A study by Pakistani thinktank has stated that the rise in militancy in the country coincided with the Taliban’s increasing offensive in Afghanistan that started in May and achieved its ultimate peak when the radical organisation took over Afghanistan in mid-August.

The study conducted by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Study (PICSS) noted that the highest number of attacks in a single month in 2021 was recorded in August when 45 attacks were carried out by militants.

The average number of militant attacks in Pakistan saw a 36 per cent jump. In 2020, 16 attacks were recorded while in 2021, it soared to 25, which was the highest after 2017, the report stated.

Also read |&nbsp;90% of terrorists operating in Afghanistan targeting CPEC projects: Pak’s counter-terrorism wing chief

According to PICSS data, Balochistan was the most affected district, recording a 110 per cent rise in militancy attacks, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa tribal districts with 27 per cent in 2021.

Balochistan province also recorded the most deaths (170) in 103 attacks. The highest number of injured were also reported from this region where more than 50 per cent of the total injured (331) were recorded.

The tribal districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were the second most affected region of the country which though witnessed a similar number of attacks as Balochistan (103), but saw lesser deaths (117).

In Sindh, 15 militant attacks were reported in which 23 people were killed and 29 injured. In Punjab, militants carried out 10 attacks in which 10 people were killed and 87 injured.

The militant attacks went up in 2021 in almost all administrative regions of the country except Sindh and Gilgit-Baltistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

A study by Pakistani thinktank has stated that the rise in militancy in the country coincided with the Taliban’s increasing offensive in Afghanistan that started in May and achieved its ultimate peak when the radical organisation took over Afghanistan in mid-August.

A study by Pakistani thinktank has stated that the rise in militancy in the country coincided with the Taliban’s increasing offensive in Afghanistan that started in May and achieved its ultimate peak when the radical organisation took over Afghanistan in mid-August. The study conducted by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Study (PICSS) noted that the highest number of attacks in a single month in 2021 was recorded in August when 45 attacks were carried out by militants. The average number of militant attacks in Pakistan saw a 36 per cent jump. In 2020, 16 attacks were recorded while in 2021, it soared to 25, which was the highest after 2017, the report stated. Also read | 90% of terrorists operating in Afghanistan targeting CPEC projects: Pak’s counter-terrorism wing chief According to PICSS data, Balochistan was the most affected district, recording a 110 per cent rise in militancy attacks, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa tribal districts with 27 per cent in 2021. Balochistan province also recorded the most deaths (170) in 103 attacks. The highest number of injured were also reported from this region where more than 50 per cent of the total injured (331) were recorded. The tribal districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were the second most affected region of the country which though witnessed a similar number of attacks as Balochistan (103), but saw lesser deaths (117). In Sindh, 15 militant attacks were reported in which 23 people were killed and 29 injured. In Punjab, militants carried out 10 attacks in which 10 people were killed and 87 injured. The militant attacks went up in 2021 in almost all administrative regions of the country except Sindh and Gilgit-Baltistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Militancy soared in Pakistan after Taliban offensive in Afghanistan: Report

A Russian news agency has reported that there are 3.5 million drug addicts in Afghanistan, which means 9% of the country's population are addicted to drugs.

Taliban: 9% of Afghanistan's population are addicted to drugs

Earlier in 2021, when Afghanistan braced itself for chaos & conflict, amid the withdrawal of US forces, WION witnessed the conundrum first hand. From America's war on terror to Taliban's quest for legitimacy, we bring you a ground report of WION's '100 Days in Afghanistan'.

The Afghanistan Conundrum: 100 days of reportage

Afghanistan Air Force pilots spills insider details about Kabul's chaotic fall during the Taliban takeover of the nation.

Afghanistan Air Force pilots reveals new details about Kabul's chaotic fall amid Taliban takeover

Tensions are escalating between the Taliban and the Pakistan security forces over border fencing at the Durand line. In recent weeks, there have been a number of clashes along the Durand line when the two sides exchanged fire.

Tensions escalate between Taliban and Pakistan over Durand line fencing

For the second time in a week, the Taliban and Pakistani forces clashed at the Durand Line border after the latter allegedly tried to extend the barbed wire fences into the Afghanistan territory.

According to local media reports, the clash took place on Thursday in Afghanistan’s southeastern Nimroz province at Charborjak district.

It is being reported that the Pakistani forces tried to extend the border fences 10 kilometres into the Afghanistan territory, prompting the Taliban&nbsp;personnel to tear down the barbed wires.

On December 22, both the forces had clashed in the eastern Nangarhar province over the fencing issue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-tear-down-barbed-wire-fence-put-up-by-pak-forces-as-durand-line-border-tension-brews-438954">Taliban tear down barbed wire fence put up by Pak forces as Durand Line border tension brews</a>

According to the Afghanistan-based Khama Press (KP) news agency, the Taliban forces uprooted barbed wires erected by the Pakistan security forces and brought it to Afghanistan.

A video of the incident had gone viral, showing Afghanistan forces threatening their Pakistani counterparts with harsh repercussions if another attempt was made to erect barbed wires along the border.

Watch

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Durand Line—the 2,600-km international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, often witnesses periodic skirmish between the two forces.

Previous Afghan governments and the new Taliban regime have often objected to Pakistan fencing its border, saying that they have never approved its legitimacy.

In September, this was asserted by the Chief Spokesperson of the Taliban, Zabiullah Mujahid &nbsp;after the formation of the Taliban’s caretaker government.&nbsp;

The border is named after British civil servant Sir Henry Mortimer Durand who signed an agreement with Amir Abdur Rahman, then the Afghan ruler, on November 12, 1893, to establish an international border between British India and Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the second time in a week, the Taliban and Pakistani forces clashed at the Durand Line border after the latter allegedly tried to extend the barbed wire fences into the Afghanistan territory.

For the second time in a week, the Taliban and Pakistani forces clashed at the Durand Line border after the latter allegedly tried to extend the barbed wire fences into the Afghanistan territory. According to local media reports, the clash took place on Thursday in Afghanistan’s southeastern Nimroz province at Charborjak district. It is being reported that the Pakistani forces tried to extend the border fences 10 kilometres into the Afghanistan territory, prompting the Taliban personnel to tear down the barbed wires. On December 22, both the forces had clashed in the eastern Nangarhar province over the fencing issue. Also read | Taliban tear down barbed wire fence put up by Pak forces as Durand Line border tension brews According to the Afghanistan-based Khama Press (KP) news agency, the Taliban forces uprooted barbed wires erected by the Pakistan security forces and brought it to Afghanistan. A video of the incident had gone viral, showing Afghanistan forces threatening their Pakistani counterparts with harsh repercussions if another attempt was made to erect barbed wires along the border. Watch Durand Line—the 2,600-km international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, often witnesses periodic skirmish between the two forces. Previous Afghan governments and the new Taliban regime have often objected to Pakistan fencing its border, saying that they have never approved its legitimacy. In September, this was asserted by the Chief Spokesperson of the Taliban, Zabiullah Mujahid after the formation of the Taliban’s caretaker government. The border is named after British civil servant Sir Henry Mortimer Durand who signed an agreement with Amir Abdur Rahman, then the Afghan ruler, on November 12, 1893, to establish an international border between British India and Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan and Taliban forces clash at Durand Line again over border fencing issue

Tensions are escalating between the Taliban and Pakistan security forces over the border fencing at the Durand line. In recent weeks there have been a number of clashes along the journey line when the two sides exchanged fire across the border.

Pakistan and Taliban forces clash continue at the Durand line

The Taliban fired warning shots to disperse a protest demanding jobs and education for women. What happened to their promise of equal opportunities and rights? Taliban 1.0 or 2.0, Afghan women continue to suffer. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Taliban open fire at women's protest

Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani recalled the events and shared details when he fled the country as soon as the Taliban fighters entered the gates of Kabul on August 15.&nbsp;

The 72-year-old faced strong criticism for fleeing the country and leaving the cirizens behind in dire straits amid a chaotic evacuation of troops by the West.&nbsp;

While speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Thursday (December 30), Ghani defended his decision and also revealed what exactly had happened.&nbsp;

In conversation with Gen Sir Nick Carter, who is UK's former Chief of the Defence Staff, Ghani said that he had no idea that August 15 would be his last day in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

He&nbsp;told Gen Carter, who was guest-editing the Today programme&nbsp;that he left the country to save it from destruction.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dont-punish-former-regime-members-taliban-chief-orders-fighters-441130">Don't 'punish' former regime members: Taliban chief orders fighters</a>

Ghani admitted that mistakes were made during the entire process of troops withdrawal by the NATO allies. He said "assuming that the patience of the international community would last" impacted the country.&nbsp;

Reflecting&nbsp;on the agreement between the&nbsp;hardline Islamist regime and former US President Donald Trump, Ghani said, "Instead of a peace process, we got a withdrawal process," adding that it deal was unfolded, it "erased us".&nbsp;

In the end, it was a "violent coup, not a political agreement, or a political process where the people have been involved". He added, "My life work has been destroyed. My values had been trampled on. And I have been made a scapegoat."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-taliban-member-brutally-tortures-an-afghan-army-official-440891">Watch: Taliban member brutally tortures an Afghan army official</a>

Recalling the day, Ghani stated that the Taliban fighters had agreed not to enter Kabul, however, the opposite happened. "Two different factions of the Taliban were closing in from two different directions," Ghani said.&nbsp;

"And the possibility of a massive conflict between them that would destroy the city of five million and bring havoc to the people was enormous," he added.&nbsp;

Speaking further, he said that he had agreed to let his national security adviser and wife leave Kabul. After that, he was waiting for a car that was supposed to take him to the ministry of defence, but it didn't come.&nbsp;

He also&nbsp;informed that the chief of presidential security, who was terrified, told him that if Ghani took a stand, "they will all be killed".

"He did not give me more than two minutes. My instructions had been to prepare for departure for [the city of] Khost. He told me that Khost had fallen and so had Jalalabad," Ghani said.&nbsp;

"I did not know where we will go. Only when we took off, it became clear that we were leaving [Afghanistan]. So this really was sudden," he added.&nbsp;

'Did not take any money'

On allegations that he left the country with a lot of money, Ghani denied that he did not take any money out of the country. He also welcomed an international probe that he said would clear his name.

He said, "I want to categorically state, I did not take any money out of the country. My style of life is known to everyone. What would I do with money?"

WATCH |&nbsp;Afghan women protest in a closed area in Kabul demanding rights

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Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani recalled the events and shared details when he fled the country as soon as the Taliban fighters entered the gates of Kabul on August 15.

Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani recalled the events and shared details when he fled the country as soon as the Taliban fighters entered the gates of Kabul on August 15. The 72-year-old faced strong criticism for fleeing the country and leaving the cirizens behind in dire straits amid a chaotic evacuation of troops by the West. While speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Thursday (December 30), Ghani defended his decision and also revealed what exactly had happened. In conversation with Gen Sir Nick Carter, who is UK's former Chief of the Defence Staff, Ghani said that he had no idea that August 15 would be his last day in Afghanistan. He told Gen Carter, who was guest-editing the Today programme that he left the country to save it from destruction. ALSO READ | Don't 'punish' former regime members: Taliban chief orders fighters Ghani admitted that mistakes were made during the entire process of troops withdrawal by the NATO allies. He said "assuming that the patience of the international community would last" impacted the country. Reflecting on the agreement between the hardline Islamist regime and former US President Donald Trump, Ghani said, "Instead of a peace process, we got a withdrawal process," adding that it deal was unfolded, it "erased us". In the end, it was a "violent coup, not a political agreement, or a political process where the people have been involved". He added, "My life work has been destroyed. My values had been trampled on. And I have been made a scapegoat." ALSO READ | Watch: Taliban member brutally tortures an Afghan army official Recalling the day, Ghani stated that the Taliban fighters had agreed not to enter Kabul, however, the opposite happened. "Two different factions of the Taliban were closing in from two different directions," Ghani said. "And the possibility of a massive conflict between them that would destroy the city of five million and bring havoc to the people was enormous," he added. Speaking further, he said that he had agreed to let his national security adviser and wife leave Kabul. After that, he was waiting for a car that was supposed to take him to the ministry of defence, but it didn't come. He also informed that the chief of presidential security, who was terrified, told him that if Ghani took a stand, "they will all be killed". "He did not give me more than two minutes. My instructions had been to prepare for departure for [the city of] Khost. He told me that Khost had fallen and so had Jalalabad," Ghani said. "I did not know where we will go. Only when we took off, it became clear that we were leaving [Afghanistan]. So this really was sudden," he added. 'Did not take any money' On allegations that he left the country with a lot of money, Ghani denied that he did not take any money out of the country. He also welcomed an international probe that he said would clear his name. He said, "I want to categorically state, I did not take any money out of the country. My style of life is known to everyone. What would I do with money?" WATCH | Afghan women protest in a closed area in Kabul demanding rights ×

'I have been made a scapegoat': Ashraf Ghani recalls the day he fled Afghanistan, denies taking money

The US on Wednesday appointed an envoy to defend women's rights in Afghanistan. The move has come as Taliban appear to put increasing restrictions on women in the country.

Rina Amiri Rina Amiri, an Afghan-born US scholar and mediation expert who served at the State Department under former president Barack Obama, will take the role of special envoy for Afghan women, girls and human rights, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced.

After capturing power in Afghanistan, though Taliban seemed to project a liberal-than-before image, restrictions were gradually put on aspects of women's lives. Just three days ago, Taliban government said that women could not travel long distances without being accompanied by a male relative. On the same day Taliban minister for education said that co-education was against Islamic&nbsp;values.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-education-minister-says-co-education-is-against-islamic-values-440211">Afghan education minister says co-education is against Islamic values</a>

US appointing a special envoy for women's rights assumed importance in this light.

"We desire a peaceful, stable and secure Afghanistan, where all Afghans can live and thrive in political, economic and social inclusivity," Blinken said in a statement.

The Taliban imposed an ultra-austere brand of Islam on Afghanistan during their 1996-2001 regime, including banning women from working and girls from education.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-cant-travel-long-distances-without-male-relative-taliban-440129">Afghan women can't travel long distances without male relative: Taliban</a>

Despite Taliban pledges to act differently after their August takeover, many women remain barred from returning to work and girls are largely cut off from secondary schooling.

On Sunday, the Taliban said that women would not be allowed to travel long distances without a male escort and that vehicle owners should not give rides to women unless they wear headscarves.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US on Wednesday appointed an envoy to defend women's rights in Afghanistan. The move has come as Taliban appear to put increasing restrictions on women in the country.

The US on Wednesday appointed an envoy to defend women's rights in Afghanistan. The move has come as Taliban appear to put increasing restrictions on women in the country. Rina Amiri Rina Amiri, an Afghan-born US scholar and mediation expert who served at the State Department under former president Barack Obama, will take the role of special envoy for Afghan women, girls and human rights, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced. After capturing power in Afghanistan, though Taliban seemed to project a liberal-than-before image, restrictions were gradually put on aspects of women's lives. Just three days ago, Taliban government said that women could not travel long distances without being accompanied by a male relative. On the same day Taliban minister for education said that co-education was against Islamic values. Also Read | Afghan education minister says co-education is against Islamic values US appointing a special envoy for women's rights assumed importance in this light. "We desire a peaceful, stable and secure Afghanistan, where all Afghans can live and thrive in political, economic and social inclusivity," Blinken said in a statement. The Taliban imposed an ultra-austere brand of Islam on Afghanistan during their 1996-2001 regime, including banning women from working and girls from education. Also Read | Afghan women can't travel long distances without male relative: Taliban Despite Taliban pledges to act differently after their August takeover, many women remain barred from returning to work and girls are largely cut off from secondary schooling. On Sunday, the Taliban said that women would not be allowed to travel long distances without a male escort and that vehicle owners should not give rides to women unless they wear headscarves. (With inputs from agencies)

US appoints special envoy for Afghan women's rights

Despite the Taliban's announcement of a general amnesty following their takeover of Afghanistan, a video on social media showing a former government military commander being tortured by two men has aroused outrage.

Following the viral video of torture, many people on social media platforms have stated that such actions are plainly in violation of the broad amnesty promised by the Islamic Emirate in its early days in power, according to Tolo News.

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Taliban tortures former army official Rahamatullah Qaderi. Qaderi was arrested last week. <a href="https://t.co/5slH5tQs72">pic.twitter.com/5slH5tQs72</a>
— Tajuden Soroush (@TajudenSoroush) <a href="https://twitter.com/TajudenSoroush/status/1475399076296507398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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(Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of this video.)

"They have announced a general amnesty and it is expected that they should uphold it because upholding promises will strengthen trust between the government and the people," said Hekmatullah Mirzada, a university lecturer.

"The Islamic Emirate should enforce the general amnesty among its low-level ranks and in the provinces through provincial governors and heads of security departments," said Rahmatullah Andar, a former military officer. 
 
Meanwhile, Anas Haqqani, one of the Taliban's senior leaders, told Tolo News that personal revenge should be avoided and that a general amnesty should be observed.

"Now that a broad amnesty has been declared, "it is preferable that all persons be treated fairly and that personal revenge be avoided," he stated.

International groups, notably Human Rights Watch, have previously reported on the killings and arrests of former government security personnel.

The Taliban, on the other hand, has consistently denied these reports.&nbsp;

"Detaining and interrogating people due to their relations with the former government will increase social inferiority and problems which can change into a threat to security and stability in the future," said Sayed Baqir Mohsini, a political analyst.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite the Taliban's announcement of a general amnesty following their takeover of Afghanistan, a video on social media showing a former government military commander being tortured by two men has aroused outrage.

Despite the Taliban's announcement of a general amnesty following their takeover of Afghanistan, a video on social media showing a former government military commander being tortured by two men has aroused outrage. Following the viral video of torture, many people on social media platforms have stated that such actions are plainly in violation of the broad amnesty promised by the Islamic Emirate in its early days in power, according to Tolo News. Taliban tortures former army official Rahamatullah Qaderi. Qaderi was arrested last week. pic.twitter.com/5slH5tQs72 — Tajuden Soroush (@TajudenSoroush) December 27, 2021 × (Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of this video.) "They have announced a general amnesty and it is expected that they should uphold it because upholding promises will strengthen trust between the government and the people," said Hekmatullah Mirzada, a university lecturer. "The Islamic Emirate should enforce the general amnesty among its low-level ranks and in the provinces through provincial governors and heads of security departments," said Rahmatullah Andar, a former military officer. Meanwhile, Anas Haqqani, one of the Taliban's senior leaders, told Tolo News that personal revenge should be avoided and that a general amnesty should be observed. "Now that a broad amnesty has been declared, "it is preferable that all persons be treated fairly and that personal revenge be avoided," he stated. International groups, notably Human Rights Watch, have previously reported on the killings and arrests of former government security personnel. The Taliban, on the other hand, has consistently denied these reports. "Detaining and interrogating people due to their relations with the former government will increase social inferiority and problems which can change into a threat to security and stability in the future," said Sayed Baqir Mohsini, a political analyst. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Taliban member brutally tortures an Afghan army official

Members of Afghanistan women's political participation network protested in a closed area in Kabul demanding rights to education, work and political participation.

Afghan women protest in a closed area in Kabul demanding rights

Afghan women protest against killing of former troops, demand equal rights

Acting Afghan Higher Education Minister Abdul Baqi Haqqani on Sunday said ''co-education is against Islamic values.'' He also added that his government does not oppose women's education but rather the concept of men and women studying together.

Co-education is against Islamic values, says Afghan Education Minister

In a recent development, the Taliban has dismissed Afghanistan's election commission. "There is no need for these commissions to exist and operate," Taliban government spokesman Bilal Karimi said. The panel was responsible for supervising polls during the previous administration.&nbsp;

"If we ever feel a need, the Islamic Emirate will revive these commissions," Karimi said speaking about the Independent election commission (IEC) and the Independent electoral complaints commission.

The IEC was established in 2006 with the aim of supervising all types of elections.&nbsp;

Aurangzeb, the head of the panel till the Taliban took over, while speaking to AFP said, "They have taken this decision in a hurry... and dissolving the commission would have huge consequences. If this structure does not exist, I'm 100 percent sure that Afghanistan's problems will never be solved as there won't be any elections."

This is not the first time that an election commission has been dismissed in Taliban. Before Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan, several such commission officials were killed by extremist groups.&nbsp;

Halim Fidai, a senior politician in the previous regime said that the decision shows that the Taliban "do not believe in democracy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-keep-aid-flowing-to-afghanistan-us-authorises-certain-transactions-with-taliban-439164">Also read |&nbsp;To keep aid flowing to Afghanistan, US authorises certain transactions with Taliban</a>

Situation in Afghanistan has been worsening ever since Taliban's takeover. As per reports by the United Nations, nearly 23 million people, which is about 55 per cent of the population, face extreme levels of hunger, and nearly 9 million are at risk of famine this winter.

To ensure a flow of aid in Afghanistan, the United States recently exempted from sanctions, US and UN officials doing permitted business with the Taliban.

As part of efforts to ease humanitarian aid flows into Afghanistan, the Treasury issued three general licenses. UN plans to pay monthly food allowances to Taliban-run personnel guarding UN facilities next year and to subsidise their salaries, a proposal that has raised questions about whether the payments would violate US sanctions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a recent development, the Taliban has dismissed Afghanistan's election commission. "There is no need for these commissions to exist and operate," Taliban government spokesman Bilal Karimi said.

In a recent development, the Taliban has dismissed Afghanistan's election commission. "There is no need for these commissions to exist and operate," Taliban government spokesman Bilal Karimi said. The panel was responsible for supervising polls during the previous administration. "If we ever feel a need, the Islamic Emirate will revive these commissions," Karimi said speaking about the Independent election commission (IEC) and the Independent electoral complaints commission. The IEC was established in 2006 with the aim of supervising all types of elections. Aurangzeb, the head of the panel till the Taliban took over, while speaking to AFP said, "They have taken this decision in a hurry... and dissolving the commission would have huge consequences. If this structure does not exist, I'm 100 percent sure that Afghanistan's problems will never be solved as there won't be any elections." This is not the first time that an election commission has been dismissed in Taliban. Before Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan, several such commission officials were killed by extremist groups. Halim Fidai, a senior politician in the previous regime said that the decision shows that the Taliban "do not believe in democracy". Also read | To keep aid flowing to Afghanistan, US authorises certain transactions with Taliban Situation in Afghanistan has been worsening ever since Taliban's takeover. As per reports by the United Nations, nearly 23 million people, which is about 55 per cent of the population, face extreme levels of hunger, and nearly 9 million are at risk of famine this winter. To ensure a flow of aid in Afghanistan, the United States recently exempted from sanctions, US and UN officials doing permitted business with the Taliban. As part of efforts to ease humanitarian aid flows into Afghanistan, the Treasury issued three general licenses. UN plans to pay monthly food allowances to Taliban-run personnel guarding UN facilities next year and to subsidise their salaries, a proposal that has raised questions about whether the payments would violate US sanctions. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban dismiss Afghan election commission in decision seen as hurried

Taliban has rejected reports of a deal with Turkey and Qatar. The denial comes hours after reports claiming that Qatar and Turkey have breached an agreement with Taliban to manage five airports.

Taliban rejects reports of a deal with Turkey, Qatar

Acting Afghan Higher Education Minister Abdul Baqi Haqqani on Sunday said ''co-education is against Islamic values.''

During a press conference in Kabul, he said that his government does not oppose women's education but rather the concept of men and women studying together.

"We are working on building an Islamic environment where women could study... it might take some time," he added.

However, he did not specify when girls might return to school and university classes across the country.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dont-politicise-education-and-right-to-work-afghan-women-protest-against-taliban-government-422880" hreflang="en">'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government</a>

Blasting the decision, Heather Barr, the associate director of women's rights in the Human Rights Watch, said "This new order essentially moves... further in the direction of making women prisoners."

It "shuts off opportunities for them to be able to move about freely, to travel to another city, to do business, (or) to be able to flee if they are facing violence in the home", Barr added.&nbsp;

It comes despite the hardline Islamists seeking to project a moderate image internationally in a bid to restore aid suspended when the previous government imploded during the final stages of a US military withdrawal.

Meanwhile, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has issued a guidance that women seeking to travel long distances should not be offered road transport unless they are accompanied by a close male relative.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-cant-travel-long-distances-without-male-relative-taliban-440129" hreflang="en">Afghan women can't travel long distances without male relative: Taliban</a>

The Taliban have faced heavy criticism for keeping women and girls out of employment and education and excluding broad sections of Afghan society from the government.&nbsp;

They have television dramas that included female actors and ordering women news presenters to wear "Islamic hijab".

The Taliban's definition of the hijab, which can range from a hair covering to a face veil or full-body covering, is unclear, and most Afghan women already wear headscarves.

The international community has accused them of trampling on human rights and, despite their promise of amnesty, targeting officials of the former administration.

However, acting Afghan foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said the government had restored peace and security and done much to address demands for more inclusiveness with respect for human rights, including the rights of women.

"All must acknowledge that political isolation of Afghanistan is not beneficial for anyone, therefore it is imperative that all support the prevailing stability and back it both politically and economically," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Acting Afghan Higher Education Minister Abdul Baqi Haqqani on Sunday said ''co-education is against Islamic values.'' During a press conference in Kabul, he said that his government does not oppose women's education but rather the concept of men and women studying together.

Acting Afghan Higher Education Minister Abdul Baqi Haqqani on Sunday said ''co-education is against Islamic values.'' During a press conference in Kabul, he said that his government does not oppose women's education but rather the concept of men and women studying together. "We are working on building an Islamic environment where women could study... it might take some time," he added. However, he did not specify when girls might return to school and university classes across the country. Also see | 'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government Blasting the decision, Heather Barr, the associate director of women's rights in the Human Rights Watch, said "This new order essentially moves... further in the direction of making women prisoners." It "shuts off opportunities for them to be able to move about freely, to travel to another city, to do business, (or) to be able to flee if they are facing violence in the home", Barr added. It comes despite the hardline Islamists seeking to project a moderate image internationally in a bid to restore aid suspended when the previous government imploded during the final stages of a US military withdrawal. Meanwhile, the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has issued a guidance that women seeking to travel long distances should not be offered road transport unless they are accompanied by a close male relative. Also read | Afghan women can't travel long distances without male relative: Taliban The Taliban have faced heavy criticism for keeping women and girls out of employment and education and excluding broad sections of Afghan society from the government. They have television dramas that included female actors and ordering women news presenters to wear "Islamic hijab". The Taliban's definition of the hijab, which can range from a hair covering to a face veil or full-body covering, is unclear, and most Afghan women already wear headscarves. The international community has accused them of trampling on human rights and, despite their promise of amnesty, targeting officials of the former administration. However, acting Afghan foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said the government had restored peace and security and done much to address demands for more inclusiveness with respect for human rights, including the rights of women. "All must acknowledge that political isolation of Afghanistan is not beneficial for anyone, therefore it is imperative that all support the prevailing stability and back it both politically and economically," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan education minister says co-education is against Islamic values

The two allies Afghan Taliban and the Pakistan government are at loggerheads over the border region known as the Durand line. In the latest, there has been a fresh exchange of fire between the parties, and that comes after the Taliban has uprooted barbed wires erected by Islamabad in east Nangarhar province along the Durand line.

The two allies Pakistan & Taliban spar over the border region known as the Durand line

It has been 133 days since the Taliban's second coming in Afghanistan, and from the last 100 days, the regime has cropped women's rights, plunged the country into an economic and humanitarian crisis and discarded democracy from the country. In the latest, the Taliban has dissolved Afghanistan's election commission which was a panel that supervised polls during the previous Western-backed administration.

Taliban forces plunge Afghanistan into economic & humanitarian crisis

Afghanistan's independent election commission dissolved by Taliban

Taliban dissolves Afghanistan's election commission that supervised polls for the previous regime

After Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s support for extremist group Taliban at the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) summit in Islamabad, the new Afghanistan government were seen warning Pakistan’s forces as fresh clashes erupt at the border.

Pakistan & Taliban spar over durand line

The United States has issued at least five general licenses which basically enables US citizens, aid organisations, and other organizations to do transfers into Afghanistan for “specified purposes”. But what do these general licenses mean, here is a breakdown.

The first general license, general licenses number 15 was issued on September 24&nbsp;this year, it gave an exemption in fact an authorisation to do transactions related to exportation or re-exportation of agricultural commodities, medicines, medicinal devices, replacement of parts, and/or components and even software upgrades.

The agricultural commodity was further defined and so were the medicines and medicinal devices in the order.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/talibans-show-of-strength-military-parade-with-us-made-weapons-429432" hreflang="en">Taliban's show of strength:&nbsp;Military parade with US-made weapons</a>

The perception US gave through the first license was that it was willing to facilitate the people of Afghanistan who continued to live a miserable life in the war-torn country following the Taliban takeover.

Two and a half months later, the month of December 2021 saw the US showing more leniency, in the first general license issued for the month of December and the second general license on Afghanistan overall, license number 16 authorized the transfer of non-commercial and personal remittances to Afghanistan.

On December 22, the United States issued three more general licenses to facilitate the people of Afghanistan and authorized the US government employees, grantees, or contractors to do transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network-related entities, for official business purposes in the general license number 17.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dont-politicise-education-and-right-to-work-afghan-women-protest-against-taliban-government-422880" hreflang="en">'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government</a>

On the same date, the general licenses number 18 authorised The United Nations, including its programmes, funds, and other entities and bodies, as well as its specialised agencies and related organisations, The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA); The African Development Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group), including any fund entity administered or established by any of the foregoing; The International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies; and The Islamic Development Bank to do transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network as entities for official business purposes.

The last general license issued by US Treasury on Afghanistan taking its tally of general licenses on Afghanistan to five, that is,&nbsp;the general license number 19 which basically took the handcuffs off from aid organizations authorised transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network as entities for; Activities to support humanitarian projects to meet basic human needs in Afghanistan, including drought and flood relief; food, nutrition, and medicine distribution; the provision of health services; assistance for vulnerable or displaced populations, including individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and survivors of sexual- and gender-based violence; and environmental programs; Activities to support the following in Afghanistan: rule of law, citizen participation, government accountability and transparency, human rights and fundamental freedoms, access to information, and civil society development projects; Activities to support education in Afghanistan, including combating illiteracy, increasing access to education, international exchanges, and assisting education reform projects; Activities to support non-commercial development projects directly benefitting the Afghan people, including related to health, food security, and water and sanitation; and Activities to support environmental and natural resource protection in Afghanistan, including the preservation and protection of threatened or endangered species, responsible and transparent management of natural resources, and the remediation of pollution or other environmental damage.

The other more pertinent question is that why a need for the general license was there be issued, the answer to that is that since the Taliban are currently a listed organization, both at the UN and the US, therefore any direct transactions would not be possible as per law, however, these general licenses act as an enabler or exemption for an undefined period.

The United States has pledged a total of $474 million as aid for Afghanistan, the most by any country. Earlier this week, A senior US official told this correspondent that the US had quietly been working behind the scenes with the UN and other international organisations to pump cash into the Afghan system, an example of which was the $200 million&nbsp;pumped into the Afghan system for the use of the UN employees, very recently.

These licenses were mirrored by the United Nations Sanctions Committee through a resolution on the same day as well which means that under the UN charter, this allows UN member countries to do business with the Taliban or Haqqani under the set parameters as defined earlier.

The guidelines to do business with the Taliban are very clearly laid out, that it must be on an entity basis and not on individual basis, so while the entities might be headed by proscribed individuals, business with the office is allowed but not with the individual.

To simply put it, as an example, Sirajuddin Haqqani of the Haqqani Network might be a listed individual by the US and the UN both, the other reality is that Sirajuddin Haqqani is also the Minister of Interior of Taliban ruled Afghanistan, so while the transfer would not be permitted to Sirajuddin Haqqani as an individual, his ministry can very well have funds or transactions under these set of rules, as defined in the general licenses issued.

The Taliban and international community have been long-pressing the United States to release the “frozen Afghan assets it houses” following the Taliban takeover of the country, however, a senior US official clarifying the situation said that the US has no magic button to release these assets as they were being held back due to a court order.

The United States has issued at least five general licenses which basically enables US citizens, aid organisations, and other organizations to do transfers into Afghanistan for “specified purposes”.

The United States has issued at least five general licenses which basically enables US citizens, aid organisations, and other organizations to do transfers into Afghanistan for “specified purposes”. But what do these general licenses mean, here is a breakdown. The first general license, general licenses number 15 was issued on September 24 this year, it gave an exemption in fact an authorisation to do transactions related to exportation or re-exportation of agricultural commodities, medicines, medicinal devices, replacement of parts, and/or components and even software upgrades. The agricultural commodity was further defined and so were the medicines and medicinal devices in the order. Also see | Taliban's show of strength: Military parade with US-made weapons The perception US gave through the first license was that it was willing to facilitate the people of Afghanistan who continued to live a miserable life in the war-torn country following the Taliban takeover. Two and a half months later, the month of December 2021 saw the US showing more leniency, in the first general license issued for the month of December and the second general license on Afghanistan overall, license number 16 authorized the transfer of non-commercial and personal remittances to Afghanistan. On December 22, the United States issued three more general licenses to facilitate the people of Afghanistan and authorized the US government employees, grantees, or contractors to do transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network-related entities, for official business purposes in the general license number 17. Also see | 'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government On the same date, the general licenses number 18 authorised The United Nations, including its programmes, funds, and other entities and bodies, as well as its specialised agencies and related organisations, The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA); The African Development Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group), including any fund entity administered or established by any of the foregoing; The International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies; and The Islamic Development Bank to do transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network as entities for official business purposes. The last general license issued by US Treasury on Afghanistan taking its tally of general licenses on Afghanistan to five, that is, the general license number 19 which basically took the handcuffs off from aid organizations authorised transactions with the Taliban or Haqqani Network as entities for; Activities to support humanitarian projects to meet basic human needs in Afghanistan, including drought and flood relief; food, nutrition, and medicine distribution; the provision of health services; assistance for vulnerable or displaced populations, including individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and survivors of sexual- and gender-based violence; and environmental programs; Activities to support the following in Afghanistan: rule of law, citizen participation, government accountability and transparency, human rights and fundamental freedoms, access to information, and civil society development projects; Activities to support education in Afghanistan, including combating illiteracy, increasing access to education, international exchanges, and assisting education reform projects; Activities to support non-commercial development projects directly benefitting the Afghan people, including related to health, food security, and water and sanitation; and Activities to support environmental and natural resource protection in Afghanistan, including the preservation and protection of threatened or endangered species, responsible and transparent management of natural resources, and the remediation of pollution or other environmental damage. The other more pertinent question is that why a need for the general license was there be issued, the answer to that is that since the Taliban are currently a listed organization, both at the UN and the US, therefore any direct transactions would not be possible as per law, however, these general licenses act as an enabler or exemption for an undefined period. The United States has pledged a total of $474 million as aid for Afghanistan, the most by any country. Earlier this week, A senior US official told this correspondent that the US had quietly been working behind the scenes with the UN and other international organisations to pump cash into the Afghan system, an example of which was the $200 million pumped into the Afghan system for the use of the UN employees, very recently. These licenses were mirrored by the United Nations Sanctions Committee through a resolution on the same day as well which means that under the UN charter, this allows UN member countries to do business with the Taliban or Haqqani under the set parameters as defined earlier. The guidelines to do business with the Taliban are very clearly laid out, that it must be on an entity basis and not on individual basis, so while the entities might be headed by proscribed individuals, business with the office is allowed but not with the individual. To simply put it, as an example, Sirajuddin Haqqani of the Haqqani Network might be a listed individual by the US and the UN both, the other reality is that Sirajuddin Haqqani is also the Minister of Interior of Taliban ruled Afghanistan, so while the transfer would not be permitted to Sirajuddin Haqqani as an individual, his ministry can very well have funds or transactions under these set of rules, as defined in the general licenses issued. The Taliban and international community have been long-pressing the United States to release the “frozen Afghan assets it houses” following the Taliban takeover of the country, however, a senior US official clarifying the situation said that the US has no magic button to release these assets as they were being held back due to a court order.

What does the issuance of additional general licenses mean for Afghanistan?

Afghans who have managed to escape the Taliban regime are settling into a new life. Now the challenge is to accept a foreign land as their new home. Several Afghan refugees arrived in Kentucky, a small US city known to welcome refugees for over four decades.

After escaping the Taliban in Afghanistan, the refugees are now settling into a new life in Kentucky

British worker, Grant Bailey, is missing in Afghanistan after he was seized by the Taliban. As per a report by Mirror, he was arrested by Taliban police during a security clampdown in Kabul. The man in his 50s is married and had worked in Afghanistan for years. He returned in September after the Taliban seized power.

It is being speculated that the man, who was working for an NGO in Afghanistan, is being held in one of Kabul's prison complexes.

A UK security source told the Daily Mirror that he was last heard on Saturday after which he was arrested at gunpoint.

The source said, “We were quite surprised he went back to Kabul after the western withdrawal as the security situation there is obviously much worse. Added to that the Taliban government is making it very difficult for the few ex-pats working there, making it very difficult to travel."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/since-taliban-takeover-over-6000-afghan-journalists-have-lost-jobs-women-journalists-severely-impacted-439320">Also read |&nbsp;Since Taliban takeover, over 6,000 Afghan journalists have lost jobs; women journalists severely impacted</a>

“A lot of people are trying to get to the bottom of what has happened to him, where he is being held and under what charges," he added.&nbsp;

Amid increasing fears, the Foreign Office has been desperately trying to locate him.

Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, the situation has not been so good.&nbsp;

Recently, a survey by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA) revealed that 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover.

Four months ago, most Afghan provinces had at least 10 privately-owned media outlets. However, now, regions have no local media at all.&nbsp;

A humanitarian crisis is looming in the country amid fears of extreme poverty. Heartbreaking reports of poverty in the nation have been emerging since August 15, the date when the Taliban took over. Afghanistan had already been facing chronic poverty and drought but the situation worsened since the Taliban seized power, along with the disruption of aid.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

British worker, Grant Bailey, is missing in Afghanistan after he was seized by the Taliban. As per a report by Mirror, he was arrested by Taliban police during a security clampdown in Kabul.

British worker, Grant Bailey, is missing in Afghanistan after he was seized by the Taliban. As per a report by Mirror, he was arrested by Taliban police during a security clampdown in Kabul. The man in his 50s is married and had worked in Afghanistan for years. He returned in September after the Taliban seized power. It is being speculated that the man, who was working for an NGO in Afghanistan, is being held in one of Kabul's prison complexes. A UK security source told the Daily Mirror that he was last heard on Saturday after which he was arrested at gunpoint. The source said, “We were quite surprised he went back to Kabul after the western withdrawal as the security situation there is obviously much worse. Added to that the Taliban government is making it very difficult for the few ex-pats working there, making it very difficult to travel." Also read | Since Taliban takeover, over 6,000 Afghan journalists have lost jobs; women journalists severely impacted “A lot of people are trying to get to the bottom of what has happened to him, where he is being held and under what charges," he added. Amid increasing fears, the Foreign Office has been desperately trying to locate him. Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, the situation has not been so good. Recently, a survey by non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA) revealed that 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover. Four months ago, most Afghan provinces had at least 10 privately-owned media outlets. However, now, regions have no local media at all. A humanitarian crisis is looming in the country amid fears of extreme poverty. Heartbreaking reports of poverty in the nation have been emerging since August 15, the date when the Taliban took over. Afghanistan had already been facing chronic poverty and drought but the situation worsened since the Taliban seized power, along with the disruption of aid. (With inputs from agencies)

British worker Grant Bailey missing in Afghanistan after Taliban seized him at gunpoint

The UN wants to pay nearly 6 million dollars to Taliban govt. According to reports, this money will then go to the Taliban interior ministry and it is meant for the protection of UN facilities and personnel.

UN decides to pay 6 million dollars to Taliban

UNSC adopts resolution to ease Afghan aid

A recent survey has 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 talks about how 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.&nbsp;

Four months ago, most Afghan provinces had at least 10 privately-owned media outlets. However, now, regions have no local media at all.&nbsp;

A report by RSF cited the example of the mountainous northern province of Parwan where there were at least 10 media outlets in total. However, now just three are functioning.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-keep-aid-flowing-to-afghanistan-us-authorises-certain-transactions-with-taliban-439164">Also read |&nbsp;To keep aid flowing to Afghanistan, US authorises certain transactions with Taliban</a>

In Herat and several surrounding provinces, only 18 of the 51 media outlets are still operating. The central Kabul region has lost more than one of every two media outlets. It had the maximum number of media outlets in Afghanistan. Now, out of the 148 tallied before 15 August, only 72 are still operating.

This has led to a major impact on employment in the media sector. At the beginning of August, 10,790 people worked in the Afghan media, out of which 8,290 were men and 2,490 were women.

When this survey was carried out, only 4,360 people, including 3,950 men and 410 women, were remaining.&nbsp;

"Six provinces have seen three-quarters of their male journalists lose their jobs. But no female journalist at all is still working in 15 of the countries 34 provinces. For example, in the northern province of Jowzjan, which used to have 19 media outlets employing 112 women, none of the 12 media outlets still operating is employing a woman," stated the report.&nbsp;

Anthony Bellanger, secretary-general, IFJ while speaking to the Guardian said, I believe what we will see emerge is an official media – a Taliban media – and no women. All other journalists will just disappear. It wasn’t easy before – and even before the Taliban took power, journalists were killed – but it is very bleak now."

(With inputs from agencies)

A recent survey has 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 talks about how 231 media outlets have been shut and over 6,400 journalists have lost their jobs since the Taliban takeover.

A recent survey has 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 talks about how 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. Four months ago, most Afghan provinces had at least 10 privately-owned media outlets. However, now, regions have no local media at all. A report by RSF cited the example of the mountainous northern province of Parwan where there were at least 10 media outlets in total. However, now just three are functioning. Also read | To keep aid flowing to Afghanistan, US authorises certain transactions with Taliban In Herat and several surrounding provinces, only 18 of the 51 media outlets are still operating. The central Kabul region has lost more than one of every two media outlets. It had the maximum number of media outlets in Afghanistan. Now, out of the 148 tallied before 15 August, only 72 are still operating. This has led to a major impact on employment in the media sector. At the beginning of August, 10,790 people worked in the Afghan media, out of which 8,290 were men and 2,490 were women. When this survey was carried out, only 4,360 people, including 3,950 men and 410 women, were remaining. "Six provinces have seen three-quarters of their male journalists lose their jobs. But no female journalist at all is still working in 15 of the countries 34 provinces. For example, in the northern province of Jowzjan, which used to have 19 media outlets employing 112 women, none of the 12 media outlets still operating is employing a woman," stated the report. Anthony Bellanger, secretary-general, IFJ while speaking to the Guardian said, I believe what we will see emerge is an official media – a Taliban media – and no women. All other journalists will just disappear. It wasn’t easy before – and even before the Taliban took power, journalists were killed – but it is very bleak now." (With inputs from agencies)

Since Taliban takeover, over 6,000 Afghan journalists have lost jobs; women journalists severely impacted

UN to pay 6 million dollars to Taliban for protection of its facilities in Afghanistan

Tensions escalate between Afghanistan, Pakistan after latter convenes OIC meeting

Afghanistan, Pakistan dispute escalates 2 days after OIC meet

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