The Taliban have introduced a new uniform for its police force, the newly designed uniform will be in the shade of dark blue instead of old lighter grey blue color while on the sleeves of the uniform Afghanistan's Tri-coloured Republican flag will be replaced with the Taliban's Islamic Emirate flag.

New police uniform in Afghanistan: Taliban's Islamic Emirate flag replaces the old flag

Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, the illegal trafficking of Afghan children and the illegal sale and purchase of goods have been on the rise in the region. Due to the hunger and humanitarian crisis, the illegal buying and selling of goods across the border has increased manifold as little children on the Torkham border carrying sacks on their backs and tying them on their shoulders with ropes and running behind the truck have been spotted with Taliban fighters present at the entrance to Afghanistan.

The children, aged between three and 10 years, watch every passing truck so that they can somehow get on board and enter Pakistan, where they could sell goods and buy sugar and flour in return. Meanwhile, border security officials chased trucks carrying children. Four or five-year-old children hiding inside the tyres of these large trucks were pulled out by security officials and sent back to the Afghan border, reported The Frontier Post.

A customs officer said that there are cigarettes, batteries, food items, and some drinks which they give to the locals. However, in return, they get sugar, flour, pulses, etc. "Some of the bags contain illicit drugs and narcotics which these children try to sell cheaply here in Pakistan, but due to strict checking at the Torkham border, these children are caught."&nbsp;

He added that many children die because of accidents due to hiding or hanging in trucks, the Frontier Post quoted, citing the custom agent.Taliban fighters are often seen across the border chasing the children so that they will not cross the gate, but hunger and need have taken away all the fear of those innocent children, the report added. In another statement, a local shopkeeper said, "We are at a loss because we buy and sell goods at full price after paying taxes, but some locals also take advantage of these children by buying cheap goods without paying taxes."He said that it was the responsibility of the international community and human rights organisations to address the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and to take some steps for the education of these children so that they do not resort to illegal means in their livelihood as the Taliban's atrocities have been on an incessant rise in the country and its nearby regions. A customs officer said that the issue is raised at the monthly and weekly meetings of the border management, which are attended by security officials from Pakistan and Afghanistan, The Frontier Post reported. Notably, the situation of human rights in Afghanistan has worsened since the collapse of the Afghan government and the Taliban's return to power in August last year.&nbsp;

Although the fighting in the country has ended, serious human rights violations continue unabated, especially against women and minorities.Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan faced criticism inside and outside Afghanistan for imposing restrictions on women. 2021 has been the worst year for Afghan women as the Taliban, after assuming control of Afghanistan, has rolled back access to their right to education and work. However, they also snatched it later for an indefinite period of time.&nbsp;

The Taliban has imposed draconian restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression, association, assembly, and movement for women and girls. As a result of this, women and girls in Afghanistan are facing a human rights crisis, deprived of the fundamental rights to non-discrimination, education, work, public participation, and health.&nbsp;

The women in the country are staring at a bleak future due to a number of restrictions imposed by the Taliban governing aspects of their lives within ten months of Afghanistan's takeover. Women are no longer allowed to travel unless accompanied by men related to them, and they are being curtailed from wearing make-up as well as their reproductive rights.

A series of deadly blasts, especially targeting minorities, have hit Afghanistan in the past few weeks. The series of explosions and vulnerable security conditions, particularly for minorities, have drawn worldwide condemnation, including from the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), the United States (US), and others. 
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Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, the illegal trafficking of Afghan children and the illegal sale and purchase of goods have been on the rise in the region.

Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, the illegal trafficking of Afghan children and the illegal sale and purchase of goods have been on the rise in the region. Due to the hunger and humanitarian crisis, the illegal buying and selling of goods across the border has increased manifold as little children on the Torkham border carrying sacks on their backs and tying them on their shoulders with ropes and running behind the truck have been spotted with Taliban fighters present at the entrance to Afghanistan. The children, aged between three and 10 years, watch every passing truck so that they can somehow get on board and enter Pakistan, where they could sell goods and buy sugar and flour in return. Meanwhile, border security officials chased trucks carrying children. Four or five-year-old children hiding inside the tyres of these large trucks were pulled out by security officials and sent back to the Afghan border, reported The Frontier Post. A customs officer said that there are cigarettes, batteries, food items, and some drinks which they give to the locals. However, in return, they get sugar, flour, pulses, etc. "Some of the bags contain illicit drugs and narcotics which these children try to sell cheaply here in Pakistan, but due to strict checking at the Torkham border, these children are caught." He added that many children die because of accidents due to hiding or hanging in trucks, the Frontier Post quoted, citing the custom agent.Taliban fighters are often seen across the border chasing the children so that they will not cross the gate, but hunger and need have taken away all the fear of those innocent children, the report added. In another statement, a local shopkeeper said, "We are at a loss because we buy and sell goods at full price after paying taxes, but some locals also take advantage of these children by buying cheap goods without paying taxes."He said that it was the responsibility of the international community and human rights organisations to address the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and to take some steps for the education of these children so that they do not resort to illegal means in their livelihood as the Taliban's atrocities have been on an incessant rise in the country and its nearby regions. A customs officer said that the issue is raised at the monthly and weekly meetings of the border management, which are attended by security officials from Pakistan and Afghanistan, The Frontier Post reported. Notably, the situation of human rights in Afghanistan has worsened since the collapse of the Afghan government and the Taliban's return to power in August last year. Although the fighting in the country has ended, serious human rights violations continue unabated, especially against women and minorities.Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan faced criticism inside and outside Afghanistan for imposing restrictions on women. 2021 has been the worst year for Afghan women as the Taliban, after assuming control of Afghanistan, has rolled back access to their right to education and work. However, they also snatched it later for an indefinite period of time. The Taliban has imposed draconian restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression, association, assembly, and movement for women and girls. As a result of this, women and girls in Afghanistan are facing a human rights crisis, deprived of the fundamental rights to non-discrimination, education, work, public participation, and health. The women in the country are staring at a bleak future due to a number of restrictions imposed by the Taliban governing aspects of their lives within ten months of Afghanistan's takeover. Women are no longer allowed to travel unless accompanied by men related to them, and they are being curtailed from wearing make-up as well as their reproductive rights. A series of deadly blasts, especially targeting minorities, have hit Afghanistan in the past few weeks. The series of explosions and vulnerable security conditions, particularly for minorities, have drawn worldwide condemnation, including from the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), the United States (US), and others. 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 regime accountable for rise in illegal trafficking of children in Afghanistan

A US government watchdog said on Monday that Ashraf Ghani, former Aghanistan president almost certainly did not flee the country with millions in cash. It was reported in media after Taliban seized power in Afghanistan that Ghani fled with huge amount of cash just before Taliban toppled his regime.

The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) report, which will be published on Tuesday, is an interim document, as the office is still awaiting answers to questions sent to Ghani.

First reported on by Politico, it interviews witnesses as well as officials who were in the helicopter convoy with Ghani as they hastily fled the Presidential Palace in Kabul while the Taliban marched into the capital on August 15, 2021.

Multiple media reports suggested in the subsequent days that Ghani and other official took about USD 169 million of Afghan government's money as they fled. These claims have been fiercely denied by Ghani.

"Although SIGAR found that some cash was taken from the grounds of the palace and loaded onto these helicopters, evidence indicates that this number did not exceed $1 million and may have been closer in value to $500,000," the report states.

The report makes the assertion based on interviews of witnesses and officials. All of them reportedly said that there were no signs of such large amounts of cash. The helicopters, according to them, were already overloaded with people fleeing for their lives.

"$169 million in hundred dollar bills, stacked end to end, would form a block 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) long, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet tall... This block would have weighed 3,722 pounds, or nearly two tons," SIGAR noted, adding that witnesses reported "minimal luggage" on the helicopters, which had no cargo holds.

Instead one official carried around $200,000, another carried some $240,000 and others had "$5,000 to $10,000 in their pockets... No one had millions," one former senior official told SIGAR.

"If true, this puts the total amount of cash on board the three helicopters at approximately $500,000, with $440,000 belonging to the Afghan government," the report said.

"SIGAR also identified suspicious circumstances in which approximately $5 million in cash was allegedly left behind at the presidential palace," the report added.

It was not clear where the money came from or what it was for, "but it was supposedly divided by members of the Presidential Protective Service after the helicopters departed but before the Taliban captured the palace," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A US government watchdog said on Monday that Ashraf Ghani, former Aghanistan president almost certainly did not flee the country with millions in cash. It was reported in media after Taliban seized power in Afghanistan that Ghani fled with huge amount of cash just before Taliban toppled his regime.

A US government watchdog said on Monday that Ashraf Ghani, former Aghanistan president almost certainly did not flee the country with millions in cash. It was reported in media after Taliban seized power in Afghanistan that Ghani fled with huge amount of cash just before Taliban toppled his regime. The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) report, which will be published on Tuesday, is an interim document, as the office is still awaiting answers to questions sent to Ghani. First reported on by Politico, it interviews witnesses as well as officials who were in the helicopter convoy with Ghani as they hastily fled the Presidential Palace in Kabul while the Taliban marched into the capital on August 15, 2021. Multiple media reports suggested in the subsequent days that Ghani and other official took about USD 169 million of Afghan government's money as they fled. These claims have been fiercely denied by Ghani. "Although SIGAR found that some cash was taken from the grounds of the palace and loaded onto these helicopters, evidence indicates that this number did not exceed $1 million and may have been closer in value to $500,000," the report states. The report makes the assertion based on interviews of witnesses and officials. All of them reportedly said that there were no signs of such large amounts of cash. The helicopters, according to them, were already overloaded with people fleeing for their lives. "$169 million in hundred dollar bills, stacked end to end, would form a block 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) long, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet tall... This block would have weighed 3,722 pounds, or nearly two tons," SIGAR noted, adding that witnesses reported "minimal luggage" on the helicopters, which had no cargo holds. Instead one official carried around $200,000, another carried some $240,000 and others had "$5,000 to $10,000 in their pockets... No one had millions," one former senior official told SIGAR. "If true, this puts the total amount of cash on board the three helicopters at approximately $500,000, with $440,000 belonging to the Afghan government," the report said. "SIGAR also identified suspicious circumstances in which approximately $5 million in cash was allegedly left behind at the presidential palace," the report added. It was not clear where the money came from or what it was for, "but it was supposedly divided by members of the Presidential Protective Service after the helicopters departed but before the Taliban captured the palace," it said. (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 ×

Ex-Afghan president Ghani unlikely to have fled with millions in cash: US Watchdog

After a US State Department report on religious freedom criticised Afghanistan's treatment of women, girls and religious minorities, the Taliban claims that "the religious and civil rights of all minorities in Afghanistan are protected".&nbsp;Taking to Twitter, Taliban rulers' spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid claimed that the US state department's findings with respect to the religious freedoms in Afghanistan are "incomplete" and based on "false information".

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The religious and civil rights of all minorities in Afghanistan are protected. In this regard, the State Department's report is incomplete and based on false information. 
All our Sunnis, Shiites, Sikhs and Hindus practice their religion freely. We reject the State Dept. report.
— Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) <a href="https://twitter.com/Zabehulah_M33/status/1533325371046772736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"Religion and ethnicity in the country were often closely linked. &nbsp;Sikhs, Hindus, Christians, and other non-Muslim minorities reported continued harassment from Muslims, although Hindus and Sikhs stated that prior to the Taliban takeover, they continued to be able to publicly practice their religions," said the 2021 International Religious Freedom Report.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-destroying-lives-of-lgbtq-people-in-afghanistan-report-447765">Taliban 'destroying lives' of LGBTQ+ people in Afghanistan: Report</a>

However, as per Mujahid "All our Sunnis, Shiites, Sikhs and Hindus practice their religion freely."

"We reject the State Dept. report," he added.

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has alleged that since the Taliban took over Afghanistan last year, women and girls have been devoid of their basic rights and that the group's ideologies are infringing on their liberties.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Indian diplomats meet senior Taliban leadership

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Religious minorities, in particular, were also under threat from the group, added Blinken.

He also said that with the group coming to power, the groundwork has been laid for the Islamic State (IS) terror group to operate in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-girls-school-education-linked-to-hijab-taliban-promises-good-news-soon-480424">Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon</a>

As per a report by the Khaama Press, calling the Taliban's coming to power a "disaster" for Afghanistan the US commission had previously instructed the State Department to place Afghanistan at the bottom of the religious freedom rankings.

The State Department has also expressed alarm about a "gross violation" of religious freedom in China, Pakistan, Iran, India, and Myanmar in 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After a US State Department report on religious freedom criticised Afghanistan's treatment of women, girls and religious minorities, the Taliban claims that "the religious and civil rights of all minorities in Afghanistan are protected".

After a US State Department report on religious freedom criticised Afghanistan's treatment of women, girls and religious minorities, the Taliban claims that "the religious and civil rights of all minorities in Afghanistan are protected". Taking to Twitter, Taliban rulers' spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid claimed that the US state department's findings with respect to the religious freedoms in Afghanistan are "incomplete" and based on "false information". The religious and civil rights of all minorities in Afghanistan are protected. In this regard, the State Department's report is incomplete and based on false information. All our Sunnis, Shiites, Sikhs and Hindus practice their religion freely. We reject the State Dept. report. — Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) June 5, 2022 × "Religion and ethnicity in the country were often closely linked. Sikhs, Hindus, Christians, and other non-Muslim minorities reported continued harassment from Muslims, although Hindus and Sikhs stated that prior to the Taliban takeover, they continued to be able to publicly practice their religions," said the 2021 International Religious Freedom Report. Also read | Taliban 'destroying lives' of LGBTQ+ people in Afghanistan: Report However, as per Mujahid "All our Sunnis, Shiites, Sikhs and Hindus practice their religion freely." "We reject the State Dept. report," he added. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has alleged that since the Taliban took over Afghanistan last year, women and girls have been devoid of their basic rights and that the group's ideologies are infringing on their liberties. Watch | Gravitas: Indian diplomats meet senior Taliban leadership Religious minorities, in particular, were also under threat from the group, added Blinken. He also said that with the group coming to power, the groundwork has been laid for the Islamic State (IS) terror group to operate in the country. Also read | Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon As per a report by the Khaama Press, calling the Taliban's coming to power a "disaster" for Afghanistan the US commission had previously instructed the State Department to place Afghanistan at the bottom of the religious freedom rankings. The State Department has also expressed alarm about a "gross violation" of religious freedom in China, Pakistan, Iran, India, and Myanmar in 2021. (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 claims religious and civil rights of all minorities in Afghanistan are protected

The crackle of gunfire. A gasp of a stranger. Explosions rumbling in the distance.&nbsp;In the Afghan capital of Kabul, such sounds would normally prompt panic.&nbsp;

But they are coming from the tinny speaker of a mobile phone clutched by a young man, hunched over and absorbed in the bloody shoot 'em up&nbsp;video&nbsp;game&nbsp;"PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds", or PUBG.

"In this country, we are living but we are not alive," said gamer Abdul Musawir Raufi, after peeling his gaze away from the phone screen, where his avatar duels with other players in an online arena.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-dushanbe-meet-on-afghanistan-nsa-ajit-doval-calls-for-inclusive-govt-in-kabul-482527">At Dushanbe meet on Afghanistan, NSA Ajit Doval calls for inclusive govt in Kabul</a>

"We don't know what will happen from one moment to the next. It's the only way to pass the time," said the 23-year-old.

Afghanistan has been wracked by four decades of very real conflict, now largely subsided since the withdrawal of US-led troops and the return of the Taliban last year.

But in a striking irony, youngsters say the wildly popular virtual violence simulator offers respite from the turmoil of the transition and the strictures of the hardline Islamist regime, as well as a rare channel of communication with the outside world.

Meanwhile, the Taliban -- who spent the past 20 years waging their own vicious and bloody insurgency -- are currently working to cut off access to PUBG, having deemed it a corrupting influence.

End of entertainment

Since storming back to power in August, the Taliban have not curtailed entertainment as harshly as they did during their previous stint in power between 1996 and 2001, when TV, cinema, photography and kite flying were all banned.

In the capital, a few arcades and bowling alleys remain open and some sports are still being played. But music has been banned alongside female-fronted or foreign television series.

Many Kabul residents are wary of the Taliban fighters who patrol the streets and man checkpoints, and prefer to stay at home rather than risk an outing for entertainment.

Raufi was once a keen football player, but most of the friends he played with fled the country during the chaotic mass evacuation in the final days of the international withdrawal.

Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Medical masks to protest against Taliban's new rule

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"The fun we used to have, the laughing with friends... it's all over," he said.

But PUBG, published by Chinese digital giant Tencent and downloaded on mobiles more than a billion times globally, has allowed him to stay in touch with friends and make new connections with foreign players online.

"It allows us to learn about the culture of other countries and their language. The bonds I've created are very strong," he said.

Former student Abdul Mujeeb, 20, has also found refuge in the&nbsp;video&nbsp;game&nbsp;from the spiralling economic crisis that accompanied the Taliban's return.

The United States has seized billions of dollars in Afghan assets, while international aid that propped up the domestic economy has dried up.

"During the previous government, we were mostly busy with our jobs and studies," said Mujeeb. "Now, we can't study and there are no jobs."

That leaves PUBG and TikTok -- the social media&nbsp;video&nbsp;app is also in the crosshairs of Taliban censors -- as "the entertainment we have at home and that keeps us busy", he said.

While mobile games offer an escape, providing a sense of community and boosting mood, the World Health Organization has warned that a small proportion of gamers can develop an addiction, characterised by the increased priority given to logging on to play.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/freeherface-afghan-male-journalists-stand-in-solidarity-with-their-female-colleagues-481708">#FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists stand in solidarity with their female colleagues</a>

Taliban bans&nbsp;

According to figures from specialist site DataReportal, only 9.2 million Afghans have access to the internet out of a population estimated at 40.2 million.

But Taliban authorities ordered a ban on both PUBG and TikTok in April, accusing them of leading younger generations "astray".

They nonetheless remain accessible.

The issue is currently being discussed with Afghan telecom companies and both apps "will be fully banned in our country", deputy government spokesman Inamullah Samangani told AFP.

Both Raufi and Mujeeb say they will find a way around any ban.

Student Shaheera Ghafori, 19, who plays PUBG like her brother and sister, believes the Taliban "don't have the means" to forbid the&nbsp;game. And she doesn't understand their reasoning.&nbsp;

"It's a bit of an irrational judgment," she said.

"It's better to have a place to keep young people busy rather than having them wander around the streets."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exiled-afghan-warlord-organising-group-in-turkey-against-taliban-481388">Exiled Afghan warlord organising group in Turkey against Taliban</a>

PUBG has already been banned in a number of countries, including India.

But with the Taliban increasingly confining women to the domestic sphere, Ghafori said the&nbsp;game&nbsp;is a "place to play which diverts our attention, rather than leaving us sitting at home depressed".

Ghafori hopes that contact with the modern world may cause the Taliban to change their ways. But, she admits, that may just be "wishful thinking".

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&nbsp;

The crackle of gunfire. A gasp of a stranger. Explosions rumbling in the distance. In the Afghan capital of Kabul, such sounds would normally prompt panic. But they are coming from the tinny speaker of a mobile phone clutched by a young man, hunched over and absorbed in the bloody shoot 'em up video game "PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds", or PUBG.

The crackle of gunfire. A gasp of a stranger. Explosions rumbling in the distance. In the Afghan capital of Kabul, such sounds would normally prompt panic. But they are coming from the tinny speaker of a mobile phone clutched by a young man, hunched over and absorbed in the bloody shoot 'em up video game "PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds", or PUBG. "In this country, we are living but we are not alive," said gamer Abdul Musawir Raufi, after peeling his gaze away from the phone screen, where his avatar duels with other players in an online arena. Also read | At Dushanbe meet on Afghanistan, NSA Ajit Doval calls for inclusive govt in Kabul "We don't know what will happen from one moment to the next. It's the only way to pass the time," said the 23-year-old. Afghanistan has been wracked by four decades of very real conflict, now largely subsided since the withdrawal of US-led troops and the return of the Taliban last year. But in a striking irony, youngsters say the wildly popular virtual violence simulator offers respite from the turmoil of the transition and the strictures of the hardline Islamist regime, as well as a rare channel of communication with the outside world. Meanwhile, the Taliban -- who spent the past 20 years waging their own vicious and bloody insurgency -- are currently working to cut off access to PUBG, having deemed it a corrupting influence. End of entertainment Since storming back to power in August, the Taliban have not curtailed entertainment as harshly as they did during their previous stint in power between 1996 and 2001, when TV, cinema, photography and kite flying were all banned. In the capital, a few arcades and bowling alleys remain open and some sports are still being played. But music has been banned alongside female-fronted or foreign television series. Many Kabul residents are wary of the Taliban fighters who patrol the streets and man checkpoints, and prefer to stay at home rather than risk an outing for entertainment. Raufi was once a keen football player, but most of the friends he played with fled the country during the chaotic mass evacuation in the final days of the international withdrawal. Watch | Afghanistan: Medical masks to protest against Taliban's new rule "The fun we used to have, the laughing with friends... it's all over," he said. But PUBG, published by Chinese digital giant Tencent and downloaded on mobiles more than a billion times globally, has allowed him to stay in touch with friends and make new connections with foreign players online. "It allows us to learn about the culture of other countries and their language. The bonds I've created are very strong," he said. Former student Abdul Mujeeb, 20, has also found refuge in the video game from the spiralling economic crisis that accompanied the Taliban's return. The United States has seized billions of dollars in Afghan assets, while international aid that propped up the domestic economy has dried up. "During the previous government, we were mostly busy with our jobs and studies," said Mujeeb. "Now, we can't study and there are no jobs." That leaves PUBG and TikTok -- the social media video app is also in the crosshairs of Taliban censors -- as "the entertainment we have at home and that keeps us busy", he said. While mobile games offer an escape, providing a sense of community and boosting mood, the World Health Organization has warned that a small proportion of gamers can develop an addiction, characterised by the increased priority given to logging on to play. Also read | #FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists stand in solidarity with their female colleagues Taliban bans According to figures from specialist site DataReportal, only 9.2 million Afghans have access to the internet out of a population estimated at 40.2 million. But Taliban authorities ordered a ban on both PUBG and TikTok in April, accusing them of leading younger generations "astray". They nonetheless remain accessible. The issue is currently being discussed with Afghan telecom companies and both apps "will be fully banned in our country", deputy government spokesman Inamullah Samangani told AFP. Both Raufi and Mujeeb say they will find a way around any ban. Student Shaheera Ghafori, 19, who plays PUBG like her brother and sister, believes the Taliban "don't have the means" to forbid the game. And she doesn't understand their reasoning. "It's a bit of an irrational judgment," she said. "It's better to have a place to keep young people busy rather than having them wander around the streets." Also read | Exiled Afghan warlord organising group in Turkey against Taliban PUBG has already been banned in a number of countries, including India. But with the Taliban increasingly confining women to the domestic sphere, Ghafori said the game is a "place to play which diverts our attention, rather than leaving us sitting at home depressed". Ghafori hopes that contact with the modern world may cause the Taliban to change their ways. But, she admits, that may just be "wishful thinking". 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.

Shoot 'em up video game a refuge for war-scarred Afghans

In Kabul today, a team of Indian diplomats met with a senior leader of the Taliban. What happened at the meeting? What's driving India's engagement with the Taliban? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Indian diplomats meet senior Taliban leadership

Aiming to wipe out the country's massive production of opium and heroin, the Taliban is running a campaign to eradicate poppy cultivation in Afghanistan.

"We are committed to bringing poppy cultivation to zero," said Interior Ministry spokesman Abdul Nafi Takor.

It comes after the Taliban issued an edict in early April banning poppy cultivation throughout the country.

Mullah Abdul Haq Akhund, the Taliban deputy interior minister for counternarcotics told The Associated Press in Helmand's provincial capital, Lashkar Gah that those violating the ban "will be arrested and tried according to Sharia laws in relevant courts."

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He said the Taliban were in touch with other governments and non-governmental organizations to work out alternative crops for farmers.

Despite billions of dollars spent by the US trying to stop poppy cultivation, production spiraled over the past 20 years.

Other than being the world's biggest opium producer, Afghanistan is also a major source of heroin in Europe and Asia.

Cut off from international funding in the wake of the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan's economy has collapsed and the ban will likely strike a heavy blow to millions of impoverished farmers and day laborers who rely on proceeds from the crop to survive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-narco-terrorism-to-informal-economy-the-state-crime-nexus-of-afghanistans-opium-dilemma-407432">Also read |&nbsp;From narco-terrorism to informal economy: The state-crime nexus of Afghanistan’s opium dilemma</a>

Afghanistan, which has been suffering under its worst drought in years, is facing a humanitarian crisis with most of its population struggling to afford food.

Harvesting opium from the poppies can fetch $300 a month and villagers rely on it to borrow money for staples such as flour, sugar, cooking oil, and heating oil.

According to estimates by the UN's Office on Drugs and Crime, 177,000 hectares (438,000 acres) were planted with poppies in 2021, yielding enough opium to produce up to 650 tons of heroin.

The total value of Afghanistan's opiates production in 2021 was $1.8-$2.7 billion, up to 14 per cent of the country's GDP, exceeding the value of its legal exports, the UNODC said in its most recent report.

&nbsp; 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Aiming to wipe out the country's massive production of opium and heroin, the Taliban is running a campaign to eradicate poppy cultivation in Afghanistan. "We are committed to bringing poppy cultivation to zero," said Interior Ministry spokesman Abdul Nafi Takor.

Aiming to wipe out the country's massive production of opium and heroin, the Taliban is running a campaign to eradicate poppy cultivation in Afghanistan. "We are committed to bringing poppy cultivation to zero," said Interior Ministry spokesman Abdul Nafi Takor. It comes after the Taliban issued an edict in early April banning poppy cultivation throughout the country. Mullah Abdul Haq Akhund, the Taliban deputy interior minister for counternarcotics told The Associated Press in Helmand's provincial capital, Lashkar Gah that those violating the ban "will be arrested and tried according to Sharia laws in relevant courts." He said the Taliban were in touch with other governments and non-governmental organizations to work out alternative crops for farmers. Despite billions of dollars spent by the US trying to stop poppy cultivation, production spiraled over the past 20 years. Other than being the world's biggest opium producer, Afghanistan is also a major source of heroin in Europe and Asia. Cut off from international funding in the wake of the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan's economy has collapsed and the ban will likely strike a heavy blow to millions of impoverished farmers and day laborers who rely on proceeds from the crop to survive. Also read | From narco-terrorism to informal economy: The state-crime nexus of Afghanistan’s opium dilemma Afghanistan, which has been suffering under its worst drought in years, is facing a humanitarian crisis with most of its population struggling to afford food. Harvesting opium from the poppies can fetch $300 a month and villagers rely on it to borrow money for staples such as flour, sugar, cooking oil, and heating oil. According to estimates by the UN's Office on Drugs and Crime, 177,000 hectares (438,000 acres) were planted with poppies in 2021, yielding enough opium to produce up to 650 tons of heroin. The total value of Afghanistan's opiates production in 2021 was $1.8-$2.7 billion, up to 14 per cent of the country's GDP, exceeding the value of its legal exports, the UNODC said in its most recent report. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Taliban running campaign to eradicate poppy cultivation in Afghanistan

A new survey shows that under Taliban rule, the lives of LGBTQ+ people have deteriorated radically. The survey cites cases of gang rape, violence and death threats since the Taliban came to power.

In the 43-page report titled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hrw.org/report/2022/01/26/even-if-you-go-skies-well-find-you/lgbt-people-afghanistan-after-taliban-takeover">"Even If You Go to the Skies, We’ll Find You’: LGBT People in Afghanistan After the Taliban Takeover,"</a> Human Rights Watch (HRW) and OutRight Action International have documented nearly 60 incidents of targeted violence against LGBTQ+ people since August 2021, with many people describing how their lives were destroyed under Taliban rule.

Due to systematic abuses of power and virulent anti-LGBT sentiment, Taliban officials and their supporters have committed crimes against LGBT people with impunity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-delegation-begins-humanitarian-talks-in-oslo-447003">Taliban delegation begins humanitarian talks in Oslo</a>

Taliban members are alleged to have threatened or attacked many people because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.&nbsp;

Others reported being abused by family members, neighbours, and romantic partners who now support the Taliban or felt compelled to act against LGBT to protect themselves from the group.

Many fled their homes in response to attacks by Taliban members or supporters.&nbsp;

“We spoke with LGBT Afghans who have survived gang rape, mob attacks, or have been hunted by their own family members who joined the Taliban, and they have no hope that state institutions will protect them,” said J. Lester Feder, senior fellow for emergency research at OutRight Action International.&nbsp;

“For those LGBT people who want to flee the country, there are few good options; most of Afghanistan's neighbors also criminalize same-sex relations. It is difficult to overstate how devastating – and terrifying – the return of Taliban rule has been for LGBT Afghans.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-warn-against-womens-rights-activism-after-two-activists-were-seized-from-their-homes-446896">Taliban warn against women's rights activism after two activists were seized from their homes</a>

Afghanistan has been a dangerous place for LGBT people long before the Taliban took control of the country in August 2021.&nbsp;

Even prior to the Taliban's return to power, LGBT people reported a number of abuses because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.&nbsp;

The country's then-President Ashraf Ghani enacted a law in 2018 that criminalized same-sex sexual relations, and its previous penal code included vague language that was widely interpreted as criminalising same-sex relations.&nbsp;

Yet, as soon as the Taliban, who had ruled the country from 1996 to 2001, regained control, the situation dramatically worsened. Some Taliban leaders vowed to take a hard line against LGBT rights, reaffirming the previous government's criminalisation of same-sex relationships.&nbsp;

"LGBT... That is against Sharia [Islamic] law," a Taliban spokesperson stated to Reuters in October.

“Things were always rough,” said Heather Barr, associate director of the women’s rights division at HRW. “But people had found ways to survive and build community and support each other, and they had hope that things were gradually improving. On 15 August, all of that ended.”

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Taliban begins talks with Western Officials in Oslo

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Just before the Taliban captured Kabul, a Taliban judge told the German tabloid Bild, “For homosexuals, there can only be two punishments: either stoning, or he must stand behind a wall that will fall down on him.”

Taliban Ministry of Vice and Virtue manuals from 2020 state that religious leaders should prohibit same-sex relationships, and "strong allegations" should be brought to the ministry's district manager for investigation and punishment.&nbsp;

A new survey shows that under Taliban rule, the lives of LGBTQ+ people have deteriorated radically. The survey cites cases of gang rape, violence and death threats since the Taliban came to power.

A new survey shows that under Taliban rule, the lives of LGBTQ+ people have deteriorated radically. The survey cites cases of gang rape, violence and death threats since the Taliban came to power. In the 43-page report titled "Even If You Go to the Skies, We’ll Find You’: LGBT People in Afghanistan After the Taliban Takeover," Human Rights Watch (HRW) and OutRight Action International have documented nearly 60 incidents of targeted violence against LGBTQ+ people since August 2021, with many people describing how their lives were destroyed under Taliban rule. Due to systematic abuses of power and virulent anti-LGBT sentiment, Taliban officials and their supporters have committed crimes against LGBT people with impunity. Also read | Taliban delegation begins humanitarian talks in Oslo Taliban members are alleged to have threatened or attacked many people because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Others reported being abused by family members, neighbours, and romantic partners who now support the Taliban or felt compelled to act against LGBT to protect themselves from the group. Many fled their homes in response to attacks by Taliban members or supporters. “We spoke with LGBT Afghans who have survived gang rape, mob attacks, or have been hunted by their own family members who joined the Taliban, and they have no hope that state institutions will protect them,” said J. Lester Feder, senior fellow for emergency research at OutRight Action International. “For those LGBT people who want to flee the country, there are few good options; most of Afghanistan's neighbors also criminalize same-sex relations. It is difficult to overstate how devastating – and terrifying – the return of Taliban rule has been for LGBT Afghans.” Also read | Taliban warn against women's rights activism after two activists were seized from their homes Afghanistan has been a dangerous place for LGBT people long before the Taliban took control of the country in August 2021. Even prior to the Taliban's return to power, LGBT people reported a number of abuses because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The country's then-President Ashraf Ghani enacted a law in 2018 that criminalized same-sex sexual relations, and its previous penal code included vague language that was widely interpreted as criminalising same-sex relations. Yet, as soon as the Taliban, who had ruled the country from 1996 to 2001, regained control, the situation dramatically worsened. Some Taliban leaders vowed to take a hard line against LGBT rights, reaffirming the previous government's criminalisation of same-sex relationships. "LGBT... That is against Sharia [Islamic] law," a Taliban spokesperson stated to Reuters in October. “Things were always rough,” said Heather Barr, associate director of the women’s rights division at HRW. “But people had found ways to survive and build community and support each other, and they had hope that things were gradually improving. On 15 August, all of that ended.” Watch | Gravitas: Taliban begins talks with Western Officials in Oslo Just before the Taliban captured Kabul, a Taliban judge told the German tabloid Bild, “For homosexuals, there can only be two punishments: either stoning, or he must stand behind a wall that will fall down on him.” Taliban Ministry of Vice and Virtue manuals from 2020 state that religious leaders should prohibit same-sex relationships, and "strong allegations" should be brought to the ministry's district manager for investigation and punishment.

Taliban 'destroying lives' of LGBTQ+ people in Afghanistan: Report

According to the latest report of the UNSC on Afghanistan, Pakistan-based terror groups Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) are present in Taliban-controlled parts of Afghanistan where they are also running training camps.

Let, JeM running terror camps in Afghanistan: UN report

A key United Nations Security Council(UNSC) report has said Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August last year increased&nbsp;narcotics outflow and there is presence of anti-India foreign terror groups like Jaish-i-Mohammed (JiM) and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) in the country.

It is the thirteenth report of the Sanctions Monitoring Team under the Taliban Sanctions Committee&nbsp;established pursuant to resolution 1988 (2011).

The report submitted last week said, "Afghan-origin drugs have increased significantly in the second half of 2021" which suggests "less effective counter-narcotics efforts within Afghanistan or heightened activity in anticipation of a ban."&nbsp;

It pointed to the seizing 3 tons of Afghan origin heroin in India in September of 2021&nbsp;and smuggling via Iran to Turkey and Europe which has "increased by up to 50 per cent since the Taliban assumed power."

On the presence of foreign terrorist fighters, the 27-page report said, "Taliban victory in Afghanistan has inspired terrorists around the world" confirming the presence of Jaish and Lashkar terror groups.

Both the Pakistan based UN-designated terror groups have been responsible for a number of terror attacks in India including Pathankot, Uri and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The report said&nbsp;both groups along with Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement(ETIM) and&nbsp;the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan have fighters "each numbering in the few hundreds."

The report specifically said Jaish-i-Mohammed (JiM) has appointed Qari Ramazan as the new head of the grouping in Afghanistan.

The terror group was founded by Masood Azhar who was listed as an international terrorist in 2019 after Pulwama terror attack in India.

The report said, "according to one member state, JiM maintains eight training camps in Nangarhar, three of which are directly under Taliban control". Previous UNSC report has pointed to the support given by JiM to Taliban. The report details that in October 2021,&nbsp;LeT leader Mawlawi Assadullah met Taliban deputy interior minister Noor Jalil. Later in January 2022, a Taliban delegation visited a training camp used by LeT in the Haska Mena district of Nangarhar.

Elaborating on the linkage between JiM and Taliban, the report highlighted that, "The group was said to maintain three camps in Kunar and Nangarhar. Previous LeT members have included Aslam Farooqi and Ejaz Ahmad Ahangar (a.k.a. Abu Usman al-Kashmiri), both of whom joined ISIL-K".

It is the first public confirmation of these two&nbsp;terror groups in Afghanistan by any multilateral body since the Taliban's takeover. Fears of Afghanistan becoming a terror safe haven have always been there since the Taliban's takeover.

With mentioning of the ETIM, Bejing will also be worried over terror safe haven in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. ETIM &nbsp;is an Uyghur Islamic extremist which has called&nbsp;for the establishment of East Turkestan in China's western&nbsp;province of Xinjiang.

Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan(TTP) forms the largest component of foreign fighters with Sirajuddin Haqqani Taliban appointed acting interior minister being "relied upon more than anyone else" to act as an "intermediary between TTP and Pakistan".

The report explained that, "Haqqani mediations have not led to a sustainable ceasefire, but are a further indication of Sirajuddin’s central role within the Taliban as a mediator and figure of authority among rank-and-file TTP".

The report also said that the core leadership of Al Qaida remains in Afghanistan with its chief Aiman al-Zawahiri in the "eastern region from Zabul province north towards Kunar and along the border with Pakistan".

It mentioned the recent appearance of al-Zawahiri in a video released on April 5 this year by Al-Qaida’s As-Sahab media foundation in which he referred to the Hijab issue in India.

The video provided the first conclusive current proof of life for al-Zawahiri in recent years. The report explained, "the pace of recent communications suggests that he may be able to lead more effectively than was possible before the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan."

The Taliban sanctions committee or the 1988 Security Council Committee is chaired by the Indian envoy to UN TS Tirumurti. The committee comprises all 15 members of the Security Council and makes its decision by consensus.

It has two&nbsp;vice-chairs as well, Russia and UAE. It came into existence in 2011 by splitting the 1267 sanctions regime and passage of resolution 1988. The committee is mandated to oversee the implementation of the sanction's measures, designate individuals, remove the names on requests etc.

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A key United Nations Security Council(UNSC) report has said Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August last year increased narcotics outflow and there is presence of anti-India foreign terror groups like Jaish-i-Mohammed (JiM) and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) in the country.

A key United Nations Security Council(UNSC) report has said Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August last year increased narcotics outflow and there is presence of anti-India foreign terror groups like Jaish-i-Mohammed (JiM) and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) in the country. It is the thirteenth report of the Sanctions Monitoring Team under the Taliban Sanctions Committee established pursuant to resolution 1988 (2011). The report submitted last week said, "Afghan-origin drugs have increased significantly in the second half of 2021" which suggests "less effective counter-narcotics efforts within Afghanistan or heightened activity in anticipation of a ban." It pointed to the seizing 3 tons of Afghan origin heroin in India in September of 2021 and smuggling via Iran to Turkey and Europe which has "increased by up to 50 per cent since the Taliban assumed power." On the presence of foreign terrorist fighters, the 27-page report said, "Taliban victory in Afghanistan has inspired terrorists around the world" confirming the presence of Jaish and Lashkar terror groups. Both the Pakistan based UN-designated terror groups have been responsible for a number of terror attacks in India including Pathankot, Uri and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The report said both groups along with Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement(ETIM) and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan have fighters "each numbering in the few hundreds." The report specifically said Jaish-i-Mohammed (JiM) has appointed Qari Ramazan as the new head of the grouping in Afghanistan. The terror group was founded by Masood Azhar who was listed as an international terrorist in 2019 after Pulwama terror attack in India. The report said, "according to one member state, JiM maintains eight training camps in Nangarhar, three of which are directly under Taliban control". Previous UNSC report has pointed to the support given by JiM to Taliban. The report details that in October 2021, LeT leader Mawlawi Assadullah met Taliban deputy interior minister Noor Jalil. Later in January 2022, a Taliban delegation visited a training camp used by LeT in the Haska Mena district of Nangarhar. Elaborating on the linkage between JiM and Taliban, the report highlighted that, "The group was said to maintain three camps in Kunar and Nangarhar. Previous LeT members have included Aslam Farooqi and Ejaz Ahmad Ahangar (a.k.a. Abu Usman al-Kashmiri), both of whom joined ISIL-K". It is the first public confirmation of these two terror groups in Afghanistan by any multilateral body since the Taliban's takeover. Fears of Afghanistan becoming a terror safe haven have always been there since the Taliban's takeover. With mentioning of the ETIM, Bejing will also be worried over terror safe haven in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. ETIM is an Uyghur Islamic extremist which has called for the establishment of East Turkestan in China's western province of Xinjiang. Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan(TTP) forms the largest component of foreign fighters with Sirajuddin Haqqani Taliban appointed acting interior minister being "relied upon more than anyone else" to act as an "intermediary between TTP and Pakistan". The report explained that, "Haqqani mediations have not led to a sustainable ceasefire, but are a further indication of Sirajuddin’s central role within the Taliban as a mediator and figure of authority among rank-and-file TTP". The report also said that the core leadership of Al Qaida remains in Afghanistan with its chief Aiman al-Zawahiri in the "eastern region from Zabul province north towards Kunar and along the border with Pakistan". It mentioned the recent appearance of al-Zawahiri in a video released on April 5 this year by Al-Qaida’s As-Sahab media foundation in which he referred to the Hijab issue in India. The video provided the first conclusive current proof of life for al-Zawahiri in recent years. The report explained, "the pace of recent communications suggests that he may be able to lead more effectively than was possible before the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan." The Taliban sanctions committee or the 1988 Security Council Committee is chaired by the Indian envoy to UN TS Tirumurti. The committee comprises all 15 members of the Security Council and makes its decision by consensus. It has two vice-chairs as well, Russia and UAE. It came into existence in 2011 by splitting the 1267 sanctions regime and passage of resolution 1988. The committee is mandated to oversee the implementation of the sanction's measures, designate individuals, remove the names on requests etc. 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.

UNSC report says presence of Jaish, Lashkar camps, narcotics outflow from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan

Make TV presenters in Afghanistan are wearing face masks on screen to show solidarity after the Taliban issues an order that all women on news channel must cover their faces.

Male presenters wear medical masks to protest against Taliban in Afghanistan

At the Dushanbe security dialogue on Afghanistan, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has called for the formation of an inclusive government in Kabul and highlighted New Delhi's continuous support to the people of the country. The dialogue saw the participation of National Security Advisors of Russia, China, Iran, and all the central Asian countries including Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan with Tajikistan being the host.

NSA pointed the need for "representation of all sections of Afghan society including women and minorities" when it comes to the dispensation Kabul so that the " collective energies of the largest possible proportion of the Afghan population feel motivated to contribute to nation-building". Since the Taliban takeover of the country in August last year, the regime in Kabul has been dominated by members of a grouping with no women representative.

NSA explained that the "foremost priority should be right to life and a dignified living, as well as protection of human rights of all" and "women and youth, are critical for the future of any society. Provision of education to girls and employment to women and youth will ensure productivity and spur growth." Taliban has come out with new rules for women. The Taliban's ministry of vice and virtue in new rules asked female anchors to wear mask on TV. It has also been ordered that women should cover up fully, when in public.

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New Delhi continues its support to the people of Afghanistan, despite the regime change. The current Taliban regime is not recognized by New Delhi. &nbsp;NSA Highlighted that India has " focused on infrastructure, connectivity, and humanitarian assistance over the decades" and has "always stood by the people of Afghanistan" which will "continue to guide India’s approach."

Since August last year, India has provided 17000 MT of Wheat out of its total commitment of 50000 MT, 500000 doses of COVID vaccine Covaxin, 13 tons of essential lifesaving medicines, and winter clothing as well as 60 million doses of polio vaccine. NSA said, "India was and is an important stakeholder in Afghanistan. Special relationship with people of Afghanistan over centuries will guide India’s approach. Nothing can change this."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/freeherface-afghan-male-journalists-stand-in-solidarity-with-their-female-colleagues-481708" hreflang="en">#FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists show solidarity with female colleagues</a>

Counter-terror was another key focus area during his speech earlier today. He said, "there is a need for all present at the Dialogue to enhance capability of Afghanistan to counter-terrorism and terrorist groups which pose a threat regional peace and security". Fear remains over Afghanistan again becoming a hub for international terror groups.

The last such dialogue took in Delhi last year hosted by National Security Council. That meeting saw no participation of Pakistan and China. The first 2 editions of the meeting happened in Tehran. On the sidelines of the meeting, NSA held bilateral talks with his counterparts from Russia, Iran, and Tajikistan, among others. The talk with the Russian NSA is the first such in-person talks between the 2 sides since the Russian invasion of Ukraine that started in February. 
&nbsp;

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At the Dushanbe security dialogue on Afghanistan, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has called for the formation of an inclusive government in Kabul and highlighted New Delhi's continuous support to the people of the country.

At the Dushanbe security dialogue on Afghanistan, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has called for the formation of an inclusive government in Kabul and highlighted New Delhi's continuous support to the people of the country. The dialogue saw the participation of National Security Advisors of Russia, China, Iran, and all the central Asian countries including Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan with Tajikistan being the host. NSA pointed the need for "representation of all sections of Afghan society including women and minorities" when it comes to the dispensation Kabul so that the " collective energies of the largest possible proportion of the Afghan population feel motivated to contribute to nation-building". Since the Taliban takeover of the country in August last year, the regime in Kabul has been dominated by members of a grouping with no women representative. NSA explained that the "foremost priority should be right to life and a dignified living, as well as protection of human rights of all" and "women and youth, are critical for the future of any society. Provision of education to girls and employment to women and youth will ensure productivity and spur growth." Taliban has come out with new rules for women. The Taliban's ministry of vice and virtue in new rules asked female anchors to wear mask on TV. It has also been ordered that women should cover up fully, when in public. New Delhi continues its support to the people of Afghanistan, despite the regime change. The current Taliban regime is not recognized by New Delhi. NSA Highlighted that India has " focused on infrastructure, connectivity, and humanitarian assistance over the decades" and has "always stood by the people of Afghanistan" which will "continue to guide India’s approach." Since August last year, India has provided 17000 MT of Wheat out of its total commitment of 50000 MT, 500000 doses of COVID vaccine Covaxin, 13 tons of essential lifesaving medicines, and winter clothing as well as 60 million doses of polio vaccine. NSA said, "India was and is an important stakeholder in Afghanistan. Special relationship with people of Afghanistan over centuries will guide India’s approach. Nothing can change this." Also read | #FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists show solidarity with female colleagues Counter-terror was another key focus area during his speech earlier today. He said, "there is a need for all present at the Dialogue to enhance capability of Afghanistan to counter-terrorism and terrorist groups which pose a threat regional peace and security". Fear remains over Afghanistan again becoming a hub for international terror groups. The last such dialogue took in Delhi last year hosted by National Security Council. That meeting saw no participation of Pakistan and China. The first 2 editions of the meeting happened in Tehran. On the sidelines of the meeting, NSA held bilateral talks with his counterparts from Russia, Iran, and Tajikistan, among others. The talk with the Russian NSA is the first such in-person talks between the 2 sides since the Russian invasion of Ukraine that started in February. Watch WION's live TV here:

At Dushanbe meet on Afghanistan, NSA Ajit Doval calls for inclusive govt in Kabul

Male TV presenters in Afghanistan are taking a stand for their female colleagues as they have now started covering their faces with masks before presenting the news, here's why!

Afghanistan: Medical masks to protest against Taliban's new rule

It has been nine months since the Taliban took over Afghanistan. US Special representative for Afghanistan Thomas West met with Foreign Minister of the Afghan Government Amir Khan Muttaqi and highlighted the international community's unified opposition to the Taliban which is growing as a result of recent restrictions on Afghan women and girls

US Envoy raises issue of women's rights in Afghanistan

US Special representative for Afghanistan Thomas West met with Foreign Minister of the Afghan Government Amir Khan Muttaqi and highlighted the international community's unified opposition to the Taliban which is growing as a result of recent restrictions on Afghan women and girls.

US envoy Thomas West meets Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi

As Afghanistan looks forward to resuming international transit, a contract has been signed between the Taliban authorities and a United Arab Emirates (UAE) company, to provide ground handling services at three airports in the country, officials said.&nbsp;

As reported by TOLO News, the country's first deputy PM Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said in an address that security is good in the country. He added that the Islamic Emirate is ready to cooperate with investing countries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/freeherface-afghan-male-journalists-stand-in-solidarity-with-their-female-colleagues-481708">#FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists stand in solidarity with their female colleagues</a>

Baradar spoke at the signing of a contract with UAE company GAAC to run ground operations at three Afghan airports. He also told reporters in Kabul that his administration was renewing an airport ground handling agreement with the UAE.&nbsp;

"Afghanistan has been affected by wars and extreme poverty, and now we are rebuilding it. We seek good relations with all countries and urge them to invest in Afghanistan to help its strife-torn people," Baradar said.&nbsp;

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1/3: In the presence of Mullah Abdul Ghani Beradar Akhund, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation and a UAE-based company (GAAC/G42), signed a contract to provide ground handling services for <a href="https://t.co/kYhoAVdhZ1">pic.twitter.com/kYhoAVdhZ1</a>
— د ریاست الوزراء لومړی معاونیت (@FDPM_AFG) <a href="https://twitter.com/FDPM_AFG/status/1529091206541713408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During the troops' withdrawal by the US from Afghanistan last year in August, the airport in the capital Kabul was trashed. At that time, tens of thousands of people also evacuated. Some domestic and international flights are still operating out of the facility.&nbsp;

UAE firm GAAC signed a new 18-month contract covering three airports: Kabul, Kandahar and Herat. GAAC has provided these services at Kabul airport since November 2020.&nbsp;

Ibrahim Morafi, regional director of GAAC, told AFP that we "are not a new face here". He added, "But GAAC signing the new contract will give confidence to international airlines to resume flights to Afghanistan."&nbsp;

Although, he didn't reveal when such flights were expected to resume.&nbsp;

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As Afghanistan looks forward to resuming international transit, a contract has been signed between the Taliban authorities and a United Arab Emirates (UAE) company, to provide ground handling services at three airports in the country, officials said.

As Afghanistan looks forward to resuming international transit, a contract has been signed between the Taliban authorities and a United Arab Emirates (UAE) company, to provide ground handling services at three airports in the country, officials said. As reported by TOLO News, the country's first deputy PM Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said in an address that security is good in the country. He added that the Islamic Emirate is ready to cooperate with investing countries. ALSO READ | #FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists stand in solidarity with their female colleagues Baradar spoke at the signing of a contract with UAE company GAAC to run ground operations at three Afghan airports. He also told reporters in Kabul that his administration was renewing an airport ground handling agreement with the UAE. "Afghanistan has been affected by wars and extreme poverty, and now we are rebuilding it. We seek good relations with all countries and urge them to invest in Afghanistan to help its strife-torn people," Baradar said. 1/3: In the presence of Mullah Abdul Ghani Beradar Akhund, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation and a UAE-based company (GAAC/G42), signed a contract to provide ground handling services for pic.twitter.com/kYhoAVdhZ1 — د ریاست الوزراء لومړی معاونیت (@FDPM_AFG) May 24, 2022 × During the troops' withdrawal by the US from Afghanistan last year in August, the airport in the capital Kabul was trashed. At that time, tens of thousands of people also evacuated. Some domestic and international flights are still operating out of the facility. UAE firm GAAC signed a new 18-month contract covering three airports: Kabul, Kandahar and Herat. GAAC has provided these services at Kabul airport since November 2020. Ibrahim Morafi, regional director of GAAC, told AFP that we "are not a new face here". He added, "But GAAC signing the new contract will give confidence to international airlines to resume flights to Afghanistan." Although, he didn't reveal when such flights were expected to resume. 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.

As Afghanistan eyes international flights, Taliban and UAE firm inks airport deal

Just a few days after Afghanistan's Taliban leaders issued a decree ordering women journalists to cover their faces on-air, their male colleagues have donned masks in solidarity.

On May 21, the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue ordered female presenters on all TV channels to cover their faces while presenting on-screen. The ministry called this a "final and non-negotiable verdict".

This follows a similar diktat that was issued on May 9, ordering women and older girls to cover themselves from head to toe, including their faces while in public. As per the decree, punishment for violation of this order will be inflicted on male family members.

Watch |&nbsp;Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns

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As per Human Rights Watch, the rule blatantly ignores women's right to freedom of expression, personal autonomy and religious beliefs.

Not only that, but this step also poses a problem for the audience. For those who are hard of hearing or suffer from other hearing impediments, visual cues and lip-reading were one way of gaining information which will now be curtailed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-female-tv-presenters-cover-faces-after-new-taliban-rule-481456">Afghan female TV presenters cover faces after new Taliban rule</a>

In response to this order, a social media campaign #FreeHerFace has also gained traction. It features not only male presenters, but also people from all walks of life submitting selfies/photos with the hashtag to show solidarity.

As one Twitter user wrote "Afghan men showing up for Afghan women is not just a gesture. It’s a turn in the story that will change everything. Brave brothers."

<img alt="As per Human Rights Watch, the rule blatantly ignores women's right to freedom of expression, personal autonomy and religious beliefs." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c686a5-503c-433e-9f0c-d962f7a3d6be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_130.jpg" />

When it took over the country in August of last year, the Taliban appeared to have softened its restrictions, establishing no clothing code for women.

However, in recent weeks, they have made a sudden, hard-line pivot, confirming rights groups' worst worries.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-want-to-erase-women-from-public-life-in-afghanistan-malala-yousafzai-477746">Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai</a>

During the Taliban's first term in office, from 1996 to 2001, they imposed severe restrictions on women, including making them wear the burqa, which even covered their eyes with a mesh. They also prohibited them from participating in public life and receiving an education.

Take a look at some tweets from #FreeHerFace campaign:

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In solidarity with Afghan women journalists, our male colleagues wore masks <a href="https://twitter.com/dwnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dwnews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Freeherface?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Freeherface</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UN_Women?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN_Women</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hrw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hrw</a> <a href="https://t.co/51FZvypOBf">pic.twitter.com/51FZvypOBf</a>
— Shabnam Alokozay (@dwalokozai) <a href="https://twitter.com/dwalokozai/status/1528727475815079937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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A solidarity with Afghan journalist <a href="https://t.co/kYtL32Qu53">pic.twitter.com/kYtL32Qu53</a>
— Shahid Jan (@shahidjan612) <a href="https://twitter.com/shahidjan612/status/1528833156492967936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> is at war and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghan</a> women are on the frontline. Ordering <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghan</a> female journalists to cover their faces on-air is yet another step towards making women invisible and unheard. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/freeherface?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#freeherface</a> <a href="https://t.co/CIFuoH7eeN">pic.twitter.com/CIFuoH7eeN</a>
— Nazifa Alizada (@AlizadaNazifa) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlizadaNazifa/status/1528825478508838912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Since the Taliban have ordered female Afghan TV presenters to cover their faces while on air, members of DW Dari/Pashto service gathered today for a group photo in a show of solidarity, with male colleagues wearing masks as a statement. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeHerFace?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeHerFace</a> <a href="https://t.co/B0lneRpnyZ">pic.twitter.com/B0lneRpnyZ</a>
— DW Deutsche Welle (@DeutscheWelle) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeutscheWelle/status/1528748837728309252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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A small gesture of solidarity with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/afghanwomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#afghanwomen</a> and the brave Afghan journalists standing up for their rights <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/freeherface?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#freeherface</a> <a href="https://t.co/nOJer7x3Ms">https://t.co/nOJer7x3Ms</a> <a href="https://t.co/pEJHAv6TfF">pic.twitter.com/pEJHAv6TfF</a>
— Andrew North (@NorthAndrew) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthAndrew/status/1528681790650601475?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

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Just a few days after Afghanistan's Taliban leaders issued a decree ordering women journalists to cover their faces on-air, their male colleagues have donned masks in solidarity.

Just a few days after Afghanistan's Taliban leaders issued a decree ordering women journalists to cover their faces on-air, their male colleagues have donned masks in solidarity. On May 21, the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue ordered female presenters on all TV channels to cover their faces while presenting on-screen. The ministry called this a "final and non-negotiable verdict". This follows a similar diktat that was issued on May 9, ordering women and older girls to cover themselves from head to toe, including their faces while in public. As per the decree, punishment for violation of this order will be inflicted on male family members. Watch | Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns As per Human Rights Watch, the rule blatantly ignores women's right to freedom of expression, personal autonomy and religious beliefs. Not only that, but this step also poses a problem for the audience. For those who are hard of hearing or suffer from other hearing impediments, visual cues and lip-reading were one way of gaining information which will now be curtailed. Also read | Afghan female TV presenters cover faces after new Taliban rule In response to this order, a social media campaign #FreeHerFace has also gained traction. It features not only male presenters, but also people from all walks of life submitting selfies/photos with the hashtag to show solidarity. As one Twitter user wrote "Afghan men showing up for Afghan women is not just a gesture. It’s a turn in the story that will change everything. Brave brothers." When it took over the country in August of last year, the Taliban appeared to have softened its restrictions, establishing no clothing code for women. However, in recent weeks, they have made a sudden, hard-line pivot, confirming rights groups' worst worries. Also read | Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai During the Taliban's first term in office, from 1996 to 2001, they imposed severe restrictions on women, including making them wear the burqa, which even covered their eyes with a mesh. They also prohibited them from participating in public life and receiving an education. Take a look at some tweets from #FreeHerFace campaign: In solidarity with Afghan women journalists, our male colleagues wore masks @dwnews #Afghanistan #Freeherface @UN_Women @hrw pic.twitter.com/51FZvypOBf — Shabnam Alokozay (@dwalokozai) May 23, 2022 × A solidarity with Afghan journalist pic.twitter.com/kYtL32Qu53 — Shahid Jan (@shahidjan612) May 23, 2022 × #Afghanistan is at war and #Afghan women are on the frontline. Ordering #Afghan female journalists to cover their faces on-air is yet another step towards making women invisible and unheard. #freeherface pic.twitter.com/CIFuoH7eeN — Nazifa Alizada (@AlizadaNazifa) May 23, 2022 × Since the Taliban have ordered female Afghan TV presenters to cover their faces while on air, members of DW Dari/Pashto service gathered today for a group photo in a show of solidarity, with male colleagues wearing masks as a statement. #FreeHerFace pic.twitter.com/B0lneRpnyZ — DW Deutsche Welle (@DeutscheWelle) May 23, 2022 × A small gesture of solidarity with #afghanwomen and the brave Afghan journalists standing up for their rights #freeherface https://t.co/nOJer7x3Ms pic.twitter.com/pEJHAv6TfF — Andrew North (@NorthAndrew) May 23, 2022 × (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.

#FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists stand in solidarity with their female colleagues

On Thursday, exiled Afghan warlords and politicians announced the formation of a High Council of National Resistance against the Taliban, urging the Taliban to adopt a more inclusive administration or face civil war.

Since the Taliban reclaimed power last year following a quick pullout of US soldiers, there have been only intermittent attempts to defy their rule.

However, on the invitation of former Afghan vice-president and warlord Abdul Rashid Dostum, who sought asylum in Turkey when Kabul fell in August, 40 political players convened in Ankara on Tuesday.

Participants said their council should pave the path for Afghanistan's "liberation," according to a statement released to AFP on Thursday.

"We urge that the Taliban stop their damage and begin discussions to find answers to Afghanistan's current challenges," they added.

The Taliban should "learn from history's lessons" that "no organisation can create a stable rule by acts of force and pressure," according to the council.

Former Balkh province governor Atta Mohammad Noor, Shia Hazara community leader Mohammad Mohaqiq, and Ahmad Wali Massoud of the National Resistance Front (NRF), the primary group now waging an armed insurgency against the government, are among the council's founding members.

Long-time Taliban opponent and warlord Abdul Rab Rasul Sayyaf is also a signatory.

The council’s aim is "to try to solve the problems of Afghanistan through talks," a spokesman for Dostum told AFP.

"The Taliban should accept that they can’t run the government or rule alone," otherwise "Afghanistan will experience civil war once again," he said.

At the beginning of the week, the Taliban announced the creation of a commission that would contact politicians in exile.

Taliban officials have said they hope to convene an assembly of citizens, tribal leaders and religious heads to discuss the topic of "national unity."

However, after making promises for an inclusive government, Taliban in September formed an executive comprised exclusively of Taliban members, and almost entirely from the ethnic Pashtun group.

The new rulers in Kabul are already facing attacks from the NRF led by Ahmad Massoud - son of late commander Ahmad Shah Massoud - who has stepped up assaults in his former Panjshir valley stronghold.

In its statement, the council said it considers armed resistance to the Taliban "legitimate."

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On Thursday, exiled Afghan warlords and politicians announced the formation of a High Council of National Resistance against the Taliban, urging the Taliban to adopt a more inclusive administration or face civil war.

On Thursday, exiled Afghan warlords and politicians announced the formation of a High Council of National Resistance against the Taliban, urging the Taliban to adopt a more inclusive administration or face civil war. Since the Taliban reclaimed power last year following a quick pullout of US soldiers, there have been only intermittent attempts to defy their rule. However, on the invitation of former Afghan vice-president and warlord Abdul Rashid Dostum, who sought asylum in Turkey when Kabul fell in August, 40 political players convened in Ankara on Tuesday. Participants said their council should pave the path for Afghanistan's "liberation," according to a statement released to AFP on Thursday. "We urge that the Taliban stop their damage and begin discussions to find answers to Afghanistan's current challenges," they added. The Taliban should "learn from history's lessons" that "no organisation can create a stable rule by acts of force and pressure," according to the council. Former Balkh province governor Atta Mohammad Noor, Shia Hazara community leader Mohammad Mohaqiq, and Ahmad Wali Massoud of the National Resistance Front (NRF), the primary group now waging an armed insurgency against the government, are among the council's founding members. Long-time Taliban opponent and warlord Abdul Rab Rasul Sayyaf is also a signatory. The council’s aim is "to try to solve the problems of Afghanistan through talks," a spokesman for Dostum told AFP. "The Taliban should accept that they can’t run the government or rule alone," otherwise "Afghanistan will experience civil war once again," he said. At the beginning of the week, the Taliban announced the creation of a commission that would contact politicians in exile. Taliban officials have said they hope to convene an assembly of citizens, tribal leaders and religious heads to discuss the topic of "national unity." However, after making promises for an inclusive government, Taliban in September formed an executive comprised exclusively of Taliban members, and almost entirely from the ethnic Pashtun group. The new rulers in Kabul are already facing attacks from the NRF led by Ahmad Massoud - son of late commander Ahmad Shah Massoud - who has stepped up assaults in his former Panjshir valley stronghold. In its statement, the council said it considers armed resistance to the Taliban "legitimate." 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.

Exiled Afghan warlord organising group in Turkey against Taliban

Female TV presenters in Afghanistan appeared with a cover on their faces on-air while reading news on Sunday (May 22) after a recent Taliban ruling ordered them to do so.&nbsp;

As per a report by Reuters, the Taliban authorities on Thursday ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air.

Akif Muajer, the spokesman for the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue, said: "Yesterday we met with media officials... they accepted our advice very happily."&nbsp;

However, the female TV presenters were apparently frustrated as one of them said that she "wasn't feeling good at all." As quoted by Reuters, TOLO TV presenter Sonia Niazi said, "A presenter must feel totally calm and relaxed during the (news) presentation to convey the truth to the people."

"...(but) today for the first time I experienced a moment where I had to present my program wearing a mask and I wasn’t feeling good at all," Niazi added.&nbsp;

Muajer had also said that the move would be received well by Afghans. He added: "The last date for face covering for TV presenters is May 21," referring to when compliance with the new requirement should begin.&nbsp;

He apparently said that the female presenters could wear a medical face mask, which was been widely used during the coronavirus pandemic. &nbsp;

Several times, the Taliban claimed that it has changed since its last rule, especially regarding women's rights.

However, the recent policy changes show otherwise. Taliban have limited women's movement without a male chaperone and also older girls are also yet to be allowed back to schools and colleges.

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Female TV presenters in Afghanistan appeared with a cover on their faces on-air while reading news on Sunday (May 22) after a recent Taliban ruling ordered them to do so.

Female TV presenters in Afghanistan appeared with a cover on their faces on-air while reading news on Sunday (May 22) after a recent Taliban ruling ordered them to do so. As per a report by Reuters, the Taliban authorities on Thursday ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air. Akif Muajer, the spokesman for the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue, said: "Yesterday we met with media officials... they accepted our advice very happily." However, the female TV presenters were apparently frustrated as one of them said that she "wasn't feeling good at all." As quoted by Reuters, TOLO TV presenter Sonia Niazi said, "A presenter must feel totally calm and relaxed during the (news) presentation to convey the truth to the people." "...(but) today for the first time I experienced a moment where I had to present my program wearing a mask and I wasn’t feeling good at all," Niazi added. Muajer had also said that the move would be received well by Afghans. He added: "The last date for face covering for TV presenters is May 21," referring to when compliance with the new requirement should begin. He apparently said that the female presenters could wear a medical face mask, which was been widely used during the coronavirus pandemic. Several times, the Taliban claimed that it has changed since its last rule, especially regarding women's rights. However, the recent policy changes show otherwise. Taliban have limited women's movement without a male chaperone and also older girls are also yet to be allowed back to schools and colleges. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghan female TV presenters cover faces after new Taliban rule

In Afghanistan, the Taliban authorities have ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (May 19) quoting an official.&nbsp;

Akif Mahajar, who is the spokesman for the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue, told Reuters: "Yesterday we met with media officials... they accepted our advice very happily."&nbsp;

As per the report, Mahajar also said that the move would be received well by Afghans which appeared to be conflicting as the Taliban's apparent return to past hardline rule has caused anger at home and abroad.&nbsp;

Mahajar added: "The last date for face covering for TV presenters is May 21," referring to when compliance with the new requirement should begin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-girls-school-education-linked-to-hijab-taliban-promises-good-news-soon-480424">Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon</a>

To comply with the Taliban's "advice", Mahajar said that the female presenters could wear a medical face mask, which was been widely used during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

"Today (Thursday) the production department wore masks but the news office continued as usual," a local television channel's female employee told Reuters. The employee, who wished to remain anonymous also said that the Taliban official had visited the office a day before.&nbsp;

As reported by the Guardian, a local media official said that his station had received the order and was told it was "not up for discussion".&nbsp;

It has been understood that some channels have already begun implementing the new rule.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Afghanistan, the Taliban authorities have ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (May 19) quoting an official.

In Afghanistan, the Taliban authorities have ordered the female TV presenters to cover their faces while on-air, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (May 19) quoting an official. Akif Mahajar, who is the spokesman for the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue, told Reuters: "Yesterday we met with media officials... they accepted our advice very happily." As per the report, Mahajar also said that the move would be received well by Afghans which appeared to be conflicting as the Taliban's apparent return to past hardline rule has caused anger at home and abroad. Mahajar added: "The last date for face covering for TV presenters is May 21," referring to when compliance with the new requirement should begin. ALSO READ | Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon To comply with the Taliban's "advice", Mahajar said that the female presenters could wear a medical face mask, which was been widely used during the coronavirus pandemic. "Today (Thursday) the production department wore masks but the news office continued as usual," a local television channel's female employee told Reuters. The employee, who wished to remain anonymous also said that the Taliban official had visited the office a day before. As reported by the Guardian, a local media official said that his station had received the order and was told it was "not up for discussion". It has been understood that some channels have already begun implementing the new rule. (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 order female TV presenters to cover their faces when on air

Taliban in Afghanistan has come up with a new draconian decree for women. It has made it mandatory for female news anchors to cover their faces.

Taliban's new draconian decree for women: Face cover must for female news anchors

Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country.

However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls.

Now, in an interview with CNN, senior Taliban official, Sirajuddin Haqqani who is also Afghanistan's acting interior minister and Taliban co-deputy leader has reiterated the group's unfulfilled promise to allow girls back into high schools.

Watch |&nbsp;Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns

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The Afghan rulers postponed girls' return to high school indefinitely in March in spite of their many promises.&nbsp;

Without specifying a timeframe the Taliban leader said that work is ongoing to set a mechanism for allowing girls an education above 6th grade.&nbsp;

In his words, "very soon, you will hear good news about this issue, God willing".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-dissolves-five-major-departments-including-afghanistans-human-rights-commission-479696">Taliban dissolve five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission</a>

According to an AFP report, Haqqani implied that the "mechanism" was tied to school dress standards, adding that education should be based on Afghan "culture" and "Islamic rules and principles," and referred "more broadly" to the issue of women wearing the hijab.

During the interview, CNN anchor Christiane Amanpour questioned Haqqani about the reports of women being afraid to leave their homes, to which the Taliban leader said laughing, "we keep naughty women at home."

Upon further questioning, he clarified that the comment was a joke and he was referring to women controlled by "other sides to bring the current government into question".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-want-to-erase-women-from-public-life-in-afghanistan-malala-yousafzai-477746">Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai</a>

As is the norm with the group, Haqqani said that parameters will be set for women as per the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic law and national, cultural, and traditional principles.

Since August, a number of Diktats have been issued against women. Among these are banning them from travelling alone, preventing them from appearing on television, and forcing them to cover their faces when they are in public.

Going back on its word, the Taliban had in March of this year, shut down secondary schools for females the very day they were opened, a move that had invoked criticism from the world over.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country. However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls.

Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country. However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls. Now, in an interview with CNN, senior Taliban official, Sirajuddin Haqqani who is also Afghanistan's acting interior minister and Taliban co-deputy leader has reiterated the group's unfulfilled promise to allow girls back into high schools. Watch | Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns The Afghan rulers postponed girls' return to high school indefinitely in March in spite of their many promises. Without specifying a timeframe the Taliban leader said that work is ongoing to set a mechanism for allowing girls an education above 6th grade. In his words, "very soon, you will hear good news about this issue, God willing". Also read | Taliban dissolve five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission According to an AFP report, Haqqani implied that the "mechanism" was tied to school dress standards, adding that education should be based on Afghan "culture" and "Islamic rules and principles," and referred "more broadly" to the issue of women wearing the hijab. During the interview, CNN anchor Christiane Amanpour questioned Haqqani about the reports of women being afraid to leave their homes, to which the Taliban leader said laughing, "we keep naughty women at home." Upon further questioning, he clarified that the comment was a joke and he was referring to women controlled by "other sides to bring the current government into question". Also read | Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai As is the norm with the group, Haqqani said that parameters will be set for women as per the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic law and national, cultural, and traditional principles. Since August, a number of Diktats have been issued against women. Among these are banning them from travelling alone, preventing them from appearing on television, and forcing them to cover their faces when they are in public. Going back on its word, the Taliban had in March of this year, shut down secondary schools for females the very day they were opened, a move that had invoked criticism from the world over. (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 girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon

In his first-ever interview with an Indian media organisation, Taliban foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi has said that the Taliban have "open communication channels with India'.

Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Balkhi said India can "at least open consular section of the embassy in line with the international practices" in Kabul because "we live in an inter-connected world where world citizens, especially Afghans who have suffered from four-decade war need to address their education, medical, business and other needs."

Notably, India closed its embassy after the Taliban took over Afghanistan in August&nbsp;last year. But despite that, India has sent wheat&nbsp;and vaccines to Afghan people in the past few months.

New Delhi had committed to provide 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan, which was sent overland via Pakistan.

On Afghan students keen to go back to India to complete education, the Taliban foreign ministry spokesman said that they have requested “India to provide them with necessary facilities to help them return to complete their courses.”

Few excerpts

WION: How do you see the ties with India?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We seek positive relations with all countries, including India, based on mutual respect and interests.

&nbsp;

WION: Have you been in touch with the Indian side? If yes, then how many times. Both India and the Taliban have had two meetings publicly, which is known

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;We have open communication channels with India and have met with their representatives on multiple occasions.

&nbsp;

WION: India supplied wheat&nbsp;and vaccines to the Afghan people, how do you see this gesture?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;We appreciate the humanitarian assistance provided to the Afghan people by India and see it as a goodwill gesture towards Afghanistan.

&nbsp;

WION: How were the modalities of wheat discussed? Did you request India?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;India offered to provide wheat as Afghanistan faced a challenging winter due to international sanctions. We will always remember those who helped Afghanistan in times of our need.

&nbsp;

WION: What is your view on the Chabahar port, whose one of the key aims is to connect India with Afghanistan?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;We support all regional connectivity projects and believe that the potential for regional and in turn international prosperity cannot materialise unless Afghanistan serves as a hub for regional connectivity and economic activity.

&nbsp;

WION: How are the Indian projects in Afghanistan, like the India-Afghanistan friendship dam, or other community projects faring.&nbsp;

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;All projects whether by India or otherwise that serve the interests of the Afghan people are being maintained and those that are left half-done, we urge all countries, including India, to complete them to enhance friendship between our nations and prevent investments from going to waste.

&nbsp;

WION: Are you looking forward to the day India opens its mission in Kabul? Have you requested New Delhi in this regard during any of the conversations that have taken place?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;Yes, the Government of Afghanistan has urged all countries to reopen their embassies in order to address mutual interests and concerns via direct channels in a timely manner. But if they have reservations about complete re-openings, they can at least consider opening the consular section of the embassy in line with international practices, because we live in an inter-connected world where world citizens, especially Afghans who have suffered from the four-decade war need to address their education, medical, business and other needs.

&nbsp;

WION: How are the people-to-people relations? A number of Afghan students are keen to come back to India.

Abdul Qahar Balkhi: For the better part of history, both nations and peoples have had good relations, and the current Government of Afghanistan continues to believe in maintaining positive relations with India. There are thousands of Afghan students who are either at the beginning of their academic year or in the last semester who have been unable to finish their studies. We have requested India to provide them with the necessary facilities to return to complete their courses.

&nbsp;

WION: Many believe that since the Taliban enjoy close ties with Pakistan, it would be extremely difficult to have as good ties with India

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;This concept is not based on real-world practices. Having good relations with two countries that themselves have troubled relations among themselves does not mean a third country cannot maintain positive relations with both at the same time, especially in a country like Afghanistan where the foreign policy of the new government follows the principle of balance and neutrality.

 
&nbsp;

WION: The safety of Afghan Sikhs and Hindus has been a pressing issue. Many see India as their second home. Are the minorities safe in Afghanistan?

Abdul Qahar Balkhi:&nbsp;&nbsp;The Sikh and Hindu community in Afghanistan are safer now than they have ever been during the last two decades. The new Government of Afghanistan has guaranteed and protected the rights of all minorities, and has even returned land and property to Sikh and Hindu Afghan nationals who were usurped by the warlords in the last 20-years. To that end, we call on all Afghans irrespective of beliefs and political affiliation that have left the country to return and contribute to the rebuilding of their own homeland.

&nbsp;

In his first-ever interview with an Indian media organisation, Taliban foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi has said that the Taliban have "open communication channels with India'.

In his first-ever interview with an Indian media organisation, Taliban foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi has said that the Taliban have "open communication channels with India'. Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Balkhi said India can "at least open consular section of the embassy in line with the international practices" in Kabul because "we live in an inter-connected world where world citizens, especially Afghans who have suffered from four-decade war need to address their education, medical, business and other needs." Notably, India closed its embassy after the Taliban took over Afghanistan in August last year. But despite that, India has sent wheat and vaccines to Afghan people in the past few months. New Delhi had committed to provide 50,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan, which was sent overland via Pakistan. On Afghan students keen to go back to India to complete education, the Taliban foreign ministry spokesman said that they have requested “India to provide them with necessary facilities to help them return to complete their courses.” Few excerpts WION: How do you see the ties with India? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We seek positive relations with all countries, including India, based on mutual respect and interests. WION: Have you been in touch with the Indian side? If yes, then how many times. Both India and the Taliban have had two meetings publicly, which is known Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We have open communication channels with India and have met with their representatives on multiple occasions. WION: India supplied wheat and vaccines to the Afghan people, how do you see this gesture? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We appreciate the humanitarian assistance provided to the Afghan people by India and see it as a goodwill gesture towards Afghanistan. WION: How were the modalities of wheat discussed? Did you request India? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: India offered to provide wheat as Afghanistan faced a challenging winter due to international sanctions. We will always remember those who helped Afghanistan in times of our need. WION: What is your view on the Chabahar port, whose one of the key aims is to connect India with Afghanistan? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: We support all regional connectivity projects and believe that the potential for regional and in turn international prosperity cannot materialise unless Afghanistan serves as a hub for regional connectivity and economic activity. WION: How are the Indian projects in Afghanistan, like the India-Afghanistan friendship dam, or other community projects faring. Abdul Qahar Balkhi: All projects whether by India or otherwise that serve the interests of the Afghan people are being maintained and those that are left half-done, we urge all countries, including India, to complete them to enhance friendship between our nations and prevent investments from going to waste. WION: Are you looking forward to the day India opens its mission in Kabul? Have you requested New Delhi in this regard during any of the conversations that have taken place? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: Yes, the Government of Afghanistan has urged all countries to reopen their embassies in order to address mutual interests and concerns via direct channels in a timely manner. But if they have reservations about complete re-openings, they can at least consider opening the consular section of the embassy in line with international practices, because we live in an inter-connected world where world citizens, especially Afghans who have suffered from the four-decade war need to address their education, medical, business and other needs. WION: How are the people-to-people relations? A number of Afghan students are keen to come back to India. Abdul Qahar Balkhi: For the better part of history, both nations and peoples have had good relations, and the current Government of Afghanistan continues to believe in maintaining positive relations with India. There are thousands of Afghan students who are either at the beginning of their academic year or in the last semester who have been unable to finish their studies. We have requested India to provide them with the necessary facilities to return to complete their courses. WION: Many believe that since the Taliban enjoy close ties with Pakistan, it would be extremely difficult to have as good ties with India Abdul Qahar Balkhi: This concept is not based on real-world practices. Having good relations with two countries that themselves have troubled relations among themselves does not mean a third country cannot maintain positive relations with both at the same time, especially in a country like Afghanistan where the foreign policy of the new government follows the principle of balance and neutrality. WION: The safety of Afghan Sikhs and Hindus has been a pressing issue. Many see India as their second home. Are the minorities safe in Afghanistan? Abdul Qahar Balkhi: The Sikh and Hindu community in Afghanistan are safer now than they have ever been during the last two decades. The new Government of Afghanistan has guaranteed and protected the rights of all minorities, and has even returned land and property to Sikh and Hindu Afghan nationals who were usurped by the warlords in the last 20-years. To that end, we call on all Afghans irrespective of beliefs and political affiliation that have left the country to return and contribute to the rebuilding of their own homeland.

We have open communication channels with India, says Taliban's Abdul Qahar Balkhi

Taliban has dissolved five key departments which includes- human rights commission, election commission, ministry of women's affairs, high council for national reconciliation which was once a key security council that protected the afghan constitution and lastly ministries for peace and parliamentarian affairs.

Taliban shuts down Afghanistan's ministry of women affairs, other key departments

To get your day started, here are some stories.

Following a long standoff with Russian forces, more than 260 Ukrainian soldiers were evacuated from a steel plant in the besieged city of Mariupol. Centrist politician Elisabeth Borne was appointed France's new prime minister on Monday, becoming only the second woman in history to hold the post. The Taliban have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government including Afghanistan’s human rights commission. A blast was reported in Karachi’s Kharadar area as police and rescue officials were dispatched to the site late on Monday evening.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-260-ukrainian-soldiers-evacuated-from-mariupol-steel-plant-479688">More than 260 Ukrainian soldiers evacuated from Mariupol steel plant</a>

<img alt="Mariupol" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="988e02f7-01d2-46bc-9c4e-cee85e38ff45" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rrr_9.jpg" />

Ukraine confirmed that the evacuation mission was successful with 53 wounded personnel being taken to hospital in Novoazovsk for treatment and the remaining 211 moving to Olenivka.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-names-elisabeth-borne-as-frances-new-prime-minister-479690">French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new prime minister</a>

<img alt="France PM" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="069969b1-8330-4429-9743-30e8abda91f1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rrr_10.jpg" />

Borne, 61, the labour minister in French President Emmanuel Macron's previous government, succeeds Jean Castex, whose resignation on Monday was expected after Macron's re-election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-dissolves-five-major-departments-including-afghanistans-human-rights-commission-479696">Taliban dissolves five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission</a>

<img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4251a68c-aa13-428f-a3ef-24391892b6c0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rrr_11.jpg" />

The main reason behind the decision was shown to the shortage of funds as the maintenance of the departments was deemed ‘unnecessary’ as the country faces a budget deficit of around $501million.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blast-in-karachi-at-least-one-killed-10-injured-479671">Blast in Karachi; at least one killed, 10 injured</a>

<img alt="Karachi blast" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0b762559-e2bd-4642-91a7-43a7b829496c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rrr_12.jpg" />

The explosion took place in the heavily populated area of the city known to be a business hub with traders dealing in goods, textiles and hardware.

WATCH |&nbsp;Captain Kidambi Srikanth speaks to WION on India's Thomas Cup triumph

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To get your day started, here are some stories. Following a long standoff with Russian forces, more than 260 Ukrainian soldiers were evacuated from a steel plant in the besieged city of Mariupol.

To get your day started, here are some stories. Following a long standoff with Russian forces, more than 260 Ukrainian soldiers were evacuated from a steel plant in the besieged city of Mariupol. Centrist politician Elisabeth Borne was appointed France's new prime minister on Monday, becoming only the second woman in history to hold the post. The Taliban have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government including Afghanistan’s human rights commission. A blast was reported in Karachi’s Kharadar area as police and rescue officials were dispatched to the site late on Monday evening. More than 260 Ukrainian soldiers evacuated from Mariupol steel plant Ukraine confirmed that the evacuation mission was successful with 53 wounded personnel being taken to hospital in Novoazovsk for treatment and the remaining 211 moving to Olenivka. French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new prime minister Borne, 61, the labour minister in French President Emmanuel Macron's previous government, succeeds Jean Castex, whose resignation on Monday was expected after Macron's re-election. Taliban dissolves five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission The main reason behind the decision was shown to the shortage of funds as the maintenance of the departments was deemed ‘unnecessary’ as the country faces a budget deficit of around $501million. Blast in Karachi; at least one killed, 10 injured The explosion took place in the heavily populated area of the city known to be a business hub with traders dealing in goods, textiles and hardware. WATCH | Captain Kidambi Srikanth speaks to WION on India's Thomas Cup triumph WATCH | Sweden, Finland's NATO bids hit a snag; 'Don't bother to come,' says Turkey WATCH | Lebanon Parliamentary Poll Results: Hezbollah group and allies are likely to suffer loses

Morning news brief: Ukrainian soldiers evacuated, new French PM announced, and more

The Taliban have made a number of changes to the administrative system in Afghanistan since taking over the country and in a new wave of reforms, they have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government. One of the major departments which faced the axe was the human rights commission – a key feature of the US-backed government.

The main reason behind the decision was shown to the shortage of funds as the maintenance of the departments was deemed ‘unnecessary’ as the country faces a budget deficit of around $501million.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-260-ukrainian-soldiers-evacuated-from-mariupol-steel-plant-479688" hreflang="en">More than 260 Ukrainian soldiers evacuated from Mariupol steel plant</a>

“Because these departments were not deemed necessary and were not included in the budget, they have been dissolved,” said Innamullah Samangani, the Taliban government’s deputy spokesperson said according to Reuters.

The other major department to lose support was the commission for overseeing the implementation of the Afghan constitution. After taking over the country in 2021, the Taliban promised that they will be taking a moderate approach in governance. However, the dissolving of these two crucial departments have once again caused major concern regarding their governance of the nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-names-elisabeth-borne-as-frances-new-prime-minister-479690">French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new PM</a>

The high council for national reconciliation (HCNR) and the national security council was also included in the list of departments which were dissolved following the proposed budget.

This was the first national budget presented by the Taliban government since taking over the country in August 2021 and Samangani said that the decisions were made “based on objective facts”. The spokesperson also made it clear that departments can be restarted “if needed”.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban have made a number of changes to the administrative system in Afghanistan since taking over the country and in a new wave of reforms, they have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government.

The Taliban have made a number of changes to the administrative system in Afghanistan since taking over the country and in a new wave of reforms, they have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government. One of the major departments which faced the axe was the human rights commission – a key feature of the US-backed government. The main reason behind the decision was shown to the shortage of funds as the maintenance of the departments was deemed ‘unnecessary’ as the country faces a budget deficit of around $501million. Also read | More than 260 Ukrainian soldiers evacuated from Mariupol steel plant “Because these departments were not deemed necessary and were not included in the budget, they have been dissolved,” said Innamullah Samangani, the Taliban government’s deputy spokesperson said according to Reuters. The other major department to lose support was the commission for overseeing the implementation of the Afghan constitution. After taking over the country in 2021, the Taliban promised that they will be taking a moderate approach in governance. However, the dissolving of these two crucial departments have once again caused major concern regarding their governance of the nation. Also read | French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new PM The high council for national reconciliation (HCNR) and the national security council was also included in the list of departments which were dissolved following the proposed budget. This was the first national budget presented by the Taliban government since taking over the country in August 2021 and Samangani said that the decisions were made “based on objective facts”. The spokesperson also made it clear that departments can be restarted “if needed”. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban dissolve five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission

Shahmahmood Miakhel, the former deputy minister of interior of Afghanistan, said during WION Global Summit in Dubai that the money spent on war should be spent on the peace process instead.

Speaking in the first session of the summit titled 'Waving the White Flag on Armed Conflict', Miakhel said: ''We don't focus on peacebuilding, we are only limited to peacemaking.''

Highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, Miakhel said that the country has seen all types of war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/now-men-and-women-cant-dine-out-visit-park-together-in-afghanistans-herat-courtesy-taliban-478520" hreflang="en">Now, men and women can’t dine out, visit park together in Afghanistan’s Herat, courtesy Taliban</a>

"Once the war has happened, you violate all kinds of laws, human rights, and the average people, women, and children, will suffer," he said.

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"You cannot wash blood with blood"<a href="https://twitter.com/S_MIAKHEL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@S_MIAKHEL</a>, Afghanistan's former deputy minister of interior, highlights why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars 
 
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Shedding light on why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars, he added that "You cannot wash blood with blood."

According to Miakhel, the former governor of Nangarhar in Afghanistan, ''We have seen the Soviet occupation in Afghanistan, the intervention of the US, but the actual problem was not tackled there...They cured the symptoms, but not the real problem."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONGlobalSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONGlobalSummit</a> | We don't focus on peace building, we are only limited to peace making: Shahmahmood Miakhel (<a href="https://twitter.com/S_MIAKHEL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@S_MIAKHEL</a>), Former Deputy Minister of Interior, Afghanistan<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MissionPeace?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MissionPeace</a> 
 
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Miakhel's statements come as the Taliban, who swept back to power as the Afghan government collapsed last year, on Saturday ordered women to cover their faces in public, in another step towards their past hardline rule.

The consequences of disobedience are aimed at a woman's closest male family member, ranging from a warning to imprisonment.

The UN Security Council will meet on Thursday to discuss the order and the United States said it would increase pressure on the Taliban administration.

Watch WION's live TV 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>

Shahmahmood Miakhel, the former deputy minister of interior of Afghanistan, said during WION Global Summit in Dubai that the money spent on war should be spent on the peace process instead.

Shahmahmood Miakhel, the former deputy minister of interior of Afghanistan, said during WION Global Summit in Dubai that the money spent on war should be spent on the peace process instead. Speaking in the first session of the summit titled 'Waving the White Flag on Armed Conflict', Miakhel said: ''We don't focus on peacebuilding, we are only limited to peacemaking.'' Highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, Miakhel said that the country has seen all types of war. Also read | Now, men and women can’t dine out, visit park together in Afghanistan’s Herat, courtesy Taliban "Once the war has happened, you violate all kinds of laws, human rights, and the average people, women, and children, will suffer," he said. "You cannot wash blood with blood"@S_MIAKHEL, Afghanistan's former deputy minister of interior, highlights why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars LIVE TV: https://t.co/iSR65rMKwj pic.twitter.com/TkA56PfO6u — WION (@WIONews) May 16, 2022 × Shedding light on why it's important to invest in peace and prevent wars, he added that "You cannot wash blood with blood." According to Miakhel, the former governor of Nangarhar in Afghanistan, ''We have seen the Soviet occupation in Afghanistan, the intervention of the US, but the actual problem was not tackled there...They cured the symptoms, but not the real problem." #WIONGlobalSummit | We don't focus on peace building, we are only limited to peace making: Shahmahmood Miakhel (@S_MIAKHEL), Former Deputy Minister of Interior, Afghanistan#MissionPeace LIVE TV: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN pic.twitter.com/fjdKV4gm71 — WION (@WIONews) May 16, 2022 × Miakhel's statements come as the Taliban, who swept back to power as the Afghan government collapsed last year, on Saturday ordered women to cover their faces in public, in another step towards their past hardline rule. The consequences of disobedience are aimed at a woman's closest male family member, ranging from a warning to imprisonment. The UN Security Council will meet on Thursday to discuss the order and the United States said it would increase pressure on the Taliban administration. Watch WION's live TV here:

WION Global Summit 2022: Money spent on war should be spent on peace instead, says Afghan ex-minister

According to reports, ousted Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's brother Hashmat Ghani has allegedly pledged his support to the Taliban. In a video doing the rounds, Khalil Haqqani and other Taliban leaders welcomed Ghani's brother in the fold.

Reports: Ashraf Ghani's brother supports Taliban

In yet another hardline move, dining out and visiting parks by men and women together have been banned by Taliban authorities in Afghanistan’s Herat city, media reports said citing an official on Thursday.&nbsp;The authorities "have instructed men and women to be segregated in restaurants", said Riazullah Seerat, an official of Taliban at the Ministry for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice in Herat. &nbsp;

The owners have also been warned verbally that the rule applies "even if they are husband and wife", Seerat told AFP.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-protest-taliban-decree-to-cover-faces-477821" hreflang="en">Afghan women protest Taliban decree to cover faces</a>

On condition of anonymity, an Afghan woman said on Wednesday that she and her husband were asked to sit separately in a restaurant in Herat by the manager. &nbsp;

A restaurant manager Safiullah confirmed of receiving the ministry’s diktat. Safiullah said, "We have to follow the order, but it has a very negative impact on our business." &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Panjshir valley: Taliban faces rebellion, Insurgent group launches offensive

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A decree has also been issued by Ministry for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice where men and women have been instructed to visit public parks in the western Afghan city of Herat on different days, Seerat added. &nbsp;

"We have told women to visit parks on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The other days are kept for men, who can visit for leisure and for exercise," Seerat said. &nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In yet another hardline move, dining out and visiting parks by men and women together have been banned by Taliban authorities in Afghanistan’s Herat city, media reports said citing an official on Thursday.

In yet another hardline move, dining out and visiting parks by men and women together have been banned by Taliban authorities in Afghanistan’s Herat city, media reports said citing an official on Thursday. The authorities "have instructed men and women to be segregated in restaurants", said Riazullah Seerat, an official of Taliban at the Ministry for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice in Herat. The owners have also been warned verbally that the rule applies "even if they are husband and wife", Seerat told AFP. Also Read: Afghan women protest Taliban decree to cover faces On condition of anonymity, an Afghan woman said on Wednesday that she and her husband were asked to sit separately in a restaurant in Herat by the manager. A restaurant manager Safiullah confirmed of receiving the ministry’s diktat. Safiullah said, "We have to follow the order, but it has a very negative impact on our business." Watch: Panjshir valley: Taliban faces rebellion, Insurgent group launches offensive × A decree has also been issued by Ministry for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice where men and women have been instructed to visit public parks in the western Afghan city of Herat on different days, Seerat added. "We have told women to visit parks on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The other days are kept for men, who can visit for leisure and for exercise," Seerat said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Now, men and women can’t dine out, visit park together in Afghanistan’s Herat, courtesy Taliban

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