardan University, Afghanistan. She is currently engaged with a prominent INGO working in the humanitarian sector.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

&nbsp;

August 15th 2021 is a date which is etched in the memories of all Afghans across the world. It was a nightmare to witness the fall of the Afghan Republic and our flag - the symbol of our identity within the international community.

August 15th 2021 is a date which is etched in the memories of all Afghans across the world. It was a nightmare to witness the fall of the Afghan Republic and our flag - the symbol of our identity within the international community. One year down the road and majority of Afghans have still not come to terms with everything that happened post August 2021. Personally, I still struggle to comprehend the events that unfolded and eventually, led to the fall of Kabul, my homeland. Conflict has been synonymous with Afghanistan’s name for the past four decades. Globally, Afghanistan is commonly associated with terrorism, war and opium. No one cared to look beyond the stereotypical, generalized notions about my homeland. I am not saying those projections were all false, but they weren’t entirely true. Afghanistan has so much more to offer. Here we are on 15th of August 2022, marking the one-year anniversary of Kabul’s fall and victory of the IEA forces in Afghanistan. While we all know how the political transition happened and what unfolded afterwards, it is much more important to understand the serious implications this transition brought for the millions of common Afghans - especially women and girls. A roller coaster of emotions took over us. Dread, pain, grief, loss and uncertainty eclipsed our hopes. The trauma will continue to haunt us for years to come and perhaps, only perseverance and time will heal us. With the fall of the republic and the establishment of the new regime, the public sector took a big hit. While the system already faced a number of challenges, political transition just made it worse. Sectors such as healthcare, education and economy were severely crippled and continue to struggle till date. Access to education is considered one of the most vital rights for a child and every nation must ensure that all children get an equal opportunity to quality education. However, the prohibition on teenage girls to go back to school is the perfect example of how political chaos has deprived Afghan girls from their basic right to education for over 330 days (and counting). The Twitter hashtag #LetAfghanGirlsLearn has been trending for months on different social media platforms while, on the other hand we have some INGOs and local NGOs who have been trying to advocate and appeal to the world and current authorities in Afghanistan in order to provoke a change regarding this issue. However, there are no actual results. Every day my teenage cousins ask me whether they would ever go back to school? Whether they will be able to fulfil their aspirations? Unfortunately, I have no answers for them. I feel absolutely helpless thinking about the millions of other deprived girls. With each passing day, the world is failing Afghan girls by choosing to be silent. In my opinion, no good will ever come to a country where girls are denied their right to education. Following the collapse of the previous government, I still remember the mayhem one could witness outside banks after 15th of August 2021. Everyone was just trying to rush to the banks and get their money out because they knew that they would lose all their savings if the banking system collapsed. Unfortunately, there is not much of an improvement for the Afghan economy. Even after a year the economy is only plummeting and deepening the already existing humanitarian crisis. In the initial days post 15th of August 2021, there was a huge liquidity crisis across the country which crippled the banking system and to further add to our miseries, Afghanistan’s foreign currency reserves were frozen as well. Additionally, Afghanistan was a country highly dependent on foreign funding for its survival so with the fall of the republic and the halt in funding from donor countries, the situation worsened. People across Afghanistan have plunged into deeper levels of poverty over the past year and the situation remains dire. Almost 97% of families are struggling to provide enough food for their children (Save the Children, August 2022) and this inch-meal we are getting poorer in all respects. Furthermore, it is not only the banking system, but also the healthcare system and other basic public services that are being affected and will jeopardize the lives of millions of Afghans. We are in a deep humanitarian crisis. Most importantly, let us be mindful to acknowledge that the fate was my country is nothing but a manufactured catastrophe. Sadly, there has also been a significant brain drain since the Taliban came to power, I am certain that majority will return to Afghanistan if and when the conditions are stable. No one wishes to leave their home and stay away by choice. Like me, there are many in Afghanistan who chose to stay back and are yearning for a better future. It is inspiring to see many Afghan-led initiatives such as PenPath, Charmaghz, Ehtesab, LEARN AFG and many more who continue to bring the best out of the worst conditions for us. May the Afghan spirit never cease to exist! The author is a postgraduate scholar pursuing International Relations, with a specialization in Peace & Diplomacy from Kardan University, Afghanistan. She is currently engaged with a prominent INGO working in the humanitarian sector. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Afghanistan under Taliban: Narrated by an Afghan woman

One year of Taliban regime: A year of grave human rights violation?

August 15th marks one year since the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan. Many believe that former President Ashraf Ghani is the one mainly responsible for the situation here stating that he failed in his mission in Afghanistan.

August 15th marks one year since Taliban 2.0 in Afghanistan; experts hold Ashraf Ghani responsible

An Afghan envoy has held former President Ashraf Ghani responsible for thousands of troops being murdered during the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan.

Afghan Envoy: Ghani is responsible for thousand troops murdered

While Afghanistan nears Taliban's first anniversary of takeover, Taliban cracked down on women protesters. Taliban has been accused of taking away women rights in the south Asian nation.

Kabul: Women led protests in front of Education Ministry

Days before the first anniversary of the hardline Islamists' return to power, Taliban fighters forcefully dispersed a rare gathering in the Afghan capital on Saturday by beating protesting women and firing into the air.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/zawahiris-body-not-found-says-taliban-506489">Taliban</a>&nbsp;have reversed the slight advancements gained by women throughout the two decades of US operations in Afghanistan since taking power on August 15 last year.

An AFP correspondent said that some 40 women marched in front of the education ministry building in Kabul while chanting "food, work, and freedom," but the fighters dispersed them by firing into the air.

Taliban fighters followed and clubbed some female demonstrators with their rifle butts after they sought safety in adjacent stores.

The demonstrators carried a banner which read "August 15 is a black day" as they demanded rights to work and political participation.&nbsp;"Justice, justice. We're fed up with ignorance," they chanted, many not wearing face veils.

"Unfortunately, the Taliban from the intelligence service came and fired in the air," said Zholia Parsi, one of the organisers of the march.&nbsp;"They dispersed the girls, tore our banners and confiscated the mobile phones of many girls."

An AFP correspondent witnessed the women&nbsp;being physically assaulted by Taliban fighters.

'Making women invisible'&nbsp;

After taking control last year, the Taliban had promised a gentler version of the strict Islamist rule that characterised their first term in power from 1996 to 2001.

But in order to conform to the movement's severe interpretation of Islam, numerous limitations have already been put in place, particularly for women.

Many government occupations are no longer open to women, and tens of thousands of girls have been excluded from secondary education. Additionally, women are now only permitted to visit the public gardens and parks in the capital on days when men are not present. Long distance solo travel is also no longer permitted.

Hibatullah Akhundzada, the head of the Taliban and the country's ultimate authority, commanded women to completely cover themselves in public, including their faces, preferably with an all-encompassing burqa.

The Taliban regime has received harsh criticism from the UN and human rights organisations for its treatment of women.

Richard Bennett, the UN's special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, told reporters in Kabul during a visit in May that these measures display a "pattern of absolute gender segregation and are intended to make women invisible in the community."

At first, a few Afghan ladies protested modestly by pushing back against the limits. However, the Taliban quickly apprehended the ringleaders and imprisoned them without charge while maintaining their innocence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch |&nbsp;UN: Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis is the world's worst

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-afghanistans-humanitarian-crisis-is-the-worlds-worst-506417/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Days before the first anniversary of the hardline Islamists' return to power, Taliban fighters forcefully dispersed a rare gathering in the Afghan capital on Saturday by beating protesting women and firing into the air.

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

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

The older girls in Afghanistan schools are familiar with the procedure when inspectors show up at the school gate, which happens most weeks now. They sneak out of class, dash to a musty room, and huddle there for long time, occasionally even for hours, so that they are not seen by the guys who want to keep them locked up at home. In the world, the Taliban are the only group that forbid girls from attending secondary school.

After the US military left the country and the militant group took control, learning algebra is now considered to be an illegal act of resistance. Teenagers must consider what will happen if they are discovered in a classroom in addition to worrying about difficult arithmetic, English grammar, or Persian poetry.

Taliban representatives assert that the prohibition is only temporary, citing numerous reasons such as the necessity to alter security, uniforms, teachers, buildings, or curricula. But many Afghans can still clearly recall the group's previous six-year rule, during which female schools were "temporarily" closed.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-from-grimus-to-quichotte-british-indian-writer-salman-rushdies-finest-works-506550">In pics | From Grimus to Quichotte: British-Indian writer Salman Rushdie's finest works</a>

As a result, women and men all over Afghanistan started resisting as their daughters felt the pain of their ambitions of becoming physicians, pilots, engineers, teachers, or artists crushed. All around the nation, "secret schools" have popped up, as diverse as the teachers in charge of them. Some are offered online, although only a small percentage of Afghans have cellphones and data access.

Some are private schools that continue to run largely as they did in the past, free from the lingering shadow of terror. Others are far more impromptu attempts that serve more as morale boosters and alternatives for females who are studying in the hopes that schools will reopen.

(with inputs from agencies)

The older girls in Afghanistan schools are familiar with the procedure when inspectors show up at the school gate, which happens most weeks now. They sneak out of class, dash to a musty room, and huddle there for long time, occasionally even for hours, so that they are not seen by the guys who want to keep them locked up at home.

The older girls in Afghanistan schools are familiar with the procedure when inspectors show up at the school gate, which happens most weeks now. They sneak out of class, dash to a musty room, and huddle there for long time, occasionally even for hours, so that they are not seen by the guys who want to keep them locked up at home. In the world, the Taliban are the only group that forbid girls from attending secondary school. After the US military left the country and the militant group took control, learning algebra is now considered to be an illegal act of resistance. Teenagers must consider what will happen if they are discovered in a classroom in addition to worrying about difficult arithmetic, English grammar, or Persian poetry. Taliban representatives assert that the prohibition is only temporary, citing numerous reasons such as the necessity to alter security, uniforms, teachers, buildings, or curricula. But many Afghans can still clearly recall the group's previous six-year rule, during which female schools were "temporarily" closed. Also Read: In pics | From Grimus to Quichotte: British-Indian writer Salman Rushdie's finest works As a result, women and men all over Afghanistan started resisting as their daughters felt the pain of their ambitions of becoming physicians, pilots, engineers, teachers, or artists crushed. All around the nation, "secret schools" have popped up, as diverse as the teachers in charge of them. Some are offered online, although only a small percentage of Afghans have cellphones and data access. Some are private schools that continue to run largely as they did in the past, free from the lingering shadow of terror. Others are far more impromptu attempts that serve more as morale boosters and alternatives for females who are studying in the hopes that schools will reopen. (with inputs from agencies)

Secret schools: Afghan girls defy Taliban, take huge risks to continue studies

It was roughly a year since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, and since then, the country has witnessed lots of changes apart from a dwindling economy.

Afghanistan: One year since the Taliban took control of Kabul

Afghan envoy holds Ashraf Ghani responsible for thousands of troops being murdered

Taliban cracks down on women protesters in Afghanistan; Protests before Taliban's first anniversary

It has been one year since the Taliban took over Afghanistan and the country has witnessed a lot of changes apart from a dwindling economy. The health and infrastructure of the country is in a shambles.

UN: Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis is the world's worst

Taliban cleric Sheikh Rahimullah Haqqani was killed in a suicide bomb attack which occurred in Afghanistan's Kabul on Thursday, local media reported.

Taliban cleric Sheikh Rahimullah Haqqani assassinated in a suicide bomb attack

The Taliban have reportedly permanently banned women from becoming flight attendants on Afghanistan’s national flag carrier airline.

Reports: Taliban have permanently banned women flight attendants

taliban

Taliban, News on Taliban, stories on Taliban, articles on Taliban, Taliban stories at Wion, Taliban news, Taliban latest news