<p>Taliban's interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, for the first time, was photographed openly at a passing-out parade for new Afghan police recruits. He is considered to be the Taliban's most secretive leader and his only picture on the US "most wanted" lists is a grainy semi-covered profile.</p>

<p>Haqqani also happens to be a UN-designated terrorist.</p>

<p>The image was tweeted by Zabihulla Mujahid, spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan with the caption, "The minister of interior of The Islamic Emirate, Khalifa Sahib Sirajuddin Haqqani Hafizullah inaugurated the graduation ceremony of the National Police."</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="fa">د اسلامي امارت د کورنیو چارو محترم وزیر خلیفه صاحب سراج الدین حقاني حفظه الله د د ملي پولیسو د فراغت مراسم پرانستل. <a href="https://t.co/JDQahcrQZQ">pic.twitter.com/JDQahcrQZQ</a></p>
— Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) <a href="https://twitter.com/Zabehulah_M33/status/1499990185634934784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Haqqani also heads the feared Haqqani network. Earlier, he had been photographed from behind.</p>

<p>"For your satisfaction and for building your trust... I am appearing in the media in a public meeting with you," he said during his speech.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-journalist-features-in-times-women-of-the-year-for-reporting-womens-lives-in-afghanistan-459325"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Afghan journalist features in Time’s women of the year for reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan</strong></a></p>

<p>The Haqqani network has been categorised as a terrorist group by the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haqqani is one of the FBI's most wanted men due to his links in suicide attacks and Al Qaeda ties. He was wanted by the US in connection with a deadly 2008 attack on a Kabul hotel.</p>

<p>Earlier, he praised suicide bombers at a meeting with families of the 'martyrs' in Kabul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Haqqani praised the jihad and sacrifice of the martyrs and mujahideen" calling them the "heroes of Islam and the country", Afghan state broadcaster RTA reported.</p>

<p>It said Sirajuddin "stressed that we must refrain from any betrayal of the aspirations of the martyrs", and promised $125 and a plot of land for each family.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Taliban's interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, for the first time, was photographed openly at a passing-out parade for new Afghan police recruits. He is considered to be the Taliban's most secretive leader and his only picture on the US "most wanted" lists is a grainy semi-covered profile.

Taliban's interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, for the first time, was photographed openly at a passing-out parade for new Afghan police recruits. He is considered to be the Taliban's most secretive leader and his only picture on the US "most wanted" lists is a grainy semi-covered profile. Haqqani also happens to be a UN-designated terrorist. The image was tweeted by Zabihulla Mujahid, spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan with the caption, "The minister of interior of The Islamic Emirate, Khalifa Sahib Sirajuddin Haqqani Hafizullah inaugurated the graduation ceremony of the National Police." د اسلامي امارت د کورنیو چارو محترم وزیر خلیفه صاحب سراج الدین حقاني حفظه الله د د ملي پولیسو د فراغت مراسم پرانستل. pic.twitter.com/JDQahcrQZQ — Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) March 5, 2022 × Haqqani also heads the feared Haqqani network. Earlier, he had been photographed from behind. "For your satisfaction and for building your trust... I am appearing in the media in a public meeting with you," he said during his speech. Also read | Afghan journalist features in Time’s women of the year for reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan The Haqqani network has been categorised as a terrorist group by the US. Haqqani is one of the FBI's most wanted men due to his links in suicide attacks and Al Qaeda ties. He was wanted by the US in connection with a deadly 2008 attack on a Kabul hotel. Earlier, he praised suicide bombers at a meeting with families of the 'martyrs' in Kabul. "Haqqani praised the jihad and sacrifice of the martyrs and mujahideen" calling them the "heroes of Islam and the country", Afghan state broadcaster RTA reported. It said Sirajuddin "stressed that we must refrain from any betrayal of the aspirations of the martyrs", and promised $125 and a plot of land for each family. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban release its most secretive leader Sirajuddin Haqqani's photos for the first time

<p>Taliban’s government in Afghanistan seems to have slammed Pakistan for donating inedible wheat and praised India for sending better quality one, said media reports, citing a Taliban official. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The remark has led to a war of words on Twitter. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-mosque-blast-death-toll-rises-to-56-dozens-injured-458888" hreflang="en">Pakistan mosque blast: Death toll rises to 56, dozens injured</a></strong></p>

<p>On social media, a video, which showed a Taliban official complaining about the quality of Pakistani wheat, was also being circulated. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Wheat donated by Pakistan is not edible: Taliban Official," Afghan journalist Abdulhaq Omeri tweeted as he posted a video of the Taliban official. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wheat donated by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> is not edible . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> Official <a href="https://t.co/Enpgrco2Ew">pic.twitter.com/Enpgrco2Ew</a></p>
— Abdulhaq Omeri (@AbdulhaqOmeri) <a href="https://twitter.com/AbdulhaqOmeri/status/1499700593673310208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Twitter, Afghan people were seen thanking India for the "good quality wheat." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thank you India for your continued support to the Afghan people. Our public to public-friendly relations will be forever. Jai Hind," Hamdullah Arbab tweeted. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-to-receive-more-than-1-billion-in-aid-from-the-world-bank-funds-to-bypass-taliban-457982" hreflang="en">Afghanistan to receive more than $1 billion in aid from the World Bank</a></strong></p>

<p>Another user named Najib Farhodis said, "Wheat donated by Pakistan to Afghanistan All Pakistani wheat is worn out and spoiled that cannot be used. India has always helped Afghanistan." &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban official, who made the remarks about poor quality of Pakistani wheat, seems to have been dismissed from his post. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pakistan supplying unhealthy rotten wheat to Taliban in Afghanistan?<br />
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What a great friendship between Imran Khan and Sirajuddin Haqqani. <a href="https://t.co/WxIx2suJK0">https://t.co/WxIx2suJK0</a></p>
— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdityaRajKaul/status/1499796288551874563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Last month, India had started sending wheat to Afghanistan as humanitarian assistance. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second convoy of India's humanitarian assistance carrying 2000 MTs of wheat left Attari, Amritsar on Thursday for Jalalabad, Afghanistan, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Taliban’s government in Afghanistan seems to have slammed Pakistan for donating inedible wheat and praised India for sending better quality one, said media reports, citing a Taliban official.

Taliban’s government in Afghanistan seems to have slammed Pakistan for donating inedible wheat and praised India for sending better quality one, said media reports, citing a Taliban official. The remark has led to a war of words on Twitter. Also Read: Pakistan mosque blast: Death toll rises to 56, dozens injured On social media, a video, which showed a Taliban official complaining about the quality of Pakistani wheat, was also being circulated. "Wheat donated by Pakistan is not edible: Taliban Official," Afghan journalist Abdulhaq Omeri tweeted as he posted a video of the Taliban official. Wheat donated by #Pakistan is not edible . #Taliban Official pic.twitter.com/Enpgrco2Ew — Abdulhaq Omeri (@AbdulhaqOmeri) March 4, 2022 × On Twitter, Afghan people were seen thanking India for the "good quality wheat." "Thank you India for your continued support to the Afghan people. Our public to public-friendly relations will be forever. Jai Hind," Hamdullah Arbab tweeted. Also Read: Afghanistan to receive more than $1 billion in aid from the World Bank Another user named Najib Farhodis said, "Wheat donated by Pakistan to Afghanistan All Pakistani wheat is worn out and spoiled that cannot be used. India has always helped Afghanistan." The Taliban official, who made the remarks about poor quality of Pakistani wheat, seems to have been dismissed from his post. Pakistan supplying unhealthy rotten wheat to Taliban in Afghanistan? What a great friendship between Imran Khan and Sirajuddin Haqqani. https://t.co/WxIx2suJK0 — Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) March 4, 2022 × Last month, India had started sending wheat to Afghanistan as humanitarian assistance. The second convoy of India's humanitarian assistance carrying 2000 MTs of wheat left Attari, Amritsar on Thursday for Jalalabad, Afghanistan, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban official slams Pak for sending inedible wheat, says India’s far better: Reports

<p>Afghan journalist Zahra Joya has been named as one of Time’s women of the year 2022. The journalist has been consistently reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan through her news agency, Rukhshana Media.</p>

<p>Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, journalists have been concerned for their safety. There have also been reports of journalists being beaten up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She launched Rukhshana Media in December 2020 with her own money. Her agency is Afghanistan’s first feminist news agency. The agency aims to become the first national news source where an Afghan woman could see her own life reflected in the stories published every day.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Angelina Jolie to Zahra Joya (Afghan journalist): It’s an honor to meet you. I really admire your work. <a href="https://t.co/L24B2c6o4F">pic.twitter.com/L24B2c6o4F</a></p>
— Ali Hussaini (@Ali_Hussaini86) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ali_Hussaini86/status/1499420803129094146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Joya is currently living in the UK as a refugee. However, she still manages to run Rukhshana Media from exile. She has been publishing the reporting of her team of female journalists on life for women under Taliban rule.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-official-slams-pak-for-sending-inedible-wheat-says-indias-far-better-reports-459159"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Taliban official slams Pak for sending inedible wheat, says India’s far better: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>Joya, in a report by The Guardian said, "Although it has never been easy to be a woman and a journalist in Afghanistan, now our reporting has been almost eradicated. The Taliban have forced female journalists to wear the hijab, banning them from appearing on screen or in public, or from broadcasting their voices on radio in some provinces, but this makes it even more important that our stories continue to be told.”</p>

<p>Joya was interviewed by Angelina Jolie for Time’s women of the year issue. "The first time the Taliban regime were in Afghanistan, I was a child. I wasn’t allowed to go to school. But I loved learning," the journalist said while speaking to Jolie.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Joya was just 5 years old when the Taliban took power in Afghanistan. The regime, at that time, also banned girls’ education.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Determine to learn, the five-year-old dressed in boys’ clothing and walked two hours to and from school every day.&nbsp;<br />
It was only after the US invasion in 2001, that she dropped her disguise and enrolled as a law student.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Afghan journalist Zahra Joya has been named as one of Time’s women of the year 2022. The journalist has been consistently reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan through her news agency, Rukhshana Media.

Afghan journalist Zahra Joya has been named as one of Time’s women of the year 2022. The journalist has been consistently reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan through her news agency, Rukhshana Media. Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, journalists have been concerned for their safety. There have also been reports of journalists being beaten up. She launched Rukhshana Media in December 2020 with her own money. Her agency is Afghanistan’s first feminist news agency. The agency aims to become the first national news source where an Afghan woman could see her own life reflected in the stories published every day. Angelina Jolie to Zahra Joya (Afghan journalist): It’s an honor to meet you. I really admire your work. pic.twitter.com/L24B2c6o4F — Ali Hussaini (@Ali_Hussaini86) March 3, 2022 × Joya is currently living in the UK as a refugee. However, she still manages to run Rukhshana Media from exile. She has been publishing the reporting of her team of female journalists on life for women under Taliban rule. Also read | Taliban official slams Pak for sending inedible wheat, says India’s far better: Reports Joya, in a report by The Guardian said, "Although it has never been easy to be a woman and a journalist in Afghanistan, now our reporting has been almost eradicated. The Taliban have forced female journalists to wear the hijab, banning them from appearing on screen or in public, or from broadcasting their voices on radio in some provinces, but this makes it even more important that our stories continue to be told.” Joya was interviewed by Angelina Jolie for Time’s women of the year issue. "The first time the Taliban regime were in Afghanistan, I was a child. I wasn’t allowed to go to school. But I loved learning," the journalist said while speaking to Jolie. Joya was just 5 years old when the Taliban took power in Afghanistan. The regime, at that time, also banned girls’ education. Determine to learn, the five-year-old dressed in boys’ clothing and walked two hours to and from school every day. It was only after the US invasion in 2001, that she dropped her disguise and enrolled as a law student. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan journalist features in Time’s women of the year for reporting women’s lives in Afghanistan

<p>A plan to use more than $1 billion from a frozen Afghanistan trust fund to finance education, agriculture, health, and family programmes was approved by the World Bank's executive board on Tuesday, the bank announced.</p>

<p>By bypassing sanctioned Taliban authorities and disbursing money through UN agencies and international aid groups, the plan will provide a significant boost to efforts to ease the country's worsening humanitarian and economic crises.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-ban-afghans-from-evacuating-amid-massive-security-sweep-457508">Taliban ban Afghans from evacuating amid massive security sweep</a></strong></p>

<p>The approach "aims to support the delivery of essential basic services, protect vulnerable Afghans, help preserve human capital and key economic and social services, and reduce the need for humanitarian assistance in the future," the bank said in a statement.</p>

<p>Last year, when the Taliban overran Kabul as the last international troops departed after 20 years of war, the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF) was frozen.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-pakistan-to-hold-discussion-over-durand-line-457033">&nbsp;Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line</a></strong></p>

<p>While foreign governments ended financial aid, which accounted for more than 70 per cent of Afghan government expenditures, the United States spearheaded the freezing of about $9 billion of Afghan central bank assets.</p>

<p>The cuts accelerated an economic collapse, leading to a cash crunch and a humanitarian crisis that the United Nations says has put more than half of Afghanistan's 39 million people at risk of starvation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Afghanistan and now Ukraine...Is US about to lose its hegemony?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-and-now-ukraineis-us-about-to-lose-its-hegemony-457841/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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<p>In a statement, the World Bank said donors would decide, as a first step, on four projects valued at about $600 million that would address "urgent needs in education, health and agricultural sectors, as well as community livelihoods."</p>

<p>The statement said "strong&nbsp;focus on ensuring that girls and women participate and benefit from the support."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the Taliban took to power 20 years ago, women's rights have been eroded. They've lost&nbsp;many of the rights gained during the last two decades,&nbsp;such as the right to work and to travel without close male relatives.</p>

<p>Since the Taliban took over, most girls are not allowed to attend school past seventh grade. Islamist extremists claim that all girls will be allowed to return to class later this month.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
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A plan to use more than $1 billion from a frozen Afghanistan trust fund to finance education, agriculture, health, and family programmes was approved by the World Bank's executive board on Tuesday, the bank announced.

A plan to use more than $1 billion from a frozen Afghanistan trust fund to finance education, agriculture, health, and family programmes was approved by the World Bank's executive board on Tuesday, the bank announced. By bypassing sanctioned Taliban authorities and disbursing money through UN agencies and international aid groups, the plan will provide a significant boost to efforts to ease the country's worsening humanitarian and economic crises. Also read | Taliban ban Afghans from evacuating amid massive security sweep The approach "aims to support the delivery of essential basic services, protect vulnerable Afghans, help preserve human capital and key economic and social services, and reduce the need for humanitarian assistance in the future," the bank said in a statement. Last year, when the Taliban overran Kabul as the last international troops departed after 20 years of war, the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF) was frozen. Also read | Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line While foreign governments ended financial aid, which accounted for more than 70 per cent of Afghan government expenditures, the United States spearheaded the freezing of about $9 billion of Afghan central bank assets. The cuts accelerated an economic collapse, leading to a cash crunch and a humanitarian crisis that the United Nations says has put more than half of Afghanistan's 39 million people at risk of starvation. Watch: Afghanistan and now Ukraine...Is US about to lose its hegemony? In a statement, the World Bank said donors would decide, as a first step, on four projects valued at about $600 million that would address "urgent needs in education, health and agricultural sectors, as well as community livelihoods." The statement said "strong focus on ensuring that girls and women participate and benefit from the support." Since the Taliban took to power 20 years ago, women's rights have been eroded. They've lost many of the rights gained during the last two decades, such as the right to work and to travel without close male relatives. Since the Taliban took over, most girls are not allowed to attend school past seventh grade. Islamist extremists claim that all girls will be allowed to return to class later this month. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan to receive more than $1 billion in aid from the World Bank; funds to bypass Taliban

<p>The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;have clamped down on&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;leaving the country as, separately, their forces continue a&nbsp;massive&nbsp;security&nbsp;sweep, going house-to-house across the capital Monday in a "clearing operation".</p>

<p>The new travel&nbsp;ban&nbsp;was announced late Sunday by&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, who packaged the restrictions as being aimed at preventing hardship for&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;abroad.</p>

<p>Evacuations organised by nations or non-governmental organisations have been banned, while even families attempting to leave the country by their own means now need "an excuse", or they will be stopped by immigration.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-pakistan-to-hold-discussion-over-durand-line-457033">&nbsp;Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line</a></strong></p>

<p>"I have to say clearly that persons who leave the country along with their families and have no excuse... we are preventing them," Mujahid told a press conference late Sunday.</p>

<p>Women will also not be able to fly abroad unless accompanied by a male relative -- mirroring similar domestic restrictions introduced last year which bar solo travel between cities and towns.</p>

<p>"If they (women) want to travel abroad, they should have a chaperone," Mujahid said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the order of Islamic sharia law."</p>

<p>The announcement came the same weekend a search for "kidnappers, thieves and looters" kicked off in Kabul and other Afghan cities -- a so-called "clearing operation" separate&nbsp;from&nbsp;the travel measures.</p>

<p>The new travel restrictions will alarm tens of thousands of&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;who have been promised asylum abroad after working with US-led foreign forces or other Western organisations during the&nbsp;Taliban's 20-year insurgency.</p>

<p>More than 120,000&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;and dual nationals were evacuated up to August 31 when the last US-led troops withdrew, two weeks after the hardline Islamists seized Kabul.</p>

<p>Thousands with similar links are still in Afghanistan, however, desperate to leave and fearful they may be targeted by the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;as "collaborators".</p>

<p>The last official evacuation by air was on December 1, although organised road convoys to Pakistan have taken place as recently as last week.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-main-universities-reopen-after-six-months-few-women-return-456880">Afghanistan's main universities reopen after six months, few women return</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Bad conditions</strong></p>

<p>Mujahid said the decision to&nbsp;ban&nbsp;departures came because the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;had received reports of thousands of&nbsp;Afghans&nbsp;"living in very bad conditions" abroad.</p>

<p>"The government has the responsibility to protect the people so this will be stopped until we get the assurance that their lives will not be endangered," he said, adding that they had never promised for evacuations to continue indefinitely.</p>

<p>"Initially we had said that the Americans... could take people whom they had any concerns about... But this is not a continuous promise."</p>

<p>Since the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;took over Kabul in August, Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis, pushing even those without links to the former regime to scramble for an exit.</p>

<p>Thousands of people daily try to cross into neighbouring Iran in search of work, or in a bid to reach Europe in the hope of asylum.</p>

<p>The United States has seized $7 billion in Afghan assets held abroad -- reserving half for humanitarian aid that bypasses the&nbsp;Taliban, and half for a fund to compensate families of those who died in the September 11, 2001 attacks.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/since-taliban-takeover-86-afghan-radio-stations-have-closed-453210">Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Not against the common people</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, a&nbsp;massive&nbsp;security&nbsp;sweep&nbsp;of Kabul continued Monday with&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;fighters going house-to-house in search of weapons and criminals blamed for a recent spate of robberies and kidnappings.</p>

<p>The "clearing operation" has alarmed many who fear being targeted because of their association with the previous Western-backed regime or US-led foreign forces.</p>

<p>Irate residents have posted videos on social media showing homes they said had been trashed during&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;searches, but several people told AFP their encounters had been polite and cursory.</p>

<p>Mujahid said authorities had discovered two kidnapped victims during the operation so far, and also freed two teenage girls who they found chained in a basement.</p>

<p>He said light and heavy weapons, explosives, radio equipment and drones had been seized, as well as vehicles belonging to the military or government.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Taliban administration approves the first budget since the takeover of the Afghanistan</strong></p>

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<p>Six people suspected of being members of the Islamic State group had been detained, he said, along with nine kidnappers and 53 "professional thieves".</p>

<p>"We want to assure the residents of Kabul that these operations are not against the common people," Mujahid said.</p>

<p>"The residents of the city should be confident the search is going on carefully."</p>


The Taliban have clamped down on Afghans leaving the country as, separately, their forces continue a massive security sweep, going house-to-house across the capital Monday in a "clearing operation".

The Taliban have clamped down on Afghans leaving the country as, separately, their forces continue a massive security sweep, going house-to-house across the capital Monday in a "clearing operation". The new travel ban was announced late Sunday by Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, who packaged the restrictions as being aimed at preventing hardship for Afghans abroad. Evacuations organised by nations or non-governmental organisations have been banned, while even families attempting to leave the country by their own means now need "an excuse", or they will be stopped by immigration. Also read | Afghanistan, Pakistan to hold discussion over Durand line "I have to say clearly that persons who leave the country along with their families and have no excuse... we are preventing them," Mujahid told a press conference late Sunday. Women will also not be able to fly abroad unless accompanied by a male relative -- mirroring similar domestic restrictions introduced last year which bar solo travel between cities and towns. "If they (women) want to travel abroad, they should have a chaperone," Mujahid said. "This is the order of Islamic sharia law." The announcement came the same weekend a search for "kidnappers, thieves and looters" kicked off in Kabul and other Afghan cities -- a so-called "clearing operation" separate from the travel measures. The new travel restrictions will alarm tens of thousands of Afghans who have been promised asylum abroad after working with US-led foreign forces or other Western organisations during the Taliban's 20-year insurgency. More than 120,000 Afghans and dual nationals were evacuated up to August 31 when the last US-led troops withdrew, two weeks after the hardline Islamists seized Kabul. Thousands with similar links are still in Afghanistan, however, desperate to leave and fearful they may be targeted by the Taliban as "collaborators". The last official evacuation by air was on December 1, although organised road convoys to Pakistan have taken place as recently as last week. Also read | Afghanistan's main universities reopen after six months, few women return Bad conditions Mujahid said the decision to ban departures came because the Taliban had received reports of thousands of Afghans "living in very bad conditions" abroad. "The government has the responsibility to protect the people so this will be stopped until we get the assurance that their lives will not be endangered," he said, adding that they had never promised for evacuations to continue indefinitely. "Initially we had said that the Americans... could take people whom they had any concerns about... But this is not a continuous promise." Since the Taliban took over Kabul in August, Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis, pushing even those without links to the former regime to scramble for an exit. Thousands of people daily try to cross into neighbouring Iran in search of work, or in a bid to reach Europe in the hope of asylum. The United States has seized $7 billion in Afghan assets held abroad -- reserving half for humanitarian aid that bypasses the Taliban, and half for a fund to compensate families of those who died in the September 11, 2001 attacks. Also read | Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed Not against the common people Meanwhile, a massive security sweep of Kabul continued Monday with Taliban fighters going house-to-house in search of weapons and criminals blamed for a recent spate of robberies and kidnappings. The "clearing operation" has alarmed many who fear being targeted because of their association with the previous Western-backed regime or US-led foreign forces. Irate residents have posted videos on social media showing homes they said had been trashed during Taliban searches, but several people told AFP their encounters had been polite and cursory. Mujahid said authorities had discovered two kidnapped victims during the operation so far, and also freed two teenage girls who they found chained in a basement. He said light and heavy weapons, explosives, radio equipment and drones had been seized, as well as vehicles belonging to the military or government. Watch | Taliban administration approves the first budget since the takeover of the Afghanistan Six people suspected of being members of the Islamic State group had been detained, he said, along with nine kidnappers and 53 "professional thieves". "We want to assure the residents of Kabul that these operations are not against the common people," Mujahid said. "The residents of the city should be confident the search is going on carefully."

Taliban ban Afghans from evacuating amid massive security sweep

<p>Afghanistan's main universities reopened Saturday six months after the Taliban returned to power, but only a trickle of women went back to now-segregated classes.</p>

<p>Most secondary schools for girls and all public universities were shuttered following the Taliban's August 15 takeover, sparking fears women would be barred from education -- as happened during the first rule of the hardline Islamists, from 1996-2001.</p>

<p>The Taliban insist they will allow girls and women to be educated this time around -- but only in segregated classes and according to an Islamic curriculum.</p>

<p>Some public tertiary institutions in the south of the country resumed last month, but on Saturday Kabul University, the oldest and biggest with a student body of around 25,000 last year, re-opened without fanfare -- and few students in attendance.</p>

<p>Taliban guards refused journalists access to the sprawling campus and chased away media teams lingering near the entrance.</p>

<p>AFP, however, spoke to some students away from the gates, who expressed mixed feelings after their first day back.</p>

<p>"I am happy that the university resumed... we want to continue our studies," said an English major who asked to be identified only as Basira.</p>

<p>But she said there were "some difficulties" -- including students being scolded by Taliban guards for bringing their mobile phones to class.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-a-first-hindu-army-officer-kelash-kumar-promoted-to-the-rank-of-lieutenant-colonel-in-pakistan-army-456455"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;In a first, Hindu army officer Kelash Kumar promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Pakistan army</strong></a></p>

<p>"They did not behave well with us... they were rude," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another English student, Maryam, said only seven women attended her class.</p>

<p>"Before we were 56 students, boys and girls," she said.</p>

<p><strong>No students in Panjshir</strong></p>

<p>There was also a shortage of lecturers, she said, adding: "Maybe because some have left the country."</p>

<p>A similar picture emerged from campuses across the country, although no students returned to class at Panjshir University, in the heartland of a nascent resistance to the Taliban's rule.</p>

<p>"I do not know if they will come tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow, or not," said Professor Noor-ur-Rehman Afzali.</p>

<p>Panjshir was the last province to fall to the Taliban last year, and Jaber Jibran, a faculty head, said several classrooms destroyed in that fighting had still not been repaired.</p>

<p>Some students said they thought many stayed away out of fear of the new authorities, or because they could not afford the fees.</p>

<p>Long dependent on foreign aid for survival, Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis and the country's overseas assets have been seized by the United States.</p>

<p>"Most of the students might not be able to afford it," said one named Haseenat, while another said her friends had asked her to "report back" on what conditions were like before they decided on attending.</p>

<p>The Taliban have said previously that women students must wear a black abaya over their bodies and hijab on their heads, but stopped short of insisting on the all-covering burqa that was compulsory during their previous rule.</p>

<p>Several students, however, appeared dressed no differently Saturday than they would have before the Taliban takeover, with a simple shawl covering their heads.</p>

<p>"I have never worn any hijab before... it's new for me," said Sohaila Rostami, a biology student in her last semester at Bamiyam University.</p>

<p>"I used to wear jeans and other normal clothes. It will be difficult for me to observe hijab," she told AFP.</p>

<p>In Herat, the ancient Silk Road city near the Iranian border and once one of the Islamic world's most important intellectual centres, students also complained about a lack of tutors.</p>

<p>"Some of our professors have also left the country, but we are happy that the university gates are open," said Parisa Narwan, studying arts.</p>

<p>Tens of thousands of Afghans fled the country as the Taliban stormed back to power -- among them teachers and lecturers who had been vociferously critical of the hardline Islamist group.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/12-militants-killed-in-encounter-with-security-forces-in-paks-balochistan-kp-455983"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;12 militants killed in encounter with security forces in Pak's Balochistan, KP</strong></a></p>

<p>No country has yet recognised the new regime, which has imposed several restrictions on women -- including banning them from many government jobs.</p>

<p>In Kabul, student Haseenat said campus life for women was now very different to before.</p>

<p>"We are told not to go out of our classes," she told AFP.</p>

<p>"There is no cafeteria anymore... we are not allowed to go to the university's courtyard."</p>


Afghanistan's main universities reopened Saturday six months after the Taliban returned to power, but only a trickle of women went back to now-segregated classes.

Afghanistan's main universities reopened Saturday six months after the Taliban returned to power, but only a trickle of women went back to now-segregated classes. Most secondary schools for girls and all public universities were shuttered following the Taliban's August 15 takeover, sparking fears women would be barred from education -- as happened during the first rule of the hardline Islamists, from 1996-2001. The Taliban insist they will allow girls and women to be educated this time around -- but only in segregated classes and according to an Islamic curriculum. Some public tertiary institutions in the south of the country resumed last month, but on Saturday Kabul University, the oldest and biggest with a student body of around 25,000 last year, re-opened without fanfare -- and few students in attendance. Taliban guards refused journalists access to the sprawling campus and chased away media teams lingering near the entrance. AFP, however, spoke to some students away from the gates, who expressed mixed feelings after their first day back. "I am happy that the university resumed... we want to continue our studies," said an English major who asked to be identified only as Basira. But she said there were "some difficulties" -- including students being scolded by Taliban guards for bringing their mobile phones to class. Also read | In a first, Hindu army officer Kelash Kumar promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Pakistan army "They did not behave well with us... they were rude," she said. Another English student, Maryam, said only seven women attended her class. "Before we were 56 students, boys and girls," she said. No students in Panjshir There was also a shortage of lecturers, she said, adding: "Maybe because some have left the country." A similar picture emerged from campuses across the country, although no students returned to class at Panjshir University, in the heartland of a nascent resistance to the Taliban's rule. "I do not know if they will come tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow, or not," said Professor Noor-ur-Rehman Afzali. Panjshir was the last province to fall to the Taliban last year, and Jaber Jibran, a faculty head, said several classrooms destroyed in that fighting had still not been repaired. Some students said they thought many stayed away out of fear of the new authorities, or because they could not afford the fees. Long dependent on foreign aid for survival, Afghanistan has plunged into economic crisis and the country's overseas assets have been seized by the United States. "Most of the students might not be able to afford it," said one named Haseenat, while another said her friends had asked her to "report back" on what conditions were like before they decided on attending. The Taliban have said previously that women students must wear a black abaya over their bodies and hijab on their heads, but stopped short of insisting on the all-covering burqa that was compulsory during their previous rule. Several students, however, appeared dressed no differently Saturday than they would have before the Taliban takeover, with a simple shawl covering their heads. "I have never worn any hijab before... it's new for me," said Sohaila Rostami, a biology student in her last semester at Bamiyam University. "I used to wear jeans and other normal clothes. It will be difficult for me to observe hijab," she told AFP. In Herat, the ancient Silk Road city near the Iranian border and once one of the Islamic world's most important intellectual centres, students also complained about a lack of tutors. "Some of our professors have also left the country, but we are happy that the university gates are open," said Parisa Narwan, studying arts. Tens of thousands of Afghans fled the country as the Taliban stormed back to power -- among them teachers and lecturers who had been vociferously critical of the hardline Islamist group. Also read | 12 militants killed in encounter with security forces in Pak's Balochistan, KP No country has yet recognised the new regime, which has imposed several restrictions on women -- including banning them from many government jobs. In Kabul, student Haseenat said campus life for women was now very different to before. "We are told not to go out of our classes," she told AFP. "There is no cafeteria anymore... we are not allowed to go to the university's courtyard."

Afghanistan's main universities reopen after six months, few women return

<p>Women&nbsp;working in&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;government departments&nbsp;must&nbsp;cover&nbsp;up&nbsp;--&nbsp;even&nbsp;with a&nbsp;blanket&nbsp;if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the&nbsp;Taliban's religious police said Tuesday.</p>

<p>Most&nbsp;women&nbsp;have been barred from their government jobs, since the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;retook power in August, though Afghanistan's new rulers claim they will be allowed to return once some conditions are in place -- such as segregated offices.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice issued a statement saying&nbsp;women&nbsp;should not go to work unless they were properly covered, and they could be fired if they did not follow guidelines.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/protesters-demand-release-of-afghanistans-frozen-assets-455272">Protesters demand release of Afghanistan's frozen assets</a></strong></p>

<p>The ministry earned notoriety during the&nbsp;Taliban's first stint in power from 1996 to 2001 for policing the leadership's strict interpretation of Islam.</p>

<p>It was unclear why they issued Tuesday's statement, as most&nbsp;women&nbsp;in Afghanistan have always covered their heads in public -- with a loose shawl at least.</p>

<p>"They can follow the hijab the way they want," ministry spokesman Mohammad Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP when reached for clarification.</p>

<p>Women&nbsp;working in&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;government departments&nbsp;must&nbsp;cover&nbsp;up&nbsp;--&nbsp;even&nbsp;with a&nbsp;blanket&nbsp;if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the&nbsp;Taliban's religious police said Tuesday.</p>

<p>Most&nbsp;women&nbsp;have been barred from their government jobs, since the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;retook power in August, though Afghanistan's new rulers claim they will be allowed to return once some conditions are in place -- such as segregated offices.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/since-taliban-takeover-86-afghan-radio-stations-have-closed-453210">Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed</a></strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice issued a statement saying&nbsp;women&nbsp;should not go to work unless they were properly covered, and they could be fired if they did not follow guidelines.</p>

<p>The ministry earned notoriety during the&nbsp;Taliban's first stint in power from 1996 to 2001 for policing the leadership's strict interpretation of Islam.</p>

<p>It was unclear why they issued Tuesday's statement, as most&nbsp;women&nbsp;in Afghanistan have always covered their heads in public -- with a loose shawl at least.</p>

<p>"They can follow the hijab the way they want," ministry spokesman Mohammad Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP when reached for clarification.</p>


Women working in Afghan government departments must cover up -- even with a blanket if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the Taliban's religious police said Tuesday.

Women working in Afghan government departments must cover up -- even with a blanket if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the Taliban's religious police said Tuesday. Most women have been barred from their government jobs, since the Taliban retook power in August, though Afghanistan's new rulers claim they will be allowed to return once some conditions are in place -- such as segregated offices. On Tuesday, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice issued a statement saying women should not go to work unless they were properly covered, and they could be fired if they did not follow guidelines. Also read | Protesters demand release of Afghanistan's frozen assets The ministry earned notoriety during the Taliban's first stint in power from 1996 to 2001 for policing the leadership's strict interpretation of Islam. It was unclear why they issued Tuesday's statement, as most women in Afghanistan have always covered their heads in public -- with a loose shawl at least. "They can follow the hijab the way they want," ministry spokesman Mohammad Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP when reached for clarification. Women working in Afghan government departments must cover up -- even with a blanket if necessary -- or they may lose their jobs, the Taliban's religious police said Tuesday. Most women have been barred from their government jobs, since the Taliban retook power in August, though Afghanistan's new rulers claim they will be allowed to return once some conditions are in place -- such as segregated offices. Also read | Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed On Tuesday, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice issued a statement saying women should not go to work unless they were properly covered, and they could be fired if they did not follow guidelines. The ministry earned notoriety during the Taliban's first stint in power from 1996 to 2001 for policing the leadership's strict interpretation of Islam. It was unclear why they issued Tuesday's statement, as most women in Afghanistan have always covered their heads in public -- with a loose shawl at least. "They can follow the hijab the way they want," ministry spokesman Mohammad Sadeq Akif Muhajir told AFP when reached for clarification.

Women workers must cover up 'even with a blanket', say Afghan Taliban

<p>The members of the Jogi ethnic minority group living in Kabul have complained of the dearth of basic living necessities amid deprivation of national identity, local media reported.</p>

<p>The Jogi are an ethnic minority group whose roots are from the Central Asian states. They do not have national identity cards and are deprived of access to education and other basic rights, including property, Tolo News reported citing the members of the group. Mohammad Sabir, who was working as the representative of the Jogi ethnic group in Kabul before the Taliban takeover of the government, said that he was dismissed after the Islamic Emirate came into power.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-your-home-pm-modi-tells-afghan-minority-community-members-454546">&nbsp;'India is your home', PM Modi tells Afghan minority community members</a></strong></p>

<p>"I was appointed as representative of the people (Jogi). This is my ID. My documents are legal. I started working as representative of Jogi. If they want me to share my documents, I will. I was active in the former government, but I was dismissed after the Islamic Emirate swept into power," he said, according to the Afghan news agency.</p>

<p>However, Nimatullah Barakzai, a spokesman of Kabul municipality, claimed that Sabir was fired because he was not qualified for the position." The person that you have asked about was disqualified as a local representative. This person has no property, which is one of the conditions to be a representative. He is not educated," the media outlet quoted him as saying. Taliban said that there is no exact information about the number of people with Jogi ethnicity living in Afghanistan."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/six-year-old-haider-trapped-in-well-in-afghanistan-for-three-days-dies-454343">Six-year-old Haider, trapped in well in Afghanistan for three days, dies</a></strong></p>

<p>Due to lack of national identity cards, the Jogi lack access to education," Tolo News quoted the group as saying.In Afghanistan, the Taliban's swift ascension to power occurred in mid-August, triggering an economic disarray and food shortages that push the country to the brink of a humanitarian crisis, reported Sputnik.&nbsp;</p>


The members of the Jogi ethnic minority group living in Kabul have complained of the dearth of basic living necessities amid deprivation of national identity, local media reported.

The members of the Jogi ethnic minority group living in Kabul have complained of the dearth of basic living necessities amid deprivation of national identity, local media reported. The Jogi are an ethnic minority group whose roots are from the Central Asian states. They do not have national identity cards and are deprived of access to education and other basic rights, including property, Tolo News reported citing the members of the group. Mohammad Sabir, who was working as the representative of the Jogi ethnic group in Kabul before the Taliban takeover of the government, said that he was dismissed after the Islamic Emirate came into power. Also read | 'India is your home', PM Modi tells Afghan minority community members "I was appointed as representative of the people (Jogi). This is my ID. My documents are legal. I started working as representative of Jogi. If they want me to share my documents, I will. I was active in the former government, but I was dismissed after the Islamic Emirate swept into power," he said, according to the Afghan news agency. However, Nimatullah Barakzai, a spokesman of Kabul municipality, claimed that Sabir was fired because he was not qualified for the position." The person that you have asked about was disqualified as a local representative. This person has no property, which is one of the conditions to be a representative. He is not educated," the media outlet quoted him as saying. Taliban said that there is no exact information about the number of people with Jogi ethnicity living in Afghanistan." Also read | Six-year-old Haider, trapped in well in Afghanistan for three days, dies Due to lack of national identity cards, the Jogi lack access to education," Tolo News quoted the group as saying.In Afghanistan, the Taliban's swift ascension to power occurred in mid-August, triggering an economic disarray and food shortages that push the country to the brink of a humanitarian crisis, reported Sputnik.

Afghanistan: Members of Jogi minority demand basic necessities, rights

<p>As a combat interpreter in Afghanistan, Sharif Azizi helped U.S. Special Forces hunt down Taliban targets, even after suffering leg and chest injuries from stepping on a land mine. When his life was threatened by the insurgents, the United States acknowledged his eight years of service and in 2017 brought him to safety in Los Angeles.</p>

<p>Last year, when Taliban fighters seized Kabul, they came looking for his mother and siblings. Unable to make it through the throngs amassed at the airport as the last U.S. flights were leaving, the family fled to Pakistan. American security officials who had helped arrange their exit papers assured the family that it could apply for a program designed to expedite entry into the United States for people facing emergencies. Months after submitting their applications, they received the response from the U.S. government: denied.</p>

<p>“All the certificates of commendation I received, all the promises we got, it feels like a big lie,” said Azizi, who currently lives in San Jose, California. “They just leave my family and basically say, ‘That’s done. We don’t care.’ ”</p>

<p>Thousands of Afghan allies who narrowly missed being evacuated, and who have been living in hiding in Afghanistan or illegally in neighboring countries, have counted on a program known as humanitarian parole to reach the United States. But half a year since the frantic U.S. withdrawal, most remain stranded, either because they have been denied entry or are still awaiting the outcome of their cases.</p>

<p>Of the 43,000 humanitarian parole applications the agency has received since July 2021, it has processed fewer than 2,000. About 1,500 had been denied and 170 approved as of Feb. 11.</p>

<p>The Department of Homeland Security uses parole authority to allow certain people or groups to legally enter the United States without a visa, which can take months or years to process. It has been utilized in the past to provide safe passage for large numbers of people out of conflict zones where the United States had military involvement, such as Vietnam and Iraq, as well for others in vulnerable situations, including Cubans and Central American minors.</p>

<p>After the hurried pullout from Afghanistan, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services agency received an avalanche of applications from Afghans who had not managed to board an evacuation flight. But only one out of eight whose cases have been adjudicated thus far has won approval, raising questions about how many people will be admitted and whether the program was ever a realistic option.</p>

<p>“The primary difference between these people and all the people who the U.S. airlifted is that these people were not able to shove their way through the crowds at the airport,” said Kyra Lilien, director of immigration legal services at Jewish Family &amp;amp; Community Services East Bay, a nonprofit in Concord, California, that is resettling Afghan refugees.</p>

<p>The agency has collected millions of dollars from applicants who pay a $575 fee to file, but processing has been sluggish, leading to frustration and worry.</p>

<p>“This was supposed to be a flexible mechanism for Afghans who supported the U.S. mission and have provided ample proof of danger to their lives,” said Steve Brozak, 60, a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps who hired an immigration law firm to prepare the applications for the Azizi family.</p>

<p>The Citizenship and Immigration Services agency said it had increased fivefold the number of adjudicators reviewing applications, given the surge in filings. Before the Afghan crisis, about 2,000 people a year applied for humanitarian parole, and 500 to 700 were approved, often for urgent medical treatment or to visit a dying relative.</p>

<p>“Humanitarian parole is not intended to replace established refugee processing channels such as the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, which is the typical pathway for individuals outside of the United States who have fled their country of origin and are seeking protection,” the agency said in a statement.</p>

<p>Under the refugee program, it takes several years for people to be admitted to the United States. It also takes many years for legal U.S. residents, like Azizi, to sponsor their families for admission.</p>

<p>For many of those waiting for emergency approvals, an association with the U.S. mission has made it impossible for them to remain at their homes in Afghanistan; they are either in hiding or are living illegally in other countries, in danger of being sent back.</p>

<p>“The refugee resettlement program is overwhelmed and lacks resources because of all the cuts the prior administration made,” said Steve Yale-Loehr, an immigration law professor at Cornell Law School who directs an Afghan law clinic that has filed dozens of parole applications, none approved so far.</p>

<p>In the statement by Citizenship and Immigration Services, it said the agency had been granting parole when warranted. “In some limited circumstances, protection needs are so urgent that obtaining protection via the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program is not a realistic option,” it said.</p>

<p>The bar for qualifying is very high as the government tries to determine which applicants are in genuine imminent danger and which could wait to apply for ordinary refugee status. Applicants must provide documentation from a credible third-party source that specifically names the targeted person and details the potential harm that person faces. Lawyers helping applicants file the claims said the standard was higher than what is generally applied to parole applicants and would be very difficult for most people fleeing a country in conflict to meet.</p>

<p>“This criteria makes it nearly impossible for the vast majority of cases to be granted,” said Lilien, who has received 13 denials on the applications she has submitted and is waiting for decisions on an additional 78, almost all of which were filed before mid-September.</p>

<p>A letter sent Tuesday to the Homeland Security secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, and signed by more than 200 representatives of legal-service providers, resettlement agencies and university law clinics called on the Biden administration to establish a streamlined, efficient system to bring vulnerable Afghans to the United States.</p>

<p>“While the military evacuation efforts ended with the withdrawal of U.S. troops in August 2021, at-risk Afghans’ dire need for protection has not,” the letter said.</p>

<p>“In keeping with its promises, the administration must act with urgency to utilize all tools at its disposal, including parole, to provide protection from persecution and violence in Afghanistan due to the accelerating human rights and humanitarian crisis,” the letter said, citing extrajudicial killings, disappearances and other human rights abuses.</p>

<p>It pointed out that after the fall of Saigon, the United States established a parole program to swiftly evacuate more than 140,000 Vietnamese refugees.</p>

<p>A majority of the 76,000 Afghans evacuated during the U.S. pullout were admitted on arrival with humanitarian parole, many of them people who might also have qualified for special immigrant visas issued to people who had worked directly for the U.S. forces, like Azizi, or for refugee status after performing jobs that advanced the goals of the U.S. mission.</p>

<p>Azizi said the Taliban had come searching for his family members after they abandoned their home. Soldiers had questioned the neighbors about their whereabouts and left a notice that ordered the family to report to Taliban headquarters upon its return, he said.</p>

<p>Azizi’s mother, Sima Barakzai, had been employed as a U.S. contractor as a cook, according to documents she submitted as part of her application. His sister, Sharareh, was trained and recognized by the U.S. Agency for International Development for her work to promote women’s rights, and her parole application, also reviewed by The Times, included a photograph of her shaking hands with Ashraf Ghani, the former Afghan president.</p>

<p>In all, four family members had been issued an exit pass by U.S. military authorities in Afghanistan that entitled them to board U.S. evacuation flights, but they were unable to get through the gates at the airport in Kabul before the last flights departed.</p>

<p>As weeks turned into months without any decision on their applications, Brozak, the retired military officer who was aiding them, enlisted the help of Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., who personally reached out to the Homeland Security Department, which oversees Citizenship and Immigration Services, on the family’s behalf. To no avail.</p>

<p>On Jan. 27, the family members were dismayed to receive denial letters. A form letter, which did not address the particulars of their cases, stated that parole was granted to people “at risk of severe targeted or individualized harm” in the country where they were located, or who risked imminent return to a country where they would be harmed.</p>

<p>In Pakistan, they are leading a precarious existence, unable to work to support themselves and trying to stay under the radar because of their illegal status. They have had to move four times.</p>

<p>During an outing to buy food recently, Azizi’s 19-year-old brother was beaten up by people demanding bribes to refrain from reporting the family to authorities.</p>

<p>Azizi, who has been working as an Uber driver while taking computer science classes, said he had put his life in California on hold as he devoted himself to assisting his family.</p>

<p>“My heart is in so much pain. What will life be worth for me if I lose a member of my family?” said Azizi, weeping during an interview.</p>

<p>“I participated in big military operations. I risked my life for this country,” he said. “But it just abandoned my family.”</p>


As a combat interpreter in Afghanistan, Sharif Azizi helped U.S. Special Forces hunt down Taliban targets, even after suffering leg and chest injuries from stepping on a land mine.

As a combat interpreter in Afghanistan, Sharif Azizi helped U.S. Special Forces hunt down Taliban targets, even after suffering leg and chest injuries from stepping on a land mine. When his life was threatened by the insurgents, the United States acknowledged his eight years of service and in 2017 brought him to safety in Los Angeles. Last year, when Taliban fighters seized Kabul, they came looking for his mother and siblings. Unable to make it through the throngs amassed at the airport as the last U.S. flights were leaving, the family fled to Pakistan. American security officials who had helped arrange their exit papers assured the family that it could apply for a program designed to expedite entry into the United States for people facing emergencies. Months after submitting their applications, they received the response from the U.S. government: denied. “All the certificates of commendation I received, all the promises we got, it feels like a big lie,” said Azizi, who currently lives in San Jose, California. “They just leave my family and basically say, ‘That’s done. We don’t care.’ ” Thousands of Afghan allies who narrowly missed being evacuated, and who have been living in hiding in Afghanistan or illegally in neighboring countries, have counted on a program known as humanitarian parole to reach the United States. But half a year since the frantic U.S. withdrawal, most remain stranded, either because they have been denied entry or are still awaiting the outcome of their cases. Of the 43,000 humanitarian parole applications the agency has received since July 2021, it has processed fewer than 2,000. About 1,500 had been denied and 170 approved as of Feb. 11. The Department of Homeland Security uses parole authority to allow certain people or groups to legally enter the United States without a visa, which can take months or years to process. It has been utilized in the past to provide safe passage for large numbers of people out of conflict zones where the United States had military involvement, such as Vietnam and Iraq, as well for others in vulnerable situations, including Cubans and Central American minors. After the hurried pullout from Afghanistan, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services agency received an avalanche of applications from Afghans who had not managed to board an evacuation flight. But only one out of eight whose cases have been adjudicated thus far has won approval, raising questions about how many people will be admitted and whether the program was ever a realistic option. “The primary difference between these people and all the people who the U.S. airlifted is that these people were not able to shove their way through the crowds at the airport,” said Kyra Lilien, director of immigration legal services at Jewish Family &amp; Community Services East Bay, a nonprofit in Concord, California, that is resettling Afghan refugees. The agency has collected millions of dollars from applicants who pay a $575 fee to file, but processing has been sluggish, leading to frustration and worry. “This was supposed to be a flexible mechanism for Afghans who supported the U.S. mission and have provided ample proof of danger to their lives,” said Steve Brozak, 60, a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps who hired an immigration law firm to prepare the applications for the Azizi family. The Citizenship and Immigration Services agency said it had increased fivefold the number of adjudicators reviewing applications, given the surge in filings. Before the Afghan crisis, about 2,000 people a year applied for humanitarian parole, and 500 to 700 were approved, often for urgent medical treatment or to visit a dying relative. “Humanitarian parole is not intended to replace established refugee processing channels such as the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, which is the typical pathway for individuals outside of the United States who have fled their country of origin and are seeking protection,” the agency said in a statement. Under the refugee program, it takes several years for people to be admitted to the United States. It also takes many years for legal U.S. residents, like Azizi, to sponsor their families for admission. For many of those waiting for emergency approvals, an association with the U.S. mission has made it impossible for them to remain at their homes in Afghanistan; they are either in hiding or are living illegally in other countries, in danger of being sent back. “The refugee resettlement program is overwhelmed and lacks resources because of all the cuts the prior administration made,” said Steve Yale-Loehr, an immigration law professor at Cornell Law School who directs an Afghan law clinic that has filed dozens of parole applications, none approved so far. In the statement by Citizenship and Immigration Services, it said the agency had been granting parole when warranted. “In some limited circumstances, protection needs are so urgent that obtaining protection via the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program is not a realistic option,” it said. The bar for qualifying is very high as the government tries to determine which applicants are in genuine imminent danger and which could wait to apply for ordinary refugee status. Applicants must provide documentation from a credible third-party source that specifically names the targeted person and details the potential harm that person faces. Lawyers helping applicants file the claims said the standard was higher than what is generally applied to parole applicants and would be very difficult for most people fleeing a country in conflict to meet. “This criteria makes it nearly impossible for the vast majority of cases to be granted,” said Lilien, who has received 13 denials on the applications she has submitted and is waiting for decisions on an additional 78, almost all of which were filed before mid-September. A letter sent Tuesday to the Homeland Security secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, and signed by more than 200 representatives of legal-service providers, resettlement agencies and university law clinics called on the Biden administration to establish a streamlined, efficient system to bring vulnerable Afghans to the United States. “While the military evacuation efforts ended with the withdrawal of U.S. troops in August 2021, at-risk Afghans’ dire need for protection has not,” the letter said. “In keeping with its promises, the administration must act with urgency to utilize all tools at its disposal, including parole, to provide protection from persecution and violence in Afghanistan due to the accelerating human rights and humanitarian crisis,” the letter said, citing extrajudicial killings, disappearances and other human rights abuses. It pointed out that after the fall of Saigon, the United States established a parole program to swiftly evacuate more than 140,000 Vietnamese refugees. A majority of the 76,000 Afghans evacuated during the U.S. pullout were admitted on arrival with humanitarian parole, many of them people who might also have qualified for special immigrant visas issued to people who had worked directly for the U.S. forces, like Azizi, or for refugee status after performing jobs that advanced the goals of the U.S. mission. Azizi said the Taliban had come searching for his family members after they abandoned their home. Soldiers had questioned the neighbors about their whereabouts and left a notice that ordered the family to report to Taliban headquarters upon its return, he said. Azizi’s mother, Sima Barakzai, had been employed as a U.S. contractor as a cook, according to documents she submitted as part of her application. His sister, Sharareh, was trained and recognized by the U.S. Agency for International Development for her work to promote women’s rights, and her parole application, also reviewed by The Times, included a photograph of her shaking hands with Ashraf Ghani, the former Afghan president. In all, four family members had been issued an exit pass by U.S. military authorities in Afghanistan that entitled them to board U.S. evacuation flights, but they were unable to get through the gates at the airport in Kabul before the last flights departed. As weeks turned into months without any decision on their applications, Brozak, the retired military officer who was aiding them, enlisted the help of Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., who personally reached out to the Homeland Security Department, which oversees Citizenship and Immigration Services, on the family’s behalf. To no avail. On Jan. 27, the family members were dismayed to receive denial letters. A form letter, which did not address the particulars of their cases, stated that parole was granted to people “at risk of severe targeted or individualized harm” in the country where they were located, or who risked imminent return to a country where they would be harmed. In Pakistan, they are leading a precarious existence, unable to work to support themselves and trying to stay under the radar because of their illegal status. They have had to move four times. During an outing to buy food recently, Azizi’s 19-year-old brother was beaten up by people demanding bribes to refrain from reporting the family to authorities. Azizi, who has been working as an Uber driver while taking computer science classes, said he had put his life in California on hold as he devoted himself to assisting his family. “My heart is in so much pain. What will life be worth for me if I lose a member of my family?” said Azizi, weeping during an interview. “I participated in big military operations. I risked my life for this country,” he said. “But it just abandoned my family.”

Afghans who bet on fast path to the US are facing a closed door

Despite economic hardships under the Taliban regime, Afghans keep ancient equestrian sport Buzkashi alive. The word Buzkashi literally translates to 'pulling the goat'. WION tells you more in this report.

Afghanistan kick-starts a new season of Buzkashi games

The ongoing conflict on the Durand line between Afghanistan and Pakistan border escalates. Taliban said that Pakistan is not allowed to fence the border.

Durand line conflict continues: Taliban says Pakistan not allowed to fence the border

<p>In a move that is likely to rile up India, the Taliban announced the formation of a new military unit called the “Panipat operational unit”.</p>

<p>Panipat is a historic city located in India’s northern Haryana state.</p>

<p>The name of the new military unit draws inspiration from a historical battle that was fought in Panipat city in 1761— referred to as the Third Battle of Panipat—where the Maratha forces were defeated by the then ruler of Afghanistan, Ahmed Shah Abdali.</p>

<p>Abdali had won the battle, and it is estimated that 60,000–70,000 people were killed in the fighting, while many were taken prisoners.</p>

<p>Kabul-based media website Aamaj News on Friday reported that the new unit will be deployed to the country’s Nangarhar province bordering Pakistan.</p>

<p>The news outlet also shared photographs of masked Taliban fighters in military uniform holding US-made rifles and taking out a parade in Nangarhar's capital Jalalabad.</p>

<p>Historical events like the Panipat are often discussed in religious sermons in rural Afghanistan to gain the people’s sympathies for Muslims in places where they consider them to be in trouble.</p>

<p>Notably, when a Bollywood film inspired by the 18th-century&nbsp;battle, called ‘Panipat’, was released in 2019, a letter from the Afghanistan embassy was sent to New Delhi expressing concerns over how a distorted depiction of the Afghan ruler might hurt the sentiments of people in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Panipat film had also drawn the ire of the Jat community in Rajasthan, causing theatres in Jaipur to stop screening the film.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


In a move that is likely to rile up India, the Taliban announced the formation of a new military unit called the “Panipat operational unit”. Panipat is a historic city located in India’s northern Haryana state.

In a move that is likely to rile up India, the Taliban announced the formation of a new military unit called the “Panipat operational unit”. Panipat is a historic city located in India’s northern Haryana state. The name of the new military unit draws inspiration from a historical battle that was fought in Panipat city in 1761— referred to as the Third Battle of Panipat—where the Maratha forces were defeated by the then ruler of Afghanistan, Ahmed Shah Abdali. Abdali had won the battle, and it is estimated that 60,000–70,000 people were killed in the fighting, while many were taken prisoners. Kabul-based media website Aamaj News on Friday reported that the new unit will be deployed to the country’s Nangarhar province bordering Pakistan. The news outlet also shared photographs of masked Taliban fighters in military uniform holding US-made rifles and taking out a parade in Nangarhar's capital Jalalabad. Historical events like the Panipat are often discussed in religious sermons in rural Afghanistan to gain the people’s sympathies for Muslims in places where they consider them to be in trouble. Notably, when a Bollywood film inspired by the 18th-century battle, called ‘Panipat’, was released in 2019, a letter from the Afghanistan embassy was sent to New Delhi expressing concerns over how a distorted depiction of the Afghan ruler might hurt the sentiments of people in Afghanistan. Panipat film had also drawn the ire of the Jat community in Rajasthan, causing theatres in Jaipur to stop screening the film. (With inputs from agencies)

Invoking former Afghan ruler who attacked India in 18th century, Taliban raise ‘Panipat’ military unit

The chair of the United Nations Security Council's counter-terror committee Ambassador T S Tirumurti has expressed concerns over links between Taliban, Al Qaida, and Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Links between Taliban and LeT, JeM concerning, says UNSC's counter terror committee chair Tirumurti

US hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan and Taliban's eventual power grab has sparked concern regarding the future of the conflict-ridden country. International Community has time and again expressed fear of the region turning into a breeding ground for extremists; in the latest, the chair of the United Nations counterterrorism committee has now warned links between the Taliban Al-Qaeda and Pakistan-based terror groups.

Afghanistan may become safe haven for Taliban, Al Qaeda warns TS Tirumurti

<p>A senior US diplomat has claimed that the Taliban have detained 29 women and their families in Kabul. Rina Amiri, US special envoy for Afghan Women, Girls and Human Rights, said that these women were among 40 people seized on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking to her Twitter handle, she wrote, “These unjust detentions must stop."</p>

<p>The tweet has been deleted. However, other sources confirmed that multiple women had been detained in Kabul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The revelation raises concerns about the rising numbers of people seized and held in Afghanistan ever since the Taliban took over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UN secretary-general on his Twitter, wrote, "I am increasingly concerned about the wellbeing of missing women activists in Afghanistan. Several have ‘disappeared’, some not heard from in weeks."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-warn-against-womens-rights-activism-after-two-activists-were-seized-from-their-homes-446896"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Taliban warn against women's rights activism after two activists were seized from their homes</strong></a></p>

<p>He further added, "I strongly urge the Taliban to ensure their safety so that they can return home.”</p>

<p>Earlier in January, Taliban authorities warned that they have all the rights to crack down on dissent and jailed protestors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The warning came after two women activists noted that two of their comrades were seized from their homes after they took part in a few demonstrations. According to reports by AFP, Tamana Zaryabi Paryani and Parwana Ibrahimkhel were abducted from their homes in Kabul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has denied that any women were being held. However, he said that the authorities had the right "to arrest and detain dissidents or those who break the law".</p>

<p>"Nobody should create turmoil, because it disrupts peace and order," he said while speaking to AFP.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A senior US diplomat has claimed that the Taliban have detained 29 women and their families in Kabul. Rina Amiri, US special envoy for Afghan Women, Girls and Human Rights, said that these women were among 40 people seized on Friday.

A senior US diplomat has claimed that the Taliban have detained 29 women and their families in Kabul. Rina Amiri, US special envoy for Afghan Women, Girls and Human Rights, said that these women were among 40 people seized on Friday. Taking to her Twitter handle, she wrote, “These unjust detentions must stop." The tweet has been deleted. However, other sources confirmed that multiple women had been detained in Kabul. The revelation raises concerns about the rising numbers of people seized and held in Afghanistan ever since the Taliban took over. UN secretary-general on his Twitter, wrote, "I am increasingly concerned about the wellbeing of missing women activists in Afghanistan. Several have ‘disappeared’, some not heard from in weeks." Also read | Taliban warn against women's rights activism after two activists were seized from their homes He further added, "I strongly urge the Taliban to ensure their safety so that they can return home.” Earlier in January, Taliban authorities warned that they have all the rights to crack down on dissent and jailed protestors. The warning came after two women activists noted that two of their comrades were seized from their homes after they took part in a few demonstrations. According to reports by AFP, Tamana Zaryabi Paryani and Parwana Ibrahimkhel were abducted from their homes in Kabul. Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has denied that any women were being held. However, he said that the authorities had the right "to arrest and detain dissidents or those who break the law". "Nobody should create turmoil, because it disrupts peace and order," he said while speaking to AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban detain 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat

<p>Gulf envoys stressed Monday that women must be able to work and go to school, in talks with the Taliban foreign minister as Afghanistan's hardline Islamic rulers made a new bid to unblock foreign aid.</p>

<p>Amir Khan Muttaqi, a key member of the Taliban leadership that took over Kabul six months ago, met in Doha with ambassadors from the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on the first full day of his latest mission, where he is also to hold talks with European envoys.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taliban-al-qaida-let-jem-links-concerning-says-unscs-counter-terror-committee-chair-tirumurti-453293" hreflang="en">Taliban, Al Qaida and LeT, JeM links concerning: TS Tirumurti</a></strong></p>

<p>The Taliban have been struggling to unfreeze billions of dollars of assets abroad and get sanctions lifted as it faces pressure over its treatment of women and supporters of the Western-backed government toppled last year.</p>

<p>The Taliban tweeted pictures of the smiling foreign minister entering Monday's meeting with representatives from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. But diplomats said no promises were made by Afghan officials inside.</p>

<p>Arab envoys emphasised the need to help Afghanistan's "urgent humanitarian needs" as the country confronts widespread hunger caused by drought as well as an economic crisis that has driven up chronic unemployment, said a GCC statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-detain-29-women-and-their-families-in-kabul-claims-us-diplomat-452857" hreflang="en">Taliban detain 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat</a></strong></p>

<p>While highlighting that there should be "non-interference" in Afghanistan's affairs, they "stressed" the importance of a national reconciliation plan that "takes into consideration the interests of all components of society and respects basic freedoms and rights, including women's right to work and education".</p>

<p>The ambassadors also raised fears that "terrorist groups may be able to launch attacks from Afghanistan's territory against other countries".&nbsp;</p>

<p>They insisted that the country must not be exploited to fuel the illegal drugs trade.</p>

<p>Muttaqi, who is to hold a key meeting with European nations and other international representatives on Wednesday, made no comment after the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>No country has yet recognised the Taliban government and the latest talks came only days after President Joe Biden said that $7 billion held in US banks would be split between a fund to aid Afghanistan and to compensate victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks.</p>

<p>European governments and international finance institutions are also holding back billions in aid.&nbsp;</p>


Gulf envoys stressed Monday that women must be able to work and go to school, in talks with the Taliban foreign minister as Afghanistan's hardline Islamic rulers made a new bid to unblock foreign aid.

Gulf envoys stressed Monday that women must be able to work and go to school, in talks with the Taliban foreign minister as Afghanistan's hardline Islamic rulers made a new bid to unblock foreign aid. Amir Khan Muttaqi, a key member of the Taliban leadership that took over Kabul six months ago, met in Doha with ambassadors from the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on the first full day of his latest mission, where he is also to hold talks with European envoys. Also read | Taliban, Al Qaida and LeT, JeM links concerning: TS Tirumurti The Taliban have been struggling to unfreeze billions of dollars of assets abroad and get sanctions lifted as it faces pressure over its treatment of women and supporters of the Western-backed government toppled last year. The Taliban tweeted pictures of the smiling foreign minister entering Monday's meeting with representatives from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. But diplomats said no promises were made by Afghan officials inside. Arab envoys emphasised the need to help Afghanistan's "urgent humanitarian needs" as the country confronts widespread hunger caused by drought as well as an economic crisis that has driven up chronic unemployment, said a GCC statement. Also read | Taliban detain 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat While highlighting that there should be "non-interference" in Afghanistan's affairs, they "stressed" the importance of a national reconciliation plan that "takes into consideration the interests of all components of society and respects basic freedoms and rights, including women's right to work and education". The ambassadors also raised fears that "terrorist groups may be able to launch attacks from Afghanistan's territory against other countries". They insisted that the country must not be exploited to fuel the illegal drugs trade. Muttaqi, who is to hold a key meeting with European nations and other international representatives on Wednesday, made no comment after the meeting. No country has yet recognised the Taliban government and the latest talks came only days after President Joe Biden said that $7 billion held in US banks would be split between a fund to aid Afghanistan and to compensate victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks. European governments and international finance institutions are also holding back billions in aid.

Arab states stress women's rights to Taliban in aid talks

<p>The chair of the United Nations Security Council's counter-terror committee Ambassador T S Tirumurti has expressed concerns over links between Taliban, Al Qaida, and Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.</p>

<p>Speaking at a meet of the committee in his capacity as the chair, Ambassador T S Tirumurti said, "The linkages between the Taliban, Al-Qaida, and terrorist entities proscribed by the Security Council, such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, are a further source of concern", highlighting, " serious concern remains that Afghanistan may become a safe haven for Al Qaida and a number of terrorist groups in the region."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-detain-29-women-and-their-families-in-kabul-claims-us-diplomat-452857" hreflang="en">Taliban detain 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat</a></strong></p>

<p>The Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) was established by Security Council resolution 1373 (2001), which was adopted unanimously on 28 September 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the United States. The Committee is made up of all 15 Security Council members. &nbsp;Speaking on the " consequential change" in Afghanistan in August 2021, the chair said, "the Taliban’s rise to power in Afghanistan poses a complex security threat outside the region" particularly in "parts of Africa, where terrorist groups may try to emulate the Taliban’s example."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Monday's meeting focused on South and southeast Asia and the chair statement explained that since "military defeat in the conflict zones of the Middle East" ISIL and Al-Qaida "have been seeking to establish a foothold in both South and South-East Asia."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-army-abducting-people-across-balochistan-in-crackdown-to-avenge-attacks-452416" hreflang="en">Pakistani army abducting people across Balochistan to avenge attacks</a></strong></p>

<p>The region has seen a number of major terror attacks which were mentioned during the address. These included the 2019 Colombo attacks, the 2019 Pulwama terror attack perpetrated by Jaish E Mohammed, the 2020 Gurudwara attack in Kabul by IS-Khorasan, 2021 Kabul airport attack. The Committee has held an informal meeting on community engagement to counter-terrorism in South and South-East Asia in June 2018.</p>

<p>Indian envoy to UN T. S. Tirumurti was appointed the chair of the key UNSC committee on January 13, 2022 for a period of one year. The committee is tasked with undertaking steps like criminalizing financing of terrorism, sharing information with governments&nbsp;planning terror acts, etc. During the address, he also raised the issue of "misuse of information and communications technologies (ICT)" and "use of drones for cross-border trafficking of arms, drugs and launching terror attacks" which remain an "issue of serious concern."</p>

<p>Tirumurti in the capacity of the Indian envoy to the UN also paid homage to the Indian security personnel who died in the Pulwama terror attack 3 years ago on February 14, 2019.&nbsp;</p>


The chair of the United Nations Security Council's counter-terror committee Ambassador T S Tirumurti has expressed concerns over links between Taliban, Al Qaida, and Pakistan-based terror groups such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. Speaking at a meet of the committee in his capacity as the chair, Ambassador T S Tirumurti said, "The linkages between the Taliban, Al-Qaida, and terrorist entities proscribed by the Security Council, such as Lashkar e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, are a further source of concern", highlighting, " serious concern remains that Afghanistan may become a safe haven for Al Qaida and a number of terrorist groups in the region." Also read | Taliban detain 29 women and their families in Kabul, claims US diplomat The Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) was established by Security Council resolution 1373 (2001), which was adopted unanimously on 28 September 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the United States. The Committee is made up of all 15 Security Council members. Speaking on the " consequential change" in Afghanistan in August 2021, the chair said, "the Taliban’s rise to power in Afghanistan poses a complex security threat outside the region" particularly in "parts of Africa, where terrorist groups may try to emulate the Taliban’s example." Monday's meeting focused on South and southeast Asia and the chair statement explained that since "military defeat in the conflict zones of the Middle East" ISIL and Al-Qaida "have been seeking to establish a foothold in both South and South-East Asia." Also read | Pakistani army abducting people across Balochistan to avenge attacks The region has seen a number of major terror attacks which were mentioned during the address. These included the 2019 Colombo attacks, the 2019 Pulwama terror attack perpetrated by Jaish E Mohammed, the 2020 Gurudwara attack in Kabul by IS-Khorasan, 2021 Kabul airport attack. The Committee has held an informal meeting on community engagement to counter-terrorism in South and South-East Asia in June 2018. Indian envoy to UN T. S. Tirumurti was appointed the chair of the key UNSC committee on January 13, 2022 for a period of one year. The committee is tasked with undertaking steps like criminalizing financing of terrorism, sharing information with governments planning terror acts, etc. During the address, he also raised the issue of "misuse of information and communications technologies (ICT)" and "use of drones for cross-border trafficking of arms, drugs and launching terror attacks" which remain an "issue of serious concern." Tirumurti in the capacity of the Indian envoy to the UN also paid homage to the Indian security personnel who died in the Pulwama terror attack 3 years ago on February 14, 2019.

Taliban, Al Qaida & LeT, JeM links concerning, says UNSC's counter terror committee chair Tirumurti

<p>Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, a total of 86 radio stations have halted operations. According to TOLO News, the collapse of Afghan media can be attributed to the financial and political issues that the country is currently facing.&nbsp;<br />
Mosawar Rasikh, head of Radio Jahan said, "Radio Jahan has halted broadcasting for more than six months due to severe economic challenges."</p>

<p>Head of the Zamzama radio stations, Shafiullah Azizi, in a report by ANI said, "Around 70 per cent of radio stations are closed in the country. The reasons are economic challenges and broadcasting programs–in the current situation. On the other hand, the government insists on collecting taxes from radio stations."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unpaid-and-potentially-stateless-afghan-diplomats-seek-permission-to-remain-in-us-453177"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Unpaid and potentially stateless, Afghan diplomats seek permission to remain in US</strong></a></p>

<p>If statistics are to be believed, over 300 different kinds of media organisations have been in Afghanistan since August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A survey report in December revealed a drastic change in the Afghan media landscape since the Taliban took over. Carried out by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA), the survey talked about how 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover.</p>

<p>The head of the International Federation of Journalists earlier said that journalism in Afghanistan is in danger of disappearing. He further said that reporters trying to continue working under the Taliban have been subjected to beatings and imprisonment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, a total of 86 radio stations have halted operations. According to TOLO News, the collapse of Afghan media can be attributed to the financial and political issues that the country is currently facing.

Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, a total of 86 radio stations have halted operations. According to TOLO News, the collapse of Afghan media can be attributed to the financial and political issues that the country is currently facing. Mosawar Rasikh, head of Radio Jahan said, "Radio Jahan has halted broadcasting for more than six months due to severe economic challenges." Head of the Zamzama radio stations, Shafiullah Azizi, in a report by ANI said, "Around 70 per cent of radio stations are closed in the country. The reasons are economic challenges and broadcasting programs–in the current situation. On the other hand, the government insists on collecting taxes from radio stations." Also read | Unpaid and potentially stateless, Afghan diplomats seek permission to remain in US If statistics are to be believed, over 300 different kinds of media organisations have been in Afghanistan since August. A survey report in December revealed a drastic change in the Afghan media landscape since the Taliban took over. Carried out by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA), the survey talked about how 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover. The head of the International Federation of Journalists earlier said that journalism in Afghanistan is in danger of disappearing. He further said that reporters trying to continue working under the Taliban have been subjected to beatings and imprisonment. (With inputs from agencies)

Since Taliban takeover, 86 afghan radio stations have closed

<p>The UN refugee agency has claimed that two detained journalists in Afghanistan who had been working with the UN have been released.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them," the agency said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them.<br />
<br />
We are grateful to all who expressed concern and offered help.<br />
<br />
We remain committed to the people of Afghanistan.</p>
— UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency (@Refugees) <a href="https://twitter.com/Refugees/status/1492221366933852162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>It further added, "We are grateful to all who expressed concern and offered help. We remain committed to the people of Afghanistan."</p>

<p>Several UN agencies employ journalists to report on their work all around the globe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Committee to protect journalists had earlier identified one of the missing journalists&nbsp;as former BBC journalist Andrew North.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Steve Butler, the Committee to protect journalists Asia program coordinator, in a statement said, "The Taliban’s detention of two journalists on assignment with the UN refugee agency is a sad reflection of the overall decline of press freedom and increasing attacks on journalists under Taliban rule."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wanted-to-bring-revolutionary-changes-pak-pm-admits-govts-failure-452436"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;‘Wanted to bring revolutionary changes’: Pak PM admits govt’s failure</strong></a></p>

<p>Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, the situation of journalist have not been so good. There have been protests in the Afghan country and many journalists have also been detained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In December, a survey revealed a drastic change in the Afghan media landscape. Carried out by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA), the survey highlighted that 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover.</p>

<p>Four out of five women journalists are no longer working.</p>

<p>The head of the International Federation of Journalists earlier said that journalism in Afghanistan is in danger of disappearing. He further said that reporters trying to continue working under the Taliban have been subjected to beatings and imprisonment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The UN refugee agency has claimed that two detained journalists in Afghanistan who had been working with the UN have been released. "We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them," the agency said in a statement.

The UN refugee agency has claimed that two detained journalists in Afghanistan who had been working with the UN have been released. "We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them," the agency said in a statement. We are relieved to confirm the release in Kabul of the two journalists on assignment with UNHCR, and the Afghan nationals working with them. We are grateful to all who expressed concern and offered help. We remain committed to the people of Afghanistan. — UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency (@Refugees) February 11, 2022 × It further added, "We are grateful to all who expressed concern and offered help. We remain committed to the people of Afghanistan." Several UN agencies employ journalists to report on their work all around the globe. The Committee to protect journalists had earlier identified one of the missing journalists as former BBC journalist Andrew North. Steve Butler, the Committee to protect journalists Asia program coordinator, in a statement said, "The Taliban’s detention of two journalists on assignment with the UN refugee agency is a sad reflection of the overall decline of press freedom and increasing attacks on journalists under Taliban rule." Also read | ‘Wanted to bring revolutionary changes’: Pak PM admits govt’s failure Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, the situation of journalist have not been so good. There have been protests in the Afghan country and many journalists have also been detained. In December, a survey revealed a drastic change in the Afghan media landscape. Carried out by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA), the survey highlighted that 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover. Four out of five women journalists are no longer working. The head of the International Federation of Journalists earlier said that journalism in Afghanistan is in danger of disappearing. He further said that reporters trying to continue working under the Taliban have been subjected to beatings and imprisonment. (With inputs from agencies)

Two journalists working for the UN have been freed by Taliban

When the US withdrew its troops from Afghanistan, the international community rushed to freeze the country's foreign assets so that the Taliban does not misuse the funds but the ordinary afghans fell prey to this move. Humanitarian groups were left with no means to help those in need now after six months the US has decided to unfreeze part of the assets.

United States to unfreeze part of Afghan assets six months after Taliban takeover

<p>The U.S. government will take steps on Friday to free half of the $7 billion in frozen Afghan reserves held in the United States to aid the Afghan people without providing the Taliban access to the funds, sources familiar with the plan said.</p>

<p>A multi-step plan calls for the other half of the funds to remain in the United States, subject to ongoing litigation by U.S. victims of terrorism, including relatives of those who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, hijacking attacks, the sources said.</p>

<p>The moves come amid mounting pressure in Congress for the Biden administration to use the frozen Afghan reserves to address the dire economic crisis facing Afghanistan, which is suffering from severe recession and liquidity crisis.</p>

<p>To move forward, President Joe Biden will sign an executive order on Friday that will block property of the Afghan central bank held in the United States by U.S. financial institutions, requiring the transfer of the funds into a consolidated account held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the sources said.</p>

<p>The U.S. government will work to ensure access to $3.5 billion of those assets for "the benefit of the Afghan people and for Afghanistan’s future," said one of the sources, without providing details.</p>

<p>Decisions about the remaining funds need to be made by federal courts since some of the 9/11 families have writs of execution against the frozen assets, the sources said, adding that the plaintiffs would have a full opportunity to have their claims heard in court.</p>


The U.S. government will take steps on Friday to free half of the $7 billion in frozen Afghan reserves held in the United States to aid the Afghan people without providing the Taliban access to the funds, sources familiar with the plan said.

The U.S. government will take steps on Friday to free half of the $7 billion in frozen Afghan reserves held in the United States to aid the Afghan people without providing the Taliban access to the funds, sources familiar with the plan said. A multi-step plan calls for the other half of the funds to remain in the United States, subject to ongoing litigation by U.S. victims of terrorism, including relatives of those who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, hijacking attacks, the sources said. The moves come amid mounting pressure in Congress for the Biden administration to use the frozen Afghan reserves to address the dire economic crisis facing Afghanistan, which is suffering from severe recession and liquidity crisis. To move forward, President Joe Biden will sign an executive order on Friday that will block property of the Afghan central bank held in the United States by U.S. financial institutions, requiring the transfer of the funds into a consolidated account held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the sources said. The U.S. government will work to ensure access to $3.5 billion of those assets for "the benefit of the Afghan people and for Afghanistan’s future," said one of the sources, without providing details. Decisions about the remaining funds need to be made by federal courts since some of the 9/11 families have writs of execution against the frozen assets, the sources said, adding that the plaintiffs would have a full opportunity to have their claims heard in court.

US moves to free $7 billion in Afghan assets to aid Afghan people, 9/11 victims: Officials

Taliban are back in the government and again women are mostly confined to their homes this despite the Taliban promising a softer rule. They're cracking down on women's freedoms once again but the women refuse to bow down, here's our report.

Women's activism grows in Afghanistan with Taliban in power

Five months after the chaotic evacuation of US troops from Afghanistan, testimonies from multiple commanders involved in this operation have now been released to the public. Details from the final days of the evacuation have come to light from the planning to the life and death decisions made daily by US soldiers.

United States issues report on fatal Afghanistan Airport attack on US troops

Lieutenant general Michael Kurilla told the Senate Arms Services committee that the threat from the reconstituting of Al-Qaeda and ISIS-K in Afghanistan remains a big challenge.

Reconstituting of Al-Qaeda and ISIS-K in Afghanistan remains big challenge for US, says Kurilla

Former soldiers and bureaucrats of the ousted Afghan government are flocking to the emerald mines of Panjshir. They live and work in squalid conditions, away from the vengeful eyes of the Taliban. Mariam Wardak gets you a report.

South Asia Diary: Afghan ex-cops turn emerald hunters

<p>Known for her humanitarian work, actress-filmmaker Angelina Jolie has tried to bring to notice the plight of women in Afghanistan through her new post on social media.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Jolie took to her Instagram handle on Saturday and shared a personal letter she received from a young woman in the country.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The letter was blurred out to not reveal the girl's identity. Jolie began the caption of her post by writing, "A young woman in #Afghanistan sent me this letter. I'm protecting her identity, but she hasn't been able to go back to school since the Taliban seized power."<br />
<br />
Noting that women in Afghanistan are "being arrested simply for taking part in peaceful protests," Jolie said the young girl wrote, "I might never be able to go outside again or even be able to speak as I am a girl."<br />
<br />
She then shared another extract from the young woman's letter. "I feel like women don`t have any right to speak or put their word forward," the unidentified female wrote to the actress.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"The rights of the woman are taken away from them and they are not allowed to do anything in the country," she added.<br />
<br />
The woman who wrote the letter to Jolie then detailed an instance from a "few weeks back when the Taliban arrested two of the women who raised their voices in order to ask for the rights of woman and freedom."</p>

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<p>Expressing that the instance left her shocked and dismayed, the woman said, "I just thought, that this is the end."<br />
In her caption, the actress urged fans to keep track of what is happening in the country."Please track what is happening in Afghanistan, where young women are being taken from their homes at night at gunpoint and disappeared, and new restrictions are being imposed on the freedom of women and girls day by day."<br />
<br />
"Please help ensure they're not forgotten," Jolie concluded her post, which also highlighted women's rights activists who are "missing" in Afghanistan.<br />
<br />
These included Alia Azizi, Parwana Ibrahimkhel, Mursal Ayar, and Zahra Mohammadi, Tamana Zaryab Paryani and her three sisters.</p>

<p>On Monday, Jolie shared works of two female Aghan artists- Shamsia Hassani and Rada Akbar. Jolie, who admires the work of both the artists, wanted to honour&nbsp;&nbsp;Afghan women&nbsp;and 'their struggle for equality and dignity and freedom.'</p>

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<p>This isn't the first time that Jolie has used her social media page to draw attention to the plight of women in Afghanistan. The star had made her debut in July 2021, and had shared a &nbsp;different letter from another young woman who expressed her fears for the future after the Taliban had taken over Afghanistan.<br />
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In the letter, the young unidentified woman detailed how she and many others were living in fear, expressing "all our dreams are gone."<br />
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In response, Jolie, who is a former UN goodwill ambassador, and has worked with refugees in past years, noted that she would remain active in her fight to aid the Afghan women, "Like others who are committed, I will not turn away. I will continue to look for ways to help. And I hope you'll join me."&nbsp;</p>


Known for her humanitarian work, actress-filmmaker Angelina Jolie has tried to bring to notice the plight of women in Afghanistan through her new post on social media.

Known for her humanitarian work, actress-filmmaker Angelina Jolie has tried to bring to notice the plight of women in Afghanistan through her new post on social media. Jolie took to her Instagram handle on Saturday and shared a personal letter she received from a young woman in the country. The letter was blurred out to not reveal the girl's identity. Jolie began the caption of her post by writing, "A young woman in #Afghanistan sent me this letter. I'm protecting her identity, but she hasn't been able to go back to school since the Taliban seized power." Noting that women in Afghanistan are "being arrested simply for taking part in peaceful protests," Jolie said the young girl wrote, "I might never be able to go outside again or even be able to speak as I am a girl." She then shared another extract from the young woman's letter. "I feel like women don`t have any right to speak or put their word forward," the unidentified female wrote to the actress. "The rights of the woman are taken away from them and they are not allowed to do anything in the country," she added. The woman who wrote the letter to Jolie then detailed an instance from a "few weeks back when the Taliban arrested two of the women who raised their voices in order to ask for the rights of woman and freedom." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Angelina Jolie (@angelinajolie) × Expressing that the instance left her shocked and dismayed, the woman said, "I just thought, that this is the end." In her caption, the actress urged fans to keep track of what is happening in the country."Please track what is happening in Afghanistan, where young women are being taken from their homes at night at gunpoint and disappeared, and new restrictions are being imposed on the freedom of women and girls day by day." "Please help ensure they're not forgotten," Jolie concluded her post, which also highlighted women's rights activists who are "missing" in Afghanistan. These included Alia Azizi, Parwana Ibrahimkhel, Mursal Ayar, and Zahra Mohammadi, Tamana Zaryab Paryani and her three sisters. On Monday, Jolie shared works of two female Aghan artists- Shamsia Hassani and Rada Akbar. Jolie, who admires the work of both the artists, wanted to honour Afghan women and 'their struggle for equality and dignity and freedom.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Angelina Jolie (@angelinajolie) × This isn't the first time that Jolie has used her social media page to draw attention to the plight of women in Afghanistan. The star had made her debut in July 2021, and had shared a different letter from another young woman who expressed her fears for the future after the Taliban had taken over Afghanistan. In the letter, the young unidentified woman detailed how she and many others were living in fear, expressing "all our dreams are gone." In response, Jolie, who is a former UN goodwill ambassador, and has worked with refugees in past years, noted that she would remain active in her fight to aid the Afghan women, "Like others who are committed, I will not turn away. I will continue to look for ways to help. And I hope you'll join me."

Angelina Jolie takes to Instagram to share an emotional letter of a young Afghan woman

<p>The United Nations human rights office has expressed its concern over the disappearance of six people who were abducted in the Afghan capital Kabul. They were all a part of the recent women’s rights protests.</p>

<p>Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the High Commissioner for human rights, while speaking at a press briefing said, "We are gravely concerned for their well-being and safety."</p>

<p>"There is still no confirmed information on their whereabouts," she further added.</p>

<p>This started in January when Parwana Ibrahim Khil and her brother-in-law were abducted while travelling in Kabul. Later, Tamana Paryani and her three sisters were taken from a house in the city. &nbsp;</p>

<p>They were abducted after they had taken part in a peaceful demonstration demanding that the rights of women should be respected by the Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ms. Shamdasani, while elaborating on the situation said, "The lack of clear information on the location and well-being of these and other individuals, perpetuates a climate of fear and uncertainty."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Taliban released 14 women prisoners in Kabul in a bid to tackle global pressure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Office of Prisons Administration (OPA) of the Taliban announced that they have freed 14 women from the female prison in Kabul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes in as concerns grow over the disappearance of two women activists in Afghanistan. This is the second such instance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A statement issued by OPA to local media read, "14 women prisoners were released on Thursday, February 3 as a result of an assessment conducted by a five-member delegation."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations human rights office has expressed its concern over the disappearance of six people who were abducted in the Afghan capital Kabul. They were all a part of the recent women’s rights protests.

The United Nations human rights office has expressed its concern over the disappearance of six people who were abducted in the Afghan capital Kabul. They were all a part of the recent women’s rights protests. Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the High Commissioner for human rights, while speaking at a press briefing said, "We are gravely concerned for their well-being and safety." "There is still no confirmed information on their whereabouts," she further added. This started in January when Parwana Ibrahim Khil and her brother-in-law were abducted while travelling in Kabul. Later, Tamana Paryani and her three sisters were taken from a house in the city. They were abducted after they had taken part in a peaceful demonstration demanding that the rights of women should be respected by the Taliban. Ms. Shamdasani, while elaborating on the situation said, "The lack of clear information on the location and well-being of these and other individuals, perpetuates a climate of fear and uncertainty." Meanwhile, the Taliban released 14 women prisoners in Kabul in a bid to tackle global pressure. Office of Prisons Administration (OPA) of the Taliban announced that they have freed 14 women from the female prison in Kabul. This comes in as concerns grow over the disappearance of two women activists in Afghanistan. This is the second such instance. A statement issued by OPA to local media read, "14 women prisoners were released on Thursday, February 3 as a result of an assessment conducted by a five-member delegation." (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: 6 women’s rights activists still missing; UN human rights office expresses concern

The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee has released a new report on the Biden administration's withdrawal from Afghanistan. The report has found that as many as 9,000 Americans were left behind in Afghanistan during the disastrous withdrawal.

Report: As many as 9,000 Americans left behind during US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan

A United Nations report suggests that Al Qaeda and ISIS operatives work freely under the Taliban regime in Afghanistan.

Revival of terrorism in Afghanistan: Al Qaeda & ISIS operative work freely under Taliban

<p>Ever since congratulating the Taliban on its “victory” in Afghanistan on August 31 last year, al-Qaeda has been maintaining a “strategic silence” to not to “compromise” its efforts to gain international recognition, a new UN report has claimed.</p>

<p>The latest report of the UN Security Council on activities of the Islamic State and al-Qaeda and their affiliates, made public this week, said that Osama bin Laden’s son, Abdallah, visited Afghanistan in October “for meetings with the Taliban”.</p>

<p>al-Qaeda continues to recover from a series of leadership losses and lacks the capability to carry out “high-profile” attacks overseas, which remains its long-term goal, the report noted.</p>

<p>The UN’s sanctions monitoring team prepares such reports twice a year as part of efforts to implement sanctions imposed on the Islamic State and al-Qaeda.</p>

<p>It said that al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent (AQIS), which is led by Osama Mehmood and his deputy Atif Yahya Ghouri, “retains a presence in Afghanistan, in the provinces of Ghazni, Helmand, Kandahar, Nimruz, Paktika and Zabul, where the group fought alongside the Taliban” against the ousted government of Ashraf Ghani.</p>

<p>AQIS is estimated to have between 200 and 400 fighters, mainly from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan, the report said.</p>

<p>The report also stated that the Taliban have not done anything to limit the activities of foreign terrorists.</p>

<p>“The security landscape in Afghanistan changed dramatically on 15 August, when the Taliban took control of the country. There are no recent signs that the Taliban has taken steps to limit the activities of foreign terrorist fighters in the country,” the report said.</p>

<p>“On the contrary, terrorist groups enjoy greater freedom there than at any time in recent history,” it said, adding that UN member states have not reported “significant new movements of foreign terrorist fighters to Afghanistan”.</p>

<p>However, the report concluded that the Taliban have acted to rein in the anti-China terror group Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), also known as Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM).</p>

<p>“Some Member States reported that, following the Taliban’s return to power, ETIM/TIP fighters were relocated from their traditional stronghold in Badakhshan province, on the border with China, to Baghlan, Takhar and other provinces, as part of the Taliban’s efforts to both protect and restrain the group,” the report said.</p>


Ever since congratulating the Taliban on its “victory” in Afghanistan on August 31 last year, al-Qaeda has been maintaining a “strategic silence” to not to “compromise” its efforts to gain international recognition, a new UN report has claimed.

Ever since congratulating the Taliban on its “victory” in Afghanistan on August 31 last year, al-Qaeda has been maintaining a “strategic silence” to not to “compromise” its efforts to gain international recognition, a new UN report has claimed. The latest report of the UN Security Council on activities of the Islamic State and al-Qaeda and their affiliates, made public this week, said that Osama bin Laden’s son, Abdallah, visited Afghanistan in October “for meetings with the Taliban”. al-Qaeda continues to recover from a series of leadership losses and lacks the capability to carry out “high-profile” attacks overseas, which remains its long-term goal, the report noted. The UN’s sanctions monitoring team prepares such reports twice a year as part of efforts to implement sanctions imposed on the Islamic State and al-Qaeda. It said that al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent (AQIS), which is led by Osama Mehmood and his deputy Atif Yahya Ghouri, “retains a presence in Afghanistan, in the provinces of Ghazni, Helmand, Kandahar, Nimruz, Paktika and Zabul, where the group fought alongside the Taliban” against the ousted government of Ashraf Ghani. AQIS is estimated to have between 200 and 400 fighters, mainly from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan, the report said. The report also stated that the Taliban have not done anything to limit the activities of foreign terrorists. “The security landscape in Afghanistan changed dramatically on 15 August, when the Taliban took control of the country. There are no recent signs that the Taliban has taken steps to limit the activities of foreign terrorist fighters in the country,” the report said. “On the contrary, terrorist groups enjoy greater freedom there than at any time in recent history,” it said, adding that UN member states have not reported “significant new movements of foreign terrorist fighters to Afghanistan”. However, the report concluded that the Taliban have acted to rein in the anti-China terror group Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), also known as Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM). “Some Member States reported that, following the Taliban’s return to power, ETIM/TIP fighters were relocated from their traditional stronghold in Badakhshan province, on the border with China, to Baghlan, Takhar and other provinces, as part of the Taliban’s efforts to both protect and restrain the group,” the report said.

Osama bin Laden’s son held meetings with Taliban in Afghanistan last year: UN report

<p>Citing the destruction of iconic Bamiyan Buddha statues in Afghanistan, Indian envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti urged the international community to combat “hate and violence” against all religions.</p>

<p>"The shattering of iconic Bamiyan Buddhas, to name one of the tragic events, stands as a testimony to what hate against other religions can do,” he said while speaking at a special virtual event on Friday on the occasion of the International Day of Human Fraternity organised by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in partnership with Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.</p>

<p>The Buddhas of Bamiyan were destroyed by the Taliban in 2001, drawing a wave of international condemnation.</p>

<p>In the past as well, India has repeatedly called on the need to denounce hate against non-Abrahamic or Indic religions in the backdrop of UN resolutions focusing only on hatred against Abrahamic religions.</p>

<p>Pakistan has been leading when it comes to resolutions on Islamophobia even as it has been silent on atrocities against minorities like Hindus and other religions.</p>

<p>The envoy said that there was a need to need to commit to pluralistic traditions, saying that fraternity blossoms under fraternity, which is in line with India’s belief that the world is one family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam).</p>

<p>February 4 is celebrated as the International Day of Human Fraternity by promoting cultural diversity and advancing dialogue and understanding between religions and civilizations.</p>

<p>A resolution regarding this, which was piloted by UAE and Egypt, was passed last. India was one of the co-sponsors of the resolution.</p>

<p>“International days are days which should seek to bring all of us together as one family, and be celebrated in an inclusive manner. They should not seek to divide us,” the envoy said.</p>

<p>Interestingly, it was on this day in Abu Dhabi in 2019 that Pope Francis and the grand imam of al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, met in the UAE's capital.</p>

<p>Al Azhar is Sunni Islam's most important seat of learning while the Pope is the head of the Catholic church.</p>


Citing the destruction of iconic Bamiyan Buddha statues in Afghanistan, Indian envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti urged the international community to combat “hate and violence” against all religions.

Citing the destruction of iconic Bamiyan Buddha statues in Afghanistan, Indian envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti urged the international community to combat “hate and violence” against all religions. "The shattering of iconic Bamiyan Buddhas, to name one of the tragic events, stands as a testimony to what hate against other religions can do,” he said while speaking at a special virtual event on Friday on the occasion of the International Day of Human Fraternity organised by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in partnership with Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. The Buddhas of Bamiyan were destroyed by the Taliban in 2001, drawing a wave of international condemnation. In the past as well, India has repeatedly called on the need to denounce hate against non-Abrahamic or Indic religions in the backdrop of UN resolutions focusing only on hatred against Abrahamic religions. Pakistan has been leading when it comes to resolutions on Islamophobia even as it has been silent on atrocities against minorities like Hindus and other religions. The envoy said that there was a need to need to commit to pluralistic traditions, saying that fraternity blossoms under fraternity, which is in line with India’s belief that the world is one family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam). February 4 is celebrated as the International Day of Human Fraternity by promoting cultural diversity and advancing dialogue and understanding between religions and civilizations. A resolution regarding this, which was piloted by UAE and Egypt, was passed last. India was one of the co-sponsors of the resolution. “International days are days which should seek to bring all of us together as one family, and be celebrated in an inclusive manner. They should not seek to divide us,” the envoy said. Interestingly, it was on this day in Abu Dhabi in 2019 that Pope Francis and the grand imam of al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, met in the UAE's capital. Al Azhar is Sunni Islam's most important seat of learning while the Pope is the head of the Catholic church.

Citing destruction of Bamiyan Buddha statues, India’s UN envoy says need to combat hate against religions

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