President Joe Biden has said that the US military presence could extend beyond the August 31 deadline for the withdrawal so as to evacuate all Americans from Afghanistan.

Joe Biden says US troops could stay in Kabul beyond August 31

As the Taliban has taken over Afghanistan, the question is how will the country be governed? According to reports, the ruling council might take charge in and the third supreme commander of the Taliban Haibatullah Akhundzada likely to be overall in charge.

What will the new Afghanistan regime look like?

Afghanistan's ambassador to Tajikistan Zahir Aghbar on Wednesday rejected Taliban's control of his country and said that hold-out Panjshir province will be a stronghold for resistance led by self-proclaimed acting president of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh.

Saleh, First Vice-President of Afghanistan, on Tuesday said that he was "legitimate caretaker president" of Afghanistan after President Ashraf Ghani fled the country. Saleh's whereabouts were unknown.

Panjshir was the home of the Northern Alliance anti-Taliban resistance in the 1990s and is still a hold-out province against Taliban rule.

Lieutenant General Zahir Aghbar, who held senior positions in Afghan state security including chief of police before becoming ambassador, said Ghani was a traitor.

"I cannot say that the Taliban have won the war. No, it was just Dr Ashraf Ghani who gave up power after treacherous talks with the Taliban," he told Reuters in an interview.

The militants were able to overrun most of the country because the Afghan military was poorly trained, Aghbar said.

"And only Panjshir resists, led by Vice President Amrullah Saleh," he said. "Panjshir stands strong against anyone who wants to enslave people."

Aghbar said, however, the Taliban could potentially become part of a coalition government that would represent all Afghan factions if they "let others live in peace and accord".

Ghani is in the United Arab Emirates, the Gulf state's foreign ministry said on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan's ambassador to Tajikistan Zahir Aghbar on Wednesday rejected Taliban's control of his country and said that hold-out Panjshir province will be a stronghold for resistance led by self-proclaimed acting president of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh.

Afghanistan's ambassador to Tajikistan Zahir Aghbar on Wednesday rejected Taliban's control of his country and said that hold-out Panjshir province will be a stronghold for resistance led by self-proclaimed acting president of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh. Saleh, First Vice-President of Afghanistan, on Tuesday said that he was "legitimate caretaker president" of Afghanistan after President Ashraf Ghani fled the country. Saleh's whereabouts were unknown. Panjshir was the home of the Northern Alliance anti-Taliban resistance in the 1990s and is still a hold-out province against Taliban rule. Lieutenant General Zahir Aghbar, who held senior positions in Afghan state security including chief of police before becoming ambassador, said Ghani was a traitor. "I cannot say that the Taliban have won the war. No, it was just Dr Ashraf Ghani who gave up power after treacherous talks with the Taliban," he told Reuters in an interview. The militants were able to overrun most of the country because the Afghan military was poorly trained, Aghbar said. "And only Panjshir resists, led by Vice President Amrullah Saleh," he said. "Panjshir stands strong against anyone who wants to enslave people." Aghbar said, however, the Taliban could potentially become part of a coalition government that would represent all Afghan factions if they "let others live in peace and accord". Ghani is in the United Arab Emirates, the Gulf state's foreign ministry said on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan envoy says Panjshir province can be anti-Taliban stronghold

Former Defence Minister of Afghanistan Bismillah Khan Mohammadi demanded that president Ashraf Ghani, who abdicated and departed Afghanistan, be arrested for "selling away the homeland."&nbsp;

"Those trading and selling out their motherland should be punished and arrested," Mohammadi wrote on Twitter, adding hashtag #InterpolArrestGhani.

On Wednesday, the Afghan embassy in Tajikistan also requested Interpol to detain Ghani on embezzlement charges.

At a news conference in Dushanbe, Afghan ambassador to Tajikistan Mohammad Zahir Aghbar accused Ghani of embezzling $169 million and acknowledged Amrullah Saleh, Ghani's vice president, as the rightful ruler of the Afghan state.&nbsp;

By conquering Kabul on Sunday, the Taliban finalised their control of Afghanistan.

According to the report, Ghani resigned and went overseas, accompanied by&nbsp;cars loaded with cash.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Defence Minister of Afghanistan Bismillah Khan Mohammadi demanded that president Ashraf Ghani, who abdicated and departed Afghanistan, be arrested for "selling away the homeland.

Former Defence Minister of Afghanistan Bismillah Khan Mohammadi demanded that president Ashraf Ghani, who abdicated and departed Afghanistan, be arrested for "selling away the homeland." "Those trading and selling out their motherland should be punished and arrested," Mohammadi wrote on Twitter, adding hashtag #InterpolArrestGhani. On Wednesday, the Afghan embassy in Tajikistan also requested Interpol to detain Ghani on embezzlement charges. At a news conference in Dushanbe, Afghan ambassador to Tajikistan Mohammad Zahir Aghbar accused Ghani of embezzling $169 million and acknowledged Amrullah Saleh, Ghani's vice president, as the rightful ruler of the Afghan state. By conquering Kabul on Sunday, the Taliban finalised their control of Afghanistan. According to the report, Ghani resigned and went overseas, accompanied by cars loaded with cash. (With inputs from agencies)

'Selling out the motherland': Afghan defence minister demands Ghani's arrest

For Afghans living across the United States, the last few days have been full of panic and anxiety as they fear for the safety of their families back home. Most of them are blaming the US for this crisis.

Afghans living in US fear for their families' safety

The women of Afghanistan fear the worst, a repeat of what they had to endure during the Taliban's previous rule. As the Taliban return to power - what does the future hold for Afghan women?

A WION special: Women in Taliban country

Videos of women and children being beaten and whipped by the Taliban fighters have surfaced showing the brutal face of the insurgents. They have also burnt down an amusement park in the country.

Taliban unleash its wicked face: Open fire, Women and children beaten at Kabul airport

The Taliban have stopped all imports and exports with India after entering Kabul and taking over the country on Sunday.

Dr Ajay Sahai, Director General (DG) of Federation of Indian Export Organisation (FIEO) told ANI that currently, the Taliban has stopped the movement of cargo through the transit routes of Pakistan, thereby stopping imports from the country.

"We keep a close watch on developments in Afghanistan. Imports from there come through the transit route of Pakistan. As of now, the Taliban has stopped the movement of cargo to Pakistan, so virtually imports have stopped," FIEO DG told ANI.

India has long-standing relations with Afghanistan, especially in trade. The country has a large investment in Afghanistan.

"In fact, we are one of the largest partners of Afghanistan and our exports to Afghanistan are worth around USD 835 million for 2021. We imported goods worth around USD 510 Million. But besides the trade, we have a sizeable investment in Afghanistan. We have invested around USD 3 billion in Afghanistan and there are 400-odd projects in Afghanistan some of which are currently going on," Sahai said.

"...Some of the goods are exported from international north-south transport corridor route which is fine now. Some of the goods go through Dubai route also which is working," he added.

Sahai said India has healthy relations with Afghanistan in trade. Currently, Indian export profile includes sugar, pharmaceuticals, apparel, tea, coffee, spices and transmission towers. "Imports are related and largely dependent on dry fruits. We also import a little gum and onions from them," FIEO DG said.

Despite the fast-evolving situation in Afghanistan, FIEO DG is hopeful and optimistic about trade relations with Afghanistan.

"I am pretty sure over a period of time Afghanistan will also realise that economic development is the only way to move forward and they will continue with that kind of trade. I think the new regime will like to have political legitimacy and for that India's role will become important for them also," DG FIEO told ANI.

Federation of India Export Organisation expressed concern that in coming days dry fruit prices may go up due to the turmoil in Afghanistan. India is importing around 85 per cent of dry fruits from Afghanistan.

"I will say that may not directly impact the prices but the very fact that one of the sources of import no longer exists, speculation of increase in prices is not ruled out," Sahai said.

The Taliban have stopped all imports and exports with India after entering Kabul and taking over the country on Sunday. Dr Ajay Sahai, Director General (DG) of Federation of Indian Export Organisation (FIEO) told ANI that currently, the Taliban has stopped the movement of cargo through the transit routes of Pakistan, thereby stopping imports from the country.

The Taliban have stopped all imports and exports with India after entering Kabul and taking over the country on Sunday. Dr Ajay Sahai, Director General (DG) of Federation of Indian Export Organisation (FIEO) told ANI that currently, the Taliban has stopped the movement of cargo through the transit routes of Pakistan, thereby stopping imports from the country. "We keep a close watch on developments in Afghanistan. Imports from there come through the transit route of Pakistan. As of now, the Taliban has stopped the movement of cargo to Pakistan, so virtually imports have stopped," FIEO DG told ANI. India has long-standing relations with Afghanistan, especially in trade. The country has a large investment in Afghanistan. "In fact, we are one of the largest partners of Afghanistan and our exports to Afghanistan are worth around USD 835 million for 2021. We imported goods worth around USD 510 Million. But besides the trade, we have a sizeable investment in Afghanistan. We have invested around USD 3 billion in Afghanistan and there are 400-odd projects in Afghanistan some of which are currently going on," Sahai said. "...Some of the goods are exported from international north-south transport corridor route which is fine now. Some of the goods go through Dubai route also which is working," he added. Sahai said India has healthy relations with Afghanistan in trade. Currently, Indian export profile includes sugar, pharmaceuticals, apparel, tea, coffee, spices and transmission towers. "Imports are related and largely dependent on dry fruits. We also import a little gum and onions from them," FIEO DG said. Despite the fast-evolving situation in Afghanistan, FIEO DG is hopeful and optimistic about trade relations with Afghanistan. "I am pretty sure over a period of time Afghanistan will also realise that economic development is the only way to move forward and they will continue with that kind of trade. I think the new regime will like to have political legitimacy and for that India's role will become important for them also," DG FIEO told ANI. Federation of India Export Organisation expressed concern that in coming days dry fruit prices may go up due to the turmoil in Afghanistan. India is importing around 85 per cent of dry fruits from Afghanistan. "I will say that may not directly impact the prices but the very fact that one of the sources of import no longer exists, speculation of increase in prices is not ruled out," Sahai said.

Taliban stop exports, imports from India

An uneasy calm was witnessed in Afghanistan on its independence day today as the Taliban patrolled the streets.

Afghanistan witnesses uneasy calm on independence day

As the United States continued its pullout from<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-i-was-evicted-money-rumours-false-ashraf-ghani-defends-decisions-406670"> Afghanistan</a>, US President Joe Biden said US troops could stay longer in the country to ensure all Americans leave the country.

On the chaos witnessed since Monday amid the pullout, the US President speaking to a US network said: "We're gonna go back in hindsight and look -- but the idea that somehow, there's a way to have gotten out without chaos ensuing, I don't know how that happens. I don't know how that happened."

Watch:&nbsp;

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The US president conceded that America is experiencing&nbsp;"more difficulty" in getting those people who helped the country during the operations.

"They're cooperating, letting American citizens get out, American personnel get out, embassies get out. We're having some more difficulty having those who helped us when we were in there," the US president said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-us-troops-could-stay-longer-in-kabul-to-rescue-last-americans-president-biden-406687">LIVE: Afghanistan crisis - as it happens</a>

America is set to evacuate thousands of interpreters who had helped the troops during the war with the Taliban.&nbsp;

On the scenes witnessed at the Hamid Karzai international airport, the US president said: "What I thought was, we have to gain control of this. We have to move this more quickly. We have to move in a way in which we can take control of that airport. And we did."

The US has reportedly evacuated 3,200 people from Afghanistan including embassy officials even as the US administration is targeting to evacuate 9,000 people every day.

"The last president negotiated a year earlier that he'd be out by May 1 and that the return, there'd be no attack on American forces. That's what was done. That's why nothing was happening," the President told the Amerian network.

"I had a simple choice. If I said, 'we're gonna stay,' then we'd better be prepared to put a whole lot hell of a lot more troops in," Biden said.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

As the United States continued its pullout from Afghanistan, US President Joe Biden said US troops could stay longer in the country to ensure all Americans leave the country.

As the United States continued its pullout from Afghanistan, US President Joe Biden said US troops could stay longer in the country to ensure all Americans leave the country. On the chaos witnessed since Monday amid the pullout, the US President speaking to a US network said: "We're gonna go back in hindsight and look -- but the idea that somehow, there's a way to have gotten out without chaos ensuing, I don't know how that happens. I don't know how that happened." Watch: The US president conceded that America is experiencing "more difficulty" in getting those people who helped the country during the operations. "They're cooperating, letting American citizens get out, American personnel get out, embassies get out. We're having some more difficulty having those who helped us when we were in there," the US president said. LIVE: Afghanistan crisis - as it happens America is set to evacuate thousands of interpreters who had helped the troops during the war with the Taliban. On the scenes witnessed at the Hamid Karzai international airport, the US president said: "What I thought was, we have to gain control of this. We have to move this more quickly. We have to move in a way in which we can take control of that airport. And we did." The US has reportedly evacuated 3,200 people from Afghanistan including embassy officials even as the US administration is targeting to evacuate 9,000 people every day. "The last president negotiated a year earlier that he'd be out by May 1 and that the return, there'd be no attack on American forces. That's what was done. That's why nothing was happening," the President told the Amerian network. "I had a simple choice. If I said, 'we're gonna stay,' then we'd better be prepared to put a whole lot hell of a lot more troops in," Biden said. (With inputs from Agencies)

'I don't know how that happens': President Biden says there was no way to withdraw from Afghanistan without 'chaos ensuing'

Taliban fighters opened fire at the demonstrators in Afghanistan's Jalalabad Protesters were demanding Afghan flag to be reinstalled on government buildings Some journalists covering the protest were also assaulted by Taliban fighters

Watch: Taliban fighters open fire at protesters Afghanistan

In a recent video that has emerged on the internet, Taliban militants&nbsp;can be seen laughing after a journalist asked a question pertaining to democracy and female politicians in the country.&nbsp;

Uploaded on Twitter by author David Patrikarakos, the video shows a female journalist, asking Taliban&nbsp;members if they would be willing to accept democratic governance that voted in female politicians.&nbsp;

"Stop filming. Stop it. It made me laugh," replied one of the members.&nbsp;

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Taliban collapses with laughter as journalist asks if they would be willing to accept democratic governance that voted in female politicians - and then tells camera to stop filming. “It made me laugh” he says.<a href="https://t.co/km0s1Lkzx5">pic.twitter.com/km0s1Lkzx5</a>
— David Patrikarakos (@dpatrikarakos) <a href="https://twitter.com/dpatrikarakos/status/1427567411692244992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Courtesy: Twitter/@dpatrikarakos

Meanwhile, after the fall of Kabul, in the first indication of the Taliban's&nbsp;concessions concerning women's rights, the group said that it was fine with women receiving primary and higher education which includes attending university.

Women "can get education from primary to higher education -- that means university. We have announced this policy at international conferences, the Moscow conference and here at the Doha conference (on Afghanistan)," said Suhail Shaheen, Taliban spokesperson for its political office in Doha

Under the militants' hardline 1996-2001 rule, girls' schools were closed, women were prevented from travelling and working, and women were forced to wear an all-covering burqa in public.

Shaheen also indicated that burqa will not be compulsory for women but a hijab would be.

"The burqa is not the only hijab (headscarf) that (can) be observed, there is different types of hijab not limited to burqa," Suhail Shaheen, spokesman for the group's political office in Doha, told Britain's Sky News.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of these visuals

In a recent video that has emerged on the internet, Taliban militants can be seen laughing after a journalist asked a question pertaining to democracy and female politicians in the country.

In a recent video that has emerged on the internet, Taliban militants can be seen laughing after a journalist asked a question pertaining to democracy and female politicians in the country. Uploaded on Twitter by author David Patrikarakos, the video shows a female journalist, asking Taliban members if they would be willing to accept democratic governance that voted in female politicians. "Stop filming. Stop it. It made me laugh," replied one of the members. Taliban collapses with laughter as journalist asks if they would be willing to accept democratic governance that voted in female politicians - and then tells camera to stop filming. “It made me laugh” he says.pic.twitter.com/km0s1Lkzx5 — David Patrikarakos (@dpatrikarakos) August 17, 2021 × Courtesy: Twitter/@dpatrikarakos Meanwhile, after the fall of Kabul, in the first indication of the Taliban's concessions concerning women's rights, the group said that it was fine with women receiving primary and higher education which includes attending university. Women "can get education from primary to higher education -- that means university. We have announced this policy at international conferences, the Moscow conference and here at the Doha conference (on Afghanistan)," said Suhail Shaheen, Taliban spokesperson for its political office in Doha Under the militants' hardline 1996-2001 rule, girls' schools were closed, women were prevented from travelling and working, and women were forced to wear an all-covering burqa in public. Shaheen also indicated that burqa will not be compulsory for women but a hijab would be. "The burqa is not the only hijab (headscarf) that (can) be observed, there is different types of hijab not limited to burqa," Suhail Shaheen, spokesman for the group's political office in Doha, told Britain's Sky News. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of these visuals

Watch: Taliban members break into laughter when asked about democracy and female politicians

Al-Qaeda in Yemen on Wednesday congratulated the Taliban and vowed to continue their own military campaigns

"This victory and empowerment reveals to us that jihad and fighting represent the (Islamic law)-based, legal, and realistic way to restore rights (and) expel the invaders and occupiers," Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) said in a statement.&nbsp;

"As for the game of democracy and working with simple pacifism, it is a deceptive mirage, a fleeting shadow, and a vicious circle that starts with a zero and ends with it," said the statement carried by SITE Intelligence group, which monitors jihadist networks worldwide.&nbsp;

Taliban had provided refuge to Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden during its rule in Afghanistan in late 90s

The US considers AQAP the most dangerous part of Al-Qaeda's global network. US has carried out drone strikes against its fighters in Yemen.

On Sunday, AQAP fighters in Yemen's central governorate of Bayda and southern province of Shabwa celebrated Taliban's return to power with fireworks and gunshots in the air, as per AFP

The hardline Sunni Muslim group has taken advantage of Yemen's war since 2014 between the internationally recognised government and the Iran-backed Huthi rebels, bolstering its presence in southern Yemen.

(With inputs from agencies)

Al-Qaeda in Yemen on Wednesday congratulated the Taliban and vowed to continue their own military campaigns "This victory and empowerment reveals to us that jihad and fighting represent the (Islamic law)-based, legal, and realistic way to restore rights (and) expel the invaders and occupiers," Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) said in a statement.

Al-Qaeda in Yemen on Wednesday congratulated the Taliban and vowed to continue their own military campaigns "This victory and empowerment reveals to us that jihad and fighting represent the (Islamic law)-based, legal, and realistic way to restore rights (and) expel the invaders and occupiers," Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) said in a statement. "As for the game of democracy and working with simple pacifism, it is a deceptive mirage, a fleeting shadow, and a vicious circle that starts with a zero and ends with it," said the statement carried by SITE Intelligence group, which monitors jihadist networks worldwide. Taliban had provided refuge to Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden during its rule in Afghanistan in late 90s The US considers AQAP the most dangerous part of Al-Qaeda's global network. US has carried out drone strikes against its fighters in Yemen. On Sunday, AQAP fighters in Yemen's central governorate of Bayda and southern province of Shabwa celebrated Taliban's return to power with fireworks and gunshots in the air, as per AFP The hardline Sunni Muslim group has taken advantage of Yemen's war since 2014 between the internationally recognised government and the Iran-backed Huthi rebels, bolstering its presence in southern Yemen. (With inputs from agencies)

Yemen Al-Qaeda congratulates Taliban, vows to continue Jihad

SITE monitoring group said on Wednesday that senior Taliban members met former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai and top official Abdullah Abdullah.&nbsp;

Abdullah had led the government's peace council during failed talks between the warring sides in Qatar.

Taliban leaders "have said that they pardoned all former government officials and thus there is no need for anyone to leave the country," SITE said, after the Taliban published images of Karzai meeting Anas Haqqani, a member of the Taliban negotiating team.

The head of the hardline group, Haibatullah Akhundzada, meanwhile ordered the release of "political detainees", the Taliban tweeted.&nbsp;

"From tomorrow, all provincial governors must release all political detainees -- major and minor -- without any restrictions or conditions, and deliver them to their families," it said in Arabic.

The Taliban insisted Tuesday in their first press conference since seizing power at the weekend that they would not seek "revenge" and declared a general amnesty.

A government would soon be formed, spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said, adding that the Taliban would "connect with all sides".

Former president Ashraf Ghani -- who succeeded Karzai in 2014 -- fled the country as the Taliban encircled Kabul, taking refuge in the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

SITE monitoring group said on Wednesday that senior Taliban members met former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai and top official Abdullah Abdullah. Abdullah had led the government's peace council during failed talks between the warring sides in Qatar.

SITE monitoring group said on Wednesday that senior Taliban members met former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai and top official Abdullah Abdullah. Abdullah had led the government's peace council during failed talks between the warring sides in Qatar. Taliban leaders "have said that they pardoned all former government officials and thus there is no need for anyone to leave the country," SITE said, after the Taliban published images of Karzai meeting Anas Haqqani, a member of the Taliban negotiating team. The head of the hardline group, Haibatullah Akhundzada, meanwhile ordered the release of "political detainees", the Taliban tweeted. "From tomorrow, all provincial governors must release all political detainees -- major and minor -- without any restrictions or conditions, and deliver them to their families," it said in Arabic. The Taliban insisted Tuesday in their first press conference since seizing power at the weekend that they would not seek "revenge" and declared a general amnesty. A government would soon be formed, spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said, adding that the Taliban would "connect with all sides". Former president Ashraf Ghani -- who succeeded Karzai in 2014 -- fled the country as the Taliban encircled Kabul, taking refuge in the United Arab Emirates. (With inputs from agencies)

Senior Taliban leaders meet ex-Afghan president Hamid Karzai: Report

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani addressed the world on his official Facebook page on Wednesday after fleeing the country.

Ghani, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 'humanitarian grounds,' left the nation shortly after surrendering to the Taliban as the Taliban advanced on Kabul, the capital city, to 'avoid more carnage.'&nbsp;

In a video message delivered in Pashto, Ghani stated that he had placed security in the hands of the country's troops and that the Taliban were looking for him.

He said he was obliged to escape to avoid a major tragedy.&nbsp;

"They were looking for me. What happened in Afghanistan 25 years ago was going to happen again. That was something that needed to be avoided. A shameful development like that needed to be avoided, "he said.

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Ghani also dismissed rumours that he had taken money with him. According to previous reports, Ghani escaped with two cars and a cash-laden chopper.&nbsp;

"I wanted to transfer power to the Taliban peacefully. But I was evicted from Afghanistan against my will. The allegation that I took money from Afghanistan is baseless. You can verify this with UAE Customs. I did not have time to change my shoes. My security asked me to leave as it was imminent to me as head of state, "said Ghani.

"The Taliban, I was told, were in Kabul. Even though we had agreed that the Taliban would not enter Kabul, they did it nonetheless. I didn't want to be hanged since I am the honour of Afghanistan as president. Death does not frighten me," he added.

He stated that he left the nation without his books, which he described as his "primary assets."

He went on to say that certain secret documents had been left at the Presidential Palace in Kabul.

"They (secret documents) are in the hands of others; I left with nothing except a salwar kameez and a waistcoat; I did not take anything," Ghani explained.&nbsp;

Ghani said that he is in the United Arab Emirates, where he is meeting with others to continue his "efforts to bring peace to Afghans."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani addressed the world on his official Facebook page on Wednesday after fleeing the country. Ghani, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 'humanitarian grounds,' left the nation shortly after surrendering to the Taliban as the Taliban advanced on Kabul, the capital city, to 'avoid more carnage.

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani addressed the world on his official Facebook page on Wednesday after fleeing the country. Ghani, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 'humanitarian grounds,' left the nation shortly after surrendering to the Taliban as the Taliban advanced on Kabul, the capital city, to 'avoid more carnage.' In a video message delivered in Pashto, Ghani stated that he had placed security in the hands of the country's troops and that the Taliban were looking for him. He said he was obliged to escape to avoid a major tragedy. "They were looking for me. What happened in Afghanistan 25 years ago was going to happen again. That was something that needed to be avoided. A shameful development like that needed to be avoided, "he said. × Ghani also dismissed rumours that he had taken money with him. According to previous reports, Ghani escaped with two cars and a cash-laden chopper. "I wanted to transfer power to the Taliban peacefully. But I was evicted from Afghanistan against my will. The allegation that I took money from Afghanistan is baseless. You can verify this with UAE Customs. I did not have time to change my shoes. My security asked me to leave as it was imminent to me as head of state, "said Ghani. "The Taliban, I was told, were in Kabul. Even though we had agreed that the Taliban would not enter Kabul, they did it nonetheless. I didn't want to be hanged since I am the honour of Afghanistan as president. Death does not frighten me," he added. He stated that he left the nation without his books, which he described as his "primary assets." He went on to say that certain secret documents had been left at the Presidential Palace in Kabul. "They (secret documents) are in the hands of others; I left with nothing except a salwar kameez and a waistcoat; I did not take anything," Ghani explained. Ghani said that he is in the United Arab Emirates, where he is meeting with others to continue his "efforts to bring peace to Afghans." (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | 'I was evicted, money rumours false': Ashraf Ghani defends decisions

While most of the western countries have denied accepting the Taliban's rule, some have promoted reconciliation. In the latest, the Afghan embassy Tajikistan has removed the picture of former President Ashraf Ghani. WION tracks the Taliban blitz and the resistance in Kabul.

Tracking the Taliban blitz and the resistance

During the first press conference held by the Taliban since taking power in Kabul on Sunday, the group said they seek no “revenge” on opponents and that everyone will be “forgiven.”

Taliban holds presser, says it does not seek 'revenge,' & that all will be 'forgiven'

An administration official revealed Tuesday that the US has blocked almost $9.5 billion in assets belonging to the Afghan central bank and halted cash shipments to the country in an effort to prevent a Taliban-led government from obtaining the funds.&nbsp;

According to the person, any central bank assets held by the Afghan government in the United States will not be available to the Taliban, which is still on the Treasury Department's sanctions list.&nbsp;

According to Afghan authorities, including the bank's acting governor, Ajmal Ahmady, who has fled Kabul, the majority of the assets are held outside of Afghanistan, potentially placing them beyond of reach of the Taliban militants.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-currency-drops-to-a-record-low-as-taliban-take-over-406361">Also read | Afghanistan's currency drops to a record low as Taliban take over</a> 
 
“Given that the Taliban are still on international sanction lists, it is expected (confirmed?) that such assets will be frozen and not accessible to Taliban,” Ahmady said in a Twitter thread on Wednesday.

“We can say the accessible funds to the Taliban are perhaps 0.1-0.2% of Afghanistan’s total international reserves. Not much,” he added.&nbsp;

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First, total DAB reserves were approximately $9.0 billion as of last week. 
 
But this does not mean that DAB held $9.0 billion physically in our vault. 
 
As per international standards, most assets are held in safe, liquid assets such as Treasuries and gold <a href="https://t.co/onpttXyTv7">https://t.co/onpttXyTv7</a>
— Ajmal Ahmady (@aahmady) <a href="https://twitter.com/aahmady/status/1427883011207467009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Taliban said on Saturday that the treasury, public facilities and government offices were the property of the nation and “should be strictly guarded.”

The most recent <a href="https://dab.gov.af/sites/default/files/2021-08/Monthly%20Financial%20statement%20%20for%20the%20month%20of%20Jawza%20%201400%20%28English%29%20%20.pdf">financial statement posted online </a>shows DAB holds total assets of about $10 billion, including $1.3 billion-worth of gold reserves and $362 million in foreign currency cash reserves, based on currency conversion rates on June 21, the date of the report. Ahmady estimated total reserves stood at $9 billion last week. 
 
The Taliban are unable to obtain cash due to US sanctions. According to two persons acquainted with the situation, the great bulk of DAB's assets are not now held in Afghanistan.

 
The US Treasury Department did not respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;

An administration official revealed Tuesday that the US has blocked almost $9.5 billion in assets belonging to the Afghan central bank and halted cash shipments to the country in an effort to prevent a Taliban-led government from obtaining the funds.

An administration official revealed Tuesday that the US has blocked almost $9.5 billion in assets belonging to the Afghan central bank and halted cash shipments to the country in an effort to prevent a Taliban-led government from obtaining the funds. According to the person, any central bank assets held by the Afghan government in the United States will not be available to the Taliban, which is still on the Treasury Department's sanctions list. According to Afghan authorities, including the bank's acting governor, Ajmal Ahmady, who has fled Kabul, the majority of the assets are held outside of Afghanistan, potentially placing them beyond of reach of the Taliban militants. Also read | Afghanistan's currency drops to a record low as Taliban take over “Given that the Taliban are still on international sanction lists, it is expected (confirmed?) that such assets will be frozen and not accessible to Taliban,” Ahmady said in a Twitter thread on Wednesday. “We can say the accessible funds to the Taliban are perhaps 0.1-0.2% of Afghanistan’s total international reserves. Not much,” he added. First, total DAB reserves were approximately $9.0 billion as of last week. But this does not mean that DAB held $9.0 billion physically in our vault. As per international standards, most assets are held in safe, liquid assets such as Treasuries and gold https://t.co/onpttXyTv7 — Ajmal Ahmady (@aahmady) August 18, 2021 × The Taliban said on Saturday that the treasury, public facilities and government offices were the property of the nation and “should be strictly guarded.” The most recent financial statement posted online shows DAB holds total assets of about $10 billion, including $1.3 billion-worth of gold reserves and $362 million in foreign currency cash reserves, based on currency conversion rates on June 21, the date of the report. Ahmady estimated total reserves stood at $9 billion last week. The Taliban are unable to obtain cash due to US sanctions. According to two persons acquainted with the situation, the great bulk of DAB's assets are not now held in Afghanistan. The US Treasury Department did not respond to a request for comment.

US chokes Taliban funds, freezes $9.5 billion of Afghan central bank

The bustling streets of Kabul are now empty. Some cautious residents venture outside of their homes to see what life is like under the Taliban. Taliban fighters were seen driving around the Afghan capital.

Bustling streets of Kabul remain empty as Taliban fighters patrol the streets

US officials say that they are in contact with Taliban and that they are making sure that flight operations in Kabul remain safe.

US officials say that they are making sure that flight operations in Kabul remain safe

Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani, who fled Kabul as the Taliban took over the country, is now settled in UAE. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said that the country has welcomed President Ashraf Ghani and his family on humanitarian grounds.

UAE: Welcome Ghani, family on humanitarian grounds

It has been three days since the Taliban controlled Kabul and seized control over the dreams of millions of Afghans, the women in Afghanistan fear the worst at this point. WION tells you what does future holds for Afghan women?

As the Taliban return to Kabul, what does future holds for Afghan women?

Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar has returned to Afghanistan after decades. Baradar is the second senior-most leader in the Taliban hierarchy after Haibatullah Akhundzada.

Taliban's co-founder Mullah Baradar returns to Afghanistan after decades

As the Taliban becomes a dominant force in Afghanistan, sources say that Pakistan-based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) are making presence in parts of the civil-war torn country Afghanistan.

Sources: Pak terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba built check posts in Kabul

The Taliban has reportedly captured Salima Mazari, one of the first women governors in Afghanistan and the woman who took up arms to fight them. Mazari has been captured by the Taliban after the insurgents gained control over the entire nation and the Afghan leadership.

Salima Mazari, who took up arms against Taliban captured in Afghanistan

World Health Organisation on Wednesday warned against interruptions in humanitarian aid to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The WHO said that Afghanistan's fragile health system was vulnerable.

"Sustained access to humanitarian assistance, including essential health services and medical supplies, is a critical lifeline for millions of Afghans, and must not be interrupted," a statement said.

"Months of violence have taken a heavy toll on Afghanistan's fragile health system, which had already been facing shortages in essential supplies amid the Covid-19 pandemic," it added.

The WHO called on "all parties to respect and protect civilians, health workers, patients and health facilities".

WHO said that 26 health facilities were attacked between January and July this year. It added that 11 health workers were killed. This, said WHO, made security at health facilities a "major challenge"

Afghanistan fell after a meteoric Taliban offensive, and before the August 31 deadline set by US President Joe Biden for the last American soldiers to pull out.

Many aid donor countries remain on guard about the new regime in the country, where the Taliban ruled with an iron hand from 1996 to 2001.

The United States has said it expects the Taliban to respect human rights, especially those of women.

Germany, Finland and Sweden said on Tuesday that they would stop sending development aid to Afghanistan for now.

Both the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank have remained silent so far, but they could freeze financial assistance to the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organisation on Wednesday warned against interruptions in humanitarian aid to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The WHO said that Afghanistan's fragile health system was vulnerable.

World Health Organisation on Wednesday warned against interruptions in humanitarian aid to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The WHO said that Afghanistan's fragile health system was vulnerable. "Sustained access to humanitarian assistance, including essential health services and medical supplies, is a critical lifeline for millions of Afghans, and must not be interrupted," a statement said. "Months of violence have taken a heavy toll on Afghanistan's fragile health system, which had already been facing shortages in essential supplies amid the Covid-19 pandemic," it added. The WHO called on "all parties to respect and protect civilians, health workers, patients and health facilities". WHO said that 26 health facilities were attacked between January and July this year. It added that 11 health workers were killed. This, said WHO, made security at health facilities a "major challenge" Afghanistan fell after a meteoric Taliban offensive, and before the August 31 deadline set by US President Joe Biden for the last American soldiers to pull out. Many aid donor countries remain on guard about the new regime in the country, where the Taliban ruled with an iron hand from 1996 to 2001. The United States has said it expects the Taliban to respect human rights, especially those of women. Germany, Finland and Sweden said on Tuesday that they would stop sending development aid to Afghanistan for now. Both the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank have remained silent so far, but they could freeze financial assistance to the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Humanitarian aid to Afghanistan must continue, says WHO

With the fall of Kabul on August 15 in the hands of the Taliban, India's biggest focus was to bring back its Diplomatic officials and several stranded nationals, which included journalists, ITBP officials.

Indian air force's two&nbsp;C17s were used to bring back them, the first of which arrived on Monday, and the second one on Tuesday. The message from the top was clear, that "security of our diplomatic staff and official is paramount"

While the first C17 had around 40-45 Indians, the second one had more than 100 Indians including the Indian's envoy to Afghanistan Rudrendra Tandon.

The complex process which was constantly being monitored by officials including External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval had two key segments, the movement from the Indian embassy in Kabul to the airport and then from the airport to India.

Of the two&nbsp;movements, movements from Embassy to Airport was the risky one, and in that India used its contacts, including locals who maneuvered the convey through the 45-minute long distance.

The biggest worry were the 15 check posts. While most of these check posts were manned by the Taliban, some of them were infiltrated with rouge elements. Elements who could have been inimical to Indian personnel being brought back. In a city with no governance, the biggest risk was the uncertainty of what to come and who to deal with. Sources said, "India in a short time was able to bring out everyone and contrast this with any other countries. We had an all of the Govt approaches. We coordinated with the US govt in the evacuation".

Other than the US govt, India had its C17 parked in Tajikistan for a brief period since Kabul airport didn't have space to park the planes due to increased load. The C17s were time to time flown in from the Ayni airbase of Tajikistan as and when the operation began. Remember the Kabul airport is now under the control of the Americans.

With the evacuation process, while all of the Indian diplomatic staff has been brought back from Afghanistan, but the Indian embassy in Kabul continues to function with help of locals. India also continues to provide consular service, with India announcing an emergency e visa system for the Afghans who want to come to India.

India had already started evacuating its officials from its consulates from Kandahar and Mazar-E-Sharif when the Taliban was making its rapid advances. India had certain "red lines" which if crossed put in motion the process of evacuation, like in the case of Mazar-e-sharif, the fall of Phenergan. But India was still among the last to leave the northern city.

With the fall of Kabul on August 15 in the hands of the Taliban, India's biggest focus was to bring back its Diplomatic officials and several stranded nationals, which included journalists, ITBP officials.

With the fall of Kabul on August 15 in the hands of the Taliban, India's biggest focus was to bring back its Diplomatic officials and several stranded nationals, which included journalists, ITBP officials. Indian air force's two C17s were used to bring back them, the first of which arrived on Monday, and the second one on Tuesday. The message from the top was clear, that "security of our diplomatic staff and official is paramount" While the first C17 had around 40-45 Indians, the second one had more than 100 Indians including the Indian's envoy to Afghanistan Rudrendra Tandon. The complex process which was constantly being monitored by officials including External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval had two key segments, the movement from the Indian embassy in Kabul to the airport and then from the airport to India. Of the two movements, movements from Embassy to Airport was the risky one, and in that India used its contacts, including locals who maneuvered the convey through the 45-minute long distance. The biggest worry were the 15 check posts. While most of these check posts were manned by the Taliban, some of them were infiltrated with rouge elements. Elements who could have been inimical to Indian personnel being brought back. In a city with no governance, the biggest risk was the uncertainty of what to come and who to deal with. Sources said, "India in a short time was able to bring out everyone and contrast this with any other countries. We had an all of the Govt approaches. We coordinated with the US govt in the evacuation". Other than the US govt, India had its C17 parked in Tajikistan for a brief period since Kabul airport didn't have space to park the planes due to increased load. The C17s were time to time flown in from the Ayni airbase of Tajikistan as and when the operation began. Remember the Kabul airport is now under the control of the Americans. With the evacuation process, while all of the Indian diplomatic staff has been brought back from Afghanistan, but the Indian embassy in Kabul continues to function with help of locals. India also continues to provide consular service, with India announcing an emergency e visa system for the Afghans who want to come to India. India had already started evacuating its officials from its consulates from Kandahar and Mazar-E-Sharif when the Taliban was making its rapid advances. India had certain "red lines" which if crossed put in motion the process of evacuation, like in the case of Mazar-e-sharif, the fall of Phenergan. But India was still among the last to leave the northern city.

India's Kabul evacuation: US, Tajik support & a long drive crossing 15 Taliban check posts

With the Taliban emerging as the dominant force in Afghanistan, including capital <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-afghanistan-crisis-us-says-taliban-has-pledged-safe-passage-406423">Kabul</a>, according to Indian assessment Pakistan based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) have made their&nbsp;presence in parts of the country.

According to sources, "Pakistani terror groups like LeT have built check posts in some parts of Kabul. There have been reports of looting in Afghanistan's villages".

Sources pointed out that it's too early to say anything since "assumptions can go wrong". The state of flux in Afghanistan&nbsp;after the fall of the previous Ghani government and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-want-free-media-but-suggestions-apply-406381">Taliban</a> entering into the capital, the big question is what next in terms of the governance structure.

Sources highlighted that&nbsp;"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-they-seek-no-revenge-in-press-conference-will-respect-womens-rights-406379">Afghanistan </a>could become the epicentre of Islamic radicalism, which could have a state which is recognized. IS also had territory but that was geographically far".&nbsp;While the Indian government's priority is bringing back its nationals, the political development in Afghanistan is also dominating the Indian government's thought process on the crisis.

India has been hoping for an inclusive government in Kabul&nbsp;with sources saying&nbsp;that it is "not dominated by Pashtuns". So far, no power-sharing pact has been agreed to with leaders like Dr&nbsp;Abdullah Abdullah or Hamid Karzai.

On Tuesday,&nbsp;Abdul Ghani Baradar reached Kandahar, the traditional capital of the Taliban. And while this development is taking place Amrullah Saleh, former vice president of the country declared himself as the president.

Asked how does India see&nbsp;the Taliban as a political force, the sources said, "India's conduct depends on how other democracies deal with Taliban".

While no one has recognised the Taliban, Beijing has been sending feelers and other regional countries have had contacts with the grouping. Taliban off course has been regular in Islamabad&nbsp;and in the past few months has been visiting Tehran, Moscow&nbsp;and Beijing for legitimacy.

With the Taliban emerging as the dominant force in Afghanistan, including capital Kabul, according to Indian assessment Pakistan based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) have made their presence in parts of the country.

With the Taliban emerging as the dominant force in Afghanistan, including capital Kabul, according to Indian assessment Pakistan based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) have made their presence in parts of the country. According to sources, "Pakistani terror groups like LeT have built check posts in some parts of Kabul. There have been reports of looting in Afghanistan's villages". Sources pointed out that it's too early to say anything since "assumptions can go wrong". The state of flux in Afghanistan after the fall of the previous Ghani government and the Taliban entering into the capital, the big question is what next in terms of the governance structure. Sources highlighted that "Afghanistan could become the epicentre of Islamic radicalism, which could have a state which is recognized. IS also had territory but that was geographically far". While the Indian government's priority is bringing back its nationals, the political development in Afghanistan is also dominating the Indian government's thought process on the crisis. India has been hoping for an inclusive government in Kabul with sources saying that it is "not dominated by Pashtuns". So far, no power-sharing pact has been agreed to with leaders like Dr Abdullah Abdullah or Hamid Karzai. On Tuesday, Abdul Ghani Baradar reached Kandahar, the traditional capital of the Taliban. And while this development is taking place Amrullah Saleh, former vice president of the country declared himself as the president. Asked how does India see the Taliban as a political force, the sources said, "India's conduct depends on how other democracies deal with Taliban". While no one has recognised the Taliban, Beijing has been sending feelers and other regional countries have had contacts with the grouping. Taliban off course has been regular in Islamabad and in the past few months has been visiting Tehran, Moscow and Beijing for legitimacy.

Pak terror groups now present in Kabul, finds Indian assessment

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is in the UAE. This was confirmed by UAE in a brief statement. It said that the country is hosting Ghani on "humanitarian grounds". Ghani fled Afghanistan amid a Taliban takeover.

"The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation can confirm that the UAE has welcomed President Ashraf Ghani and his family into the country on humanitarian grounds," said UAE in a brief statement.

On Sunday (August 15), as Taliban closed in on Kabul, Ghani fled Afghanistan. The insurgent shortly walked into the Afghan capital without any resistance from Afghan National Army.

In a Facebook post, Ghani said the "Taliban have won" and that he fled to avoid a "flood of bloodshed".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-3-killed-dozens-injured-after-militants-open-fire-on-anti-taliban-protesters-406627">Watch: 3 killed, dozens injured after militants open fire on anti-Taliban protesters</a>

Till today, his whereabouts were unknown. There were speculations that he had fled to Tajikistan, Uzbekistan or Oman.

This would not be the first time that the oil-rich Gulf country opens its arms to former leaders and their relatives, now persona non grata in their country.

In 2017, the emirate of Dubai hosted former Thai prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who was sentenced in absentia to five years in prison.

Spain's king Juan Carlos went into self-exile in the UAE in August last year as questions mounted over the origins of his fortune, and the UAE was Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto's home during her eight years in exile before she was assassinated in her home country in 2007.

The UAE is one of three nations, including Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, which recognised the previous Taliban regime, which ruled from 1996 to 2001.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is in the UAE. This was confirmed by UAE in a brief statement. It said that the country is hosting Ghani on "humanitarian grounds".

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is in the UAE. This was confirmed by UAE in a brief statement. It said that the country is hosting Ghani on "humanitarian grounds". Ghani fled Afghanistan amid a Taliban takeover. "The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation can confirm that the UAE has welcomed President Ashraf Ghani and his family into the country on humanitarian grounds," said UAE in a brief statement. On Sunday (August 15), as Taliban closed in on Kabul, Ghani fled Afghanistan. The insurgent shortly walked into the Afghan capital without any resistance from Afghan National Army. In a Facebook post, Ghani said the "Taliban have won" and that he fled to avoid a "flood of bloodshed". Also Read | Watch: 3 killed, dozens injured after militants open fire on anti-Taliban protesters Till today, his whereabouts were unknown. There were speculations that he had fled to Tajikistan, Uzbekistan or Oman. This would not be the first time that the oil-rich Gulf country opens its arms to former leaders and their relatives, now persona non grata in their country. In 2017, the emirate of Dubai hosted former Thai prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who was sentenced in absentia to five years in prison. Spain's king Juan Carlos went into self-exile in the UAE in August last year as questions mounted over the origins of his fortune, and the UAE was Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto's home during her eight years in exile before she was assassinated in her home country in 2007. The UAE is one of three nations, including Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, which recognised the previous Taliban regime, which ruled from 1996 to 2001. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan ex-president Ashraf Ghani is in UAE

Afghanistan's former women's football captain Khalida Popal on Wednesday said worries about the safety of the country's female players have left her unable to sleep since the Taliban returned to power.

Popal, 34, was granted asylum in Denmark in 2016, and considers herself "privileged" not to have to now seek safe haven from the hardline Islamists.

The team which Popal helped create in 2007 is made up of foreign- and Afghanistan-based players, with the threat of reprisals against those still in the country high given their previous high-profile criticisms of the regime.

Gunmen are already being sent house to house searching for "enemies", she said, despite the group's attempt to ease concerns of a return to brutal oppression.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/please-hold-my-hand-and-help-me-afghan-athlete-wants-to-participate-in-tokyo-paralympics-issues-plea-for-help-406477">'Please hold my hand and help me': Afghan athlete wants to participate in Tokyo Paralympics, issues plea for help</a>

Her own family in the western city of Herat have already recounted a change, she said.

"Women family members of mine that have been out in the street have either been told to turn round and go home and not go to school or been beaten," she told AFP by phone from Copenhagen.

No protection

But Popal, who is now the women's team director, said the women footballers risk far worse.

"I was one of the main people in the Afghan association who founded the women's team with the purpose to stand together as women of Afghanistan and use football as an avenue of activism," she said.

"We wanted to give the message to the world and to the Taliban that we (women) are not weak, you may kill our sisters but we will show you we are with them.

"These are young girls who went on social media and publicly said the Taliban was the enemy.

"My players are now seeing that armed enemy outside their doors and windows and they are scared as to what will happen to them."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fall-of-kabul-striking-photos-point-to-uncertain-future-406352">Fall of Kabul: Striking photos point to uncertain future</a>

Popal described the situation as "heartbreaking" and said players were struggling to understand how they had been left by the pull-out of US-led international forces.

"When they call me or send voice messages to me they are saying, 'Why have they (the West) betrayed us? Why have politicians abandoned the women of Afghanistan? What have we done wrong?'" she said.

With access to Kabul airport blocked and also unlikely the players would be accepted for immediate evacuation, Popal said help for them within the country is not evident either.

"At the moment those players living in the country are moving from one spot to another," she said.

"The scary thing is nobody wants to give them protection because the Taliban are striking fear into them saying, 'If you do not give us information and identify who are against us then you and your family will be killed'."

'The dreams are fading'

Popal said she faced sexism when she was finance officer for the national football association: some men refused to accept their pay cheques from her due to her being a woman.

But she said that was nothing compared to life for women under the Taliban from 1996 until they were ousted after the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States.

The Taliban said on Tuesday they would respect women's rights and permit them to be educated and work, albeit under Sharia law.

But Popal said those were "just empty, empty words".

"When they announce that it will be under Sharia law, well, we have seen what that means for women already in the past in Afghanistan and in other countries too," she added.

"If they are following Sharia law then that gives no rights to women whatsoever. All these achievements and dreams (for women) are fading away."

Popal said it was hard to believe that history is repeating itself two decades on, describing it as "traumatising to see my childhood repeating before my eyes".

"I was a child when the Taliban took over and I was told not to go outside and play in the street or go to school which was burned down by the Taliban eventually.

"When the Taliban started beating my father and threatening my family we left and for almost eight years we were in Pakistan refugee camps.

"Then we went back to Afghanistan as there was&nbsp;hope of a new Afghanistan.

"However, empty and fake promises were made and the country once again is left alone and back to square one, and women are without any protection."

Afghanistan's former women's football captain Khalida Popal on Wednesday said worries about the safety of the country's female players have left her unable to sleep since the Taliban returned to power.

Afghanistan's former women's football captain Khalida Popal on Wednesday said worries about the safety of the country's female players have left her unable to sleep since the Taliban returned to power. Popal, 34, was granted asylum in Denmark in 2016, and considers herself "privileged" not to have to now seek safe haven from the hardline Islamists. The team which Popal helped create in 2007 is made up of foreign- and Afghanistan-based players, with the threat of reprisals against those still in the country high given their previous high-profile criticisms of the regime. Gunmen are already being sent house to house searching for "enemies", she said, despite the group's attempt to ease concerns of a return to brutal oppression. ALSO READ | 'Please hold my hand and help me': Afghan athlete wants to participate in Tokyo Paralympics, issues plea for help Her own family in the western city of Herat have already recounted a change, she said. "Women family members of mine that have been out in the street have either been told to turn round and go home and not go to school or been beaten," she told AFP by phone from Copenhagen. No protection But Popal, who is now the women's team director, said the women footballers risk far worse. "I was one of the main people in the Afghan association who founded the women's team with the purpose to stand together as women of Afghanistan and use football as an avenue of activism," she said. "We wanted to give the message to the world and to the Taliban that we (women) are not weak, you may kill our sisters but we will show you we are with them. "These are young girls who went on social media and publicly said the Taliban was the enemy. "My players are now seeing that armed enemy outside their doors and windows and they are scared as to what will happen to them." ALSO READ | Fall of Kabul: Striking photos point to uncertain future Popal described the situation as "heartbreaking" and said players were struggling to understand how they had been left by the pull-out of US-led international forces. "When they call me or send voice messages to me they are saying, 'Why have they (the West) betrayed us? Why have politicians abandoned the women of Afghanistan? What have we done wrong?'" she said. With access to Kabul airport blocked and also unlikely the players would be accepted for immediate evacuation, Popal said help for them within the country is not evident either. "At the moment those players living in the country are moving from one spot to another," she said. "The scary thing is nobody wants to give them protection because the Taliban are striking fear into them saying, 'If you do not give us information and identify who are against us then you and your family will be killed'." 'The dreams are fading' Popal said she faced sexism when she was finance officer for the national football association: some men refused to accept their pay cheques from her due to her being a woman. But she said that was nothing compared to life for women under the Taliban from 1996 until they were ousted after the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States. The Taliban said on Tuesday they would respect women's rights and permit them to be educated and work, albeit under Sharia law. But Popal said those were "just empty, empty words". "When they announce that it will be under Sharia law, well, we have seen what that means for women already in the past in Afghanistan and in other countries too," she added. "If they are following Sharia law then that gives no rights to women whatsoever. All these achievements and dreams (for women) are fading away." Popal said it was hard to believe that history is repeating itself two decades on, describing it as "traumatising to see my childhood repeating before my eyes". "I was a child when the Taliban took over and I was told not to go outside and play in the street or go to school which was burned down by the Taliban eventually. "When the Taliban started beating my father and threatening my family we left and for almost eight years we were in Pakistan refugee camps. "Then we went back to Afghanistan as there was hope of a new Afghanistan. "However, empty and fake promises were made and the country once again is left alone and back to square one, and women are without any protection."

'The dreams are fading': Taliban return causes anguish for Afghan female football pioneer

In their first presser in Kabul on Sunday, the Taliban said that they seek no 'revenge' and that everyone will be ''forgiven.' “We assure you that nobody will go to their doors to ask why they helped,” he said, despite reports from different parts of the country that Taliban fighters were doing precisely that. He encouraged people who had fled to the airport with their families to return.

Taliban says it seeks no 'revenge' & that everyone will be 'forgiven''

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