Taliban’s regime in Afghanistan has been longing for international support or recognition of any sorts for a long time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A report in the Financial Times claiming that the European Union is looking to restart its political activities in a limited way in Kabul seems to have come as a sigh of relief in the government of war-torn country. &nbsp; &nbsp;

On Monday, the Islamic Emirate welcomed the reopening of the European Union’s office in Kabul. It said that the step could be the beginning of engagement with European countries. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-facing-food-crisis-warns-un-423948" hreflang="en">Afghanistan facing food crisis, warns UN</a>

Ahmadullah Wasiq, deputy spokesman, Islamic Emirate, said, “The decision of the European Union to reopen its office in the near future is a good step and it is in the interest of the people of Afghanistan. They will evaluate their work from the vicinity.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

The report, however, also said that the move is not intended to recognise Taliban regime in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

Nabila Massarali, spokesperson, EU, said, “As we have repeatedly said, this is not a sign of recognition. We want to be able to better assist the Afghan people who need our help by being closer and, inevitably, we need to engage with the Taliban.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-afghan-governments-collapse-was-not-in-nations-interest-says-talibans-minister-zabiullah-mujahid-423693" hreflang="en">Former Afghan government’s collapse was not in nation’s interest, says Taliban's Minister Zabiullah Mujahid</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a tweet on Monday, foreign ministry’s spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi, said that the Islamic Emirate would guarantee the security of the European countries’ embassies and personnel. &nbsp; &nbsp;

“Resumption of EU mission in Afghanistan is sound and positive step which we welcome. Just as security of other embassies in Kabul is guaranteed, the security of EU embassy &amp; personnel will also be guaranteed,” Balkhi said. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Taliban’s regime in Afghanistan has been longing for international support or recognition of any sorts for a long time. A report in the Financial Times claiming that the European Union is looking to restart its political activities in a limited way in Kabul seems to have come as a sigh of relief in the government of war-torn country.

Taliban’s regime in Afghanistan has been longing for international support or recognition of any sorts for a long time. A report in the Financial Times claiming that the European Union is looking to restart its political activities in a limited way in Kabul seems to have come as a sigh of relief in the government of war-torn country. On Monday, the Islamic Emirate welcomed the reopening of the European Union’s office in Kabul. It said that the step could be the beginning of engagement with European countries. Also Read: Afghanistan facing food crisis, warns UN Ahmadullah Wasiq, deputy spokesman, Islamic Emirate, said, “The decision of the European Union to reopen its office in the near future is a good step and it is in the interest of the people of Afghanistan. They will evaluate their work from the vicinity.” The report, however, also said that the move is not intended to recognise Taliban regime in Afghanistan. Nabila Massarali, spokesperson, EU, said, “As we have repeatedly said, this is not a sign of recognition. We want to be able to better assist the Afghan people who need our help by being closer and, inevitably, we need to engage with the Taliban.” Also Read: Former Afghan government’s collapse was not in nation’s interest, says Taliban's Minister Zabiullah Mujahid In a tweet on Monday, foreign ministry’s spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi, said that the Islamic Emirate would guarantee the security of the European countries’ embassies and personnel. “Resumption of EU mission in Afghanistan is sound and positive step which we welcome. Just as security of other embassies in Kabul is guaranteed, the security of EU embassy & personnel will also be guaranteed,” Balkhi said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban welcomes reopening of European Union’s office in Kabul  

The Chinese delegation led by State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi holds a meeting with a delegation led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, acting deputy Prime Minister of the Afghan Taliban's interim government in Doha, Qatar.

Chinese FM Wang Yi meets the Taliban's top leader Mullah Baradar in Doha

More than two months since the Kabul takeover, the Taliban is struggling to get into national recognition. In the latest effort by them, a Chinese delegation met the Taliban's top leaders in Doha. WION's Anas Mallick brings you all the latest developments.

Afghanistan: Chinese FM meets Taliban government, pledges assistance to Kabul

On a busy street of Taimani, in the northwest of Kabul, one could see plenty of fruit sellers lined up along the streets. Just as one drives up along this street, a fruit seller, who wasn’t in this business until two&nbsp;weeks ago, stands out.

Nazar Mohammed was an assistant professor at the Kabul university at the Faculty of Fine Arts. He graduated from the Kazakh College of Fine Arts in Kazakhstan.

Afghanistan’s dire economic condition has forced him to sell bananas on the streets.&nbsp;Nazar, a father of two, lives in a joint family of 12. He is not accustomed to selling bananas, but he believes that this time won’t last forever.

Nazar is among the many teachers who continue to remain unpaid in Afghanistan for months now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/completely-lost-for-some-afghans-returning-home-is-as-difficult-as-fleeing-423678">‘Completely lost’: For some Afghans, returning home is as difficult as fleeing</a>

The story of Nazar is one among many who scramble to make a living in the war-torn Afghanistan region, whose economy has taken a massive hit following Taliban takeover of Kabul and the resultant ouster of the civilian government.

Only five per cent of Afghan households reported having “enough food to eat”, according to a recent World Food Programme survey.

In Kabul’s Bibi Mahro area, it's 9 am as Ahsan, who used to be a teaching assistant at a private university, leaves his house. However, instead of going to a teaching institute, as his profession warrants, he goes to a busy street of the city centre called Sheher e Nau, where he is now washing cars to run his family.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/work-hard-taliban-to-offer-wheat-in-exchange-of-work-to-reduce-poverty-and-starvation-423598">'Work hard': Taliban to offer wheat in exchange of work to reduce poverty and starvation</a>

Ahsan says it’s difficult for him to make a living, he now earns 10 times lesser than what he used to. Ahsan believes that under the Taliban rule, there might be peace, but there is no place for professionals.

Watch |&nbsp;South Asia Diary: Afghanistan's heroin epidemic

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-asia-diary-afghanistans-heroin-epidemic-423980/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In August, the Taliban overthrew the US-backed regime and declared an interim government, vowing to restore stability.

But the Taliban still face a range of international sanctions and a campaign of bloody attacks by the Daesh (ISIS) terrorist group – while climate change has made Afghanistan’s droughts more frequent and intense.

By early next year, it is projected that 97 per cent of the population in Afghanistan will be below the poverty line.

With the Taliban continuously insisting and requesting skilled professionals to stay in the country, as the nation continues to face an acute shortage of cash and other essentials, the treatment rendered out to educators would need more than just statements to hold them back as they strive to earn with dignity and hard work.

On a busy street of Taimani, in the northwest of Kabul, one could see plenty of fruit sellers lined up along the streets. Just as one drives up along this street, a fruit seller, who wasn’t in this business until two weeks ago, stands out.

On a busy street of Taimani, in the northwest of Kabul, one could see plenty of fruit sellers lined up along the streets. Just as one drives up along this street, a fruit seller, who wasn’t in this business until two weeks ago, stands out. Nazar Mohammed was an assistant professor at the Kabul university at the Faculty of Fine Arts. He graduated from the Kazakh College of Fine Arts in Kazakhstan. Afghanistan’s dire economic condition has forced him to sell bananas on the streets. Nazar, a father of two, lives in a joint family of 12. He is not accustomed to selling bananas, but he believes that this time won’t last forever. Nazar is among the many teachers who continue to remain unpaid in Afghanistan for months now. Also read | ‘Completely lost’: For some Afghans, returning home is as difficult as fleeing The story of Nazar is one among many who scramble to make a living in the war-torn Afghanistan region, whose economy has taken a massive hit following Taliban takeover of Kabul and the resultant ouster of the civilian government. Only five per cent of Afghan households reported having “enough food to eat”, according to a recent World Food Programme survey. In Kabul’s Bibi Mahro area, it's 9 am as Ahsan, who used to be a teaching assistant at a private university, leaves his house. However, instead of going to a teaching institute, as his profession warrants, he goes to a busy street of the city centre called Sheher e Nau, where he is now washing cars to run his family. Also read | 'Work hard': Taliban to offer wheat in exchange of work to reduce poverty and starvation Ahsan says it’s difficult for him to make a living, he now earns 10 times lesser than what he used to. Ahsan believes that under the Taliban rule, there might be peace, but there is no place for professionals. Watch | South Asia Diary: Afghanistan's heroin epidemic In August, the Taliban overthrew the US-backed regime and declared an interim government, vowing to restore stability. But the Taliban still face a range of international sanctions and a campaign of bloody attacks by the Daesh (ISIS) terrorist group – while climate change has made Afghanistan’s droughts more frequent and intense. By early next year, it is projected that 97 per cent of the population in Afghanistan will be below the poverty line. With the Taliban continuously insisting and requesting skilled professionals to stay in the country, as the nation continues to face an acute shortage of cash and other essentials, the treatment rendered out to educators would need more than just statements to hold them back as they strive to earn with dignity and hard work.

From professor to fruit seller : a life with dignity in Afghanistan

Taliban’s delegation led by First Deputy of Afghanistan's Prime Minister Mullah Baradar on Monday met Chinese delegation led by Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Doha, said&nbsp;Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid.

Both sides discussed the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, and political and economic relations between Afghanistan and China.&nbsp;This was the first face-to-face talks since the Afghanistan takeover. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-welcomes-reopening-of-european-unions-office-in-kabul-424004" hreflang="en">Taliban welcomes reopening of European Union’s office in Kabul &nbsp;</a>

On Monday, during the meeting, Wang, who is also the State Councillor, said that Afghanistan is facing quadruple challenges, namely the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance difficulties. The leader added that overcoming these challenges requires more understanding and support from the international community, reported Xinhua news agency. &nbsp;

The Chinese foreign minister hoped that the Taliban will further demonstrate openness and tolerance, unite all ethnic groups and factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction and effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-covid-19-outbreak-in-china-authorities-shut-down-lanzhou-city-of-4-million-people-424081" hreflang="en">New COVID-19 outbreak in China: Authorities shut down Lanzhou city</a>

On the current situation in Afghanistan, Baradar briefed Wang. He said it is under control and improving. The leader said government decrees are being carried out effectively. &nbsp;

The Afghan leader added the interim government is working hard to meet the needs of the people. It will continue to learn from its historical experience to take the path of development in line with its conditions. &nbsp;

In Doha, Wang will also meet the Taliban's Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Taliban’s delegation led by First Deputy of Afghanistan's Prime Minister Mullah Baradar on Monday met Chinese delegation led by Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Doha, said Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid.

Taliban’s delegation led by First Deputy of Afghanistan's Prime Minister Mullah Baradar on Monday met Chinese delegation led by Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Doha, said Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. Both sides discussed the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, and political and economic relations between Afghanistan and China. This was the first face-to-face talks since the Afghanistan takeover. Also Read: Taliban welcomes reopening of European Union’s office in Kabul On Monday, during the meeting, Wang, who is also the State Councillor, said that Afghanistan is facing quadruple challenges, namely the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance difficulties. The leader added that overcoming these challenges requires more understanding and support from the international community, reported Xinhua news agency. The Chinese foreign minister hoped that the Taliban will further demonstrate openness and tolerance, unite all ethnic groups and factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction and effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children. Also Read: New COVID-19 outbreak in China: Authorities shut down Lanzhou city On the current situation in Afghanistan, Baradar briefed Wang. He said it is under control and improving. The leader said government decrees are being carried out effectively. The Afghan leader added the interim government is working hard to meet the needs of the people. It will continue to learn from its historical experience to take the path of development in line with its conditions. In Doha, Wang will also meet the Taliban's Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese FM Wang Yi meets Taliban's acting Deputy PM Baradar in Doha

Two months since taking over Kabul, the Taliban is struggling for international recognition. In their latest effort, acting deputy Prime Minister of the Afghan Taliban's interim government Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar held a meeting with Chinese delegations in Doha, Qatar.

Taliban's Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Baradar meets Chinese FM Wang in Doha

11% Afghans are drug users & 6% Afghans are addicts. How did the Taliban's insurgency get young Afghans hooked on heroin? What can be done to tackle this drug epidemic? Mariam Wardak tells you.

South Asia Diary | Afghanistan's heroin epidemic

Taliban's Deputy Prime Minister Abdul Salam Hanafi held a meeting with United Nations' envoy to Afghanistan -- Deborah Lyons on Saturday. In the meeting the two sides discussed numerous issues. But the highlight of the talks was humanitarian aid to the crisis hit country.

Taliban's Deputy PM Abdul Salam Hanafi holds meeting with United Nations' envoy to Afghanistan

Taliban has welcomed Russia's stance to remove it from the list of extremist groups. A day after Russian President, Vladimir Putin, said Afghanistan's foreign assets should be unfrozen, the leader has claimed that Russia is pondering over removing Taliban from list of extremist groups.

Taliban welcomes Russia's stance to remove it from list of extremist groups

The collapse of the former Afghan government was not in the interest of the people and nation, said Taliban's Deputy Minister of Information and Culture Zabiullah Mujahid. &nbsp;

In a special interview with TOLOnews, the minister also said that whatever happened was not according to the organised plan. &nbsp; &nbsp;

If negotiations for peace had continued between the two Afghan sides and war had ended in the nation, the situation would have been better, said Mujahid. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/work-hard-taliban-to-offer-wheat-in-exchange-of-work-to-reduce-poverty-and-starvation-423598" hreflang="en">Taliban to offer wheat in exchange of work to reduce poverty and starvation</a>

“In my opinion, Afghanistan was damaged by it because if war had stopped and we reached a meaningful negotiation, the situation would have been better and different from now. And the result would have avoided the collapse of institutions and the fleeing of people from the country,” the minister said. &nbsp; &nbsp;

As the path for further discussion has remained open, changes could be expected in the cabinet, Mujahid said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The concerns of some countries regarding some individuals in the government are not acceptable. “We are reiterating again and again, the terms of inclusivity means something like this... If the aim is to include the people, we have already included various ethnicities in the current government, and they are part of the cabinet,” the Taliban minister said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-hail-russian-presidents-plan-to-remove-the-group-from-terror-list-423690" hreflang="en">Taliban hail Russian President's plan to remove the group from terror list</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

For withdrawing financial aid, the minister criticised the US. Mujahid said, the US&nbsp;is also encouraging other countries to withhold resources and not recognise the Taliban government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We know that the (US) is behind it and it persuaded others not to recognise the Islamic Emirate as well,” Mujahid added. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The collapse of the former Afghan government was not in the interest of the people and nation, said Taliban's Deputy Minister of Information and Culture Zabiullah Mujahid.

The collapse of the former Afghan government was not in the interest of the people and nation, said Taliban's Deputy Minister of Information and Culture Zabiullah Mujahid. In a special interview with TOLOnews, the minister also said that whatever happened was not according to the organised plan. If negotiations for peace had continued between the two Afghan sides and war had ended in the nation, the situation would have been better, said Mujahid. Also Read: Taliban to offer wheat in exchange of work to reduce poverty and starvation “In my opinion, Afghanistan was damaged by it because if war had stopped and we reached a meaningful negotiation, the situation would have been better and different from now. And the result would have avoided the collapse of institutions and the fleeing of people from the country,” the minister said. As the path for further discussion has remained open, changes could be expected in the cabinet, Mujahid said. The concerns of some countries regarding some individuals in the government are not acceptable. “We are reiterating again and again, the terms of inclusivity means something like this... If the aim is to include the people, we have already included various ethnicities in the current government, and they are part of the cabinet,” the Taliban minister said. Also Read: Taliban hail Russian President's plan to remove the group from terror list For withdrawing financial aid, the minister criticised the US. Mujahid said, the US is also encouraging other countries to withhold resources and not recognise the Taliban government. “We know that the (US) is behind it and it persuaded others not to recognise the Islamic Emirate as well,” Mujahid added. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Afghan government’s collapse was not in nation’s interest, says Taliban's Minister Zabiullah Mujahid

For a long time, the Taliban have lobbied for worldwide recognition, and a recent comment by Russian President Vladimir Putin may have made them happy.&nbsp;

The Taliban have applauded Russian President Vladimir Putin's statements on the possibility of the group being removed off the terror list.

Putin stated at a meeting of the International Valdai Club that the Taliban movement might be removed off the list of terrorist organisations. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-may-remove-taliban-from-list-of-extremist-groups-putin-423104">Also read | Russia may remove Taliban from list of extremist groups: Putin</a>

However, he also stated that this must take place at the UN level, according to Russian news agency TASS.&nbsp;

"Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan appreciates words by President of Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, about removal of names of IEA leaders off the blacklist," Abdul Qahar Balkhi, a spokesperson for the interim Afghan government, stated on Sunday. 
 
Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-military-conducts-war-games-near-afghan-border-423514/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"As the chapter of war has come to an end, so too must world countries bring a positive change in their relationship and approach towards Afghanistan. We seek positive relations with the international community based on the principle of reciprocity," the Taliban spokesman tweeted.

Putin has said that Russia is pondering over removing the Taliban from the list of extremist groups.

"All of us expect that these people, the Taliban, who are undoubtedly in control of the situation in Afghanistan will ensure that the situation develops in a positive fashion," Putin said.

"All of us expect that these people, the Taliban, who are undoubtedly in control of the situation in Afghanistan will ensure that the situation develops in a positive fashion," Putin said.

In August, the Taliban took control of Kabul, and in September, they declared the formation of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan as an interim government.

The Taliban have been lobbying for international recognition for a long time.

The international community, on the other hand, has made it plain that the Taliban must keep their commitments before being recognised. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

For a long time, the Taliban have lobbied for worldwide recognition, and a recent comment by Russian President Vladimir Putin may have made them happy. The Taliban have applauded Russian President Vladimir Putin's statements on the possibility of the group being removed off the terror list.

For a long time, the Taliban have lobbied for worldwide recognition, and a recent comment by Russian President Vladimir Putin may have made them happy. The Taliban have applauded Russian President Vladimir Putin's statements on the possibility of the group being removed off the terror list. Putin stated at a meeting of the International Valdai Club that the Taliban movement might be removed off the list of terrorist organisations. Also read | Russia may remove Taliban from list of extremist groups: Putin However, he also stated that this must take place at the UN level, according to Russian news agency TASS. "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan appreciates words by President of Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, about removal of names of IEA leaders off the blacklist," Abdul Qahar Balkhi, a spokesperson for the interim Afghan government, stated on Sunday. Watch: "As the chapter of war has come to an end, so too must world countries bring a positive change in their relationship and approach towards Afghanistan. We seek positive relations with the international community based on the principle of reciprocity," the Taliban spokesman tweeted. Putin has said that Russia is pondering over removing the Taliban from the list of extremist groups. "All of us expect that these people, the Taliban, who are undoubtedly in control of the situation in Afghanistan will ensure that the situation develops in a positive fashion," Putin said. "All of us expect that these people, the Taliban, who are undoubtedly in control of the situation in Afghanistan will ensure that the situation develops in a positive fashion," Putin said. In August, the Taliban took control of Kabul, and in September, they declared the formation of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan as an interim government. The Taliban have been lobbying for international recognition for a long time. The international community, on the other hand, has made it plain that the Taliban must keep their commitments before being recognised. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban hail Russian President's plan to remove the group from terror list

The United States did not put enough pressure on former Afghan president Ashraf Ghani to share power with the Taliban, Zalmay Khalilzad, who recently resigned as US envoy to Afghanistan, said in an interview broadcast Sunday on CBS.

The Afghan-born Khalilzad, speaking for the first time since his resignation was announced on October 18, also expressed reservations about the decision by the Biden administration to lift conditions on the withdrawal deal he had negotiated with the Islamist insurgents during the administration of President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The agreement signed on February 29, 2020 between Washington and the Taliban -- which excluded Ghani's government in Kabul -- paved the way for the US to end its longest war.

But it was "a conditions-based package" that included negotiations between the insurgents and Kabul, as well as a permanent, comprehensive cease-fire, Khalilzad said.&nbsp;

Once in the White House, however, President Joe Biden decided "to do a calendar-based withdrawal," without regard to those conditions, he said.&nbsp;

"That was a decision made way above my pay grade," he added.&nbsp;

Talks between the insurgents and Kabul had begun but were dragging, and Washington feared the Taliban would resume attacks on US forces if they stayed in the country much longer -- a situation Khalilzad acknowledged as he admitted things did not work out the way he had wanted.

He placed most of the blame on Ghani, who Khalilzad said never agreed to share power with the Taliban.

"They preferred the status quo to a political settlement," he said of the Kabul government.

"And then when it became clear that the US was leaving, then they -- they miscalculated the effects of the continuing war. They were not serious about the political settlement.

"It's my judgment that we didn't press him hard enough. We were gentle with President Ghani. We used diplomacy. We encouraged him."

He said that under the original conditional withdrawal agreement, the Taliban would have eventually agreed to power-sharing, though his evidence for that was unclear.&nbsp;

Biden had set a departure date of August 31 for the final withdrawal.

But in the months and weeks leading up to that date the Taliban offensive surged. On August 15 Ghani fled Kabul as government authority crumbled and the Taliban marched into the capital city.

Khalilzad -- derided in Afghanistan for, among other things, cutting Kabul out of the US-Taliban deal, and who has also been much criticized in Washington since the takeover -- has blamed Ghani before.&nbsp;

He told the Financial Times in September that Ghani's abrupt exit scuttled a deal in which the Taliban would hold off entering Kabul and negotiate a political transition.

Ghani, who sought safety in the United Arab Emirates, has apologized for how his government ended but said he left on the advice of palace security to avoid bloody street fighting.

The Taliban had been demanding the resignation of Ghani as part of any transitional government.&nbsp;

Ultimately, the Islamists named a caretaker government that has no non-Taliban nor women and that includes US-designated terrorists.

The United States did not put enough pressure on former Afghan president Ashraf Ghani to share power with the Taliban, Zalmay Khalilzad, who recently resigned as US envoy to Afghanistan, said in an interview broadcast Sunday on CBS.

The United States did not put enough pressure on former Afghan president Ashraf Ghani to share power with the Taliban, Zalmay Khalilzad, who recently resigned as US envoy to Afghanistan, said in an interview broadcast Sunday on CBS. The Afghan-born Khalilzad, speaking for the first time since his resignation was announced on October 18, also expressed reservations about the decision by the Biden administration to lift conditions on the withdrawal deal he had negotiated with the Islamist insurgents during the administration of President Donald Trump. The agreement signed on February 29, 2020 between Washington and the Taliban -- which excluded Ghani's government in Kabul -- paved the way for the US to end its longest war. But it was "a conditions-based package" that included negotiations between the insurgents and Kabul, as well as a permanent, comprehensive cease-fire, Khalilzad said. Once in the White House, however, President Joe Biden decided "to do a calendar-based withdrawal," without regard to those conditions, he said. "That was a decision made way above my pay grade," he added. Talks between the insurgents and Kabul had begun but were dragging, and Washington feared the Taliban would resume attacks on US forces if they stayed in the country much longer -- a situation Khalilzad acknowledged as he admitted things did not work out the way he had wanted. He placed most of the blame on Ghani, who Khalilzad said never agreed to share power with the Taliban. "They preferred the status quo to a political settlement," he said of the Kabul government. "And then when it became clear that the US was leaving, then they -- they miscalculated the effects of the continuing war. They were not serious about the political settlement. "It's my judgment that we didn't press him hard enough. We were gentle with President Ghani. We used diplomacy. We encouraged him." He said that under the original conditional withdrawal agreement, the Taliban would have eventually agreed to power-sharing, though his evidence for that was unclear. Biden had set a departure date of August 31 for the final withdrawal. But in the months and weeks leading up to that date the Taliban offensive surged. On August 15 Ghani fled Kabul as government authority crumbled and the Taliban marched into the capital city. Khalilzad -- derided in Afghanistan for, among other things, cutting Kabul out of the US-Taliban deal, and who has also been much criticized in Washington since the takeover -- has blamed Ghani before. He told the Financial Times in September that Ghani's abrupt exit scuttled a deal in which the Taliban would hold off entering Kabul and negotiate a political transition. Ghani, who sought safety in the United Arab Emirates, has apologized for how his government ended but said he left on the advice of palace security to avoid bloody street fighting. The Taliban had been demanding the resignation of Ghani as part of any transitional government. Ultimately, the Islamists named a caretaker government that has no non-Taliban nor women and that includes US-designated terrorists.

US should have pushed ex-Afghan president Ghani harder: Khalilzad

Keeping in mind the increasing problem of unemployment and poverty in Afghanistan, Taliban have launched a programme in which they will exchange wheat for labour.<o:p></o:p>

Taliban government has decided to roll out a new scheme in major towns and cities to fight the rising poverty, starvation and unemployment.<o:p></o:p>

"This is an important step for fighting unemployment," Zabihullah Mujahid said, as cases of extreme poverty, unemployment and blackouts increase.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eight-children-die-of-starvation-in-kabul-as-taliban-fails-to-stabilise-country-423575">Eight children die of starvation in Kabul as Taliban fails to stabilise country</a></o:p>

Under this scheme, nearly 40,000 men will be employed in the capital city Kabul and thousands of more people around the country. &nbsp;The food-for-work scheme will pay labourers in form of wheat, rather than cash.<o:p></o:p>

The Taliban government is aiming to distribute 11,600 tons of wheat in Kabul, and nearly 55,000 tons in cities such as Herat, Jalalabad, Kandahar, Mazar-i-Sharif and Pol-i-Khomri, and a few more areas.<o:p></o:p>

This scheme will specifically target people who are currently unemployed, unable to find jobs and vulnerable to starvation. <o:p></o:p>

These workers will be asked to dig water channels, catchment terraces for snow in the hills to combat drought, among other things.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/verbal-clashes-take-place-between-taliban-factions-sources-tell-wion-423548">Verbal clashes take place between Taliban factions, sources tell WION</a>

<o:p></o:p>

Mujahid and other senior officials, including agriculture minister Abdul Rahman Rashid and Kabul mayor Hamdullah Nomani, cut a pink ribbon and dug a small ditch at a ceremony in the rural Rish Khor area of the capital to launch the programme.<o:p></o:p>

This announcement has come at a time when news of locals protesting for better economy, human rights and living conditions under the Taliban 2.0 regime. Recently, news of eight children dying due to starvation had also circled which had ignited strong reaction from locals of western Kabul town.<o:p></o:p>

Taliban took over Afghanistan on August 15 and has since formed new government. However, the terrorist organisation has failed to bring stability in the country which has caused, economic failure, poverty, unemployment and blackouts in the country. In addition to this, experts are warning against an increase in the worsening conditions due to a possible harsh winter.<o:p></o:p>

Keeping in mind the increasing problem of unemployment and poverty in Afghanistan, Taliban have launched a programme in which they will exchange wheat for labour.

Keeping in mind the increasing problem of unemployment and poverty in Afghanistan, Taliban have launched a programme in which they will exchange wheat for labour. Taliban government has decided to roll out a new scheme in major towns and cities to fight the rising poverty, starvation and unemployment. "This is an important step for fighting unemployment," Zabihullah Mujahid said, as cases of extreme poverty, unemployment and blackouts increase. Also read | Eight children die of starvation in Kabul as Taliban fails to stabilise country Under this scheme, nearly 40,000 men will be employed in the capital city Kabul and thousands of more people around the country. The food-for-work scheme will pay labourers in form of wheat, rather than cash. The Taliban government is aiming to distribute 11,600 tons of wheat in Kabul, and nearly 55,000 tons in cities such as Herat, Jalalabad, Kandahar, Mazar-i-Sharif and Pol-i-Khomri, and a few more areas. This scheme will specifically target people who are currently unemployed, unable to find jobs and vulnerable to starvation. These workers will be asked to dig water channels, catchment terraces for snow in the hills to combat drought, among other things. Also read | Verbal clashes take place between Taliban factions, sources tell WION Mujahid and other senior officials, including agriculture minister Abdul Rahman Rashid and Kabul mayor Hamdullah Nomani, cut a pink ribbon and dug a small ditch at a ceremony in the rural Rish Khor area of the capital to launch the programme. This announcement has come at a time when news of locals protesting for better economy, human rights and living conditions under the Taliban 2.0 regime. Recently, news of eight children dying due to starvation had also circled which had ignited strong reaction from locals of western Kabul town. Taliban took over Afghanistan on August 15 and has since formed new government. However, the terrorist organisation has failed to bring stability in the country which has caused, economic failure, poverty, unemployment and blackouts in the country. In addition to this, experts are warning against an increase in the worsening conditions due to a possible harsh winter.

'Work hard': Taliban to offer wheat in exchange of work to reduce poverty and starvation

Taliban have been struggling to bring stability in the country. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan on August 15, locals have been complaining about increasing poverty in the country.<o:p></o:p>

The increasing poverty has in turn led to locals, especially minority communities and orphan children starving. In such a recent case, eight children have been reported to have died due to starvation.<o:p></o:p>

As per local reports, eight children lost their lives to starvation in western Kabul. The children lived in the town of Etefaq, in the 13th district of Kabul, in the Barchi plain.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/verbal-clashes-take-place-between-taliban-factions-sources-tell-wion-423548">Verbal clashes take place between Taliban factions, sources tell WION</a></o:p>

The deceased children were orphans and had been struggling to find employment and earn their daily bread since Taliban took control of the country in August.<o:p></o:p>

Mohammad Ali Bamiani, a religious scholar and orator at one of the mosques in western Kabul buried these children. He reported that these eight children, four boys and four girls, had been given some bread to eat earlier by neighbours. However, needless to say, a little portion of bread was not enough to keep eight children in good health and alive.<o:p></o:p>

"When the landlord wanted to invite the children for morning tea, he saw that they were all dead," he said, quoting the homeowner. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-defence-ministers-veiled-audio-message-over-regimes-army-looks-to-warn-neighbours-423507">Taliban minister’s ‘veiled’ message over army looks to warn neighbours</a><o:p></o:p>

The father of these children had recently passed away after suffering from paralysis and a tumour in his head. Their mother, who was also a heart patient, was unable to bear the loss of her husband and died a few days after her partner’s death. The family had been unable to treat the father and mother due to poverty. <o:p></o:p>

Now, their children are facing the brunt of the family poverty. The oldest child is 11-year-old and the youngest is less than three-years-old. They had been unable to get employment and earn their daily bread, which led to intermittent starvation, which then became the cause of their death.<o:p></o:p>

Talking about the same, Mohammad Mohaqiq, the leader of the People's Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan, has urged the world to wake up to the Afghan crisis and help the locals. He also alleged that this incident had not made headlines as the victims belonged to minority community.<o:p></o:p>

Taliban have been struggling to bring stability in the country. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan on August 15, locals have been complaining about increasing poverty in the country.

Taliban have been struggling to bring stability in the country. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan on August 15, locals have been complaining about increasing poverty in the country. The increasing poverty has in turn led to locals, especially minority communities and orphan children starving. In such a recent case, eight children have been reported to have died due to starvation. As per local reports, eight children lost their lives to starvation in western Kabul. The children lived in the town of Etefaq, in the 13th district of Kabul, in the Barchi plain. Also read | Verbal clashes take place between Taliban factions, sources tell WION The deceased children were orphans and had been struggling to find employment and earn their daily bread since Taliban took control of the country in August. Mohammad Ali Bamiani, a religious scholar and orator at one of the mosques in western Kabul buried these children. He reported that these eight children, four boys and four girls, had been given some bread to eat earlier by neighbours. However, needless to say, a little portion of bread was not enough to keep eight children in good health and alive. "When the landlord wanted to invite the children for morning tea, he saw that they were all dead," he said, quoting the homeowner. Also read | Taliban minister’s ‘veiled’ message over army looks to warn neighbours The father of these children had recently passed away after suffering from paralysis and a tumour in his head. Their mother, who was also a heart patient, was unable to bear the loss of her husband and died a few days after her partner’s death. The family had been unable to treat the father and mother due to poverty. Now, their children are facing the brunt of the family poverty. The oldest child is 11-year-old and the youngest is less than three-years-old. They had been unable to get employment and earn their daily bread, which led to intermittent starvation, which then became the cause of their death. Talking about the same, Mohammad Mohaqiq, the leader of the People's Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan, has urged the world to wake up to the Afghan crisis and help the locals. He also alleged that this incident had not made headlines as the victims belonged to minority community.

Eight children die of starvation in Kabul as Taliban fails to stabilise country

Several clashes took place after a verbal fight between factions&nbsp;affiliated with Mullah Abdul Manan Niazi, the leader of a dissident faction from the Taliban who recently died, and another affiliated with the local authorities in the western city of Herat. <o:p></o:p>

A Taliban source told WION that Taliban forces had to intervene to break off the clashes and control the situation between the two groups.<o:p></o:p>

The reason behind the&nbsp;violent clash between&nbsp;Taliban forces is not yet clear.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-defence-ministers-veiled-audio-message-over-regimes-army-looks-to-warn-neighbours-423507">Taliban minister’s ‘veiled’ message over army looks to warn neighbours</a></o:p>

Mullah Abdul Manan Niazi was the leader of a dissident group from the Taliban who recently died after he was severely wounded in an attack by Taliban militants on May 11. He succumbed to injuries on May 15 in Herat.<o:p></o:p>

Niazi had earlier served as governor of Herat and Balkh provinces during the Taliban rule in the 1990s and was the deputy leader of a Taliban faction led by Mullah Akhtar Mohammad Mansour. His faction was reportedly not involved in the ongoing peace talks with the US and Kabul governments.<o:p></o:p>

The recent clash between two factions was one of the many that have been taking place between the two factions in the recent past.

<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, locals in Taloqan, the capital of Takhar province, took to the streets to protest against the rising poverty rate in Afghanistan. Locals have been asking the Taliban government to bring back stability in the country and help them in battling the rising unemployment and poverty rate.<o:p></o:p>

Taliban, however, have been unable to gain financial and economical support from western countries. The country has also been facing blackouts as the Taliban government has been unable to pay electricity bills to neighbouring countries, giving rise to fears that a complete blackout in the country might not be too far.

<o:p>(With inputs from Agencies)</o:p>

Several clashes took place after a verbal fight between factions affiliated with Mullah Abdul Manan Niazi, the leader of a dissident faction from the Taliban who recently died, and another affiliated with the local authorities in the western city of Herat.

Several clashes took place after a verbal fight between factions affiliated with Mullah Abdul Manan Niazi, the leader of a dissident faction from the Taliban who recently died, and another affiliated with the local authorities in the western city of Herat. A Taliban source told WION that Taliban forces had to intervene to break off the clashes and control the situation between the two groups. The reason behind the violent clash between Taliban forces is not yet clear. Also read | Taliban minister’s ‘veiled’ message over army looks to warn neighbours Mullah Abdul Manan Niazi was the leader of a dissident group from the Taliban who recently died after he was severely wounded in an attack by Taliban militants on May 11. He succumbed to injuries on May 15 in Herat. Niazi had earlier served as governor of Herat and Balkh provinces during the Taliban rule in the 1990s and was the deputy leader of a Taliban faction led by Mullah Akhtar Mohammad Mansour. His faction was reportedly not involved in the ongoing peace talks with the US and Kabul governments. The recent clash between two factions was one of the many that have been taking place between the two factions in the recent past. Meanwhile, locals in Taloqan, the capital of Takhar province, took to the streets to protest against the rising poverty rate in Afghanistan. Locals have been asking the Taliban government to bring back stability in the country and help them in battling the rising unemployment and poverty rate. Taliban, however, have been unable to gain financial and economical support from western countries. The country has also been facing blackouts as the Taliban government has been unable to pay electricity bills to neighbouring countries, giving rise to fears that a complete blackout in the country might not be too far. (With inputs from Agencies)

Verbal clashes take place between Taliban factions, sources tell WION

In what could be a message aimed at Afghanistan's neighbours, Taliban defence minister Mullah Yaqoob&nbsp;looked to assure its cadre&nbsp;that it is in the process of forming a strong army that would defend its land and sovereignty.

In the audio message,&nbsp;the defence minister added that the government will not allow anyone to interfere in Afghanistan's internal affairs and will maintain security at the borders with neighbours. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It may be seen as a response to reports that the US and Pakistan may be coming up with an understanding for facilitating the former’s drone attacks in the war-torn country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-causing-kabul-power-outage-423341" hreflang="en">Islamic State claims responsibility for causing Kabul power outage</a>

The Taliban government seems to be making efforts to provide its army with advanced and modern weapons, as per the message. &nbsp;

The minister, however, did not provide details on how it will be done, at a time when the government has not been able to pay for even electricity recently. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Even after being marred by several issues lately, the minister looked to warn the world and neighbouring countries that even with little help from outside, it is surging ahead and can work its way out. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thousands-of-people-forced-from-their-homes-by-taliban-officials-423303" hreflang="en">Thousands of people forced from their homes by Taliban officials</a>

Yaqoob also tried to assure the Afghan people that the national army will be the guarantor of preserving the interests of Afghanistan. &nbsp;

These remarks came as the government is fighting Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) as the latter has stepped up attacks in different parts of the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The leader also looked to reassure the apprehensive Afghan people and the international community that its territory and airspace will not be used against others. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what could be a message aimed at Afghanistan's neighbours, Taliban defence minister Mullah Yaqoob looked to assure its cadre that it is in the process of forming a strong army that would defend its land and sovereignty.

In what could be a message aimed at Afghanistan's neighbours, Taliban defence minister Mullah Yaqoob looked to assure its cadre that it is in the process of forming a strong army that would defend its land and sovereignty. In the audio message, the defence minister added that the government will not allow anyone to interfere in Afghanistan's internal affairs and will maintain security at the borders with neighbours. It may be seen as a response to reports that the US and Pakistan may be coming up with an understanding for facilitating the former’s drone attacks in the war-torn country. Also Read: Islamic State claims responsibility for causing Kabul power outage The Taliban government seems to be making efforts to provide its army with advanced and modern weapons, as per the message. The minister, however, did not provide details on how it will be done, at a time when the government has not been able to pay for even electricity recently. Even after being marred by several issues lately, the minister looked to warn the world and neighbouring countries that even with little help from outside, it is surging ahead and can work its way out. Also Read: Thousands of people forced from their homes by Taliban officials Yaqoob also tried to assure the Afghan people that the national army will be the guarantor of preserving the interests of Afghanistan. These remarks came as the government is fighting Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) as the latter has stepped up attacks in different parts of the country. The leader also looked to reassure the apprehensive Afghan people and the international community that its territory and airspace will not be used against others. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban defence minister’s message over regime’s army looks to warn neighbours

The newly appointed Taliban defense minister has now claimed that they are bringing in new modernized weapons to build up the national army. During an exclusive conversation with WION's correspondent Anas Mallick Taliban's defence minister Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob said that they have started to form a strong army that would defend its land and sovereignty. This comes as Afghanistan continues to battle repeated attacks by isis affiliated groups following the Taliban takeover.

Bringing in new modernized weapons to build up the national army: Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said that the bloc's allies and partners are trying to hold the Taliban accountable for all the pledges they made on terrorism, not allowing their soil to be used against others, human rights, and providing safe passage for those who are willing to leave Afghanistan, reported local media.

After holding NATO's defence ministers&nbsp;level, Stoltenberg emphasised that the withdrawal decision from Afghanistan was unanimous, adding the tragedy of the Afghan people afterwards is "heart-breaking", reported Khama Press.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-remains-bedrock-for-european-security-says-stoltenberg-amid-aukus-row-418607">NATO remains bedrock for European security, says Stoltenberg amid AUKUS row</a>

Underlining that NATO is trying to get people out of Afghanistan Stoltenberg said that the alliance is attempting to resettle those who left Afghanistan.

"We have had development in resettling those people in the past weeks," said Stoltenberg. The NATO chief's remarks came as there are still nearly 20,000 people waiting to be evacuated from Afghanistan.

But the mission had stalled and there are reports about its resumption in near future, the Khaama Press report said.&nbsp;

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said that the bloc's allies and partners are trying to hold the Taliban accountable for all the pledges they made on terrorism, not allowing their soil to be used against others, human rights, and providing safe passage for those who are willing to leave Afghanistan, reported local media.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said that the bloc's allies and partners are trying to hold the Taliban accountable for all the pledges they made on terrorism, not allowing their soil to be used against others, human rights, and providing safe passage for those who are willing to leave Afghanistan, reported local media. After holding NATO's defence ministers level, Stoltenberg emphasised that the withdrawal decision from Afghanistan was unanimous, adding the tragedy of the Afghan people afterwards is "heart-breaking", reported Khama Press. Also Read | NATO remains bedrock for European security, says Stoltenberg amid AUKUS row Underlining that NATO is trying to get people out of Afghanistan Stoltenberg said that the alliance is attempting to resettle those who left Afghanistan. "We have had development in resettling those people in the past weeks," said Stoltenberg. The NATO chief's remarks came as there are still nearly 20,000 people waiting to be evacuated from Afghanistan. But the mission had stalled and there are reports about its resumption in near future, the Khaama Press report said.

NATO holding Taliban accountable on counterterrorism, says chief Jens Stoltenberg

The Red Cross on Friday urged the international community to engage with Afghanistan's new Taliban rulers, saying that aid groups on their own would be unable to stave off a humanitarian crisis.

Afghanistan has been plunged into crisis by the abrupt end of billions of dollars in foreign assistance following the collapse of the Western-backed government and return to power by the Taliban in August.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has since increased its efforts in the country while other organisations were also stepping up, Director General Robert Mardini said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/humanitarian-crisis-in-focus-as-italy-hosts-g20-afghan-summit-420064">Humanitarian crisis in focus as Italy hosts G20 Afghan summit</a>

But he told Reuters that support from the international community, who had so far taken a cautious approach in engaging with the Taliban, was critical to providing basic services.

"Humanitarian organisations joining forces can only do so much. They can come up with temporary solutions."

The United Nations on Thursday announced&nbsp;it had set up a fund to provide cash directly to Afghans, which Mardini said would solve the problem for three months.

"Afghanistan is a compounded crisis that is deteriorating by the day," he said, citing decades of conflict compounded by the effects of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mardini said 30 per cent&nbsp;of Afghanistan's 39 million population were facing severe malnutrition and that 18 million people in the country need humanitarian assistance or protection.

The Taliban expelled many foreign aid groups when it was last in power from 1996-2001 but this time has said it welcomes foreign donors and will protect the rights of their staff.

But the hardline Islamists, facing criticism it has failed to protect rights, including access to education for girls, have also said aid should not be tied to conditions.

"No humanitarian organisation can compensate or replace the economy of a country," Mardini said.

The Red Cross on Friday urged the international community to engage with Afghanistan's new Taliban rulers, saying that aid groups on their own would be unable to stave off a humanitarian crisis.

The Red Cross on Friday urged the international community to engage with Afghanistan's new Taliban rulers, saying that aid groups on their own would be unable to stave off a humanitarian crisis. Afghanistan has been plunged into crisis by the abrupt end of billions of dollars in foreign assistance following the collapse of the Western-backed government and return to power by the Taliban in August. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has since increased its efforts in the country while other organisations were also stepping up, Director General Robert Mardini said. Also Read | Humanitarian crisis in focus as Italy hosts G20 Afghan summit But he told Reuters that support from the international community, who had so far taken a cautious approach in engaging with the Taliban, was critical to providing basic services. "Humanitarian organisations joining forces can only do so much. They can come up with temporary solutions." The United Nations on Thursday announced it had set up a fund to provide cash directly to Afghans, which Mardini said would solve the problem for three months. "Afghanistan is a compounded crisis that is deteriorating by the day," he said, citing decades of conflict compounded by the effects of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. Mardini said 30 per cent of Afghanistan's 39 million population were facing severe malnutrition and that 18 million people in the country need humanitarian assistance or protection. The Taliban expelled many foreign aid groups when it was last in power from 1996-2001 but this time has said it welcomes foreign donors and will protect the rights of their staff. But the hardline Islamists, facing criticism it has failed to protect rights, including access to education for girls, have also said aid should not be tied to conditions. "No humanitarian organisation can compensate or replace the economy of a country," Mardini said.

Red Cross warns aid groups not enough to stave off Afghan humanitarian crisis

Reports say the Taliban have launched an operation to take on the ISIS-K. Why is it so important for the Taliban to fight another terror group? Can the Taliban even afford to fight ISIS? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Report: Taliban launches operation to fight ISIS

Reports say the Taliban have launched an operation to defeat the ISIS-K terrorists. Why is it so important for the Taliban to fight another terror group? Can the Taliban even afford to fight ISIS? Know in this video.

Taliban launches offensive operation to defeat ISIS-K, a regional affiliate of Islamic State Group

The Islamic State militant group said on Friday that it was responsible for an explosion that brought down electricity lines and caused a major power outage in Kabul province.

The power outage that took place on Thursday was another blow to Taliban's efforts to stabilise Afghanistan after they captured power in the month of August. Taliban who led the insurgency against US-supported governments for two decades are finding themselves at odds with Islamic State.

In a statement published on its Telegram channels, Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) said "the soldiers of the caliphate detonated a bomb on an electricity pylon in Kabul" to damage the electricity sector.

The explosion that caused the power outage hit a high-voltage line that supplied power to Kabul and other provinces.

Afghanistan is heavily reliant on electricity produced in its northern neighbours Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. This means that electricity has to be distributed in the country via long power lines that are often vulnerable to sabotage. Taliban itself used this tactic as it mounted insurgency against US-backed governments in Kabul.

The Taliban has promised to fight IS-K but the group has continued to carry out devastating atrocities.

Earlier this week, IS-K said it was behind a suicide bombing of a Shiite mosque in the southern city of Kandahar on October 15 that killed 60 people.

The Islamic State militant group said on Friday that it was responsible for an explosion that brought down electricity lines and caused a major power outage in Kabul province.

The Islamic State militant group said on Friday that it was responsible for an explosion that brought down electricity lines and caused a major power outage in Kabul province. The power outage that took place on Thursday was another blow to Taliban's efforts to stabilise Afghanistan after they captured power in the month of August. Taliban who led the insurgency against US-supported governments for two decades are finding themselves at odds with Islamic State. In a statement published on its Telegram channels, Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) said "the soldiers of the caliphate detonated a bomb on an electricity pylon in Kabul" to damage the electricity sector. The explosion that caused the power outage hit a high-voltage line that supplied power to Kabul and other provinces. Afghanistan is heavily reliant on electricity produced in its northern neighbours Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. This means that electricity has to be distributed in the country via long power lines that are often vulnerable to sabotage. Taliban itself used this tactic as it mounted insurgency against US-backed governments in Kabul. The Taliban has promised to fight IS-K but the group has continued to carry out devastating atrocities. Earlier this week, IS-K said it was behind a suicide bombing of a Shiite mosque in the southern city of Kandahar on October 15 that killed 60 people.

Islamic State claims responsibility for causing Kabul power outage

Thousands of people have been forced from their homes by Taliban officials in the north and south of Afghanistan. Human Rights Watch has warned that this has amounted to collective punishment.

Many of these evictions targeted members of the Shia Hazara community, while others were of people connected to the former Afghan government. These evictions took place across five provinces, including Kandahar, Helmand and Uruzgan in the south, Daikundi in the centre, and the northern province of Balkh.&nbsp;

As per a report, many people were ordered to leave homes and farms after a few days' notice. Also, they were not allowed to prove their legal ownership.

Some were reportedly told that if they did not comply with orders to leave, they “had no right to complain about the consequences."

Patricia Gossman, associate Asia director at Human Rights Watch, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The Taliban are forcibly evicting Hazaras and others on the basis of ethnicity or political opinion to reward Taliban supporters."

“These evictions, carried out with threats of force and without any legal process, are serious abuses that amount to collective punishment.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-assault-journalists-covering-womens-rights-protest-in-kabul-422637">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban assault journalists covering women’s rights protest in Kabul</a>

Ever since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, it has been linked to a string of human rights abuses including killings and attacks on journalists. They have also stripped many women of the right to work and barred girls from studying at the secondary level. On Thursday, several journalists covering the women’s rights protest were allegedly attacked by the Taliban.

According to news agency AFP, during the protest one foreign journalist was struck with the butt of a rifle by one Taliban fighter, who swore and kicked the photographer in the back as another punched him.

At least two more journalists were hit as they scattered, pursued by Taliban fighters swinging fists and launching kicks.

This year alone, over 665,000 Afghans have been displaced, bringing the total nationwide to about 4 million.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-clashes-with-tlp-protesters-3-cops-killed-many-hurt-in-pakistans-lahore-423273">Also read |&nbsp;In clashes with TLP protesters, 3 cops killed, many hurt in Pakistan’s Lahore</a>

“It’s particularly cruel to displace families during harvest and just before winter sets in,” Gossman said. “The Taliban should cease forcible evicting of Hazaras and others and adjudicate land disputes according to the law and a fair process.”

In Kandahar the evictions targeted members of a government-owned apartment block, HRW said.&nbsp;In Helmand, at least 400 families were driven out of the Naw Mish district in the middle of the harvesting season.

The largest displacements recorded are in Daikundi and Uruzgan provinces as at least 2,800 Hazara residents were driven from their homes in September.&nbsp;

Thousands of people have been forced from their homes by Taliban officials in the north and south of Afghanistan. Human Rights Watch has warned that this has amounted to collective punishment.

Thousands of people have been forced from their homes by Taliban officials in the north and south of Afghanistan. Human Rights Watch has warned that this has amounted to collective punishment. Many of these evictions targeted members of the Shia Hazara community, while others were of people connected to the former Afghan government. These evictions took place across five provinces, including Kandahar, Helmand and Uruzgan in the south, Daikundi in the centre, and the northern province of Balkh. As per a report, many people were ordered to leave homes and farms after a few days' notice. Also, they were not allowed to prove their legal ownership. Some were reportedly told that if they did not comply with orders to leave, they “had no right to complain about the consequences." Patricia Gossman, associate Asia director at Human Rights Watch, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The Taliban are forcibly evicting Hazaras and others on the basis of ethnicity or political opinion to reward Taliban supporters." “These evictions, carried out with threats of force and without any legal process, are serious abuses that amount to collective punishment.” Also read | Taliban assault journalists covering women’s rights protest in Kabul Ever since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, it has been linked to a string of human rights abuses including killings and attacks on journalists. They have also stripped many women of the right to work and barred girls from studying at the secondary level. On Thursday, several journalists covering the women’s rights protest were allegedly attacked by the Taliban. According to news agency AFP, during the protest one foreign journalist was struck with the butt of a rifle by one Taliban fighter, who swore and kicked the photographer in the back as another punched him. At least two more journalists were hit as they scattered, pursued by Taliban fighters swinging fists and launching kicks. This year alone, over 665,000 Afghans have been displaced, bringing the total nationwide to about 4 million. Also read | In clashes with TLP protesters, 3 cops killed, many hurt in Pakistan’s Lahore “It’s particularly cruel to displace families during harvest and just before winter sets in,” Gossman said. “The Taliban should cease forcible evicting of Hazaras and others and adjudicate land disputes according to the law and a fair process.” In Kandahar the evictions targeted members of a government-owned apartment block, HRW said. In Helmand, at least 400 families were driven out of the Naw Mish district in the middle of the harvesting season. The largest displacements recorded are in Daikundi and Uruzgan provinces as at least 2,800 Hazara residents were driven from their homes in September.

Thousands of people forced from their homes by Taliban officials

A day after Russian President, Vladimir Putin, said Afghanistan's foreign assets should be unfrozen, the leader has claimed that Russia is pondering over removing Taliban from list of extremist groups.

"We all expect Taliban, those people who undoubtedly control the situation in the country, in Afghanistan, we expect the situation to develop positively. Depending on that we will jointly take the decision on excluding them from the list of terrorist organisations. It seems to me that we are getting close to it. Russia's position will be to move in that direction," he said.

However, he also added that this is not a final decision and experts are still mulling over it. He also added that this is an important decision which should be taken the same way the decision of blacklisting the terrorist organisation was taken.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/close-to-crime-against-humanity-teaching-children-about-gender-identity-is-monstrous-says-putin-423080" hreflang="en">Teaching children about gender identity is 'monstrous', says Putin</a>

Putin also appreciated US President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw American troops from Afghanistan.

"The United States president hit the right path. He did it right when he withdrew forces from Afghanistan. He surely had been understanding, maybe without the details but he had been understanding that one way or another it would have become one of the lines for the political attack (in the U.S.) but he did it, he took the responsibility."

His statements have come a day after the leader had urged western governments to unfreeze Afghanistan's financial assets and resume economic support for the South Asian country. Putin claims this will help bring stability in the country, which will further help Afghanistan's neighbouring countries too.

Meanwhile, the US has made it clear that the Biden administration has no plans to release Afghanistan's gold, investment and foreign currency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explosion-causes-major-power-outage-in-kabul-423032" hreflang="en">Explosion causes major power outage in Kabul</a>

Putin has called on to the US and Europe to&nbsp;"not avoid responsibility for current and future developments" in the country.

The terrorist organisation took control of US-backed Afghanistan government on August 15 and has since formed its own government in the South Asian country. However, Taliban have not been able to bring financial stability in the country, which has been a target of several blasts and attacks by ISIS.

Taliban government has also been unable to pay electricity bills to the neighbouring countries, raising fears of complete blackout in the country very soon.

A day after Russian President, Vladimir Putin, said Afghanistan's foreign assets should be unfrozen, the leader has claimed that Russia is pondering over removing Taliban from list of extremist groups.

A day after Russian President, Vladimir Putin, said Afghanistan's foreign assets should be unfrozen, the leader has claimed that Russia is pondering over removing Taliban from list of extremist groups. "We all expect Taliban, those people who undoubtedly control the situation in the country, in Afghanistan, we expect the situation to develop positively. Depending on that we will jointly take the decision on excluding them from the list of terrorist organisations. It seems to me that we are getting close to it. Russia's position will be to move in that direction," he said. However, he also added that this is not a final decision and experts are still mulling over it. He also added that this is an important decision which should be taken the same way the decision of blacklisting the terrorist organisation was taken. Also read | Teaching children about gender identity is 'monstrous', says Putin Putin also appreciated US President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw American troops from Afghanistan. "The United States president hit the right path. He did it right when he withdrew forces from Afghanistan. He surely had been understanding, maybe without the details but he had been understanding that one way or another it would have become one of the lines for the political attack (in the U.S.) but he did it, he took the responsibility." His statements have come a day after the leader had urged western governments to unfreeze Afghanistan's financial assets and resume economic support for the South Asian country. Putin claims this will help bring stability in the country, which will further help Afghanistan's neighbouring countries too. Meanwhile, the US has made it clear that the Biden administration has no plans to release Afghanistan's gold, investment and foreign currency. Also read | Explosion causes major power outage in Kabul Putin has called on to the US and Europe to "not avoid responsibility for current and future developments" in the country. The terrorist organisation took control of US-backed Afghanistan government on August 15 and has since formed its own government in the South Asian country. However, Taliban have not been able to bring financial stability in the country, which has been a target of several blasts and attacks by ISIS. Taliban government has also been unable to pay electricity bills to the neighbouring countries, raising fears of complete blackout in the country very soon.

Russia may remove Taliban from list of extremist groups: Putin

A Twitter spat between Pakistan’s human rights minister and her daughter had its echoes during the Moscow&nbsp;consultations on Afghanistan, when Pakistan's special envoy on Afghanistan and other officials were found discussing about the tiff, which was heard by scores of others as the diplomats forgot to switch off their mikes.

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ROLF moment. Pakistani diplomats forget to turn off mike at Moscow format talks involving Taliban. Found discussing Pak Human rights minister Shireen Mazari &amp; her daughter's twitter spat. <a href="https://t.co/9dpIOx1zS6">pic.twitter.com/9dpIOx1zS6</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1450887208102076423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“Shuru se inka style yehi hai, aggressive (This has been her style all along, aggressive),” Pakistani diplomat Mohammad Sadiq was purportedly heard saying in Urdu.&nbsp;

The row between Pakistan’s human rights minister Shireen Mazar and her daughter Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, a lawyer by profession, has taken the Islamic nation by storm. The argument centred around whether the government’s alleged “use of magic” to run the state's affairs should be part of public discourse. 
 
Watch

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Imaan was reiterating an allegation that&nbsp;is being pushed forward by the government's critics that Prime Minister Imran Khan relies on witchcraft and divination to make key decisions regarding the affairs of the state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-russia-calls-for-humanitarian-aid-as-it-hosts-taliban-422322">Afghanistan: Russia calls for humanitarian aid as it hosts Taliban</a>

The jibe was perceived by many, including her mother, to be targeting the prime minister's spouse, who was a spiritual person before her marriage to Imran Khan.

“The country has been made a mockery of with (the use of) witchcraft — how can it be that we do not talk about those who practice it,” Imaan had said in her tweet.

In response, Shireen said, “I am ashamed you would resort to such low, personalised, unsubstantiated attacks — especially since as a lawyer you should know (that) without any proof hurling such accusations is defamation.”

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I am ashamed you would resort to such low personalised unsubstantiated attacks esp since as a lawyer u shd know without any proof hurling such accusations is defamation. When all substantive issue-based criticism fails this level of a base personal attack is plain shameful. <a href="https://t.co/drbLN5bq9w">https://t.co/drbLN5bq9w</a>
— Shireen Mazari (@ShireenMazari1) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShireenMazari1/status/1450724121801854977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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What followed was a flurry of tweets in reply to the exchange.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Twitter spat between Pakistan’s human rights minister and her daughter had its echoes during the Moscow consultations on Afghanistan, when Pakistan's special envoy on Afghanistan and other officials were found discussing about the tiff, which was heard by scores of others as the diplomats forgot to switch off their mikes.

A Twitter spat between Pakistan’s human rights minister and her daughter had its echoes during the Moscow consultations on Afghanistan, when Pakistan's special envoy on Afghanistan and other officials were found discussing about the tiff, which was heard by scores of others as the diplomats forgot to switch off their mikes. ROLF moment. Pakistani diplomats forget to turn off mike at Moscow format talks involving Taliban. Found discussing Pak Human rights minister Shireen Mazari & her daughter's twitter spat. pic.twitter.com/9dpIOx1zS6 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) October 20, 2021 × “Shuru se inka style yehi hai, aggressive (This has been her style all along, aggressive),” Pakistani diplomat Mohammad Sadiq was purportedly heard saying in Urdu. The row between Pakistan’s human rights minister Shireen Mazar and her daughter Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, a lawyer by profession, has taken the Islamic nation by storm. The argument centred around whether the government’s alleged “use of magic” to run the state's affairs should be part of public discourse. Watch Imaan was reiterating an allegation that is being pushed forward by the government's critics that Prime Minister Imran Khan relies on witchcraft and divination to make key decisions regarding the affairs of the state. Also read | Afghanistan: Russia calls for humanitarian aid as it hosts Taliban The jibe was perceived by many, including her mother, to be targeting the prime minister's spouse, who was a spiritual person before her marriage to Imran Khan. “The country has been made a mockery of with (the use of) witchcraft — how can it be that we do not talk about those who practice it,” Imaan had said in her tweet. In response, Shireen said, “I am ashamed you would resort to such low, personalised, unsubstantiated attacks — especially since as a lawyer you should know (that) without any proof hurling such accusations is defamation.” I am ashamed you would resort to such low personalised unsubstantiated attacks esp since as a lawyer u shd know without any proof hurling such accusations is defamation. When all substantive issue-based criticism fails this level of a base personal attack is plain shameful. https://t.co/drbLN5bq9w — Shireen Mazari (@ShireenMazari1) October 20, 2021 × What followed was a flurry of tweets in reply to the exchange. (With inputs from agencies)

Goof-up: Pak diplomats discussing minister’s Twitter spat forget to turn off mike during Moscow talks

On the heels of the crucial Moscow format talks on Afghanistan, Pakistan has invited Taliban to Islamabad to iron out a range of issues which includes the refugee crisis and border issues. The formal invite comes after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi made his first trip to Kabul since the taliban takeover in August.

Pakistan invites Taliban to Islamabad to iron out issues inclusing refugee crisis

On the heels of the crucial Moscow format talks, Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has met the Taliban's acting PM Mullah Hasan Akhund and the deputy CM Abdul Salam Hanafi for bilateral talks. Our correspondent Anas Mallick brings you all the latest developments.

Pakistan minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi's first trip to Kabul since Taliban Takeover

An explosion resulted in a major power outage in Afghan capital Kabul on Thursday. Though the cause of the blast was not known, it came as another blow to Taliban's efforts to stabilise situation in the country two months after they seized control.

The blast is a sign that anti-Taliban militants are using Taliban's tactics against them.

Afghanistan largely relies on electricity imported from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The cross-country power lines are vulnerable to insurgent attacks.&nbsp;

"Moments ago, an explosion blew up a power pylon in Qala Murad Beg area of Kabul province, cutting off a 220 kV imported power line," the Breshna power company said in a message to customers.&nbsp;

"As a result the electricity transmission was cut off in Kabul and some other provinces."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-afghan-women-hostage-under-taliban-rule-despite-promises-422898">Opinion: Afghan Women hostage under Taliban rule despite promises</a>

As the power went down at about 6:00 pm (1330 GMT), lights flickered and went dark in Kabul -- home to more than 4.5 million people -- and private generators kicked into operation at businesses and wealthier residences.

Taliban, during its 20 decade fight with the US forces it regularly attacked power infrastructure.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/international-community-worried-over-pakistani-nukes-falling-into-talibans-hand-422868">International community worried over Pakistani nukes falling into Taliban's hand</a>

But after seizing power in mid-August the movement has faced in its turn often deadly bomb attacks from fellow hardliners the Islamic State group.

In its message, Breshna said it had sent engineers to the area, just to the north of the capital city, "and when the situation allows, they will start repairing the connection".

(With inputs from agencies)

An explosion resulted in a major power outage in Afghan capital Kabul on Thursday. Though the cause of the blast was not known, it came as another blow to Taliban's efforts to stabilise situation in the country two months after they seized control.

An explosion resulted in a major power outage in Afghan capital Kabul on Thursday. Though the cause of the blast was not known, it came as another blow to Taliban's efforts to stabilise situation in the country two months after they seized control. The blast is a sign that anti-Taliban militants are using Taliban's tactics against them. Afghanistan largely relies on electricity imported from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The cross-country power lines are vulnerable to insurgent attacks. "Moments ago, an explosion blew up a power pylon in Qala Murad Beg area of Kabul province, cutting off a 220 kV imported power line," the Breshna power company said in a message to customers. "As a result the electricity transmission was cut off in Kabul and some other provinces." Also Read | Opinion: Afghan Women hostage under Taliban rule despite promises As the power went down at about 6:00 pm (1330 GMT), lights flickered and went dark in Kabul -- home to more than 4.5 million people -- and private generators kicked into operation at businesses and wealthier residences. Taliban, during its 20 decade fight with the US forces it regularly attacked power infrastructure. Also Read | International community worried over Pakistani nukes falling into Taliban's hand But after seizing power in mid-August the movement has faced in its turn often deadly bomb attacks from fellow hardliners the Islamic State group. In its message, Breshna said it had sent engineers to the area, just to the north of the capital city, "and when the situation allows, they will start repairing the connection". (With inputs from agencies)

Explosion causes major power outage in Kabul

Amid continuing tensions on the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Islamabad’s foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi held talks with Taliban leaders in Kabul. He spoke&nbsp;exclusively&nbsp;to WION, along with&nbsp;Afghanistan’s acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, about the deliberations.

Qureshi told WION that a delegation of Taliban members would be visiting Islamabad to iron out differences on a range of issues, including refugee crisis and border issues.

Qureshi, who was accompanied by the outgoing chief of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Faiz Hammed,&nbsp;was in Kabul on Thursday to discuss the situation at the Chaman border crossing, one of the main trade transit points between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The crossing has been closed for more than two weeks, causing severe problems for truckers and exporters.&nbsp;

Calling the talks “successful”, Qureshi told WION, “We held discussion on all our issues, including refugee crisis and how to solve the border issue in the coming days. We will continue discussing these issues. In the next few days, a Taliban delegation will also visit Islamabad.”

Muttaqi, on the other hand, urged the international community to recognise the Taliban government, so that they can receive aid and resolve the present economic crisis plaguing the landlocked nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-will-not-let-the-taliban-access-the-money-us-on-releasing-afghan-frozen-assets-422514">We will not let the Taliban access the money: US on releasing Afghan frozen assets</a>

“We discussed bilateral trade, visa issues, education, scholarships, regional stability in the meeting. Due to our economic condition, we want international powers to recognise us, as we need their help in running the economic affairs. Economically, Afghanistan is facing a lot of challenges, we want and request the world to help us,” Muttaqi told WION.

Watch

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The visit of Qureshi&nbsp;took place amid the long-standing border tussle. The neighbouring countries have also been unable to solve issues over air links and control of freight crossing the border.

Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan on August 15, the nation’s economy underwent a massive shock.

The United Nations has warned last month that the poverty rate in Afghanistan was soaring, and public services were close to collapse.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-urge-us-eu-to-end-existing-sanctions-to-avoid-refugee-crisis-420503">Taliban urge US, EU to 'end existing sanctions' to avoid refugee crisis</a>

The IMF in its regional economic outlook update on Tuesday said that Afghanistan’s economy is set to contract up to 30 per cent this year and it is likely to further fuel a refugee crisis that will impact neighbours, Turkey and Europe.

The US froze $10bn of the country's central bank assets. Banks were closed for many days after the Taliban seized control, and while many have opened now, accessing cash is still difficult.

Many businesses shut down because their owners fled the country fearing for their lives. Many of those who had jobs haven't received salaries for months.

With no cash in the market, there has been a sharp rise in prices of day to day necessities including food. An already difficult situation created by war and drought has become much worse.

Women who had jobs and supported their families can no longer work and are now entirely dependent on handouts.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid continuing tensions on the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Islamabad’s foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi held talks with Taliban leaders in Kabul.

Amid continuing tensions on the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Islamabad’s foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi held talks with Taliban leaders in Kabul. He spoke exclusively to WION, along with Afghanistan’s acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, about the deliberations. Qureshi told WION that a delegation of Taliban members would be visiting Islamabad to iron out differences on a range of issues, including refugee crisis and border issues. Qureshi, who was accompanied by the outgoing chief of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Faiz Hammed, was in Kabul on Thursday to discuss the situation at the Chaman border crossing, one of the main trade transit points between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The crossing has been closed for more than two weeks, causing severe problems for truckers and exporters. Calling the talks “successful”, Qureshi told WION, “We held discussion on all our issues, including refugee crisis and how to solve the border issue in the coming days. We will continue discussing these issues. In the next few days, a Taliban delegation will also visit Islamabad.” Muttaqi, on the other hand, urged the international community to recognise the Taliban government, so that they can receive aid and resolve the present economic crisis plaguing the landlocked nation. Also read | We will not let the Taliban access the money: US on releasing Afghan frozen assets “We discussed bilateral trade, visa issues, education, scholarships, regional stability in the meeting. Due to our economic condition, we want international powers to recognise us, as we need their help in running the economic affairs. Economically, Afghanistan is facing a lot of challenges, we want and request the world to help us,” Muttaqi told WION. Watch The visit of Qureshi took place amid the long-standing border tussle. The neighbouring countries have also been unable to solve issues over air links and control of freight crossing the border. Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan on August 15, the nation’s economy underwent a massive shock. The United Nations has warned last month that the poverty rate in Afghanistan was soaring, and public services were close to collapse. Also read | Taliban urge US, EU to 'end existing sanctions' to avoid refugee crisis The IMF in its regional economic outlook update on Tuesday said that Afghanistan’s economy is set to contract up to 30 per cent this year and it is likely to further fuel a refugee crisis that will impact neighbours, Turkey and Europe. The US froze $10bn of the country's central bank assets. Banks were closed for many days after the Taliban seized control, and while many have opened now, accessing cash is still difficult. Many businesses shut down because their owners fled the country fearing for their lives. Many of those who had jobs haven't received salaries for months. With no cash in the market, there has been a sharp rise in prices of day to day necessities including food. An already difficult situation created by war and drought has become much worse. Women who had jobs and supported their families can no longer work and are now entirely dependent on handouts. (With inputs from agencies)

Exclusive: Pak FM Qureshi, Taliban's Muttaqi share details with WION on Kabul talks

Backdrop

Taliban’s foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, in Moscow Format meeting attended by 10 countries, held on October 20, 2021 assured that they have moved as quickly as possible on opening up their government, guaranteeing rights to women and Afghanistan will never allow its soil to be used as a base for anyone to threaten the security of another country. The myth of his statement was broken by another news of beheading of Mahjubin Hakimi, women volleyball player in Kabul, along with their interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani honouring and rewarding the suicide bombers who killed US and Afghan soldiers as ‘Martyrs’ and ‘Heroes of Islam’ in Kabul exposing reality at the same time. The people of Afghanistan especially women, children and minorities continue to suffer despite UN Resolution for their protection.

Realistic to consider Taliban 2.9 moderate?

With announcement of a caretaker government led by 18 UN designated terrorists, 30 Pashtuns out of 33 ministers, Taliban mocked the global community, UNSC, all world players and actors, who were propagating Taliban 2.0 to be moderate and reasonable, hoping for inclusive government. Even the expansion of the caretaker government to 50 ministers, saw no inclusion women and minimal inclusion of some minorities, the ministry of women affairs replaced by ministry of vice and virtue to discipline women. Ban on protests, women sports and scores of restrictions, public hanging, street justice through killings by fighters, are enough indicators of revival of barbaric laws of Taliban of 90s.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The desperate cries of Afghan women and attempts of people to throw babies out of Taliban-controlled land, shamed the world community, finding itself helpless due to varying interests, hiding behind “Wait and Watch” policy. All promises of Taliban leaders that it is moderate Taliban 2021 capable of meeting people's aspirations, stand junked as ‘Shariah Law’-like curbs are back in place, the most disgusting was listing of single girls between 15 to 45 years, to be married to Taliban fighters as reward, amputation on streets for wearing dress of choice, besides not allowing girl children to attend schools so far. Sportswomen have either sought asylum elsewhere or hiding to save their lives.&nbsp;

Some women did pick up courage to protest, but faced heavy crackdown. All women's activities in the sports, political and social spheres have almost ceased due to security concerns. Even if Taliban leaders pose moderate by falling back on 1964 Constitution, their fighters will not let the leaders settle down for anything less than Shariah Law. It is not possible for their leaders to survive against the wishes of their fighters, because they got into power due to them and the barrels can point them if they try anything else, in fragile Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Double-gaming the world community

Taliban 2.0 has been trained well by their Pakistani allies in the art of double-gaming the world community. Taliban kept promising its territory not to be used for terror activities against anyone, but it was prompt to release all ISIS cadres from jail the moment it entered Kabul, resulting series of attacks by IS(K) on foreigners, minorities, and innocents. The UN reports and inputs of most countries indicate largest conglomeration of terror groups in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region; hence, the appreciation of Taliban by some countries is politically motivated by their self-interest. Taliban Government itself has enough cadres of Haqqanis, al-Qaeda, ISIS, JeM, LeT and many other terror groups, who keep changing groups to improve their profile in terror industry. &nbsp;

The anxiety shown by Pakistan to make world recognise Taliban, and China urging to lift sanctions to meet financial needs of Taliban, may well prove to be a bad honeymoon. Taliban will not divorce TTP or ETIM, the impact of which are visible with increased attacks in Pakistan by TTP and will be felt by China, after they recognise the regime as Taliban is smart enough to wait on in exchange for a support from P5 nations.&nbsp;

Taliban doesn’t mind making false promise of discarding these groups and claim deniability for their action, replicating the model adopted by Pakistan of posing to help US, but helping Taliban simultaneously. Most countries including Russia are interacting with Taliban to prevent export of terrorists and refugees in their areas of interest/territory.

Taliban is threatening of humanitarian crisis if it is isolated or cash strapped, but the origin of this humanitarian crisis is Taliban-Pakistan nexus dislodging an elected government of Afghanistan by force and failing to put up a viable governance structure. The jubilation amongst Taliban and Pakistan of seemingly defeating the most powerful US and allied forces, ‘breaking shackles of slavery’ freedom to form a ‘Government, which is of the terrorists, by the terrorists, and for the terrorists’, has rejuvenated terrorism, fundamentalist ideology and self-belief in victory. The resultant hostage situation of people within, has muted the response of many, who otherwise could have been critical of blatant human right violations, leading to unprecedented human disaster. Notwithstanding this stark reality, the people in Afghanistan are suffering and they can’t be helped unless Taliban is spoken to. It has triggered comity of nations and UN to find out ways and means for delivering humanitarian assistance. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

How to Deliver Humanitarian Aid?

Taliban as per current behaviour doesn’t deserve recognition, legitimacy and a seat in United Nations. US should not open its treasury for Taliban after all the mocking and embarrassment. Last time when it was in power it was recognised only by three countries.&nbsp;

Humanitarian aid to it should be given in kind through UN agencies and not in cash, which is unlikely to reach the needy people. UN seems blackmailed to be pushing for financial aid to Taliban Government composed of many UN-designated terrorists, keeping humanitarian crisis in forefront or perhaps Chinese pressure? If cash has to be distributed, that too should be delivered through UN Agencies directly to people. Taliban needs to be given a hard choice either to accept these terms or manage the crisis and aftermath by itself and Pakistan offering 5 billion and China offering $31 million worth aid.&nbsp;

Taliban will have to accept these terms because the converse could be disastrous, as its not a popular regime and humanitarian crisis will soon turn into fresh wave of violence against Taliban and Pakistan. EU is offering one billion euros worth of aid, out of which 346 million euros worth has been sent. Countries offering aid including India (offering food grains and medicines) have to talk to Taliban, but talking does not mean recognition/legitimacy of the regime, which should be made amply clear.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Backdrop Taliban’s foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, in Moscow Format meeting attended by 10 countries, held on October 20, 2021 assured that they have moved as quickly as possible on opening up their government, guaranteeing rights to women and Afghanistan will never allow its soil to be used as a base for anyone to threaten the security of another country.

Backdrop Taliban’s foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, in Moscow Format meeting attended by 10 countries, held on October 20, 2021 assured that they have moved as quickly as possible on opening up their government, guaranteeing rights to women and Afghanistan will never allow its soil to be used as a base for anyone to threaten the security of another country. The myth of his statement was broken by another news of beheading of Mahjubin Hakimi, women volleyball player in Kabul, along with their interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani honouring and rewarding the suicide bombers who killed US and Afghan soldiers as ‘Martyrs’ and ‘Heroes of Islam’ in Kabul exposing reality at the same time. The people of Afghanistan especially women, children and minorities continue to suffer despite UN Resolution for their protection. Realistic to consider Taliban 2.9 moderate? With announcement of a caretaker government led by 18 UN designated terrorists, 30 Pashtuns out of 33 ministers, Taliban mocked the global community, UNSC, all world players and actors, who were propagating Taliban 2.0 to be moderate and reasonable, hoping for inclusive government. Even the expansion of the caretaker government to 50 ministers, saw no inclusion women and minimal inclusion of some minorities, the ministry of women affairs replaced by ministry of vice and virtue to discipline women. Ban on protests, women sports and scores of restrictions, public hanging, street justice through killings by fighters, are enough indicators of revival of barbaric laws of Taliban of 90s. The desperate cries of Afghan women and attempts of people to throw babies out of Taliban-controlled land, shamed the world community, finding itself helpless due to varying interests, hiding behind “Wait and Watch” policy. All promises of Taliban leaders that it is moderate Taliban 2021 capable of meeting people's aspirations, stand junked as ‘Shariah Law’-like curbs are back in place, the most disgusting was listing of single girls between 15 to 45 years, to be married to Taliban fighters as reward, amputation on streets for wearing dress of choice, besides not allowing girl children to attend schools so far. Sportswomen have either sought asylum elsewhere or hiding to save their lives. Some women did pick up courage to protest, but faced heavy crackdown. All women's activities in the sports, political and social spheres have almost ceased due to security concerns. Even if Taliban leaders pose moderate by falling back on 1964 Constitution, their fighters will not let the leaders settle down for anything less than Shariah Law. It is not possible for their leaders to survive against the wishes of their fighters, because they got into power due to them and the barrels can point them if they try anything else, in fragile Afghanistan. Double-gaming the world community Taliban 2.0 has been trained well by their Pakistani allies in the art of double-gaming the world community. Taliban kept promising its territory not to be used for terror activities against anyone, but it was prompt to release all ISIS cadres from jail the moment it entered Kabul, resulting series of attacks by IS(K) on foreigners, minorities, and innocents. The UN reports and inputs of most countries indicate largest conglomeration of terror groups in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region; hence, the appreciation of Taliban by some countries is politically motivated by their self-interest. Taliban Government itself has enough cadres of Haqqanis, al-Qaeda, ISIS, JeM, LeT and many other terror groups, who keep changing groups to improve their profile in terror industry. The anxiety shown by Pakistan to make world recognise Taliban, and China urging to lift sanctions to meet financial needs of Taliban, may well prove to be a bad honeymoon. Taliban will not divorce TTP or ETIM, the impact of which are visible with increased attacks in Pakistan by TTP and will be felt by China, after they recognise the regime as Taliban is smart enough to wait on in exchange for a support from P5 nations. Taliban doesn’t mind making false promise of discarding these groups and claim deniability for their action, replicating the model adopted by Pakistan of posing to help US, but helping Taliban simultaneously. Most countries including Russia are interacting with Taliban to prevent export of terrorists and refugees in their areas of interest/territory. Taliban is threatening of humanitarian crisis if it is isolated or cash strapped, but the origin of this humanitarian crisis is Taliban-Pakistan nexus dislodging an elected government of Afghanistan by force and failing to put up a viable governance structure. The jubilation amongst Taliban and Pakistan of seemingly defeating the most powerful US and allied forces, ‘breaking shackles of slavery’ freedom to form a ‘Government, which is of the terrorists, by the terrorists, and for the terrorists’, has rejuvenated terrorism, fundamentalist ideology and self-belief in victory. The resultant hostage situation of people within, has muted the response of many, who otherwise could have been critical of blatant human right violations, leading to unprecedented human disaster. Notwithstanding this stark reality, the people in Afghanistan are suffering and they can’t be helped unless Taliban is spoken to. It has triggered comity of nations and UN to find out ways and means for delivering humanitarian assistance. How to Deliver Humanitarian Aid? Taliban as per current behaviour doesn’t deserve recognition, legitimacy and a seat in United Nations. US should not open its treasury for Taliban after all the mocking and embarrassment. Last time when it was in power it was recognised only by three countries. Humanitarian aid to it should be given in kind through UN agencies and not in cash, which is unlikely to reach the needy people. UN seems blackmailed to be pushing for financial aid to Taliban Government composed of many UN-designated terrorists, keeping humanitarian crisis in forefront or perhaps Chinese pressure? If cash has to be distributed, that too should be delivered through UN Agencies directly to people. Taliban needs to be given a hard choice either to accept these terms or manage the crisis and aftermath by itself and Pakistan offering 5 billion and China offering $31 million worth aid. Taliban will have to accept these terms because the converse could be disastrous, as its not a popular regime and humanitarian crisis will soon turn into fresh wave of violence against Taliban and Pakistan. EU is offering one billion euros worth of aid, out of which 346 million euros worth has been sent. Countries offering aid including India (offering food grains and medicines) have to talk to Taliban, but talking does not mean recognition/legitimacy of the regime, which should be made amply clear. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Afghan Women hostage under Taliban rule despite promises

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