An American man who was abducted more than two years ago while traveling through Afghanistan as a tourist has been released by the Taliban in a deal with the Trump administration that Qatari negotiators helped broker.

Taliban frees American detained in Afghanistan since 2022

Taliban authorities on Thursday freed US citizen George Glezmann after more than two years of detention, in a deal brokered by Qatar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced.
The release was announced after the Taliban government's foreign minister hosted US hostage envoy Adam Boehler and other US officials in the Afghan capital.
"Today, after two and a half years of captivity in Afghanistan, Delta Airlines mechanic George Glezmann is on his way to be reunited with his wife, Aleksandra," Rubio said in a statement.
"George's release is a positive and constructive step. &nbsp;It is also a reminder that other Americans are still detained in Afghanistan," he added.
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Glezmann was en route to Qatar, a source with knowledge of the release told AFP.
Ahead of the announcement, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi hosted Boehler, who was accompanied by Washington's former envoy to Kabul, Zalmay Khalilzad, the ministry said.
"Today is a good day," Khalilzad said on X.&nbsp;
The Taliban authorities decided to free Glezmann on "humanitarian grounds" and as a "goodwill gesture".
The prisoner release reflects "Afghanistan's readiness to genuinely engage all sides, particularly the United States of America, on the basis of mutual respect and interests", a foreign ministry statement said.
The US delegation was the first from Washington since US President Donald Trump took office in January, foreign ministry spokesman Hafiz Zia Ahmad told AFP.
Contacts between the two sides since the Taliban returned to power in 2021 has usually taken place in third countries.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-spying-on-millions-of-citizens-using-90000-cctv-cameras-report-8765923">Afghanistan Taliban spying on millions of citizens using 90,000 CCTV cameras - Report</a>
<h2>'New chapter'</h2>
Taliban authorities announced late last month the arrest of a Chinese-American woman on February 1 in the province of Bamiyan, a tourist attraction west of Kabul known for its giant Buddhas until they were destroyed in 2001 by the Taliban.&nbsp;
Officials have refused to detail the reasons for her arrest.&nbsp;
At least one other American, Mahmood Habibi, is detained in Afghanistan.
In July, Kabul announced it was in discussions with Washington over a prisoner exchange.
The talks took place in Qatar during an international conference that brought together UN representatives, Taliban authorities, and envoys for Afghanistan -- generally those based in neighbouring countries or within the region.
In January, two Americans detained in Afghanistan -- Ryan Corbett and William McKenty -- were freed in exchange for an Afghan fighter, Khan Mohammed, who was convicted of narco-terrorism in the United States.&nbsp;
Two weeks later, a Canadian former soldier, David Lavery, was released after more than two months held in Afghanistan, in a deal brokered by Qatar.
Trump signed a peace deal with the Taliban authorities during his first term in office and, following his re-election, the Kabul government expressed hopes for a "new chapter" with Washington.
The government in Kabul is not recognised by any country, but several including Russia, China and Turkey have kept their embassies open in the Afghan capital.
Delegations from these countries, both diplomatic and economic, make frequent visits to Kabul.&nbsp;
The Taliban government also reports less frequent visits from Western officials, notably British and Norwegian.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The release was announced after the Taliban government's foreign minister hosted US hostage envoy Adam Boehler and other US officials in the Afghan capital.

Taliban authorities on Thursday freed US citizen George Glezmann after more than two years of detention, in a deal brokered by Qatar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced. The release was announced after the Taliban government's foreign minister hosted US hostage envoy Adam Boehler and other US officials in the Afghan capital. "Today, after two and a half years of captivity in Afghanistan, Delta Airlines mechanic George Glezmann is on his way to be reunited with his wife, Aleksandra," Rubio said in a statement. "George's release is a positive and constructive step. It is also a reminder that other Americans are still detained in Afghanistan," he added. Also read: US porn star Whitney Wright 'visits' Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Who is she? Glezmann was en route to Qatar, a source with knowledge of the release told AFP. Ahead of the announcement, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi hosted Boehler, who was accompanied by Washington's former envoy to Kabul, Zalmay Khalilzad, the ministry said. "Today is a good day," Khalilzad said on X. The Taliban authorities decided to free Glezmann on "humanitarian grounds" and as a "goodwill gesture". The prisoner release reflects "Afghanistan's readiness to genuinely engage all sides, particularly the United States of America, on the basis of mutual respect and interests", a foreign ministry statement said. The US delegation was the first from Washington since US President Donald Trump took office in January, foreign ministry spokesman Hafiz Zia Ahmad told AFP. Contacts between the two sides since the Taliban returned to power in 2021 has usually taken place in third countries. Also read: Afghanistan Taliban spying on millions of citizens using 90,000 CCTV cameras - Report 'New chapter' Taliban authorities announced late last month the arrest of a Chinese-American woman on February 1 in the province of Bamiyan, a tourist attraction west of Kabul known for its giant Buddhas until they were destroyed in 2001 by the Taliban. Officials have refused to detail the reasons for her arrest. At least one other American, Mahmood Habibi, is detained in Afghanistan. In July, Kabul announced it was in discussions with Washington over a prisoner exchange. The talks took place in Qatar during an international conference that brought together UN representatives, Taliban authorities, and envoys for Afghanistan -- generally those based in neighbouring countries or within the region. In January, two Americans detained in Afghanistan -- Ryan Corbett and William McKenty -- were freed in exchange for an Afghan fighter, Khan Mohammed, who was convicted of narco-terrorism in the United States. Two weeks later, a Canadian former soldier, David Lavery, was released after more than two months held in Afghanistan, in a deal brokered by Qatar. Trump signed a peace deal with the Taliban authorities during his first term in office and, following his re-election, the Kabul government expressed hopes for a "new chapter" with Washington. The government in Kabul is not recognised by any country, but several including Russia, China and Turkey have kept their embassies open in the Afghan capital. Delegations from these countries, both diplomatic and economic, make frequent visits to Kabul. The Taliban government also reports less frequent visits from Western officials, notably British and Norwegian. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US citizen George Glezmann released by Taliban after more than two years

The Taliban has strongly denied reports of a Chinese presence at Afghanistan’s Bagram Airbase, dismissing the claims as false. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has vowed to take back control of the base if re-elected. As geopolitical tensions rise, the question remains—will the US return to Afghanistan?

Afghanistan: Taliban rejects Chinese presence as Trump vows bagram takeover

US President Donald Trump has called for the return of billions of dollars worth of military equipment left behind in Afghanistan after the 2021 US withdrawal. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump demands return of weapons' left in Afghanistan after 2021 withdrawal

Three weeks after imposing a ban on Radio Begum, Taliban has lifted its restriction on the Afghan women-led radio station. The radio channel confirmed that it has been granted permission to resume broadcast on Saturday (Feb 22). The content aired on the programme are entirely produced by women of Afghanistan and cover the issues related to them only.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-kunduz-suicide-bombing-islamic-state-khorasan-claims-responsibility-says-taliban-workers-were-target-8715825">Afghanistan Kunduz suicide bombing: Islamic State Khorasan claims responsibility, Taliban workers were targeted</a>
On February 4, Taliban authorities arrested two employees of the radio station and imposed a ban on its broadcast over alleged cooperation with an overseas TV channel, AP reported.&nbsp;
The Information and Culture Ministry of Taliban stated that Radio Begum had "repeatedly requested&rdquo; to restart its broadcast. Taliban government has granted permission to the station after making it pledge to adhere to certain conditions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-condoms-worth-15mn-for-taliban-to-1mn-for-lgbtq-propaganda-shocking-spending-by-usaid-under-biden-8698860">From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ 'propaganda', 'shocking spending by USAID under Biden</a>
&ldquo;The suspension was lifted after the station made commitments to authorities,&rdquo; the ministry said in a statement, as reported by AP.&nbsp;
The statement said that Radio Begum is permitted to continue its broadcast &ldquo;in accordance with the principles of journalism and the regulations of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, and to avoid any violations in the future.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-bans-womens-radio-station-for-multiple-violation-8692596">Taliban bans women's radio station for 'multiple violation'</a>
<h2>'Multiple violations'</h2>
The station was suspended by Taliban for "multiple violations", in the search by the government of local media outlets in Afghanistan.
"Officers from the General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) assisted by representatives of the Ministry of Information and Culture raided today Begum's compound in Kabul," a statement from the radio station said.
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The station had claimed that Taliban authorities searched the office, seizing computers, hard drives and phones, and detained two male employees "who do not hold any senior management position".
(With inputs from agencies)

South Asia | Three weeks after imposing a ban on it, Taliban has lofted its ban on an Afghan women-led radio station - Radio Begum. The radio channel confirmed that it has been granted permission to resume its broadcasting on Saturday (Feb 22).

Three weeks after imposing a ban on Radio Begum, Taliban has lifted its restriction on the Afghan women-led radio station. The radio channel confirmed that it has been granted permission to resume broadcast on Saturday (Feb 22). The content aired on the programme are entirely produced by women of Afghanistan and cover the issues related to them only. Also read: Afghanistan Kunduz suicide bombing: Islamic State Khorasan claims responsibility, Taliban workers were targeted On February 4, Taliban authorities arrested two employees of the radio station and imposed a ban on its broadcast over alleged cooperation with an overseas TV channel, AP reported. The Information and Culture Ministry of Taliban stated that Radio Begum had "repeatedly requested” to restart its broadcast. Taliban government has granted permission to the station after making it pledge to adhere to certain conditions. Also read: From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ 'propaganda', 'shocking spending by USAID under Biden “The suspension was lifted after the station made commitments to authorities,” the ministry said in a statement, as reported by AP. The statement said that Radio Begum is permitted to continue its broadcast “in accordance with the principles of journalism and the regulations of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, and to avoid any violations in the future.” Also read: Taliban bans women's radio station for 'multiple violation' 'Multiple violations' The station was suspended by Taliban for "multiple violations", in the search by the government of local media outlets in Afghanistan. "Officers from the General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) assisted by representatives of the Ministry of Information and Culture raided today Begum's compound in Kabul," a statement from the radio station said. WATCH: Afghanistan: Taliban taps $1 trillion mineral wealth The station had claimed that Taliban authorities searched the office, seizing computers, hard drives and phones, and detained two male employees "who do not hold any senior management position". (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban lifts ban on Radio Begum after 'repeated' requests

Pakistan conducted air strikes along the Afghanistan border, targeting areas in North Waziristan and Paktika. While Pakistan claims the strikes were necessary, the Taliban have denied any air strikes occurred.

Pakistan conducts strikes at Afghanistan border, Taliban denies

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) is under heavy scrutiny after a crackdown by the Donald Trump administration. The US president signed an executive order to pause foreign assistance by the agency for 90 days, alleging &ldquo;USAID is being run by radical lunatics." He vowed he would end the "waste, fraud and abuse" by the agency.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, in a video on the social media platform YouTube, House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Brian Mast exposed a list of shocking spending by the agency.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-places-usaid-global-staff-on-leave-orders-them-to-return-home-8694295">Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home</a>
From allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban to funding LGBTQ 'propaganda', here are some major spendings:&nbsp;
<h2>$15 million for condoms for the Taliban&nbsp;</h2>
In a shocking claim, Mast said the USAID allocated condoms worth $15 million to the Afghanistan-ruling Taliban, an extremist group known for curbing women's rights in the country. Mocking the expenditure, Mast said, "I don't think anybody's going to die because we don't give the Taliban any more condoms."&nbsp;
<h2>$446,000 to promote atheism</h2>
Mast further claimed in the video that around half a million dollars were used to promote atheism in Nepal through the State Department.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-elon-musk-usaid-staff-told-to-work-remotely-us-news-8687844">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t allow insubordination&rsquo;: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director</a>
<h2>$350 million for a pier in Gaza&nbsp;</h2>
It was also claimed in the video that a massive sum of $350 million was spent to build a pier in Gaza, allegedly to facilitate humanitarian aid in the region.&nbsp;
<h2>$1 million to boost French-speaking LGBTQ groups</h2>
USAID, through the State Department, funded LGBTQ activism in West and Central Africa with a sum of $1 million.
<h2>$47,000 for transgender opera&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790">President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
It was further claimed that the US government under the Biden administration spent around $47,000 to fund a transgender-themed opera in Columbia.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="400" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OuOj9ohMCqc?feature=oembed" title="hey liberals - watch this" class="publive-iframes-block publive-YouTube-block" id="PL_iframe_block-m6uiyjla-itkri4lp-1nale2fw"></iframe>
<h2>$20,600 for drag show</h2>
Furthermore, USAID, as per Mast, paid a significant amount of $20,600 to fund drag performances in Ecuador. He further said that Fundaci&oacute;n Di&aacute;logo Diverso, an LGBTQ organisation in Ecuador, received nearly $75,000 over three years. The fund was used to organise a two-day drag workshop and the event was documented as well.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usaid-to-grant-115-million-in-aid-to-el-salvador-to-stem-migration-391524">USAID to grant $115 million in aid to El Salvador to stem migration</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | In a video on the social media platform YouTube, House Foreign Affairs committee chairman Brian Mast exposed a list of shocking spending by the agency. 

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) is under heavy scrutiny after a crackdown by the Donald Trump administration. The US president signed an executive order to pause foreign assistance by the agency for 90 days, alleging “USAID is being run by radical lunatics." He vowed he would end the "waste, fraud and abuse" by the agency. Meanwhile, in a video on the social media platform YouTube, House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Brian Mast exposed a list of shocking spending by the agency. Also read: Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home From allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban to funding LGBTQ 'propaganda', here are some major spendings: $15 million for condoms for the Taliban In a shocking claim, Mast said the USAID allocated condoms worth $15 million to the Afghanistan-ruling Taliban, an extremist group known for curbing women's rights in the country. Mocking the expenditure, Mast said, "I don't think anybody's going to die because we don't give the Taliban any more condoms." $446,000 to promote atheism Mast further claimed in the video that around half a million dollars were used to promote atheism in Nepal through the State Department. Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director $350 million for a pier in Gaza It was also claimed in the video that a massive sum of $350 million was spent to build a pier in Gaza, allegedly to facilitate humanitarian aid in the region. $1 million to boost French-speaking LGBTQ groups USAID, through the State Department, funded LGBTQ activism in West and Central Africa with a sum of $1 million. $47,000 for transgender opera Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk It was further claimed that the US government under the Biden administration spent around $47,000 to fund a transgender-themed opera in Columbia. $20,600 for drag show Furthermore, USAID, as per Mast, paid a significant amount of $20,600 to fund drag performances in Ecuador. He further said that Fundación Diálogo Diverso, an LGBTQ organisation in Ecuador, received nearly $75,000 over three years. The fund was used to organise a two-day drag workshop and the event was documented as well. Also read: USAID to grant $115 million in aid to El Salvador to stem migration (With inputs from agencies)

From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ 'propaganda', 'shocking spending by USAID under Biden

Kabul-based Radio Begum – a station run by women with content aimed at women’s education – was forced to stop operations after the Taliban’s Information and Culture Ministry searched its office and restrained the station’s staff. What's in store for the future of women in Afghanistan? Watch this video to find out more.

Taliban decimates dreams, rights and dignity of women, one decree at a time

Afghanistan's Taliban government has suspended Radio Begum, a station dedicated to women’s voices and issues. This move is seen as another step in restricting women's rights in the country. The closure of the station has sparked international criticism, with activists calling for media freedom and women's empowerment. Watch the full report for details on the latest crackdown. Watch in for more details!

Taliban suspends women's radio station in Afghanistan

Afghanistan's Taliban authorities raided well-known women's radio station Radio Begum on Tuesday (Feb 4), arresting two employees, the broadcaster said, calling for the speedy release of its staff.&nbsp;
The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;information ministry said the&nbsp;station&nbsp;had been suspended for "multiple violations", in the latest search by the government of local media outlets in&nbsp;Afghanistan.
"Officers from the General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) assisted by representatives of the Ministry of Information and Culture raided today Begum's compound in Kabul," a statement from the&nbsp;radio&nbsp;station&nbsp;said.
The broadcaster said&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;authorities searched the office, seizing computers, hard drives and phones, and detaining two male employees "who do not hold any senior management position".
It said it would not provide further comment, fearing for the security of the detained employees, and asked that the authorities "take care of our colleagues and release them as soon as possible".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-senior-taliban-minister-breaks-down-in-tears-on-girls-education-8684297">WATCH: Senior Taliban minister breaks down in tears on girls education</a>
The Taliban information ministry said the station had been suspended, in a statement on social media site X.
"Besides multiple violations, it was providing materials and programmes to a TV&nbsp;station&nbsp;based abroad," it said.
"Due to the violation of the broadcasting policy and improper use of the license (from the ministry), the&nbsp;radio&nbsp;station&nbsp;was suspended today so that the related documents can be carefully evaluated and the final decision can be taken," it added.
Radio&nbsp;Begum said it has never been involved in any political activity and was "committed to serving the Afghan people and more specifically the Afghan&nbsp;women".&nbsp;
<h2>Media shuttered&nbsp;</h2>
Reporters Without Borders (RSF), posting on X, demanded "the ban be lifted immediately".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghan-womens-cricket-team-reunites-three-years-after-taliban-ban-8662893">Afghan women's cricket team reunites three years after Taliban takeover</a>
The freedom of information watchdog says the Taliban authorities closed at least 12 media outlets in 2024.
Radio&nbsp;Begum was founded on March 8, International&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;Day, 2021, five months before the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;swept to power, ousting the US-backed government and implementing a strict interpretation of Islamic law.
The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;authorities have imposed broad restrictions on&nbsp;women, squeezing them out of public life with rules the United Nations has labelled "gender apartheid".
Women&nbsp;have been barred from secondary school and university as well as squeezed from certain types of work.
The few&nbsp;women&nbsp;who still appear on TV channels are covered except for their eyes and hands. Many&nbsp;radio&nbsp;stations have ceased broadcasting&nbsp;women's&nbsp;voices.&nbsp;
Radio&nbsp;Begum&nbsp;station&nbsp;staff have broadcast programming for&nbsp;women, by&nbsp;women, including educational shows, book readings and call-in counselling.
In 2024,&nbsp;Radio&nbsp;Begum's Swiss-Afghan founder Hamida Aman also launched a satellite television&nbsp;station, Begum TV, broadcasting educational programmes from Paris to help Afghan girls and&nbsp;women&nbsp;continue their education.
Thousands of videos covering the Afghan national curriculum have also been uploaded on a sister website, available for free.
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-allows-afghan-women-to-study-in-pakistan">Taliban allows Afghan women to study in Pakistan</a>
The suspension of Radio Begum is the latest such action against local media in Afghanistan.
In December last year,&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;authorities shut down Afghan&nbsp;station&nbsp;Arezo TV and detained seven employees.&nbsp;
The Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice (PVPV) accused the channel of betraying Islamic values and being supported by media based outside the country, which have been heavily restricted and criticised by the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;authorities.
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/senior-taliban-minister-mohammad-nabi-omari-breaks-down-in-tears-on-girls-education-8684762">Senior Taliban minister Mohammad Nabi Omari breaks down in tears on girls education</a>
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Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

World | The broadcaster said Taliban authorities searched the office, seizing computers, hard drives and phones, and detaining two male employees "who do not hold any senior management position".

Afghanistan's Taliban authorities raided well-known women's radio station Radio Begum on Tuesday (Feb 4), arresting two employees, the broadcaster said, calling for the speedy release of its staff. The Taliban information ministry said the station had been suspended for "multiple violations", in the latest search by the government of local media outlets in Afghanistan. "Officers from the General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) assisted by representatives of the Ministry of Information and Culture raided today Begum's compound in Kabul," a statement from the radio station said. The broadcaster said Taliban authorities searched the office, seizing computers, hard drives and phones, and detaining two male employees "who do not hold any senior management position". It said it would not provide further comment, fearing for the security of the detained employees, and asked that the authorities "take care of our colleagues and release them as soon as possible". Also read: WATCH: Senior Taliban minister breaks down in tears on girls education The Taliban information ministry said the station had been suspended, in a statement on social media site X. "Besides multiple violations, it was providing materials and programmes to a TV station based abroad," it said. "Due to the violation of the broadcasting policy and improper use of the license (from the ministry), the radio station was suspended today so that the related documents can be carefully evaluated and the final decision can be taken," it added. Radio Begum said it has never been involved in any political activity and was "committed to serving the Afghan people and more specifically the Afghan women". Media shuttered Reporters Without Borders (RSF), posting on X, demanded "the ban be lifted immediately". Also read: Afghan women's cricket team reunites three years after Taliban takeover The freedom of information watchdog says the Taliban authorities closed at least 12 media outlets in 2024. Radio Begum was founded on March 8, International Women's Day, 2021, five months before the Taliban swept to power, ousting the US-backed government and implementing a strict interpretation of Islamic law. The Taliban authorities have imposed broad restrictions on women, squeezing them out of public life with rules the United Nations has labelled "gender apartheid". Women have been barred from secondary school and university as well as squeezed from certain types of work. The few women who still appear on TV channels are covered except for their eyes and hands. Many radio stations have ceased broadcasting women's voices. Radio Begum station staff have broadcast programming for women, by women, including educational shows, book readings and call-in counselling. In 2024, Radio Begum's Swiss-Afghan founder Hamida Aman also launched a satellite television station, Begum TV, broadcasting educational programmes from Paris to help Afghan girls and women continue their education. Thousands of videos covering the Afghan national curriculum have also been uploaded on a sister website, available for free. WATCH: Taliban allows Afghan women to study in Pakistan The suspension of Radio Begum is the latest such action against local media in Afghanistan. In December last year, Taliban authorities shut down Afghan station Arezo TV and detained seven employees. The Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice (PVPV) accused the channel of betraying Islamic values and being supported by media based outside the country, which have been heavily restricted and criticised by the Taliban authorities. WATCH: Senior Taliban minister Mohammad Nabi Omari breaks down in tears on girls education Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taliban bans women's radio station for 'multiple violation'

Afghanistan is sitting on an estimated $1 trillion worth of untapped mineral resources, according to U.S. and UN assessments. Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, around 200 mining contracts worth billions of dollars have been signed, mostly with local companies.

Afghanistan: Taliban taps $1 trillion mineral wealth

Afghanistan’s mineral reserves valued at $1 trillion

In an emotional moment, Taliban leader Omari expresses deep regret over the continued ban on girls’ education in Afghanistan, sparking international concern and debate over the future of Afghan women’s rights.

Taliban leader Omari breaks down in tears over Afgahn girls' education ban

Taliban leader Omari breaks down over Afghan girls’ education ban

Taliban authorities in Afghanistan reportedly have agreed to allow female students to pursue higher education in Pakistan. Watch this report for more details!

Taliban allows Afghan women to study in Pakistan

The International Criminal Court&rsquo;s (ICC) chief prosecutor Karim Khan said on Thursday (Jan 23) that he is seeking arrest warrants against the top faces of the Taliban for their rulings against Afghan women, saying it's a crime against humanity.&nbsp;
Khan said that there is strong evidence that the Taliban&rsquo;s supreme leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, and the chief justice, Abdul Hakim Haqqani, &ldquo;bear criminal responsibility for the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds&rdquo;.
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He further added that the women and people from the LGBTQ community in Afghanistan were undergoing &ldquo;an unprecedented, unconscionable, and ongoing persecution by the Taliban," The Guardian reported.&nbsp;
The prosecutor said, &ldquo;Our action signals that the status quo for women and girls in Afghanistan is not acceptable.&rdquo;
Khan's application will now be considered by the ICC judges, and they will decide if arrest warrants will be issued or not. The entire process can take weeks and even months.&nbsp;
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The ICC chief said that he would further submit more applications for other Taliban officials and added that other kinds of human crimes are also being committed in Afghanistan.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Perceived resistance or opposition to the Taliban was, and is, brutally repressed through the commission of crimes including murder, imprisonment, torture, rape and other forms of sexual violence, enforced disappearance, and other inhumane acts," Khan said in his application.&nbsp;
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Human Rights Watch said that Khan's actions can put the Taliban's crime against women back on the agenda of the international community.
Since it came back to power in August 2021 in Afghanistan, the Taliban posed tough restrictions on Afghan women that the United Nations has called &ldquo;gender apartheid&rdquo;.
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The extremist group has banned women from schools, colleges, and various professions, along with other restrictions. Recently, the Taliban banned window construction in houses, especially in the kitchens, to prevent women from being seen.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Afghanistan: The ICC judges are set to review Khan's application, a critical step that could lead to the issuance of arrest warrants based on the presented evidence and legal arguments.

The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) chief prosecutor Karim Khan said on Thursday (Jan 23) that he is seeking arrest warrants against the top faces of the Taliban for their rulings against Afghan women, saying it's a crime against humanity. Khan said that there is strong evidence that the Taliban’s supreme leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, and the chief justice, Abdul Hakim Haqqani, “bear criminal responsibility for the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds”. Also read: Yemen's leather craftswomen play crucial role in preserving the country’s cultural heritage He further added that the women and people from the LGBTQ community in Afghanistan were undergoing “an unprecedented, unconscionable, and ongoing persecution by the Taliban," The Guardian reported. The prosecutor said, “Our action signals that the status quo for women and girls in Afghanistan is not acceptable.” Khan's application will now be considered by the ICC judges, and they will decide if arrest warrants will be issued or not. The entire process can take weeks and even months. Also read: Economist Yunus leads Bangladesh to economic collapse The ICC chief said that he would further submit more applications for other Taliban officials and added that other kinds of human crimes are also being committed in Afghanistan. “Perceived resistance or opposition to the Taliban was, and is, brutally repressed through the commission of crimes including murder, imprisonment, torture, rape and other forms of sexual violence, enforced disappearance, and other inhumane acts," Khan said in his application. Also read: Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman vows $600 billion trade to US Prez Donald Trump Human Rights Watch said that Khan's actions can put the Taliban's crime against women back on the agenda of the international community. Since it came back to power in August 2021 in Afghanistan, the Taliban posed tough restrictions on Afghan women that the United Nations has called “gender apartheid”. Also read: As Fresh Wildfire Breaks Out in California, Rare Storm Grips Texas, Florida, Louisiana The extremist group has banned women from schools, colleges, and various professions, along with other restrictions. Recently, the Taliban banned window construction in houses, especially in the kitchens, to prevent women from being seen. (With inputs from agencies)

ICC seeking arrest warrants against Taliban top leaders over crime against women

Afghanistan's Taliban government on Tuesday (Jan 21) announced a prisoner swap with the United States, stating that the exchange deal was brokered by Qatar.
The United States released an Afghan prisoner in exchange for US detainees.
"An Afghan fighter Khan Mohammad imprisoned in America has been released in exchange for American citizens and returned to the country," the Afghan foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;
The ministry said that Mohammad was serving a life sentence in the state of California after he was arrested "almost two decades ago" in the eastern Afghan province of Nangarhar.&nbsp;
The confirmation of the discussions concerning the prisoner swap was announced after outgoing US president Joe Biden handed over to Donald Trump, whose swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday (Jan 20).
According to the US media, the two Americans released by the Taliban are William McKenty and Ryan Corbett.
Corbett has been in the Taliban custody since 2022.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-first-executive-orders-orders-major-rollback-of-biden-era-policies-exit-from-paris-climate-agreement-and-more-8639056">Also read: Bye-bye Biden: Trump's inaugural executive orders mark major rollback of Biden-era policies</a>
<h2>Taliban hopes for 'new chapter' after Trump's election win</h2>
After Trump won the US presidential election in Nov 2024, the Taliban released a statement saying that it was hoping for a "new chapter" in its ties with the United States.
Calling the prisoner swap, "a good example of resolving issues through dialogue", the Taliban expressed gratitude for "brotherly country Qatar's" effective role in brokering the deal.
"The Islamic Emirate views positively those actions of the United States that contribute to the normalisation and expansion of relations between the two countries," it added, using the Taliban authorities' name for their government. &nbsp; &nbsp;
Post resuming power in Afghanistan, the Taliban authorities have detained dozens of foreigners.
<h2>Family of American freed by Afghan Taliban express 'overwhelming gratitude'</h2>
Corbett's family expressed "overwhelming gratitude" on Tuesday that he was coming back home.
"Today, our hearts are filled with overwhelming gratitude and praise to God for sustaining Ryan&rsquo;s life and bringing him back home after what has been the most challenging and uncertain 894 days of our lives," the family said on their website.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban government announced on Tuesday the release by the United States of an Afghan prisoner in exchange for US detainees, saying the deal was brokered by Qatar.

Afghanistan's Taliban government on Tuesday (Jan 21) announced a prisoner swap with the United States, stating that the exchange deal was brokered by Qatar. The United States released an Afghan prisoner in exchange for US detainees. "An Afghan fighter Khan Mohammad imprisoned in America has been released in exchange for American citizens and returned to the country," the Afghan foreign ministry said in a statement. The ministry said that Mohammad was serving a life sentence in the state of California after he was arrested "almost two decades ago" in the eastern Afghan province of Nangarhar. The confirmation of the discussions concerning the prisoner swap was announced after outgoing US president Joe Biden handed over to Donald Trump, whose swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday (Jan 20). According to the US media, the two Americans released by the Taliban are William McKenty and Ryan Corbett. Corbett has been in the Taliban custody since 2022. Also read: Bye-bye Biden: Trump's inaugural executive orders mark major rollback of Biden-era policies Taliban hopes for 'new chapter' after Trump's election win After Trump won the US presidential election in Nov 2024, the Taliban released a statement saying that it was hoping for a "new chapter" in its ties with the United States. Calling the prisoner swap, "a good example of resolving issues through dialogue", the Taliban expressed gratitude for "brotherly country Qatar's" effective role in brokering the deal. "The Islamic Emirate views positively those actions of the United States that contribute to the normalisation and expansion of relations between the two countries," it added, using the Taliban authorities' name for their government. Post resuming power in Afghanistan, the Taliban authorities have detained dozens of foreigners. Family of American freed by Afghan Taliban express 'overwhelming gratitude' Corbett's family expressed "overwhelming gratitude" on Tuesday that he was coming back home. "Today, our hearts are filled with overwhelming gratitude and praise to God for sustaining Ryan’s life and bringing him back home after what has been the most challenging and uncertain 894 days of our lives," the family said on their website. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban announce prisoner swap deal with United States, release two American citizens

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai urged Muslim leaders on Sunday not to legitimise the Afghan Taliban government and to "show true leadership" over their assault on women's rights.
"Do not legitimise them," she said at a summit focused on girls' education in Islamic nations being held in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad.
"As Muslim leaders, now is the time to raise your voices, use your power. You can show true leadership. You can show true Islam," said 27-year-old Yousafzai.
The two-day conference has brought together ministers and education officials from dozens of Muslim-majority countries, backed by the Muslim World League (MWL).
Since sweeping back to power in 2021, the Taliban government has imposed an austere version of Islamic law that the United Nations has labelled "gender apartheid".
Afghanistan is the only country in the world where girls are banned from secondary school and university.&nbsp;
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Delegates from Afghanistan's Taliban government did not attend the event despite being invited, Pakistan Education Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui told AFP on Saturday.
"Simply put, the Taliban do not see women as human beings," Yousafzai told the conference. "They cloak their crimes in cultural and religious justification."
Muhammad al-Issa, a Saudi cleric and MWL secretary general, on Saturday told the summit that "those who say that girls' education is un-Islamic are wrong".
Yousafzai also highlighted the impact of wars in Yemen, Sudan, and Gaza on schooling.
"In Gaza, Israel has decimated the entire education system," she said. "I will continue to call out Israel's violations of international law and human rights."
<h2>Taliban engagement</h2>
Pakistan's state PTV channel censored a portion of her speech that alluded to a mass deportation scheme by Islamabad launched in 2023 that has seen hundreds of thousands of Afghan nationals leave under threat of arrest.&nbsp;
"I cannot imagine an Afghan girl or an Afghan woman being forced back into the system that denies her future," she told the conference in remarks cut from the air.
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Yousafzai was shot in the face by the Pakistani Taliban when she was a 15-year-old schoolgirl in 2012, amid her campaigning for female education rights.
Her activism earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, and she has since become a global advocate for women's and girls' education rights.
While there is outcry in much of the international community over the Taliban government curbs, nations are divided over how to engage with Kabul's rulers on the issue.
Some countries argue they should be frozen out of the diplomatic community until they backtrack, while others prefer engagement to coax them into a U-turn.
No country has officially recognised the Taliban authorities, but several regional governments have engaged on the topics of trade and security.&nbsp;
There is little evidence that broadsides from the international community over the Taliban government's treatment of women are having any impact on their position.
Yousafzai's father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, who pushed against cultural norms for his daughter to go to school in Pakistan and co-founded her Malala Fund charity, on Saturday told AFP he had not seen "any serious step or serious action from the Muslim world" on the cause of girls' education in Afghanistan.&nbsp;
Roza Otunbayeva, head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, said leaders of Islamic countries should offer direct help to Afghan girls.
"I really call on all these ministers... who came from all over the world, to offer scholarships, to have online education, to have all sorts of education for them," she told a panel.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | South Asia | Afghanistan: "Do not legitimise them," she said at a summit focused on girls' education in Islamic nations being held in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad.

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai urged Muslim leaders on Sunday not to legitimise the Afghan Taliban government and to "show true leadership" over their assault on women's rights. "Do not legitimise them," she said at a summit focused on girls' education in Islamic nations being held in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad. "As Muslim leaders, now is the time to raise your voices, use your power. You can show true leadership. You can show true Islam," said 27-year-old Yousafzai. The two-day conference has brought together ministers and education officials from dozens of Muslim-majority countries, backed by the Muslim World League (MWL). Since sweeping back to power in 2021, the Taliban government has imposed an austere version of Islamic law that the United Nations has labelled "gender apartheid". Afghanistan is the only country in the world where girls are banned from secondary school and university. Also Read | ‘Say NO to Scholz,’ Musk declares as Germany decries election meddling Delegates from Afghanistan's Taliban government did not attend the event despite being invited, Pakistan Education Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui told AFP on Saturday. "Simply put, the Taliban do not see women as human beings," Yousafzai told the conference. "They cloak their crimes in cultural and religious justification." Muhammad al-Issa, a Saudi cleric and MWL secretary general, on Saturday told the summit that "those who say that girls' education is un-Islamic are wrong". Yousafzai also highlighted the impact of wars in Yemen, Sudan, and Gaza on schooling. "In Gaza, Israel has decimated the entire education system," she said. "I will continue to call out Israel's violations of international law and human rights." Taliban engagement Pakistan's state PTV channel censored a portion of her speech that alluded to a mass deportation scheme by Islamabad launched in 2023 that has seen hundreds of thousands of Afghan nationals leave under threat of arrest. "I cannot imagine an Afghan girl or an Afghan woman being forced back into the system that denies her future," she told the conference in remarks cut from the air. Also Read | JD Vance tells ‘who shouldn’t be pardoned’ as fate of Jan 6 rioters hangs in balance Yousafzai was shot in the face by the Pakistani Taliban when she was a 15-year-old schoolgirl in 2012, amid her campaigning for female education rights. Her activism earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, and she has since become a global advocate for women's and girls' education rights. While there is outcry in much of the international community over the Taliban government curbs, nations are divided over how to engage with Kabul's rulers on the issue. Some countries argue they should be frozen out of the diplomatic community until they backtrack, while others prefer engagement to coax them into a U-turn. No country has officially recognised the Taliban authorities, but several regional governments have engaged on the topics of trade and security. There is little evidence that broadsides from the international community over the Taliban government's treatment of women are having any impact on their position. Yousafzai's father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, who pushed against cultural norms for his daughter to go to school in Pakistan and co-founded her Malala Fund charity, on Saturday told AFP he had not seen "any serious step or serious action from the Muslim world" on the cause of girls' education in Afghanistan. Roza Otunbayeva, head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, said leaders of Islamic countries should offer direct help to Afghan girls. "I really call on all these ministers... who came from all over the world, to offer scholarships, to have online education, to have all sorts of education for them," she told a panel. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Malala Yousafzai calls on Muslim leaders to stand against Taliban, defend women’s rights

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai said she was "overwhelmed" to be back in her native Pakistan on Saturday, as she attended a summit on girls' education in the Islamic world that has been snubbed by Afghanistan's Taliban government.
The summit has brought together education leaders from Muslim-majority countries, but without Afghanistan -- the only country in the world where girls are banned from school.
"The Muslim world including Pakistan faces significant challenges in ensuring equitable access to education for girls," Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said at the opening of the summit in the capital Islamabad.&nbsp;
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"Denying education to girls is tantamount to denying their voice and their choice, while depriving them of their right to a bright future."
Pakistan Education Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui told AFP that Islamabad had extended an invitation to Kabul, "but no-one from the Afghan government was at the conference".
Muhammad al-Issa, a Saudi cleric and secretary general of the Muslim World League -- which has backed the summit -- said religion was no grounds for blocking girls from school.
"The entire Muslim world has agreed that girls education is important, and those who say that girls education is un-Islamic are wrong," he said.&nbsp;
Yousafzai, who was shot by Pakistan Taliban militants in 2012 when she was a schoolgirl, is due to address the conference on Sunday.
"I'm truly honoured, overwhelmed and happy to be back in Pakistan," she told AFP as she arrived at the conference with her parents.&nbsp;
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On Friday, she posted on social media that she would speak about "why leaders must hold the Taliban accountable for their crimes against Afghan women &amp; girls".
Since returning to power in 2021, the Afghan Taliban government has imposed an austere version of Islamic law that the United Nations has called "gender apartheid".&nbsp;
<h2>'At last'</h2>
Pakistan is facing its own severe education crisis, with more than 26 million children out of school, according to government figures, one of the highest numbers in the world.&nbsp;
Sharif said "inadequate infrastructure, safety concerns, as well as deeply entrenched societal norms" were barriers to girls education.&nbsp;
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Zahra Tariq, a 23-year-old studying clinical psychology who attended the opening of the summit, told AFP: "At last we have a good initiative on Muslim girls' education," said&nbsp;
"Those in rural areas are still facing problems. In some cases their families are the first barrier."
Yousafzai became a household name after she was attacked by Pakistan Taliban militants on a school bus in the remote Swat valley in 2012.
Militancy was widespread in the region at the time as the war between the Afghan Taliban and NATO forces raged across the border in Afghanistan.&nbsp;
The Pakistan and Afghan Taliban are separate groups but share close links and similar ideologies, including a strong disbelief in educating girls.
Yousafzai was evacuated to the United Kingdom after her attack and went on to become a global advocate for girls' education and, at the age of 17, the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

South Asia, Pakistan: The summit has brought together education leaders from Muslim-majority countries, but without Afghanistan -- the only country in the world where girls are banned from school.

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai said she was "overwhelmed" to be back in her native Pakistan on Saturday, as she attended a summit on girls' education in the Islamic world that has been snubbed by Afghanistan's Taliban government. The summit has brought together education leaders from Muslim-majority countries, but without Afghanistan -- the only country in the world where girls are banned from school. "The Muslim world including Pakistan faces significant challenges in ensuring equitable access to education for girls," Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said at the opening of the summit in the capital Islamabad. Also read: India: Railway station's roof collapses in UP's Kannauj, 35 feared trapped "Denying education to girls is tantamount to denying their voice and their choice, while depriving them of their right to a bright future." Pakistan Education Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui told AFP that Islamabad had extended an invitation to Kabul, "but no-one from the Afghan government was at the conference". Muhammad al-Issa, a Saudi cleric and secretary general of the Muslim World League -- which has backed the summit -- said religion was no grounds for blocking girls from school. "The entire Muslim world has agreed that girls education is important, and those who say that girls education is un-Islamic are wrong," he said. Yousafzai, who was shot by Pakistan Taliban militants in 2012 when she was a schoolgirl, is due to address the conference on Sunday. "I'm truly honoured, overwhelmed and happy to be back in Pakistan," she told AFP as she arrived at the conference with her parents. Also read: Malala Yousafzai is a big time Taylor Swift fan, says it was 'magical' to attend London concert On Friday, she posted on social media that she would speak about "why leaders must hold the Taliban accountable for their crimes against Afghan women & girls". Since returning to power in 2021, the Afghan Taliban government has imposed an austere version of Islamic law that the United Nations has called "gender apartheid". 'At last' Pakistan is facing its own severe education crisis, with more than 26 million children out of school, according to government figures, one of the highest numbers in the world. Sharif said "inadequate infrastructure, safety concerns, as well as deeply entrenched societal norms" were barriers to girls education. Also read: Explainer: India & the Taliban, a brief history from 1996 to 2025 Zahra Tariq, a 23-year-old studying clinical psychology who attended the opening of the summit, told AFP: "At last we have a good initiative on Muslim girls' education," said "Those in rural areas are still facing problems. In some cases their families are the first barrier." Yousafzai became a household name after she was attacked by Pakistan Taliban militants on a school bus in the remote Swat valley in 2012. Militancy was widespread in the region at the time as the war between the Afghan Taliban and NATO forces raged across the border in Afghanistan. The Pakistan and Afghan Taliban are separate groups but share close links and similar ideologies, including a strong disbelief in educating girls. Yousafzai was evacuated to the United Kingdom after her attack and went on to become a global advocate for girls' education and, at the age of 17, the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Overwhelmed' Malala back in Pakistan for girls’ education summit snubbed by Taliban

England's upcoming Champions Trophy cricket match against Afghanistan should go ahead despite calls for a boycott over the Taliban's treatment of women, according to a senior British government minister.<o:p></o:p>
A group of more than 160 British politicians have called on the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to refuse to play Afghanistan in protest at the women's sports policy of the Taliban.<o:p></o:p>
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Since returning to power in 2021 the Taliban have effectively banned female participation -- a move that puts the Afghanistan Cricket Board at odds with International Cricket Council (ICC) rules.<o:p></o:p>
The ICC, however, have allowed the Afghanistan men's team to continue to compete in global competitions, with England due to face them in the one-day international Champions Trophy in Lahore on February 26.<o:p></o:p>
And Cabinet minister Lisa Nandy said the match should be played amid concerns a boycott would see England docked points were they to forfeit the game.<o:p></o:p>
"I do think it should go ahead," Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport told the BBC on Friday.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p>
She added: "I'm instinctively very cautious about boycotts in sports, partly because I think they're counterproductive.<o:p></o:p>
"I think they deny sports fans the opportunity that they love, and they can also very much penalise the athletes and the sports people who work very, very hard to reach the top of their game, and then they're denied the opportunities to compete.<o:p></o:p>
"They are not the people that we want to penalise for the appalling actions of the Taliban against women and girls."<o:p></o:p>
The ECB have resisted calls for a boycott, with chief executive Richard Gould saying instead he would "actively advocate" for collective action by the ICC instead.<o:p></o:p>
That position has been backed by Downing Street, with a spokesman for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer urging the ICC to take the lead on the issue.<o:p></o:p>
South Africa, who are also due to play Afghanistan at the Champions Trophy, have backed the ECB's stance.<o:p></o:p>
This is despite veteran anti-apartheid campaigner and British politician Peter Hain, who played a key role in sparking his native South Africa's sporting isolation during the 1970s,calling for a boycott. <o:p></o:p>
"We are of the view that a more unified and collective approach from all ICC members will be more impactful," said Cricket South Africa president Rihan Richards.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, cricket: Since returning to power in 2021 the Taliban have effectively banned female participation -- a move that puts the Afghanistan Cricket Board at odds with ICC rules.

England's upcoming Champions Trophy cricket match against Afghanistan should go ahead despite calls for a boycott over the Taliban's treatment of women, according to a senior British government minister. A group of more than 160 British politicians have called on the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to refuse to play Afghanistan in protest at the women's sports policy of the Taliban. Also read | BCCI selectors keen to ‘move on’ from Ravindra Jadeja in ODIs – Report Since returning to power in 2021 the Taliban have effectively banned female participation -- a move that puts the Afghanistan Cricket Board at odds with International Cricket Council (ICC) rules. The ICC, however, have allowed the Afghanistan men's team to continue to compete in global competitions, with England due to face them in the one-day international Champions Trophy in Lahore on February 26. And Cabinet minister Lisa Nandy said the match should be played amid concerns a boycott would see England docked points were they to forfeit the game. "I do think it should go ahead," Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport told the BBC on Friday. She added: "I'm instinctively very cautious about boycotts in sports, partly because I think they're counterproductive. "I think they deny sports fans the opportunity that they love, and they can also very much penalise the athletes and the sports people who work very, very hard to reach the top of their game, and then they're denied the opportunities to compete. "They are not the people that we want to penalise for the appalling actions of the Taliban against women and girls." The ECB have resisted calls for a boycott, with chief executive Richard Gould saying instead he would "actively advocate" for collective action by the ICC instead. That position has been backed by Downing Street, with a spokesman for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer urging the ICC to take the lead on the issue. South Africa, who are also due to play Afghanistan at the Champions Trophy, have backed the ECB's stance. This is despite veteran anti-apartheid campaigner and British politician Peter Hain, who played a key role in sparking his native South Africa's sporting isolation during the 1970s,calling for a boycott. "We are of the view that a more unified and collective approach from all ICC members will be more impactful," said Cricket South Africa president Rihan Richards. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK government says England should play Afghanistan amid boycott calls

India has extended its humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, offering support in the form of food, medical supplies, and essential aid to help address the ongoing crisis in the country.

India extends humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan

New Delhi: The Indian government and Taliban have upped the engagement after a key meeting between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai. This is the highest-level India-Taliban meeting since the fall of Afghanistan in September 2021. New Delhi does not recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul yet but has continued to engage with it with a focus on humanitarian assistance.
A statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said during the meeting the Indian foreign secretary &ldquo;underlined India&rsquo;s historic friendship with the Afghan people and the strong people-to-people contacts between the two countries. In this context, he conveyed India&rsquo;s readiness to respond to the urgent developmental needs of the Afghan people.&rdquo;
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During the talks, not only the focus was on the ongoing Indian humanitarian assistance programmes, but it was decided that India will &ldquo;consider engaging in development projects in the near future&rdquo;.
India has cautiously engaged with the Taliban, maintaining a presence in Kabul through a &ldquo;technical team&rdquo; rather than a full embassy setup. This team manages the Indian aid programmes in the country.
Despite the change in Kabul in 2021, India has continued its humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. It has so far dispatched several shipments consisting of 50,000 MTs of wheat, 300 tonnes of medicines, 27 tonnes of earthquake relief aid, 40,000 litres of pesticides, 100 million polio vaccine doses, 1.5 million doses of COVID vaccine, 11,000 units of hygiene kits for the drug de-addiction programme, 500 units of winter clothing and 1.2 tonnes of stationery kits, etc.<o:p></o:p>
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In the past, meetings have happened in Kabul with Taliban&rsquo;s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Taliban&rsquo;s Defence Minister, Mohammad Yaqub Mujahid meeting J.P. Singh, Joint Secretary in charge of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.
During the Dubai meet on Wednesday at the request of Taliban, India agreed to provide &ldquo;further material support in the first instance to the health sector and for the rehabilitation of refugees&rdquo;.
The Indian support for Afghan refugees comes even as Pakistan has been expelling the refugees which has become a bone of contention between Kabul and Islamabad.
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Cricket and Chabahar port project were both discussed during the meet.
The Indian readout said, &ldquo;It was also agreed to promote the use of Chabahar port for supporting trade and commercial activities, including for the purpose of humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan.&rdquo;
India&rsquo;s support has been instrumental in Afghanistan&rsquo;s rise in international cricket, allowing them to gain Test status in 2017. Afghan players have been integral parts of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and have been allowed to use Indian facilities as their &lsquo;home grounds&rsquo;. When it comes to Chabahar port, located on Iran&rsquo;s southeastern coast, it has provided landlocked Afghanistan an alternative and shorter trade route to the sea, circumventing the traditional routes through Pakistan, particularly the port of Karachi, which has been fraught with political and logistical challenges.
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During the meeting, the Afghan side underlined its &ldquo;sensitivities&rdquo; to India&rsquo;s security concerns. India&rsquo;s primary concern is that Afghanistan should not become a safe haven for anti-India terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba or Jaish-e-Mohammed, which are based in Pakistan but have used Afghan soil.<o:p></o:p>

South Asia | India news | Afghanistan: During the meeting, the Afghan side underlined its “sensitivities” to India’s security concerns. India’s primary concern is that Afghanistan should not become a safe haven for anti-India terror groups.

New Delhi: The Indian government and Taliban have upped the engagement after a key meeting between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai. This is the highest-level India-Taliban meeting since the fall of Afghanistan in September 2021. New Delhi does not recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul yet but has continued to engage with it with a focus on humanitarian assistance. A statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said during the meeting the Indian foreign secretary “underlined India’s historic friendship with the Afghan people and the strong people-to-people contacts between the two countries. In this context, he conveyed India’s readiness to respond to the urgent developmental needs of the Afghan people.” Also Read | Pakistani women need permission of parents or husbands to perform Hajj in 2025 During the talks, not only the focus was on the ongoing Indian humanitarian assistance programmes, but it was decided that India will “consider engaging in development projects in the near future”. India has cautiously engaged with the Taliban, maintaining a presence in Kabul through a “technical team” rather than a full embassy setup. This team manages the Indian aid programmes in the country. Despite the change in Kabul in 2021, India has continued its humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. It has so far dispatched several shipments consisting of 50,000 MTs of wheat, 300 tonnes of medicines, 27 tonnes of earthquake relief aid, 40,000 litres of pesticides, 100 million polio vaccine doses, 1.5 million doses of COVID vaccine, 11,000 units of hygiene kits for the drug de-addiction programme, 500 units of winter clothing and 1.2 tonnes of stationery kits, etc. Also Read | Meta revises policies to permit 'mentally ill' labels for LGBTQ people In the past, meetings have happened in Kabul with Taliban’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Taliban’s Defence Minister, Mohammad Yaqub Mujahid meeting J.P. Singh, Joint Secretary in charge of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. During the Dubai meet on Wednesday at the request of Taliban, India agreed to provide “further material support in the first instance to the health sector and for the rehabilitation of refugees”. The Indian support for Afghan refugees comes even as Pakistan has been expelling the refugees which has become a bone of contention between Kabul and Islamabad. Also Read | India hands over defence equipment worth Rs 35 crore to Maldives Cricket and Chabahar port project were both discussed during the meet. The Indian readout said, “It was also agreed to promote the use of Chabahar port for supporting trade and commercial activities, including for the purpose of humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan.” India’s support has been instrumental in Afghanistan’s rise in international cricket, allowing them to gain Test status in 2017. Afghan players have been integral parts of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and have been allowed to use Indian facilities as their ‘home grounds’. When it comes to Chabahar port, located on Iran’s southeastern coast, it has provided landlocked Afghanistan an alternative and shorter trade route to the sea, circumventing the traditional routes through Pakistan, particularly the port of Karachi, which has been fraught with political and logistical challenges. Also Read | 'We absolutely refute...': EU rejects Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg's censorship claim During the meeting, the Afghan side underlined its “sensitivities” to India’s security concerns. India’s primary concern is that Afghanistan should not become a safe haven for anti-India terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba or Jaish-e-Mohammed, which are based in Pakistan but have used Afghan soil.

India pledges support for Afghan refugees after Taliban’s request

The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) spokesperson, Muhammad Khorasani, has issued a warning to the current ruling parties in Pakistan, specifically the Pakistan Muslim League (PML).
In a statement, Khorasani reiterates that the TTP's targets are solely the country's security institutions and their affiliates. However, the group takes exception to the PML's leadership using language and tone similar to that of the Pakistan Army, which the TTP views as an adversary.
The TTP warns the PML and other ruling parties to refrain from taking sides in the conflict between the group and the security institutions. Failure to do so, the statement warns, may result in the TTP targeting the PML's leadership and "riotous elements."
The statement is signed by Muhammad Khorasani, spokesperson for the TTP. This development comes amid ongoing tensions between the TTP and the Pakistani government.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-at-least-five-killed-over-50-injured-in-bus-explosion-baloch-liberation-army-claims-responsibility-8592719" rel="dofollow">Also read: Pakistan: 5 killed, over 50 injured in bus explosion; Baloch militants claim responsibility</a>
<h2>TTP vows to target military-linked economic institutions</h2>
In a statement, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) announced its intention to expand its list of targets to include economic institutions with ties to the Pakistani military.
The TTP asserted that its primary goal remains targeting security agencies, but emphasised that the military's economic interests are a crucial source of its power. To that end, the group declared that it will begin targeting military-run enterprises, including the National Logistics Cell (NLC), Frontier Works Organization (FWO), and various other companies with military affiliations.

The TTP warns the PML and other ruling parties to refrain from taking sides in the conflict between the group and the security institutions. 

The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) spokesperson, Muhammad Khorasani, has issued a warning to the current ruling parties in Pakistan, specifically the Pakistan Muslim League (PML). In a statement, Khorasani reiterates that the TTP's targets are solely the country's security institutions and their affiliates. However, the group takes exception to the PML's leadership using language and tone similar to that of the Pakistan Army, which the TTP views as an adversary. The TTP warns the PML and other ruling parties to refrain from taking sides in the conflict between the group and the security institutions. Failure to do so, the statement warns, may result in the TTP targeting the PML's leadership and "riotous elements." The statement is signed by Muhammad Khorasani, spokesperson for the TTP. This development comes amid ongoing tensions between the TTP and the Pakistani government. Also read: Pakistan: 5 killed, over 50 injured in bus explosion; Baloch militants claim responsibility TTP vows to target military-linked economic institutions In a statement, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) announced its intention to expand its list of targets to include economic institutions with ties to the Pakistani military. The TTP asserted that its primary goal remains targeting security agencies, but emphasised that the military's economic interests are a crucial source of its power. To that end, the group declared that it will begin targeting military-run enterprises, including the National Logistics Cell (NLC), Frontier Works Organization (FWO), and various other companies with military affiliations.

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan issues warning to ruling parties in Pakistan

The Taliban have declared its intention to shut down NGOs that employ women in Afghanistan, further restricting women's participation in the workforce and civil society. This move comes amid growing international concern about women's rights under Taliban rule.

Taliban Announce Closure Of NGOs Employing Women In Afghanistan

In the latest move to curb women's rights in Afghanistan, the Taliban issued warnings to all foreign Non-Profit organisations (NGOs) to stop employing women or they will be banned from operating in the country. In a letter published on the social media platform X, Afghanistan's Economy Minister wrote that if the NGOs fail to comply with the orders, their licenses will be cancelled.&nbsp;
The post in Persian read, "The Ministry of Economy, as the authority for registering non-Emirati institutions, is responsible for coordinating, leading, and supervising all activities of domestic and foreign NGOs. Therefore, once again, a follow-up circular has been issued to stop the work of female employees in non-Emirati and foreign institutions. In case of non-cooperation, all activities of the offending institution will be suspended, and the activity license they received from this ministry will be cancelled," it added.
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The announcement came two years after the Taliban ordered NGOs to suspend female employees, accusing them of not wearing their hijab correctly and not dressing as per the Islamic dress code.&nbsp;
<h2>Taliban ban windows in buildings</h2>
Just a few hours before the latest announcement, the Taliban prohibited the construction of windows in residential buildings and kitchen areas. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid justified the prohibition, saying, "Seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards, or collecting water from wells can lead to obscene acts."
To ensure compliance, the nation's municipal authorities and other relevant authorities have been tasked with monitoring construction sites. They will ensure that people can't look into their neighbour's house.
According to news agency AFP, the decree also specified that in instances where such windows already exist, building owners would be asked to put up a wall or seal the window to obstruct the view "to avoid nuisances caused to neighbours".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-bans-windows-overlooking-womens-spaces-including-kitchens-says-they-can-lead-to-obscene-acts-8576595" rel="dofollow">Taliban's new diktat: Kitchens must be windowless to prevent 'obscene acts' against women</a>
It's been three years since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan and snatched all basic human rights for Afghan women. It has banned women from schools, universities, most workplaces, and even parks.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

The announcement came two years after the Taliban ordered NGOs to suspend female employees, accusing them of not wearing their hijab correctly and not dressing as per the Islamic dress code. 

In the latest move to curb women's rights in Afghanistan, the Taliban issued warnings to all foreign Non-Profit organisations (NGOs) to stop employing women or they will be banned from operating in the country. In a letter published on the social media platform X, Afghanistan's Economy Minister wrote that if the NGOs fail to comply with the orders, their licenses will be cancelled. The post in Persian read, "The Ministry of Economy, as the authority for registering non-Emirati institutions, is responsible for coordinating, leading, and supervising all activities of domestic and foreign NGOs. Therefore, once again, a follow-up circular has been issued to stop the work of female employees in non-Emirati and foreign institutions. In case of non-cooperation, all activities of the offending institution will be suspended, and the activity license they received from this ministry will be cancelled," it added. Also read | Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities The announcement came two years after the Taliban ordered NGOs to suspend female employees, accusing them of not wearing their hijab correctly and not dressing as per the Islamic dress code. Taliban ban windows in buildings Just a few hours before the latest announcement, the Taliban prohibited the construction of windows in residential buildings and kitchen areas. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid justified the prohibition, saying, "Seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards, or collecting water from wells can lead to obscene acts." To ensure compliance, the nation's municipal authorities and other relevant authorities have been tasked with monitoring construction sites. They will ensure that people can't look into their neighbour's house. According to news agency AFP, the decree also specified that in instances where such windows already exist, building owners would be asked to put up a wall or seal the window to obstruct the view "to avoid nuisances caused to neighbours". Also read | Taliban's new diktat: Kitchens must be windowless to prevent 'obscene acts' against women It's been three years since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan and snatched all basic human rights for Afghan women. It has banned women from schools, universities, most workplaces, and even parks. (With inputs from agencies)

'Stop employing females or...': Taliban's latest order to curb women's rights in Afghanistan

Afghanistan rulers Taliban on Saturday (Dec 28) issued a new order effectively stonewalling women from the public eye. The new order bans the construction of windows in residential buildings that overlook areas used by Afghan women, including the kitchen and communal wells.
The country's orthodox rulers claim that seeing women in kitchens or such areas can "lead to obscene acts".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-slams-imran-khan-for-begging-for-us-help-8574869">Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slams Imran Khan for 'begging' for US' help</a>
<h2>What the Taliban order says</h2>
In a statement released late on Saturday, the Taliban government instructed citizens to ensure that new buildings do not have windows through which it is possible to see "the courtyard, kitchen, neighbour's well and other places usually used by women". Additionally, buildings that already have such windows would be encouraged to seal them.
On social media platform X, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said, "Seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards or collecting water from wells can lead to obscene acts."
To ensure compliance, the nation's municipal authorities and other relevant authorities have been tasked with monitoring construction sites. They will ensure that people can't look into their neighbour's house.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-launches-strike-at-pakistan-islamabad-retaliates-sources-8572924">Afghanistan Taliban forces launch strike at Pakistan; Islamabad retaliates: Sources</a>
According to news agency AFP, the decree also specified that in instances where such windows already exist, building owners would be asked to put up a wall or seal the window to obstruct the view "to avoid nuisances caused to neighbours".
<h2>Protecting women or hiding women?</h2>
In the almost 3.5 years since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, the Afghan rulers have issued a number of diktats progressively erasing women from public life in Afghanistan.
The Taliban authorities have forced women to wear a hijab or "veil" outside their homes. It has also banned post-primary education for girls and women, restricted their employment and even blocked their access to public spaces, including parks.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-government-spokesperson-claims-46-killed-in-pakistans-overnight-strike-786677">Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike</a>
A recent law even banned their voices from being heard in public. It prohibited them from singing and reciting poetry in public under the stringent Islamic laws. Due to this, some radio and local television stations have also stopped broadcasting female voices.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban's new order bans windows in homes that overlook spaces frequented by women, such as kitchens and wells, citing concerns over inappropriate behaviour. Read all about it.

Afghanistan rulers Taliban on Saturday (Dec 28) issued a new order effectively stonewalling women from the public eye. The new order bans the construction of windows in residential buildings that overlook areas used by Afghan women, including the kitchen and communal wells. The country's orthodox rulers claim that seeing women in kitchens or such areas can "lead to obscene acts". Also read | Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slams Imran Khan for 'begging' for US' help What the Taliban order says In a statement released late on Saturday, the Taliban government instructed citizens to ensure that new buildings do not have windows through which it is possible to see "the courtyard, kitchen, neighbour's well and other places usually used by women". Additionally, buildings that already have such windows would be encouraged to seal them. On social media platform X, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said, "Seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards or collecting water from wells can lead to obscene acts." To ensure compliance, the nation's municipal authorities and other relevant authorities have been tasked with monitoring construction sites. They will ensure that people can't look into their neighbour's house. Also read | Afghanistan Taliban forces launch strike at Pakistan; Islamabad retaliates: Sources According to news agency AFP, the decree also specified that in instances where such windows already exist, building owners would be asked to put up a wall or seal the window to obstruct the view "to avoid nuisances caused to neighbours". Protecting women or hiding women? In the almost 3.5 years since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, the Afghan rulers have issued a number of diktats progressively erasing women from public life in Afghanistan. The Taliban authorities have forced women to wear a hijab or "veil" outside their homes. It has also banned post-primary education for girls and women, restricted their employment and even blocked their access to public spaces, including parks. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike A recent law even banned their voices from being heard in public. It prohibited them from singing and reciting poetry in public under the stringent Islamic laws. Due to this, some radio and local television stations have also stopped broadcasting female voices. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban's new diktat: Kitchens must be windowless to prevent 'obscene acts' against women

Edited by: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/author/vikrant-singh" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Vikrant Singh</a>
Islamabad | Pakistan and Afghan Taliban forces have agreed on ceasing hostilities along the border following deadly clashes over the weekend, sources in the Pakistani government have claimed.&nbsp;
The sources added that the request for a ceasefire was initiated by the Afghan side following clashes that caused casualties on both sides.&nbsp;
The sources further said that the Afghan Taliban government has &ldquo;communicated their resolve to not &lsquo;allow any group to use Afghan soil against any country to cause harm&rsquo;&rdquo;.
Pakistani side claimed at least 13 Taliban soldiers died in Pakistani retaliation as militants linked to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) allegedly tried to enter Pakistan near Kurram and North Waziristan points overnight on December 28.
Meanwhile, sources in Afghanistan&rsquo;s Taliban-run defence ministry confirmed to WION the killing of at least three soldiers while reporting injuries to nine others.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-afghanistan-three-taliban-soldiers-dead-amid-clashes-along-border-8574075">One Pakistani, Three Taliban soldiers dead amid clashes along border</a>
Sources in Pakistan said Saturday (Dec 28) that one Pak Army soldier had died in the gunfight, whereas three soldiers sustained injuries.
<h2>Escalation: A timeline</h2>
The fresh escalation comes after Afghanistan&rsquo;s Taliban authorities earlier this week accused Pakistan of killing 46 people, mainly women and children, in air strikes near the border. Sources in Pakistan said the strikes were launched targeting &ldquo;terrorist hideouts&rdquo;; however, Islamabad has not confirmed it carried out the cross-border attack.
Tensions between the two nations have been on the rise since the Taliban seized power in Kabul in 2021. The Pakistani military had earlier carried out strikes in Afghanistan&rsquo;s border areas in March this year, killing eight civilians, as claimed by Taliban authorities.

South Asia | The sources in the Pakistani government said that the request for a ceasefire was initiated by the Afghan side following clashes that caused casualties on both sides. 

Edited by: Vikrant Singh Islamabad | Pakistan and Afghan Taliban forces have agreed on ceasing hostilities along the border following deadly clashes over the weekend, sources in the Pakistani government have claimed. The sources added that the request for a ceasefire was initiated by the Afghan side following clashes that caused casualties on both sides. The sources further said that the Afghan Taliban government has “communicated their resolve to not ‘allow any group to use Afghan soil against any country to cause harm’”. Pakistani side claimed at least 13 Taliban soldiers died in Pakistani retaliation as militants linked to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) allegedly tried to enter Pakistan near Kurram and North Waziristan points overnight on December 28. Meanwhile, sources in Afghanistan’s Taliban-run defence ministry confirmed to WION the killing of at least three soldiers while reporting injuries to nine others. Also read: One Pakistani, Three Taliban soldiers dead amid clashes along border Sources in Pakistan said Saturday (Dec 28) that one Pak Army soldier had died in the gunfight, whereas three soldiers sustained injuries. Escalation: A timeline The fresh escalation comes after Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities earlier this week accused Pakistan of killing 46 people, mainly women and children, in air strikes near the border. Sources in Pakistan said the strikes were launched targeting “terrorist hideouts”; however, Islamabad has not confirmed it carried out the cross-border attack. Tensions between the two nations have been on the rise since the Taliban seized power in Kabul in 2021. The Pakistani military had earlier carried out strikes in Afghanistan’s border areas in March this year, killing eight civilians, as claimed by Taliban authorities.

Border calm as Taliban, Pakistan agree to cease hostilities after fatal clashes

At least 19 Pakistani forces were killed in clashes between Pakistani and Afghan border guards at border posts in the two countries. Watch to know more!

BREAKING: Taliban Attack Pakistan, 19 Soldiers Killed | WION

BREAKING: Taliban Attacks Pakistan, 19 Soldiers Killed | WION

On Tuesday (December 24) night, the Pakistani military reportedly bombed four locations of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province.
Security officials told Pakistani media that several suspected terrorists were killed and wounded in the strikes. Meanwhile, the ruling Taliban administration in Afghanistan said that a total of 46 people, including women and children, were killed in the strikes.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-government-spokesperson-claims-46-killed-in-pakistans-overnight-strike-786677" rel="dofollow">Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike</a>
TTP pledges allegiance to, and gets its name from, the Afghan Taliban, but is not directly a part of the group that now rules Afghanistan.&nbsp;
This was the first cross-border strike inside Afghanistan in March. The strikes came hours after Mohammad Sadiq, Pakistan&rsquo;s special representative for Afghanistan, travelled to Kabul to discuss a range of issues, including how to enhance bilateral trade and improve ties.
<h2>Who is the TTP?</h2>
More commonly known as the Pakistani Taliban, the TTP is an alliance of formerly disparate militant groups which came together in 2007 following the Pakistani military's operations against Al-Qaeda in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas.
The TTP is rooted along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. According to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), the TTP's stated objective "is the overthrow of the elected government of Pakistan in order to establish an emirate based on its interpretation of Islamic law."
Since its formation, the TTP has carried out multiple attacks in Pakistan which has killed numerous military and law enforcement personnel, and civilians.
During a UNSC briefing last week, Pakistani diplomat Usman Iqbal Jadoon said, "The TTP, with 6,000 fighters, is the largest listed terrorist organisation operating in Afghanistan. With safe havens close to our border, it poses a direct and daily threat to Pakistan&rsquo;s security."
Islamabad has maintained that it repeatedly shared evidence with the Afghan Taliban regarding the TTP attacks but claims these concerns had not been adequately addressed by Kabul.&nbsp;
<h2>The notable attacks of the TTP</h2>
&gt; On December 14, 2014, six TTP terrorists attacked the Army Public School in Pakistan's Peshawar- killing 149 people including 132 students. More than 100 others were injured in the attack.
&gt; The attack in the Army Public School came just months after ten TTP terrorists disguised as members of the airport security force attacked the Jinnah International Airport on June 8, killing 34 people and wounding a dozen others.&nbsp;
&gt; On April 5, 2010, at least five TTP terrorists attacked the US Consulate in Peshawar, killing six people and wounding 20 others.
<h2>Pakistan faces deadly escalation in militant violence</h2>
According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), 757 people were killed and nearly as many injured in the first eight months of 2024. Citing analysts, a report by DW said that 254 people were killed in August alone.
Islamabad has repeatedly accused the TTP of conducting operations inside Pakistan.
In July, a report by the UN described the TTP as "the largest terrorist group" in Afghanistan and said it receives immense support from Kabul's Taliban rulers to conduct cross-border attacks inside Pakistan.
The Pakistani military's strikes against the TTP in eastern Paktika province came after a major attack by the terrorist organisation in Pakistan's South Waziristan area - directly borders the location of the alleged camp targeted in Afghanistan - killed 16 security personnel on Saturday.
<h2>'Pakistan should understand that...'</h2>
In a post on X, Enayatullah Khowarazami, spokesperson for Afghanistan&rsquo;s defence ministry, said early Wednesday, "The Pakistani side should understand that such arbitrary measures are not a solution to any problem."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-pakistan-bombed-four-afghan-locations-8567089" rel="dofollow">Why Pakistan bombed four Afghan locations</a>
&ldquo;The Islamic Emirate will not leave this cowardly act unanswered and considers the defence of its territory an inalienable right,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>'Strikes represent a clear warning to TTP...'</h2>
Speaking to the news agency Associated Press, Islamabad-based security expert Syed Muhammad Ali said on Wednesday that Tuesday's strikes represented a "clear and blunt warning to the TTP that Pakistan will use all the available means against the terrorist outfit both inside and outside its borders.&rdquo;
However, it is not an indiscriminate use of force and due care was taken by Pakistan in ensuring that only the terrorist bases were hit and no civilian loss of life and property took place, Ali added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The UNSC reports that the TTP aims to dismantle Pakistan's government to create an emirate governed by its Islamic law interpretation, posing a significant threat to stability.

On Tuesday (December 24) night, the Pakistani military reportedly bombed four locations of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province. Security officials told Pakistani media that several suspected terrorists were killed and wounded in the strikes. Meanwhile, the ruling Taliban administration in Afghanistan said that a total of 46 people, including women and children, were killed in the strikes. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike TTP pledges allegiance to, and gets its name from, the Afghan Taliban, but is not directly a part of the group that now rules Afghanistan. This was the first cross-border strike inside Afghanistan in March. The strikes came hours after Mohammad Sadiq, Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan, travelled to Kabul to discuss a range of issues, including how to enhance bilateral trade and improve ties. Who is the TTP? More commonly known as the Pakistani Taliban, the TTP is an alliance of formerly disparate militant groups which came together in 2007 following the Pakistani military's operations against Al-Qaeda in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas. The TTP is rooted along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. According to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), the TTP's stated objective "is the overthrow of the elected government of Pakistan in order to establish an emirate based on its interpretation of Islamic law." Since its formation, the TTP has carried out multiple attacks in Pakistan which has killed numerous military and law enforcement personnel, and civilians. During a UNSC briefing last week, Pakistani diplomat Usman Iqbal Jadoon said, "The TTP, with 6,000 fighters, is the largest listed terrorist organisation operating in Afghanistan. With safe havens close to our border, it poses a direct and daily threat to Pakistan’s security." Islamabad has maintained that it repeatedly shared evidence with the Afghan Taliban regarding the TTP attacks but claims these concerns had not been adequately addressed by Kabul. The notable attacks of the TTP > On December 14, 2014, six TTP terrorists attacked the Army Public School in Pakistan's Peshawar- killing 149 people including 132 students. More than 100 others were injured in the attack. > The attack in the Army Public School came just months after ten TTP terrorists disguised as members of the airport security force attacked the Jinnah International Airport on June 8, killing 34 people and wounding a dozen others. > On April 5, 2010, at least five TTP terrorists attacked the US Consulate in Peshawar, killing six people and wounding 20 others. Pakistan faces deadly escalation in militant violence According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), 757 people were killed and nearly as many injured in the first eight months of 2024. Citing analysts, a report by DW said that 254 people were killed in August alone. Islamabad has repeatedly accused the TTP of conducting operations inside Pakistan. In July, a report by the UN described the TTP as "the largest terrorist group" in Afghanistan and said it receives immense support from Kabul's Taliban rulers to conduct cross-border attacks inside Pakistan. The Pakistani military's strikes against the TTP in eastern Paktika province came after a major attack by the terrorist organisation in Pakistan's South Waziristan area - directly borders the location of the alleged camp targeted in Afghanistan - killed 16 security personnel on Saturday. 'Pakistan should understand that...' In a post on X, Enayatullah Khowarazami, spokesperson for Afghanistan’s defence ministry, said early Wednesday, "The Pakistani side should understand that such arbitrary measures are not a solution to any problem." Also read | Why Pakistan bombed four Afghan locations “The Islamic Emirate will not leave this cowardly act unanswered and considers the defence of its territory an inalienable right,” he added. 'Strikes represent a clear warning to TTP...' Speaking to the news agency Associated Press, Islamabad-based security expert Syed Muhammad Ali said on Wednesday that Tuesday's strikes represented a "clear and blunt warning to the TTP that Pakistan will use all the available means against the terrorist outfit both inside and outside its borders.” However, it is not an indiscriminate use of force and due care was taken by Pakistan in ensuring that only the terrorist bases were hit and no civilian loss of life and property took place, Ali added. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Who is the TTP whose camps were struck by Pakistan in Afghanistan?

Kabul, Afghanistan 
Afghanistan's Taliban government on Wednesday (Dec 25) claimed that the overnight airstrikes carried out by Pakistan on Tuesday (Dec 24) killed 46 people. While, a Pakistani security official said the attacks were carried out on "terrorist hideouts".
In a statement to AFP, Taliban government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said: "Last night (Tuesday), Pakistan bombarded four points in the Barmal district of Paktika Province. The total number of dead is 46, most of whom were children and women."
Zabihullah said that another six, mostly children, were also injured in the attack.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-launches-airstrike-in-afghanistan-civilians-suffer-no-official-confirmation-from-islamabad-786628">Pakistan launches overnight airstrike on Afghanistan, targets Taliban hideouts</a>
<h2>Terrorist hideouts</h2>
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a senior Pakistani security official said that Islamabad carried out strikes inside Afghanistan and that "terrorist hideouts" across the border were the target.
"Pakistan carried out late-night air strikes targeting terrorist hideouts inside Afghanistan, utilising a mix of jets and drones," the source said on the condition of anonymity.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
The strike successfully dismantled a training facility and killed some insurgents, said Pakistan security officials, as per a PTI report.
At least six explosions have been reported at the Pakistan Taliban camp, sources told WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick.
Four big TTP camps have been destroyed, sources said, adding Taliban commanders Sher Zaman alias Mukhlis Yar, Akhtar Muhammad alias Khalil, Azhar alias Hamza, Shoaib Cheema were killed. The office of Umar Media has also been destroyed.
The total death toll is yet to be officially confirmed, but sources said it stands somewhere between 25 and 30. 
<h2>Afghanistan slams Pakistan</h2>
In a statement, the Afghan Defence Ministry said, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan considers this a brutal act against all international principles and blatant aggression and strongly condemns it".
The nation alleged that the bombing was targeted at civilians, including women and children. It also claimed that all of those killed in Pakistan's strikes were refugees from the Waziristan region.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-government-forms-negotiation-committee-to-hold-talks-with-imran-khans-party-786053">Pakistan government forms negotiation committee to hold talks with Imran Khan's PTI party</a>
It also said that "The Islamic Emirate will not leave this cowardly act unanswered but considers the defence of its territory to be its inalienable right".
Locals, according to reports, have said that at least eight people, including women and children, were killed in the airstrike.
(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said: "Last night (Tuesday), Pakistan bombarded four points in the Barmal district of Paktika Province. The total number of dead is 46, most of whom were children and women"



Kabul, Afghanistan Afghanistan's Taliban government on Wednesday (Dec 25) claimed that the overnight airstrikes carried out by Pakistan on Tuesday (Dec 24) killed 46 people. While, a Pakistani security official said the attacks were carried out on "terrorist hideouts". In a statement to AFP, Taliban government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said: "Last night (Tuesday), Pakistan bombarded four points in the Barmal district of Paktika Province. The total number of dead is 46, most of whom were children and women." Zabihullah said that another six, mostly children, were also injured in the attack. Also read | Pakistan launches overnight airstrike on Afghanistan, targets Taliban hideouts Terrorist hideouts Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a senior Pakistani security official said that Islamabad carried out strikes inside Afghanistan and that "terrorist hideouts" across the border were the target. "Pakistan carried out late-night air strikes targeting terrorist hideouts inside Afghanistan, utilising a mix of jets and drones," the source said on the condition of anonymity. What happened? The strike successfully dismantled a training facility and killed some insurgents, said Pakistan security officials, as per a PTI report. At least six explosions have been reported at the Pakistan Taliban camp, sources told WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick. Four big TTP camps have been destroyed, sources said, adding Taliban commanders Sher Zaman alias Mukhlis Yar, Akhtar Muhammad alias Khalil, Azhar alias Hamza, Shoaib Cheema were killed. The office of Umar Media has also been destroyed. The total death toll is yet to be officially confirmed, but sources said it stands somewhere between 25 and 30. Afghanistan slams Pakistan In a statement, the Afghan Defence Ministry said, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan considers this a brutal act against all international principles and blatant aggression and strongly condemns it". The nation alleged that the bombing was targeted at civilians, including women and children. It also claimed that all of those killed in Pakistan's strikes were refugees from the Waziristan region. Also read | Pakistan government forms negotiation committee to hold talks with Imran Khan's PTI party It also said that "The Islamic Emirate will not leave this cowardly act unanswered but considers the defence of its territory to be its inalienable right". Locals, according to reports, have said that at least eight people, including women and children, were killed in the airstrike. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike

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