Taliban celebrates three years in power with military parade featuring homemade bombs and soviet tanks

<p>It's been three years of its rule in Afghanistan, and the Taliban government has achieved some diplomatic wins even as it has consolidated power and enforced its strict version of Islamic law.</p>

<p>The Taliban rulers continue to operate without official recognition from any country, with its restrictions on women being a major sticking point.</p>

<p>But concern over Afghanistan's worsening humanitarian crisis, the threat of terrorism, and hard-nosed pragmatism have led to some international engagement.</p>

<p>The most notable example was the Taliban government's participation, for the first time, in United Nations-hosted talks in Qatar,&nbsp;in June,&nbsp; to discuss economic issues and counter-narcotics efforts.</p>

<p>Chief Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, who led the delegation, said the gathering was further proof that: "Afghanistan has come out of isolation".</p>

<p>"We are in favour of positive meetings with the condition that Afghanistan's situation is taken into account," he told AFP in a recent interview ahead of this week's three-year anniversary of the Taliban taking back power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The talks went ahead after Kabul obtained the agreement of the UN, which has described restrictions on women in Afghanistan as "gender apartheid",&nbsp;that civil society and women's rights groups would not attend.</p>

<p>Obaidullah Baheer, grandson of former warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and an Afghan academic, said engagement at the talks was a "smart approach".</p>

<p>"The international community can't solve the women's rights issue. What they can do is try to create an environment" to gradually stabilise the economy in Afghanistan, Baheer said.</p>

<p>"Economic stability naturally brings with it some sort of opening for politics as well."</p>

<h2>Security is 'priority'&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Taliban authorities, who are still pushing to fill Afghanistan's seat at the UN, are also forging regional ties.</p>

<p>"Currently, we have very good relations with neighbouring, regional and Muslim countries," Mujahid said, adding that about 40 countries had embassies or consulates in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>While Western embassies in Kabul have been closed for three years, Pakistan, China, Russia, Iran and Central Asian republics have established de facto diplomatic relations with Kabul.</p>

<p>Russia is also preparing to remove the Taliban from its list of terrorist organisations, while Beijing has appointed its first ambassador to Kabul since the takeover.</p>

<p>Fears over the growing security threat from the Islamic State group's branch in the region, known as Islamic State Khorasan Province, have also spurred engagement.</p>

<p>Last week, the UN warned that IS-K posed the greatest external terrorist threat to Europe and was growing in strength.</p>

<p>Mujahid insisted the IS threat was being overblown.</p>

<p>"We have brought the phenomenon of ISKP to nearly zero," he told AFP.</p>

<p>After ousting the foreign-backed government and ending their 20-year insurgency, the Taliban rulers have made security one of their highest priorities.</p>

<h2><strong>'Dialogue'</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban authorities still allocate a large part of the national budget to security, despite Afghanistan no longer being at war and its economy in dire straits.</p>

<p>And while Afghans may welcome restored security after more than 40 years of successive conflicts, many struggle to feed themselves and strain under tightening restrictions.</p>

<p>A civil society activist, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal, described the rules on daily life as becoming "stricter and stricter".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Government affairs are mostly run through religious edicts from the reclusive supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, based in the Taliban southern stronghold of Kandahar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Politically, there is no visible opposition: parties are banned, and there are no elections.</p>

<p>"There is no one to challenge the Emir," the civil society activist said.</p>

<p>The UN has described a "climate of fear" in the country, where popular protests are virtually non-existent.</p>

<p>The Taliban government rejects these accusations.</p>

<p>"We don't accept that we are totalitarian," Mujahid said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authorities have "mechanisms... to convey the voice of the people to the government", spokesman Mujahid said, referring to provincial councils comprising clerics and tribal elders.</p>

<p>"They might not be the same as in the previous government or what are common in democratic governments, but we have developed these mechanisms in an Islamic way and we are committed to the country's interests," Mujahid said.</p>

<p>Baheer, based in Kabul, said he still believed dialogue could bring about change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we can do is constantly speak to the nation and these people (the Taliban authorities), creating a larger national pressure and ultimately... hoping that they realise that they are up against the people and they have to compromise," said the academic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


It's been three years of its rule in Afghanistan, and the Taliban government has achieved some diplomatic wins even as it has consolidated power and enforced its strict version of Islamic law.

It's been three years of its rule in Afghanistan, and the Taliban government has achieved some diplomatic wins even as it has consolidated power and enforced its strict version of Islamic law. The Taliban rulers continue to operate without official recognition from any country, with its restrictions on women being a major sticking point. But concern over Afghanistan's worsening humanitarian crisis, the threat of terrorism, and hard-nosed pragmatism have led to some international engagement. The most notable example was the Taliban government's participation, for the first time, in United Nations-hosted talks in Qatar, in June, to discuss economic issues and counter-narcotics efforts. Chief Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, who led the delegation, said the gathering was further proof that: "Afghanistan has come out of isolation". "We are in favour of positive meetings with the condition that Afghanistan's situation is taken into account," he told AFP in a recent interview ahead of this week's three-year anniversary of the Taliban taking back power. The talks went ahead after Kabul obtained the agreement of the UN, which has described restrictions on women in Afghanistan as "gender apartheid", that civil society and women's rights groups would not attend. Obaidullah Baheer, grandson of former warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and an Afghan academic, said engagement at the talks was a "smart approach". "The international community can't solve the women's rights issue. What they can do is try to create an environment" to gradually stabilise the economy in Afghanistan, Baheer said. "Economic stability naturally brings with it some sort of opening for politics as well." Security is 'priority' The Taliban authorities, who are still pushing to fill Afghanistan's seat at the UN, are also forging regional ties. "Currently, we have very good relations with neighbouring, regional and Muslim countries," Mujahid said, adding that about 40 countries had embassies or consulates in Afghanistan. While Western embassies in Kabul have been closed for three years, Pakistan, China, Russia, Iran and Central Asian republics have established de facto diplomatic relations with Kabul. Russia is also preparing to remove the Taliban from its list of terrorist organisations, while Beijing has appointed its first ambassador to Kabul since the takeover. Fears over the growing security threat from the Islamic State group's branch in the region, known as Islamic State Khorasan Province, have also spurred engagement. Last week, the UN warned that IS-K posed the greatest external terrorist threat to Europe and was growing in strength. Mujahid insisted the IS threat was being overblown. "We have brought the phenomenon of ISKP to nearly zero," he told AFP. After ousting the foreign-backed government and ending their 20-year insurgency, the Taliban rulers have made security one of their highest priorities. 'Dialogue' The Taliban authorities still allocate a large part of the national budget to security, despite Afghanistan no longer being at war and its economy in dire straits. And while Afghans may welcome restored security after more than 40 years of successive conflicts, many struggle to feed themselves and strain under tightening restrictions. A civil society activist, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal, described the rules on daily life as becoming "stricter and stricter". Government affairs are mostly run through religious edicts from the reclusive supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, based in the Taliban southern stronghold of Kandahar. Politically, there is no visible opposition: parties are banned, and there are no elections. "There is no one to challenge the Emir," the civil society activist said. The UN has described a "climate of fear" in the country, where popular protests are virtually non-existent. The Taliban government rejects these accusations. "We don't accept that we are totalitarian," Mujahid said. The authorities have "mechanisms... to convey the voice of the people to the government", spokesman Mujahid said, referring to provincial councils comprising clerics and tribal elders. "They might not be the same as in the previous government or what are common in democratic governments, but we have developed these mechanisms in an Islamic way and we are committed to the country's interests," Mujahid said. Baheer, based in Kabul, said he still believed dialogue could bring about change. "What we can do is constantly speak to the nation and these people (the Taliban authorities), creating a larger national pressure and ultimately... hoping that they realise that they are up against the people and they have to compromise," said the academic. 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.

Afghanistan's Taliban rulers score diplomatic wins, consolidate power

A new report has revealed that the US State Department has likely given at least $239 million to the Taliban since President Joe Biden ordered the disastrous withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan in 2021.

US accidentally gave $239 million to Taliban since disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal

<p>A research team from the&nbsp;Southern Methodist University (SMU) have discovered rocks and fossils in Angola which speak about how South America and Africa tore apart nearly 140 million years ago and led to the formation of the South Atlantic Ocean.</p>

<p>The team found the rocks and fossils which belonged to the long-extinct marine reptiles in Angola.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is not new information that the eastern coast of South America and the western coast of Africa once were co-joined in the supercontinent Gondwana, which had drifted from the larger landmass of Pangea.</p>

<p>According to the research team, the southern coast of Angola is filled with the most complete geological record of the breaking of the two continents and the coming up of the South Atlantic Ocean.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-close-on-to-create-heaviest-element-ever-known-to-humankind-744929">Scientists close to unique feat of creating heaviest element ever known to humankind</a></p>

<p>The scientists found the fossils and rocks which dated back from 71 million years to 130 million years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SMU professor emeritus of Earth Sciences and lead author of the study Louis L Jacobs said, “There are places that you can go to in South America, for instance, where you can see this part of the split or that part of it, but in Angola, it’s all laid out in one place."</p>

<p>“Before this, there was not a place known to go and see the rocks on the surface that really reflected the opening of the South Atlantic Ocean, because they’re now in the ocean or eroded away,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Here's what the rocks from Angola tell about the breaking of the continent</strong></h2>

<p>Nearly 140 million years ago, Africa and South America started breaking off which caused gashes on the crust of the Earth and led to the opening up of the rifts along the pre-existing weaknesses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tectonic plates beneath Africa and South America moved apart which led to magma from the mantle of Earth rising to the surface and forming a new oceanic crust while pushing the continents in opposite directions.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists say the Earth's core is behaving oddly. Here's why</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-say-the-earths-core-is-behaving-oddly-heres-why-739062/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The gap between the two newly-formed continents was eventually filled with the South Atlantic Ocean.</p>

<p>“It’s one thing for a geophysicist to be able to look at seismic data and make inferences from that. It’s quite another thing to be able to take a school field trip out to the rock formations, or outcrops, and say this is when the lava was spreading from eastern South America. Or this was when it was a continuous land," said study co-author Michael J. Polcyn.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A research team from the Southern Methodist University (SMU) have discovered rocks and fossils in Angola which speak about how South America and Africa tore apart nearly 140 million years ago and led to the formation of the South Atlantic Ocean.

A research team from the Southern Methodist University (SMU) have discovered rocks and fossils in Angola which speak about how South America and Africa tore apart nearly 140 million years ago and led to the formation of the South Atlantic Ocean. The team found the rocks and fossils which belonged to the long-extinct marine reptiles in Angola. It is not new information that the eastern coast of South America and the western coast of Africa once were co-joined in the supercontinent Gondwana, which had drifted from the larger landmass of Pangea. According to the research team, the southern coast of Angola is filled with the most complete geological record of the breaking of the two continents and the coming up of the South Atlantic Ocean. Also Read: Scientists close to unique feat of creating heaviest element ever known to humankind The scientists found the fossils and rocks which dated back from 71 million years to 130 million years ago. SMU professor emeritus of Earth Sciences and lead author of the study Louis L Jacobs said, “There are places that you can go to in South America, for instance, where you can see this part of the split or that part of it, but in Angola, it’s all laid out in one place." “Before this, there was not a place known to go and see the rocks on the surface that really reflected the opening of the South Atlantic Ocean, because they’re now in the ocean or eroded away,” he added. Here's what the rocks from Angola tell about the breaking of the continent Nearly 140 million years ago, Africa and South America started breaking off which caused gashes on the crust of the Earth and led to the opening up of the rifts along the pre-existing weaknesses. The tectonic plates beneath Africa and South America moved apart which led to magma from the mantle of Earth rising to the surface and forming a new oceanic crust while pushing the continents in opposite directions. Watch: Scientists say the Earth's core is behaving oddly. Here's why The gap between the two newly-formed continents was eventually filled with the South Atlantic Ocean. “It’s one thing for a geophysicist to be able to look at seismic data and make inferences from that. It’s quite another thing to be able to take a school field trip out to the rock formations, or outcrops, and say this is when the lava was spreading from eastern South America. Or this was when it was a continuous land," said study co-author Michael J. Polcyn. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban disavow many Afghan diplomatic missions abroad

<p>The Bannu military cantonment in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, over 330 km east of Islamabad, came under heavy attack early on Monday (July 15). The attack was reportedly led by several suicide bombers and consequent gunbattle with the security forces.<img alt="Bannu Attack | WION Graphic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32e72c34-3cef-423f-a0a8-7120111e1ad3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/bannuattack.png" /></p>

<p>The militant group Jaish Fursan-e-Muhammad, a faction of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) led by Hafiz Gul Bahadur, has claimed responsibility for the attack.</p>

<h2><strong>Bannu cantonment attack: What happened?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>According to reports in the Pakistani state media, the incident began when the assailants attempted to breach the cantonment’s security perimeter with an explosive-laden vehicle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attackers, equipped with sophisticated weapons and wearing suicide vests, detonated the vehicle at a checkpoint, causing a massive explosion that facilitated their advance.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan security forces repel terror attack in Bannu cantonment</strong></p>

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<p>Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple loud explosions followed by intense gunfire. The attackers exploited the ensuing chaos and engaged in a fierce shootout with security forces stationed at the cantonment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initial reports indicate that at least 12 Pakistani soldiers were killed, and several more were injured. The government is yet to release the details of casualties. But a spokesperson for the government hospitals in Bannu, Muhammad Numan, told Dawn publication that eight people were left wounded in the attack.</p>

<p>Approximately eight civilians in the vicinity of the cantonment also lost their lives. The exact number of casualties, however, remains unconfirmed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pakistani Army deployed a gunship aircraft to provide aerial support and engage the attackers from above.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-talibans-pakistani-offshoot-gets-refuge-in-former-al-qaeda-hideouts-un-report-740432">Afghan Taliban's Pakistani offshoot gets refuge in former Al-Qaeda hideouts: UN report</a></strong></p>

<p>Following the attack, the military imposed a lockdown in the region, restricting internet and phone services to prevent the attackers from coordinating further actions or escaping. The ongoing operation aims to secure the area and ensure the safety of both military personnel and civilians.</p>

<p>Jaish Fursan-e-Muhammad, affiliated with the TTP’s Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, has a history of militant activity in the region. It has frequently targeted security forces and government installations.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Taliban cancels Pakistan delegation's visit to Kandahar</strong></p>

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<p>Pakistan has witnessed a noted increase in terror activities in the past year, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan after the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.</p>

<p>Last week, Islamabad ruled out the possibility of any talks with the TTP.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Bannu military cantonment in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, over 330 km east of Islamabad, came under heavy attack early on Monday (July 15). The attack was reportedly led by several suicide bombers and consequent gunbattle with the security forces.

The Bannu military cantonment in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, over 330 km east of Islamabad, came under heavy attack early on Monday (July 15). The attack was reportedly led by several suicide bombers and consequent gunbattle with the security forces. The militant group Jaish Fursan-e-Muhammad, a faction of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) led by Hafiz Gul Bahadur, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Bannu cantonment attack: What happened? According to reports in the Pakistani state media, the incident began when the assailants attempted to breach the cantonment’s security perimeter with an explosive-laden vehicle. The attackers, equipped with sophisticated weapons and wearing suicide vests, detonated the vehicle at a checkpoint, causing a massive explosion that facilitated their advance. Also watch | Pakistan security forces repel terror attack in Bannu cantonment × Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple loud explosions followed by intense gunfire. The attackers exploited the ensuing chaos and engaged in a fierce shootout with security forces stationed at the cantonment. Initial reports indicate that at least 12 Pakistani soldiers were killed, and several more were injured. The government is yet to release the details of casualties. But a spokesperson for the government hospitals in Bannu, Muhammad Numan, told Dawn publication that eight people were left wounded in the attack. Approximately eight civilians in the vicinity of the cantonment also lost their lives. The exact number of casualties, however, remains unconfirmed. The Pakistani Army deployed a gunship aircraft to provide aerial support and engage the attackers from above. Also read | Afghan Taliban's Pakistani offshoot gets refuge in former Al-Qaeda hideouts: UN report Following the attack, the military imposed a lockdown in the region, restricting internet and phone services to prevent the attackers from coordinating further actions or escaping. The ongoing operation aims to secure the area and ensure the safety of both military personnel and civilians. Jaish Fursan-e-Muhammad, affiliated with the TTP’s Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, has a history of militant activity in the region. It has frequently targeted security forces and government installations. Also watch | Taliban cancels Pakistan delegation's visit to Kandahar × Pakistan has witnessed a noted increase in terror activities in the past year, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan after the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022. Last week, Islamabad ruled out the possibility of any talks with the TTP. (With inputs from agencies)

Several killed after Taliban-linked suicide bombers storm Pakistani cantonment

<p>Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is the largest terrorist group operating in Afghanistan with increased support from the Taliban government for TTP's cross-border attacks into Pakistan,&nbsp;a newly released United Nations report has found.</p>

<p>The report's findings point to the violation of the Doha agreement signed between the Taliban and the United States which led to the withdrawal of the Western forces stationed in Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks.</p>

<p>The UN sanctions monitoring team issued this assessment earlier this week amid a significant surge in TTP-led terror attacks targeting Pakistani security forces and civilians, which have resulted in hundreds of deaths in recent weeks.</p>

<p>The report states, "TTP continues to operate at a significant scale in Afghanistan and to conduct terrorist operations into Pakistan from there, often utilising Afghans."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-support-to-taliban-regime-emboldens-terror-inside-its-borders-un-report-619894">Pakistan's support to Taliban regime emboldens terror inside its borders: UN report</a></strong></p>

<p>It estimates the strength of TTP to be between 6,000 and 6,500 fighters in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>"Further, the Taliban have proved unable or unwilling to manage the threat from Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan, whose attacks into Pakistan have intensified," the document added.</p>

<p>"Taliban support to TTP also appears to have increased."</p>

<p>The escalating violence has strained relations between Islamabad and the Taliban-led government in Kabul, which denies harbouring any terrorist groups or permitting the use of Afghan soil for attacks on neighbouring countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan threatens to bomb terror hideouts of TTP in Afghanistan | World At War</strong></p>

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<p>"The Taliban do not conceive of TTP as a terrorist group: the bonds are close, and the debt owed to TTP is significant," the UN report asserted.</p>

<p>TTP emerged in Pakistan’s border areas in 2007, providing recruits and shelter to the Afghan Taliban, who intensified insurgent attacks against US and NATO forces in Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban have not yet responded to the UN's findings but they have previously dismissed similar reports as propaganda against their government.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-claims-60-pc-rise-in-terror-after-investing-in-afghanistans-taliban-regime-656479">After backing Taliban for years, Pakistan now claims 60 pc rise in terror from Afghanistan</a></strong></p>

<p>The report mentions that TTP operatives and local fighters receive training in al-Qaeda camps in border provinces such as Nangarhar, Kandahar, Kunar, and Nuristan. Al-Qaeda also supports TTP by sharing Afghan fighters for military operations.</p>

<p>One UN member state expressed concern that increased collaboration with al-Qaeda could turn TTP into an "extra-regional threat."</p>

<p>NATO-caliber weapons, especially night vision equipment, provided to TTP since the Taliban's takeover, have added to the lethality of their attacks on Pakistani military posts, according to UN member states.</p>


Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is the largest terrorist group operating in Afghanistan with increased support from the Taliban government for TTP's cross-border attacks into Pakistan, a newly released United Nations report has found.

Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is the largest terrorist group operating in Afghanistan with increased support from the Taliban government for TTP's cross-border attacks into Pakistan, a newly released United Nations report has found. The report's findings point to the violation of the Doha agreement signed between the Taliban and the United States which led to the withdrawal of the Western forces stationed in Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks. The UN sanctions monitoring team issued this assessment earlier this week amid a significant surge in TTP-led terror attacks targeting Pakistani security forces and civilians, which have resulted in hundreds of deaths in recent weeks. The report states, "TTP continues to operate at a significant scale in Afghanistan and to conduct terrorist operations into Pakistan from there, often utilising Afghans." Also read | Pakistan's support to Taliban regime emboldens terror inside its borders: UN report It estimates the strength of TTP to be between 6,000 and 6,500 fighters in Afghanistan. "Further, the Taliban have proved unable or unwilling to manage the threat from Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan, whose attacks into Pakistan have intensified," the document added. "Taliban support to TTP also appears to have increased." The escalating violence has strained relations between Islamabad and the Taliban-led government in Kabul, which denies harbouring any terrorist groups or permitting the use of Afghan soil for attacks on neighbouring countries. Also watch | Pakistan threatens to bomb terror hideouts of TTP in Afghanistan | World At War × "The Taliban do not conceive of TTP as a terrorist group: the bonds are close, and the debt owed to TTP is significant," the UN report asserted. TTP emerged in Pakistan’s border areas in 2007, providing recruits and shelter to the Afghan Taliban, who intensified insurgent attacks against US and NATO forces in Afghanistan. The Taliban have not yet responded to the UN's findings but they have previously dismissed similar reports as propaganda against their government. Also read | After backing Taliban for years, Pakistan now claims 60 pc rise in terror from Afghanistan The report mentions that TTP operatives and local fighters receive training in al-Qaeda camps in border provinces such as Nangarhar, Kandahar, Kunar, and Nuristan. Al-Qaeda also supports TTP by sharing Afghan fighters for military operations. One UN member state expressed concern that increased collaboration with al-Qaeda could turn TTP into an "extra-regional threat." NATO-caliber weapons, especially night vision equipment, provided to TTP since the Taliban's takeover, have added to the lethality of their attacks on Pakistani military posts, according to UN member states.

Afghan Taliban's Pakistani offshoot gets refuge in former Al-Qaeda hideouts: UN report

<p>Taliban has said that it doesn't recognise Afghanistan women athletes participating in Paris Olympics 2024. The news was confirmed by a sports official of Taliban which currently rules Afghanistan post the USA's exit in 2021.</p>

<p>A total of six athletes including three women, mostly in exile, will be taking part in the upcoming summer games.</p>

<p>"Only three athletes (referring to the male competitors) are representing Afghanistan," said spokesman of the Taliban government's sports directorate Atal Mashwani to news agency AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-wimbledon-2024-ukraines-elina-svitolina-wears-black-ribbon-during-r16-match--heres-why-739043">Wimbledon 2024: Elina Svitolina wears black ribbon during R16 match for victims of Russian attack on Ukraine</a></p>

<p>"Currently, in Afghanistan girls' sports have been stopped. When girls' sport isn't practiced, how can they go on the national team?," he added.</p>

<p>He also said that the Taliban government is supporting the male athletes with training and scholarships as well.</p>

<p>Two of three male athletes live outside Afghanistan while one judo fighter trains in the country. Women athletes, all living in exile, will be participating in athletics and cycling.</p>

<p>International Olympic Committee (IOC) said that they have not consulted Taliban officials about the Afghanistan team and that they were not invited to the games.</p>

<p>IOC spokesman Mark Adams also confirmed "sole interlocutors for the preparation and participation of the Afghan team" is Afghanistan national Olympic committee which operates from outside the country. The Afghan committee also includes the president and secretary-general - both in exile.</p>

<p>Committee's CEO Dad Mohammad Payenda Akhtari, however, lives in Taliban-ruled country and said the coordination was done with Taliban over male candidates.</p>

<p>Afghanistan were also banned in 1999 games - during the first rule of Taliban from 1996 to 2001.</p>

<p>Afghanistan was reinstated after the Taliban were ousted by the post-9/11 invasion, but the Paris games mark the first summer Olympics since their return.</p>

<p>This time, the IOC has taken a different approach -- approving the Afghan team under a system ensuring all 206 nations are represented, in cases where athletes wouldn't otherwise qualify.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Taliban has said that it doesn't recognise Afghanistan women athletes participating in Paris Olympics 2024. The news was confirmed by a sports official of Taliban which currently rules Afghanistan post the USA's exit in 2021.

Taliban has said that it doesn't recognise Afghanistan women athletes participating in Paris Olympics 2024. The news was confirmed by a sports official of Taliban which currently rules Afghanistan post the USA's exit in 2021. A total of six athletes including three women, mostly in exile, will be taking part in the upcoming summer games. "Only three athletes (referring to the male competitors) are representing Afghanistan," said spokesman of the Taliban government's sports directorate Atal Mashwani to news agency AFP. Also Read: Wimbledon 2024: Elina Svitolina wears black ribbon during R16 match for victims of Russian attack on Ukraine "Currently, in Afghanistan girls' sports have been stopped. When girls' sport isn't practiced, how can they go on the national team?," he added. He also said that the Taliban government is supporting the male athletes with training and scholarships as well. Two of three male athletes live outside Afghanistan while one judo fighter trains in the country. Women athletes, all living in exile, will be participating in athletics and cycling. International Olympic Committee (IOC) said that they have not consulted Taliban officials about the Afghanistan team and that they were not invited to the games. IOC spokesman Mark Adams also confirmed "sole interlocutors for the preparation and participation of the Afghan team" is Afghanistan national Olympic committee which operates from outside the country. The Afghan committee also includes the president and secretary-general - both in exile. Committee's CEO Dad Mohammad Payenda Akhtari, however, lives in Taliban-ruled country and said the coordination was done with Taliban over male candidates. Afghanistan were also banned in 1999 games - during the first rule of Taliban from 1996 to 2001. Afghanistan was reinstated after the Taliban were ousted by the post-9/11 invasion, but the Paris games mark the first summer Olympics since their return. This time, the IOC has taken a different approach -- approving the Afghan team under a system ensuring all 206 nations are represented, in cases where athletes wouldn't otherwise qualify. (With inputs from agencies)

Paris Olympics 2024: Taliban denies recognition to Afghanistan female athletes taking part in games

<p>Two American prisoners were being held in custody in Afghanistan, a&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;government spokesman said Wednesday, and an "exchange" for Afghans held in Guantanamo Bay had been discussed with the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zabihullah Mujahid did not name the US prisoners, but an American woman was among more than a dozen staff of an international NGO arrested by&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;authorities last September, and aid worker Ryan Corbett has been custody in since 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Taliban representatives in Qatar meet UN officials</strong></p>

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<p>"We should be able to free our citizens in (an) exchange, as American citizens are important for them (the United States), just as Afghans are important&nbsp;for&nbsp;us," Mujahid told a press conference in Kabul.</p>

<p>He said discussions over a prisoner exchange were held with US representatives during United Nations-led talks in Qatar.</p>

<p>The talks, which gathered UN officials,&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;authorities and the special envoys to Afghanistan, ended on Monday.</p>

<p>"Two American citizens are imprisoned in Afghanistan," Mujahid told the press conference, adding that Afghan prisoners were also held in the United States, including in the secretive US prison in Cuba.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have had discussions on their release with them (the United States) before. Afghanistan's conditions should be accepted," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An American woman was among at least 18 staff of non-governmental organisation International Assistance Mission (IAM) detained on accusations of carrying out Christian missionary work.</p>

<p>The UN in June warned Corbett's "life could be at risk" and called for&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;authorities to give him "immediate access to medical treatment for his deteriorating health".</p>

<p>Dozens of foreigners have been detained by the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;authorities since the group's return to power in August 2021.</p>

<h2>Travel risks</h2>

<p>Many countries, including the United States, warn against citizens travelling to Afghanistan, citing risks of wrongful detention, violence and kidnapping.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least one Afghan prisoner remains in detention at Guantanamo Bay, Muhammad Rahim, whose family called for his release&nbsp;in&nbsp;November.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In February, two former prisoners held in Guantanamo Bay until 2017 were welcomed home to Afghanistan, more than 20 years after they were arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Abdul Karim and Abdul Zahir had been transferred to Oman and held under house arrest until&nbsp;their&nbsp;release.</p>

<p>They were among hundreds of suspected militants captured by US forces and held in Guantanamo Bay.</p>

<p>US authorities faced accusations of torture and abuse against prisoners at the facility, where many were held without charge or the legal power to challenge their detention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most of the military prison's inmates have been released over the years, including senior&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US government has said for years it is working to reduce the number of detainees and eventually shut down Guantanamo Bay, which lies on the island of Cuba but is under US&nbsp;jurisdiction.&nbsp;</p>


Two American prisoners were being held in custody in Afghanistan, a Taliban government spokesman said Wednesday, and an "exchange" for Afghans held in Guantanamo Bay had been discussed with the United States.

Two American prisoners were being held in custody in Afghanistan, a Taliban government spokesman said Wednesday, and an "exchange" for Afghans held in Guantanamo Bay had been discussed with the United States. Zabihullah Mujahid did not name the US prisoners, but an American woman was among more than a dozen staff of an international NGO arrested by Taliban authorities last September, and aid worker Ryan Corbett has been custody in since 2022. Also watch | Taliban representatives in Qatar meet UN officials × "We should be able to free our citizens in (an) exchange, as American citizens are important for them (the United States), just as Afghans are important for us," Mujahid told a press conference in Kabul. He said discussions over a prisoner exchange were held with US representatives during United Nations-led talks in Qatar. The talks, which gathered UN officials, Taliban authorities and the special envoys to Afghanistan, ended on Monday. "Two American citizens are imprisoned in Afghanistan," Mujahid told the press conference, adding that Afghan prisoners were also held in the United States, including in the secretive US prison in Cuba. "We have had discussions on their release with them (the United States) before. Afghanistan's conditions should be accepted," he said. An American woman was among at least 18 staff of non-governmental organisation International Assistance Mission (IAM) detained on accusations of carrying out Christian missionary work. The UN in June warned Corbett's "life could be at risk" and called for Taliban authorities to give him "immediate access to medical treatment for his deteriorating health". Dozens of foreigners have been detained by the Taliban authorities since the group's return to power in August 2021. Travel risks Many countries, including the United States, warn against citizens travelling to Afghanistan, citing risks of wrongful detention, violence and kidnapping. At least one Afghan prisoner remains in detention at Guantanamo Bay, Muhammad Rahim, whose family called for his release in November. In February, two former prisoners held in Guantanamo Bay until 2017 were welcomed home to Afghanistan, more than 20 years after they were arrested. Abdul Karim and Abdul Zahir had been transferred to Oman and held under house arrest until their release. They were among hundreds of suspected militants captured by US forces and held in Guantanamo Bay. US authorities faced accusations of torture and abuse against prisoners at the facility, where many were held without charge or the legal power to challenge their detention. Most of the military prison's inmates have been released over the years, including senior Taliban leaders. The US government has said for years it is working to reduce the number of detainees and eventually shut down Guantanamo Bay, which lies on the island of Cuba but is under US jurisdiction.

Taliban says it discussed prisoner 'exchange' with the US

Headlines of the hour: - Gantz slams settler attack on IDF - Taliban prisoner swap with US - Japan sterilisation law struck down - India stampede: Hunt on for 'Godman' - Egyptian cabinet rejig likely today - Flash floods in Northeast India - South Korea fines Credit Suisse

Egypt cabinet rejig likely today | Flash floods in Northeast India

Headlines of the hour: - India stampede: Hunt on for 'Godman' - Saudi revokes Kerala man's death penalty - Gantz slams settler attack on IDF - Taliban prisoner swap with US - UK Election campaign in final hours - Boris Johnson joins Tory campaign - Egyptian cabinet rejig likely today - Who is high income in Russia?

India stampede: Hunt on for 'Godman' | Saudi revokes Kerala man's death penalty

A Taliban delegation on Sunday attended a United Nations-led meeting in Qatar on Afghanistan after organizers said women would be excluded from the gathering. Watch in for more details!

Taliban delegation attends a UN-led meeting in Qatar

Representatives of Afghanistan’s Taliban regime began meetings on Sunday with UN officials as they attended talks in Doha with special envoys to the Central Asian country for the first time, a UN spokesperson said. The two-day, UN-hosted meeting in Qatar is the third of its kind in the gas-rich emirate in just over a year but the first to include Taliban authorities.

Taliban representatives meet UN officials, delegation led by Zabihullah Mujahid

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<p>The ruling Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Sunday (June 30) that its participation in the United Nations (UN)-led meeting in Qatar's Doha showed Kabul's commitment to positive engagement. Addressing the meeting, Taliban spokesperson&nbsp;Zabihullah Mujahid said the talks were a crucial opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue regarding the unilateral and multilateral sanctions imposed on some officials and Afghanistan's financial and banking sectors.</p>

<p>"This forum represents a positive step towards addressing these issues and providing reassurance to the Afghan people that the imposed restrictions on our nation will be alleviated in due course,” said Mujahid, who is leading the Taliban delegation at the talks, TOLO News reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Policy differences among states are natural'</strong></h2>

<p>During the talks on Sunday, Mujahid accepted that some countries might have problems with some measures of the Taliban. "I think that policy differences amid states are natural, and it is the duty of experienced diplomats to find ways of interaction and understanding rather than confrontation.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rights-of-afghan-women-is-an-internal-issue-taliban-ahead-of-un-led-talks-736363">Rights of Afghan women is an internal issue: Taliban ahead of UN-led talks</a></strong></p>

<p>He pointed out that the Islamic Emirate had&nbsp;the commitment and capacity to establish and maintain relations.</p>

<p>"Consequently, other nations, particularly Western countries, can remove the obstacles hindering the development of relations with the Afghan government. Like the regional countries, they can take genuine and practical steps toward positive engagement,” he added, TOLO News reported.</p>

<p>The Taliban spokesperson appreciated the countries that have provided humanitarian&nbsp;aid to Afghanistan.</p>

<h2><strong>The agenda of the UN-led talks</strong></h2>

<p>The agenda at the talks, the third of this kind, would include combating narcotics and economic issues in Afghanistan.&nbsp;Rights groups have condemned the exclusion of Afghan women from the main meetings and the lack of human rights issues on the agenda.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taliban authorities were&nbsp;not invited to the first talks in Doha last year and refused to attend the second conference, demanding that they be the sole Afghan representatives to the exclusion of invited civil society groups.</p>

<p>That condition was met for the third round of talks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The ruling Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Sunday (June 30) that its participation in the United Nations (UN)-led meeting in Qatar's Doha showed Kabul's commitment to positive engagement.

The ruling Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Sunday (June 30) that its participation in the United Nations (UN)-led meeting in Qatar's Doha showed Kabul's commitment to positive engagement. Addressing the meeting, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the talks were a crucial opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue regarding the unilateral and multilateral sanctions imposed on some officials and Afghanistan's financial and banking sectors. "This forum represents a positive step towards addressing these issues and providing reassurance to the Afghan people that the imposed restrictions on our nation will be alleviated in due course,” said Mujahid, who is leading the Taliban delegation at the talks, TOLO News reported. 'Policy differences among states are natural' During the talks on Sunday, Mujahid accepted that some countries might have problems with some measures of the Taliban. "I think that policy differences amid states are natural, and it is the duty of experienced diplomats to find ways of interaction and understanding rather than confrontation.” Also read | Rights of Afghan women is an internal issue: Taliban ahead of UN-led talks He pointed out that the Islamic Emirate had the commitment and capacity to establish and maintain relations. "Consequently, other nations, particularly Western countries, can remove the obstacles hindering the development of relations with the Afghan government. Like the regional countries, they can take genuine and practical steps toward positive engagement,” he added, TOLO News reported. The Taliban spokesperson appreciated the countries that have provided humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. The agenda of the UN-led talks The agenda at the talks, the third of this kind, would include combating narcotics and economic issues in Afghanistan. Rights groups have condemned the exclusion of Afghan women from the main meetings and the lack of human rights issues on the agenda. Taliban authorities were not invited to the first talks in Doha last year and refused to attend the second conference, demanding that they be the sole Afghan representatives to the exclusion of invited civil society groups. That condition was met for the third round of talks. (With inputs from agencies)

Our participation in UN-led talks shows commitment to positive engagement: Taliban

Taliban representatives in Qatar meet UN officials

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<p>The Taliban administration in Afghanistan on Saturday (June 29) said that the demands over&nbsp;women's rights were "Afghanistan's issues" to solve,&nbsp;ahead of United Nations-led engagement talks where the exclusion of Afghan women has sparked an outcry. The agenda at the talks, which begin in Qatar on Sunday,&nbsp;would include combating narcotics and economic issues in Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban would be sending their first delegation to the third round of talks.&nbsp;Rights groups have condemned the exclusion of Afghan women from the main meetings and the lack of human rights issues on the agenda.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Authorities acknowledge issues about Afghan women'</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing a press conference, Taliban spokesperson&nbsp;Zabihullah Mujahid said that authorities acknowledged issues&nbsp;about women. However, these "issues are Afghanistan's issues," said Mujahid who will lead the delegation for Sunday's talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-jailed-for-bad-hijab-say-they-faced-sexual-assault-by-taliban-734885">Afghan women jailed for 'bad hijab' say they faced sexual assault by Taliban</a></strong></p>

<p>"We are working to find a logical path toward solutions inside Afghanistan so that, God forbid, our country doesn't again fall into conflict and discord," he added.&nbsp;"If Afghans participate through several channels, it means we are still scattered, our nation is still not unified," Mujahid further said.</p>

<h2><strong>'Taliban seek positive relations with all countries'</strong></h2>

<p>The UN-led engagement talks were launched in May last year&nbsp;to increase international coordination on engagement with the Taliban, who came to power in Afghanistan in 2021, a report by the news agency AFP said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taliban authorities were&nbsp;not invited to the first talks in Doha last year and refused to attend the second conference, demanding that they be the sole Afghan representatives to the exclusion of invited civil society groups.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Taliban to attend UN-led meeting in Qatar on Afghanistan</strong></p>

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<p>That condition was met for the third round of talks.</p>

<p>During Saturday's press conference, Mujahid reiterated that his administration&nbsp;sought positive relations with all countries. But he pointed out that no major discussions would take place in Doha on Sunday and the meeting&nbsp;was an opportunity to exchange views, particularly with the West.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Taliban administration in Afghanistan on Saturday (June 29) said that the demands over women's rights were "Afghanistan's issues" to solve, ahead of United Nations-led engagement talks where the exclusion of Afghan women has sparked an outcry.

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan on Saturday (June 29) said that the demands over women's rights were "Afghanistan's issues" to solve, ahead of United Nations-led engagement talks where the exclusion of Afghan women has sparked an outcry. The agenda at the talks, which begin in Qatar on Sunday, would include combating narcotics and economic issues in Afghanistan. The Taliban would be sending their first delegation to the third round of talks. Rights groups have condemned the exclusion of Afghan women from the main meetings and the lack of human rights issues on the agenda. 'Authorities acknowledge issues about Afghan women' Addressing a press conference, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said that authorities acknowledged issues about women. However, these "issues are Afghanistan's issues," said Mujahid who will lead the delegation for Sunday's talks. Also read | Afghan women jailed for 'bad hijab' say they faced sexual assault by Taliban "We are working to find a logical path toward solutions inside Afghanistan so that, God forbid, our country doesn't again fall into conflict and discord," he added. "If Afghans participate through several channels, it means we are still scattered, our nation is still not unified," Mujahid further said. 'Taliban seek positive relations with all countries' The UN-led engagement talks were launched in May last year to increase international coordination on engagement with the Taliban, who came to power in Afghanistan in 2021, a report by the news agency AFP said. Taliban authorities were not invited to the first talks in Doha last year and refused to attend the second conference, demanding that they be the sole Afghan representatives to the exclusion of invited civil society groups. Also watch | Taliban to attend UN-led meeting in Qatar on Afghanistan × That condition was met for the third round of talks. During Saturday's press conference, Mujahid reiterated that his administration sought positive relations with all countries. But he pointed out that no major discussions would take place in Doha on Sunday and the meeting was an opportunity to exchange views, particularly with the West. (With inputs from agencies)

Rights of Afghan women is an internal issue: Taliban ahead of UN-led talks

The Taliban government officially announced that it would be sending a delegation to the UN-hosted meeting in Qatar on June 30 and July 1. The meeting is the third UN-sponsored gathering on the Afghan crisis in the Qatari capital of Doha. Watch in for more details!

Taliban to attend UN-led meeting in Qatar on Afghanistan

<p>After the Afghanistan cricket team stormed into the semifinals of the T20 World Cup on Tuesday, the whole country broke into festival-like crowds on roads and celebrated their win against Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the start of the tournament, Afghanistan has been a force to reckon with, but Tuesday’s match sealed their maiden spot in the semifinal of the men’s senior World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-wc-its-not-afghanistan-captain-rashid-khan-on-gulbadin-naibs-cramps-during-bangladesh-tie-734982">T20 WC: 'It's not...' - Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan on Gulbadin Naib's cramps during Bangladesh tie</a></p>

<p>In a wave of elation and congratulatory messages from all over the world, the Afghan team captain Rashid Khan received a call from the country’s Taliban Interim Foreign minister Amir Khan Mutaqqi. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He spoke to Rashid Khan over a video call and sent his wishes for a historic win against Najmul Hossain Shanto’s Bangladesh.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Minister of FAA, Amir Khan Muttaqi, spoke with Rashid Khan, captain of the Afghan national cricket team, congratulating them on their recent achievements. Muttaqi reiterated full support for the team and thanked Rashid Khan for shining Afg's name on the global stage. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/kS3Dg02zGP">pic.twitter.com/kS3Dg02zGP</a></p>
— Taliban Public Relations Department (@TalibansPRD) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalibansPRD/status/1805540682335240481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Talking about their achievement after the game, Rashid made an emotional speech thanking the fans for their continued support.</p>

<p>"I think the semi-final is going to be a massive, massive inspiration for the youngsters back home in Afghanistan. That Afghanistan team get into the semis for the first time," Rashid said at the post-match press conference.</p>

<p>"And we have done it under 19 level, but this level we haven't done that. Even Super Eight was first time for us and then in semis," he added.</p>

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<p>As the commentator said during the live match post-Afghanistan win, “From Kandahar to Kabul, whole of Afghanistan will celebrate today.”</p>

<p>Indeed there was no doubt about it.</p>

<p>Celebrations erupted in Afghanistan as thrilled Afghan cricket fans took to the streets to celebrate this historic win.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The madness in Afghanistan. 🤯🇦🇫 <a href="https://t.co/MyYrAcFidr">pic.twitter.com/MyYrAcFidr</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1805500809905684877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The madness in Afghanistan. 🤯🇦🇫 <a href="https://t.co/MyYrAcFidr">pic.twitter.com/MyYrAcFidr</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1805500809905684877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rashid Khan and Co. have set their eyes on the semi-final berth as Bangladesh remains the last hurdle in their way to book a spot for the last-four match against South Africa.</p>

<p>Bangladesh, on the other hand, has already given up. Although they do have a chance of progressing to the semifinals, back-to-back defeats against Australia and India deflated their confidence.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-as-afghan-cricket-soars-taliban-thanks-india-for-capacity-building-734969">T20 World Cup 2024: As Afghan Cricket Soars, Taliban Thanks India for Capacity Building</a></p>

<p>"To be honest, I don't think we have a chance to play the semi-finals anymore after this loss (against India)," senior all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan said on Saturday.</p>

<p>Now, Afghanistan faces uncharted territory as they prepare to take on the formidable South Africa in the first semifinal on June 27.</p>

<p>In the other semifinal, India will clash with defending champions England on Thursday evening.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After the Afghanistan cricket team stormed into the semifinals of the T20 World Cup on Tuesday, the whole country broke into festival-like crowds on roads and celebrated their win against Bangladesh.

After the Afghanistan cricket team stormed into the semifinals of the T20 World Cup on Tuesday, the whole country broke into festival-like crowds on roads and celebrated their win against Bangladesh. Since the start of the tournament, Afghanistan has been a force to reckon with, but Tuesday’s match sealed their maiden spot in the semifinal of the men’s senior World Cup. Also Read | T20 WC: 'It's not...' - Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan on Gulbadin Naib's cramps during Bangladesh tie In a wave of elation and congratulatory messages from all over the world, the Afghan team captain Rashid Khan received a call from the country’s Taliban Interim Foreign minister Amir Khan Mutaqqi. He spoke to Rashid Khan over a video call and sent his wishes for a historic win against Najmul Hossain Shanto’s Bangladesh. Minister of FAA, Amir Khan Muttaqi, spoke with Rashid Khan, captain of the Afghan national cricket team, congratulating them on their recent achievements. Muttaqi reiterated full support for the team and thanked Rashid Khan for shining Afg's name on the global stage. #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/kS3Dg02zGP — Taliban Public Relations Department (@TalibansPRD) June 25, 2024 × Talking about their achievement after the game, Rashid made an emotional speech thanking the fans for their continued support. "I think the semi-final is going to be a massive, massive inspiration for the youngsters back home in Afghanistan. That Afghanistan team get into the semis for the first time," Rashid said at the post-match press conference. "And we have done it under 19 level, but this level we haven't done that. Even Super Eight was first time for us and then in semis," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × As the commentator said during the live match post-Afghanistan win, “From Kandahar to Kabul, whole of Afghanistan will celebrate today.” Indeed there was no doubt about it. Celebrations erupted in Afghanistan as thrilled Afghan cricket fans took to the streets to celebrate this historic win. The madness in Afghanistan. 🤯🇦🇫 pic.twitter.com/MyYrAcFidr — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 25, 2024 × The madness in Afghanistan. 🤯🇦🇫 pic.twitter.com/MyYrAcFidr — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 25, 2024 × Rashid Khan and Co. have set their eyes on the semi-final berth as Bangladesh remains the last hurdle in their way to book a spot for the last-four match against South Africa. Bangladesh, on the other hand, has already given up. Although they do have a chance of progressing to the semifinals, back-to-back defeats against Australia and India deflated their confidence. Also Read | T20 World Cup 2024: As Afghan Cricket Soars, Taliban Thanks India for Capacity Building "To be honest, I don't think we have a chance to play the semi-finals anymore after this loss (against India)," senior all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan said on Saturday. Now, Afghanistan faces uncharted territory as they prepare to take on the formidable South Africa in the first semifinal on June 27. In the other semifinal, India will clash with defending champions England on Thursday evening. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban congratulate Rashid Khan after Afghanistan made history by making it to T20 WC semifinal | Video

<p>As the Afghan cricket team reaches the T20 World Cup semi-finals and reaches a new milestone, the Taliban has thanked India for the capacity building that has been provided by Delhi for many years. Afghanistan qualified for the semis by beating Bangladesh by eight runs and will now play South Africa on Thursday (June 27).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taliban's Head of the Political Office, Suhail Shaheen told WION, "We are thankful for India’s continuous help in capacity building of the Afghan Cricket Team. We really appreciate that."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-watch-afghanistan-fans-party-on-streets-after-historic-win-vs-bangladesh-734963">T20 World Cup 2024: Watch | Afghanistan fans party on streets after historic win vs Bangladesh</a></p>

<p>Since the last several years, India has provided capacity building to Afghan cricket by providing training to the players in Indian stadiums and sponsorship&nbsp;by Indian companies, among other things. Delhi's support was key to building the Kandahar cricket stadium with a grant of $1 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not only physical infrastructure, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) provided the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida as a temporary "home-ground" for the Afghan team. Another home ground was provided in Dehradun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India also hosted Afghanistan's first-ever Test match in 2018, which was a significant milestone for the Afghan cricket team. In fact, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has also been instrumental in the growth of Afghan cricket.&nbsp; Players like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman today have become household names in Afghanistan and India, and &nbsp;the victories by them are celebrated by people of both countries.&nbsp;</p>


As the Afghan cricket team reaches the T20 World Cup semi-finals and reaches a new milestone, the Taliban has thanked India for the capacity building that has been provided by Delhi for many years.

As the Afghan cricket team reaches the T20 World Cup semi-finals and reaches a new milestone, the Taliban has thanked India for the capacity building that has been provided by Delhi for many years. Afghanistan qualified for the semis by beating Bangladesh by eight runs and will now play South Africa on Thursday (June 27). Taliban's Head of the Political Office, Suhail Shaheen told WION, "We are thankful for India’s continuous help in capacity building of the Afghan Cricket Team. We really appreciate that." Also Read: T20 World Cup 2024: Watch | Afghanistan fans party on streets after historic win vs Bangladesh Since the last several years, India has provided capacity building to Afghan cricket by providing training to the players in Indian stadiums and sponsorship by Indian companies, among other things. Delhi's support was key to building the Kandahar cricket stadium with a grant of $1 million. Not only physical infrastructure, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) provided the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida as a temporary "home-ground" for the Afghan team. Another home ground was provided in Dehradun. India also hosted Afghanistan's first-ever Test match in 2018, which was a significant milestone for the Afghan cricket team. In fact, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has also been instrumental in the growth of Afghan cricket. Players like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman today have become household names in Afghanistan and India, and the victories by them are celebrated by people of both countries.

T20 World Cup 2024: As Afghan cricket soars, Taliban thank India for capacity building

<p>Afghanistan's win over Bangladesh in the Super 8 clash to secure a semis berth in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 has ignited wild celebrations in the Taliban-ruled country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The celebrations became so intense that the authorities resorted to using water cannons to disperse the large crowds. A video of same is going viral on the social media where a water cannon is being used to disperse crowd in Khost area of Afghanistan. Have a look at the video below:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">WATCH | Taliban uses water canons to contain the celebration of Aghan fans after the historic win against Bangladesh in cricket <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WordCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WordCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvsBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvsBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/Rd2lVRHl7H">pic.twitter.com/Rd2lVRHl7H</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1805616016916926706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>This is the first time Afghanistan have made it to the semis of an ICC tournament. They won against Australia and Bangladesh in their Super 8 clash while lost against India.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-as-afghan-cricket-soars-taliban-thanks-india-for-capacity-building-734969">T20 World Cup 2024: As Afghan cricket soars, Taliban thanks India for capacity building</a></p>

<p>The win against Australia open the group in a way that gave Afghanistan a chance to make it to the last four by beating Bangladesh and hoping India beat Australia.</p>

<p>As the fate would have it, both the results came through as India beat Australia by 24 runs before Afghanistan won by eight runs to enter the last four.</p>

<p>In a wave of elation and congratulatory messages from all over the world, the Afghan team captain Rashid Khan received a call from the country’s Taliban Interim Foreign minister Amir Khan Mutaqqi.</p>

<p>Rashid was very ecstatic after the win and said: "It's a dream for us to be in the semi-finals. The way we started the tournament, the belief came when we beat New Zealand. It's unbelievable. We wanted to make people back home happy, that was the discussion we had and everyone did a wonderful job. It's a big achievement for us as well. We have done that at U-19 level but at this World Cup, I don't have any words to describe the feeling back home. We have to go into the semis with a very clear mind and make sure we enjoy the occasion."</p>

<p>Afghanistan play South Africa in the first semi-final on June 27.</p>


Afghanistan's win over Bangladesh in the Super 8 clash to secure a semis berth in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 has ignited wild celebrations in the Taliban-ruled country.

Afghanistan's win over Bangladesh in the Super 8 clash to secure a semis berth in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 has ignited wild celebrations in the Taliban-ruled country. The celebrations became so intense that the authorities resorted to using water cannons to disperse the large crowds. A video of same is going viral on the social media where a water cannon is being used to disperse crowd in Khost area of Afghanistan. Have a look at the video below: WATCH | Taliban uses water canons to contain the celebration of Aghan fans after the historic win against Bangladesh in cricket #T20WordCup #AFGvsBAN pic.twitter.com/Rd2lVRHl7H — WION (@WIONews) June 25, 2024 × This is the first time Afghanistan have made it to the semis of an ICC tournament. They won against Australia and Bangladesh in their Super 8 clash while lost against India. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2024: As Afghan cricket soars, Taliban thanks India for capacity building The win against Australia open the group in a way that gave Afghanistan a chance to make it to the last four by beating Bangladesh and hoping India beat Australia. As the fate would have it, both the results came through as India beat Australia by 24 runs before Afghanistan won by eight runs to enter the last four. In a wave of elation and congratulatory messages from all over the world, the Afghan team captain Rashid Khan received a call from the country’s Taliban Interim Foreign minister Amir Khan Mutaqqi. Rashid was very ecstatic after the win and said: "It's a dream for us to be in the semi-finals. The way we started the tournament, the belief came when we beat New Zealand. It's unbelievable. We wanted to make people back home happy, that was the discussion we had and everyone did a wonderful job. It's a big achievement for us as well. We have done that at U-19 level but at this World Cup, I don't have any words to describe the feeling back home. We have to go into the semis with a very clear mind and make sure we enjoy the occasion." Afghanistan play South Africa in the first semi-final on June 27.

T20 World Cup 2024: Taliban use water cannon on fans celebrating Afghanistan's win vs Bangladesh - WATCH

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms: - Africa: Kids fed worms to beat malnutrition | - Afghan women jailed for 'bad hijab', say they faced sexual assault by Taliban - Innovative skull-mounted epilepsy treatment delivers life-changing results for UK teen

Africa: Kids fed worms to beat malnutrition | Afghan women jailed for 'bad hijab'

<p>Taliban will be removed from the&nbsp;list of banned terrorist organisations,&nbsp;three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency said on Monday (May 27).</p>

<p>Moscow has for years encouraged relations with the Taliban, holding multiple rounds of talks and boosting trade with Afghanistan despite international sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We're taking the same approach as Kazakhstan and removing the Taliban from our list of terrorist groups," RIA Novosti quoted Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-calls-deadly-israeli-strike-on-rafah-tragic-accident-amid-international-outcry-726065">Netanyahu calls deadly Israeli strike on Rafah ‘tragic accident’ amid outcry</a></p>

<p>Recently, Kazakhstan also removed the Taliban from its list of banned organisations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While this move might strengthen diplomatic ties between Afghanistan and Russia, it doesn't constitute formal recognition of the Taliban government, which they refer to as the 'Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan'.</p>

<p>Taliban seized power in 2021 from a US-backed government. They have enforced an extreme form of Islamic law that effectively bans women from public life.</p>

<p>"They are the existent power. We are not indifferent to Afghanistan. And above all, our allies in Central Asia are not indifferent," Lavrov said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to state media reports, Russia also invited Taliban representatives to its flagship Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egyptian-soldier-killed-after-exchange-of-fire-with-israeli-forces-near-rafah-crossing-reports-725985">Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops</a></p>

<p>The event, once hailed as the bedrock of Russia's economic ties with the West, now seems overshadowed by Russia's years of cultivating connections with the Taliban.</p>

<p>The head of US forces in Afghanistan claimed in 2018 that Moscow was providing weapons to the group -- accusations Moscow denied at the time.</p>

<p>Notably, the Taliban has been designated a terrorist organisation in Russia since 2003. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia's own history with Afghanistan is filled with tension. In the 1980s, the Soviet Union waged a brutal decade-long war to support a pro-Kremlin government against mujahideen insurgents.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Taliban will be removed from the list of banned terrorist organisations, three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency said on Monday (May 27).

Taliban will be removed from the list of banned terrorist organisations, three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency said on Monday (May 27). Moscow has for years encouraged relations with the Taliban, holding multiple rounds of talks and boosting trade with Afghanistan despite international sanctions. "We're taking the same approach as Kazakhstan and removing the Taliban from our list of terrorist groups," RIA Novosti quoted Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as saying. Also read: Netanyahu calls deadly Israeli strike on Rafah ‘tragic accident’ amid outcry Recently, Kazakhstan also removed the Taliban from its list of banned organisations. While this move might strengthen diplomatic ties between Afghanistan and Russia, it doesn't constitute formal recognition of the Taliban government, which they refer to as the 'Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan'. Taliban seized power in 2021 from a US-backed government. They have enforced an extreme form of Islamic law that effectively bans women from public life. "They are the existent power. We are not indifferent to Afghanistan. And above all, our allies in Central Asia are not indifferent," Lavrov said. According to state media reports, Russia also invited Taliban representatives to its flagship Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum. Also read: Egypt confirms soldier killed amid reports of firefight with Israeli troops The event, once hailed as the bedrock of Russia's economic ties with the West, now seems overshadowed by Russia's years of cultivating connections with the Taliban. The head of US forces in Afghanistan claimed in 2018 that Moscow was providing weapons to the group -- accusations Moscow denied at the time. Notably, the Taliban has been designated a terrorist organisation in Russia since 2003. Russia's own history with Afghanistan is filled with tension. In the 1980s, the Soviet Union waged a brutal decade-long war to support a pro-Kremlin government against mujahideen insurgents. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to delist Taliban as terrorist group: Report

Russia will remove the Taliban from a list of banned terrorist organisations, three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency said Monday. Watch in for more details!

Russia to remove Taliban from its 'terror list'

Taliban will be removed from the list of banned terrorist organisations, three years after they returned to power in Afghanistan. Moscow has for years encouraged relations with the Taliban, holding multiple rounds of talks and boosting trade with Afghanistan despite international sanctions.

Russia's Lavrov: Taliban is the 'real power' in Afghanistan

In a significant development, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has voiced strong support for the Chabahar Port, terming it an alternative to Pakistan’s Karachi Port for Afghanistan’s trade needs. Mujahid’s endorsement comes weeks after India and Iran signed a 10-year contract on the development of the port.

Taliban voices support for Chabahar port, Mujahid calls port an alrernative to Karachi port

Afghanistan: Taliban supports Chabahar Port as a distinct alternative to Karachi

<p>In a significant development, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has voiced strong support for the Chabahar Port, terming it an alternative to Pakistan’s Karachi Port for Afghanistan’s trade needs. Mujahid’s endorsement comes weeks after India and Iran signed a 10-year&nbsp;contract on the development of the port.</p>

<p>"Afghanistan heavily relies on Pakistani ports like Karachi for its imports and exports. However, Chabahar offers an alternative route, reducing Afghanistan’s dependence on a single corridor and enhancing its economic independence," Mujahid stated.</p>

<p>The Taliban spokesperson emphasised that the Port, located in southeastern Iran and developed with Indian assistance, facilitates trade diversification.</p>

<p>"Chabahar Port facilitates trade diversification by providing access to India, Central Asia, and beyond. This diversification is crucial for Afghanistan’s economic stability and growth," he noted.</p>

<p>The port’s strategic location allows Afghanistan to engage with multiple trading partners and get access to the vital Indian Ocean.</p>

<p>He highlighted that Chabahar offers enhanced trade connectivity, which is transformative for Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Chabahar Port represents a transformative opportunity for Afghanistan, offering enhanced trade connectivity, economic diversification, and regional integration," Mujahid remarked.</p>

<p>The port is also seen as key to the International north-south transport corridor, that is Mumbai to Moscow via Tehran, Baku etc.</p>

<p>Mujahid stressed on the importance of improving Afghanistan’s connectivity infrastructure to maximise the benefits of Chabahar Port.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Efforts to improve and expand connectivity networks, such as roads and railways, are essential for seamless trade flow through Chabahar," he said.</p>

<p>In 2016, Iran, India and Afghanistan signed a trilateral agreement to develop Chabahar Port as a vital transportation and trade corridor.</p>

<p>Additionally, Mujahid called for sustained political support and diplomatic efforts to ensure the long-term success of the Chabahar project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Afghanistan’s political support is crucial for sustaining and advancing the Chabahar project. Continued collaboration with Iran and India is necessary to overcome challenges and secure the port’s long-term success," he stated.</p>

<p>It is important to note that days after India and Iran concluded a 10-year agreement on the development of Chabahar Port, the United States warned that Indian firms engaging with the port could face sanctions. This represents a significant shift from the US's 2018 decision to grant carve-outs on Iran sanctions, specifically for Chabahar.</p>

<p>As a landlocked nation, Afghanistan faces significant challenges in accessing international markets. Mujahid, in an extensive statement, pointed out that Chabahar Port provides a vital gateway for Afghanistan to gain effective and continuous access to regional and global markets.</p>

<p>"The Chabahar Port will provide an opportunity for Afghanistan to gain effective and continuous access to regional and international markets through this port," he said.</p>


In a significant development, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has voiced strong support for the Chabahar Port, terming it an alternative to Pakistan’s Karachi Port for Afghanistan’s trade needs.

In a significant development, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has voiced strong support for the Chabahar Port, terming it an alternative to Pakistan’s Karachi Port for Afghanistan’s trade needs. Mujahid’s endorsement comes weeks after India and Iran signed a 10-year contract on the development of the port. "Afghanistan heavily relies on Pakistani ports like Karachi for its imports and exports. However, Chabahar offers an alternative route, reducing Afghanistan’s dependence on a single corridor and enhancing its economic independence," Mujahid stated. The Taliban spokesperson emphasised that the Port, located in southeastern Iran and developed with Indian assistance, facilitates trade diversification. "Chabahar Port facilitates trade diversification by providing access to India, Central Asia, and beyond. This diversification is crucial for Afghanistan’s economic stability and growth," he noted. The port’s strategic location allows Afghanistan to engage with multiple trading partners and get access to the vital Indian Ocean. He highlighted that Chabahar offers enhanced trade connectivity, which is transformative for Afghanistan. "Chabahar Port represents a transformative opportunity for Afghanistan, offering enhanced trade connectivity, economic diversification, and regional integration," Mujahid remarked. The port is also seen as key to the International north-south transport corridor, that is Mumbai to Moscow via Tehran, Baku etc. Mujahid stressed on the importance of improving Afghanistan’s connectivity infrastructure to maximise the benefits of Chabahar Port. "Efforts to improve and expand connectivity networks, such as roads and railways, are essential for seamless trade flow through Chabahar," he said. In 2016, Iran, India and Afghanistan signed a trilateral agreement to develop Chabahar Port as a vital transportation and trade corridor. Additionally, Mujahid called for sustained political support and diplomatic efforts to ensure the long-term success of the Chabahar project. "Afghanistan’s political support is crucial for sustaining and advancing the Chabahar project. Continued collaboration with Iran and India is necessary to overcome challenges and secure the port’s long-term success," he stated. It is important to note that days after India and Iran concluded a 10-year agreement on the development of Chabahar Port, the United States warned that Indian firms engaging with the port could face sanctions. This represents a significant shift from the US's 2018 decision to grant carve-outs on Iran sanctions, specifically for Chabahar. As a landlocked nation, Afghanistan faces significant challenges in accessing international markets. Mujahid, in an extensive statement, pointed out that Chabahar Port provides a vital gateway for Afghanistan to gain effective and continuous access to regional and global markets. "The Chabahar Port will provide an opportunity for Afghanistan to gain effective and continuous access to regional and international markets through this port," he said.

Taliban endorse Chabahar Port, highlight it as an alternative to Karachi

Anti-Taliban insurgency is on the rise in Afghanistan. The National Resistance Front is launching attacks on the Taliban. What does it want?

Gravitas | War resumes in Afghanistan, national resistance front attacks Taliban

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<p>The Islamic State (ISIS) on Sunday (May 19) claimed responsibility&nbsp;for the attack targeting tourists in Afghanistan's Bamiyan&nbsp;that killed six and injured many others. In a statement on Telegram, ISIS said that its fighters shot at Christian tourists and their Shiite companions with machine guns. Six people-&nbsp;three Spaniards and three Afghans- were killed.</p>

<p>The tourist group&nbsp;was fired on while shopping in a market in Bamiyan. ISIS fighters attacked&nbsp;a "bus of tourists who are citizens of coalition countries", referring to a US-led coalition that battled the terrorist group&nbsp;in the Middle East.</p>

<p>"The attack comes in line with the directives of the leaders of the Islamic State to target nationals of coalition countries wherever they may be," it further said in the Telegram post.</p>

<h2><strong>Taliban arrest seven&nbsp;suspects</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Taliban officials said that they had arrested seven suspects in the aftermath of the attack.</p>

<p>One of the suspects was wounded, Taliban's Interior Ministry spokesperson Abdul Qani said,&nbsp;adding that&nbsp;an investigation was on and the Islamic Emirate was seriously looking into the matter.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-tourist-attack-tourists-wounded-in-shooting-are-stable-says-hospital-723044">Afghanistan tourist attack: Injured in shooting are stable, says hospital</a></strong></p>

<p>This attack&nbsp;is believed&nbsp;to be the first deadly assault on foreign tourists since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021. The injured belong to&nbsp;Spain, Lithuania, Norway, Australia and&nbsp;Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Injured are in stable condition:&nbsp;Hospital</strong></h2>

<p>All the injured tourists in the attack were in a stable condition, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday&nbsp;citing&nbsp;the hospital&nbsp;they were taken&nbsp;to.<br />
<br />
The tourist group had 13 travellers, including six Spanish nationals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spanish diplomats had travelled to&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;and had been working to repatriate the bodies of the dead and transfer the&nbsp;wounded,&nbsp;in coordination with a European Union (EU) delegation in Kabul.</p>

<p>The number of bombings and suicide attacks in Afghanistan has reduced since the Taliban took over. However, ISIS and a number of other armed groups remain a threat.</p>

<p>More and more foreign travellers are visiting Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover, with&nbsp;official figures stating that&nbsp;more than 5,000 foreign tourists visited the country.</p>

<p>But&nbsp;Western nations advise against all travel to the country, warning of elevated risks of kidnappings and attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Islamic State (ISIS) on Sunday (May 19) claimed responsibility for the attack targeting tourists in Afghanistan's Bamiyan that killed six and injured many others.

The Islamic State (ISIS) on Sunday (May 19) claimed responsibility for the attack targeting tourists in Afghanistan's Bamiyan that killed six and injured many others. In a statement on Telegram, ISIS said that its fighters shot at Christian tourists and their Shiite companions with machine guns. Six people- three Spaniards and three Afghans- were killed. The tourist group was fired on while shopping in a market in Bamiyan. ISIS fighters attacked a "bus of tourists who are citizens of coalition countries", referring to a US-led coalition that battled the terrorist group in the Middle East. "The attack comes in line with the directives of the leaders of the Islamic State to target nationals of coalition countries wherever they may be," it further said in the Telegram post. Taliban arrest seven suspects Earlier, Taliban officials said that they had arrested seven suspects in the aftermath of the attack. One of the suspects was wounded, Taliban's Interior Ministry spokesperson Abdul Qani said, adding that an investigation was on and the Islamic Emirate was seriously looking into the matter. Also read | Afghanistan tourist attack: Injured in shooting are stable, says hospital This attack is believed to be the first deadly assault on foreign tourists since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021. The injured belong to Spain, Lithuania, Norway, Australia and Afghanistan. Injured are in stable condition: Hospital All the injured tourists in the attack were in a stable condition, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday citing the hospital they were taken to. The tourist group had 13 travellers, including six Spanish nationals. Spanish diplomats had travelled to Afghanistan and had been working to repatriate the bodies of the dead and transfer the wounded, in coordination with a European Union (EU) delegation in Kabul. The number of bombings and suicide attacks in Afghanistan has reduced since the Taliban took over. However, ISIS and a number of other armed groups remain a threat. More and more foreign travellers are visiting Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover, with official figures stating that more than 5,000 foreign tourists visited the country. But Western nations advise against all travel to the country, warning of elevated risks of kidnappings and attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan tourist attack: ISIS claims responsibility for shooting that killed six

The Afghan Taliban government has cancelled the visit of a Pakistani government delegation to Kandahar, in response to recent air and missile strikes by Pakistan in Paktika province. The visit was scheduled on Sunday (May 12). Watch in for more details!

Taliban cancels Pakistan delegation's visit to Kandahar

Taliban cancels Pakistan military delegation's visit to Kandahar

Taliban cancels Pakistan military delegation's visit to Kandahar over Pakistan airstrikes

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