Kabul has fallen and most of Afghanistan is under the Taliban's control. Thousands of Afghans are making desperate attempts to leave the country. Top Afghan leaders have also fled. However, the big question is where is Ashraf Ghani? Earlier reports mentioned that Ghani had left for Tajikistan following the Taliban's capture of Kabul.

Reports: Tajikistan refused permission to Ashraf Ghani's aircraft

What is Utopia? In other words, a highly perfect society? We have various definitions based on our own perspectives. Some would say it is about everyone having enough money to do whatever they want, others would drift towards having freedom of thought. But for those who have been robbed of their very basic social rights, it all boils down to whether they will be able to stay alive with dignity. Women in Afghanistan are battling with such dilemmas, now that Taliban have returned to power.

The group is known for its hardline stance against gender equality and women from all walks of life in Afghanistan are apprehensive that the progress of the last two decades will amount to nothing now that men with centuries-old thoughts are calling the shots.

The social media space is full of such sentiment. There is a touch of nostalgia to the fear. A longing for the days which appear to flit away.

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This is heart-breaking. Back in 2019, these beautiful Afghan women from Afghanistan's first and only female-only orchestra were full of hope. 
 
As the Taliban have invaded Afghanistan, women like them will be banned from singing. They'll be confined to their homes. <a href="https://t.co/OenYV0DcgE">pic.twitter.com/OenYV0DcgE</a>
— Masih Alinejad 🏳️ (@AlinejadMasih) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlinejadMasih/status/1426999324014174209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

What have girls like these done to Taliban to make them keep 'under control'? They perhaps were not even born when the ruthless regime was in power in late 90s.

In last two decades after Taliban's defeat in 2001, women could at least dream of something. Women politicians, journalists and even security personnel defined the changing social scene in Afghanistan.

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Women anchors on <a href="https://twitter.com/TOLOnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TOLOnews</a> <a href="https://t.co/YcutkgRpcX">pic.twitter.com/YcutkgRpcX</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1427547511955214336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A single day changed everything.

Taliban stormed into a defenceless Afghan capital without facing any resistance and ideas of a new Afghanistan appeared to be something that defined a bygone era.&nbsp;

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Same country, same journalist, one day difference<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AfganistanWomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AfganistanWomen</a> <a href="https://t.co/mvKQzE1sIr">pic.twitter.com/mvKQzE1sIr</a>
— Andrei Menshenin ✈️ (@A_Menshenin) <a href="https://twitter.com/A_Menshenin/status/1427286283135688706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The chaos at Kabul airport, the fear among even men, were just an indication of how bad things were.

On Monday, a blog written by an Afghan woman in The Guardian made waves&nbsp;online. She describes how women felt when Taliban entered Kabul on Sunday. The world appeared to assume tones distinctly different than before.

The unnamed woman was at the university when she heard about Taliban's entry in Kabul.

"We all wanted to get home, but we couldn’t use public transport. The drivers would not let us in their cars because they did not want to take responsibility for transporting a woman...," she writes as published by The Guardian.

"I worked for so many days and nights to become the person I am today, and this morning when I reached home, the very first thing my sisters and I did was hide our IDs, diplomas and certificates. It was devastating. Why should we hide the things that we should be proud of? In Afghanistan now we are not allowed to be known as the people we are," says the woman as mentioned in The Guardian.

You can read more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-womans-impassioned-blog-makes-waves-online-406127">here</a>

The Taliban have attempted to sound conciliatory. On Tuesday, they even said that they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-they-want-women-to-join-their-government-406258">wanted women to join their government</a>. But looking at Taliban's record, a more concrete declaration and practice is required to change the hearts and minds of Afghan women who only see darkness ahead.

What is Utopia? In other words, a highly perfect society? We have various definitions based on our own perspectives. Some would say it is about everyone having enough money to do whatever they want, others would drift towards having freedom of thought.

What is Utopia? In other words, a highly perfect society? We have various definitions based on our own perspectives. Some would say it is about everyone having enough money to do whatever they want, others would drift towards having freedom of thought. But for those who have been robbed of their very basic social rights, it all boils down to whether they will be able to stay alive with dignity. Women in Afghanistan are battling with such dilemmas, now that Taliban have returned to power. The group is known for its hardline stance against gender equality and women from all walks of life in Afghanistan are apprehensive that the progress of the last two decades will amount to nothing now that men with centuries-old thoughts are calling the shots. The social media space is full of such sentiment. There is a touch of nostalgia to the fear. A longing for the days which appear to flit away. This is heart-breaking. Back in 2019, these beautiful Afghan women from Afghanistan's first and only female-only orchestra were full of hope. As the Taliban have invaded Afghanistan, women like them will be banned from singing. They'll be confined to their homes. pic.twitter.com/OenYV0DcgE — Masih Alinejad 🏳️ (@AlinejadMasih) August 15, 2021 × What have girls like these done to Taliban to make them keep 'under control'? They perhaps were not even born when the ruthless regime was in power in late 90s. In last two decades after Taliban's defeat in 2001, women could at least dream of something. Women politicians, journalists and even security personnel defined the changing social scene in Afghanistan. Women anchors on @TOLOnews pic.twitter.com/YcutkgRpcX — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 17, 2021 × A single day changed everything. Taliban stormed into a defenceless Afghan capital without facing any resistance and ideas of a new Afghanistan appeared to be something that defined a bygone era. Same country, same journalist, one day difference#Afghanistan #AfganistanWomen pic.twitter.com/mvKQzE1sIr — Andrei Menshenin ✈️ (@A_Menshenin) August 16, 2021 × The chaos at Kabul airport, the fear among even men, were just an indication of how bad things were. On Monday, a blog written by an Afghan woman in The Guardian made waves online. She describes how women felt when Taliban entered Kabul on Sunday. The world appeared to assume tones distinctly different than before. The unnamed woman was at the university when she heard about Taliban's entry in Kabul. "We all wanted to get home, but we couldn’t use public transport. The drivers would not let us in their cars because they did not want to take responsibility for transporting a woman...," she writes as published by The Guardian. "I worked for so many days and nights to become the person I am today, and this morning when I reached home, the very first thing my sisters and I did was hide our IDs, diplomas and certificates. It was devastating. Why should we hide the things that we should be proud of? In Afghanistan now we are not allowed to be known as the people we are," says the woman as mentioned in The Guardian. You can read more here The Taliban have attempted to sound conciliatory. On Tuesday, they even said that they wanted women to join their government. But looking at Taliban's record, a more concrete declaration and practice is required to change the hearts and minds of Afghan women who only see darkness ahead.

Will such images of happy women in Afghanistan be a thing of the past?

Zakia Khudadadi, a 23-year-old athlete from Herat, would have been the first woman ever to represent Afghanistan at the Paralympics but now, her dreams have been shattered as she won't be able to participate due to the ongoing political crisis in the country.&nbsp;

Taekwondo athlete Zakia Khudadadi and discus thrower Hossain Rasouli were scheduled to compete in the Para Games in Tokyo,&nbsp;to be held between August 24 and September 5.&nbsp;

However, the International Paralympic Committee on Monday (August 16) confirmed that both the athletes would no longer be able to travel to Japan.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-paralympics-will-be-held-behind-closed-doors-due-to-covid-19-fears-organisers-406039">Tokyo Paralympics will be held behind closed doors due to COVID-19 fears: Organisers</a>

"Regrettably NPC (National Paralympic Committee) Afghanistan will no longer participate in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games," IPC spokesman Craig Spence said.

"Due to the serious ongoing situation in the country, all airports are closed and there is no way for them to travel to Tokyo."

"We hope the team and officials remain safe and well during this difficult time," Spence said.

The Afghanistan Paralympic Committee's London-based Chef de Mission Arian Sadiqi also weighed in on the situation and said that the team "could not leave Kabul in time".&nbsp;

"Unfortunately due to the current upheaval going on in Afghanistan the team could not leave Kabul in time," Sadiqi told Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-paralympics-opens-wheelchair-limb-repair-centre-in-games-village-405961">Tokyo Paralympics opens wheelchair, limb repair centre in Games village</a>

Zakia Khudadadi was profiled on the Paralympic website last week talking about her hopes for the Games.&nbsp;

Her profile stated, "I was thrilled after I received the news that I have got a wild card to compete at the Games. This is the first time that a female athlete will be representing Afghanistan at the Games and I'm so happy. I just want to be there with the other athletes from the world and give my best. It is an opportunity to show my ability and I will be so proud to stand with all of those athlete."&nbsp;

Sadiqi said the athletes had been trying to secure flights but the prices soared as the Taliban took over a string of cities.&nbsp;

"They were really excited prior to the situation. They were training wherever they could, in the parks and back gardens," he said.

Sadiqi said the future looked bleak for the immediate future. "There was a lot of progress, both in the Olympics and the Paralympics," he said of the last 20 years. "At the national level there was a lot of participants, a lot of athletes...but we can only predict from what happened in the past."

(with inputs from agencies)

Zakia Khudadadi, a 23-year-old athlete from Herat, would have been the first woman ever to represent Afghanistan at the Paralympics but now, her dreams have been shattered as she won't be able to participate due to the ongoing political crisis in the country.

Zakia Khudadadi, a 23-year-old athlete from Herat, would have been the first woman ever to represent Afghanistan at the Paralympics but now, her dreams have been shattered as she won't be able to participate due to the ongoing political crisis in the country. Taekwondo athlete Zakia Khudadadi and discus thrower Hossain Rasouli were scheduled to compete in the Para Games in Tokyo, to be held between August 24 and September 5. However, the International Paralympic Committee on Monday (August 16) confirmed that both the athletes would no longer be able to travel to Japan. ALSO READ | Tokyo Paralympics will be held behind closed doors due to COVID-19 fears: Organisers "Regrettably NPC (National Paralympic Committee) Afghanistan will no longer participate in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games," IPC spokesman Craig Spence said. "Due to the serious ongoing situation in the country, all airports are closed and there is no way for them to travel to Tokyo." "We hope the team and officials remain safe and well during this difficult time," Spence said. The Afghanistan Paralympic Committee's London-based Chef de Mission Arian Sadiqi also weighed in on the situation and said that the team "could not leave Kabul in time". "Unfortunately due to the current upheaval going on in Afghanistan the team could not leave Kabul in time," Sadiqi told Reuters. ALSO READ | Tokyo Paralympics opens wheelchair, limb repair centre in Games village Zakia Khudadadi was profiled on the Paralympic website last week talking about her hopes for the Games. Her profile stated, "I was thrilled after I received the news that I have got a wild card to compete at the Games. This is the first time that a female athlete will be representing Afghanistan at the Games and I'm so happy. I just want to be there with the other athletes from the world and give my best. It is an opportunity to show my ability and I will be so proud to stand with all of those athlete." Sadiqi said the athletes had been trying to secure flights but the prices soared as the Taliban took over a string of cities. "They were really excited prior to the situation. They were training wherever they could, in the parks and back gardens," he said. Sadiqi said the future looked bleak for the immediate future. "There was a lot of progress, both in the Olympics and the Paralympics," he said of the last 20 years. "At the national level there was a lot of participants, a lot of athletes...but we can only predict from what happened in the past." (with inputs from agencies)

Zakia Khudadadi's dream of becoming first Afghan female Paralympian shattered due to Taliban takeover chaos

A day after the Taliban took control of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/640-afghans-in-us-cargo-plane-afghans-fall-off-flying-plane-in-desperate-attempt-to-flee-taliban-watch-406167">Kabul</a>, videos appearing to show&nbsp;Taliban militants atop crashing cars have gone went viral on social media.

A Taliban militant was&nbsp;purportedly seen&nbsp;with a gun while sitting on the bumper car. In another video, the Taliban fighters appeared to take rounds in&nbsp;merry-go-round riding play horses amid chaos in Kabul.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a> amusement park <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/ELK0GjrwAm">pic.twitter.com/ELK0GjrwAm</a>
— Hamid Shalizi (@HamidShalizi) <a href="https://twitter.com/HamidShalizi/status/1427341653916983305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Taliban's latest exploits come even as the Afghans fled to the Hamid Karzai international airport in a desperate bid to escape from the new leadership in Afghanistan.

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Another one <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a> <a href="https://t.co/dLTRP2KZOX">pic.twitter.com/dLTRP2KZOX</a>
— Hamid Shalizi (@HamidShalizi) <a href="https://twitter.com/HamidShalizi/status/1427348052491264004?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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US officials on Monday evening had closed the airport in Kabul as hundreds of Afghans stood at the tarmac with several seen chasing US military planes as it left the airport.

Videos posted on social networks showed scenes of panic and fear in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taliban-have-won-rise-and-fall-of-afghan-president-ashraf-ghani-405867">Kabul</a> as people huddled together at the airport desperate to leave the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-india-brings-back-ambassador-embassy-staff-from-kabul-406158">LIVE Afghanistan crisis: As it happens</a>

Although the Pentagon had announced earlier it was making preparations for&nbsp;mass evacuation, Taliban's abrupt entry into the Afghan capital led to panic in the city.

Amid the confusion at the airport, a crisis cell has been set up to organise the reception of Afghan refugees on US bases. US officials said at least 2,000 Afghans have already been airlifted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-kabul-chaos-shocking-videos-and-photos-from-afghanistan-after-taliban-takeover-406056">WATCH - Kabul chaos: Shocking videos and photos from Afghanistan after Taliban takeover</a>

The US intends to transport thousands of interpreters and their families who helped the US forces in Afghanistan in the past 20 years.

The US reopened the airport on Tuesday morning after it was closed for several hours due to breakdown in security on the tarmac disrupting evacuation efforts as a US C-17 transport aircraft landed with US Marines aboard.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the&nbsp;videos

Video courtesy -Twitter:&nbsp;@HamidShalizi

(With inputs from Agencies)

A day after the Taliban took control of Kabul, videos appearing to show Taliban militants atop crashing cars have gone went viral on social media. A Taliban militant was purportedly seen with a gun while sitting on the bumper car.

A day after the Taliban took control of Kabul, videos appearing to show Taliban militants atop crashing cars have gone went viral on social media. A Taliban militant was purportedly seen with a gun while sitting on the bumper car. In another video, the Taliban fighters appeared to take rounds in merry-go-round riding play horses amid chaos in Kabul. #Kabul amusement park #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/ELK0GjrwAm — Hamid Shalizi (@HamidShalizi) August 16, 2021 × Taliban's latest exploits come even as the Afghans fled to the Hamid Karzai international airport in a desperate bid to escape from the new leadership in Afghanistan. Another one #Kabul pic.twitter.com/dLTRP2KZOX — Hamid Shalizi (@HamidShalizi) August 16, 2021 × US officials on Monday evening had closed the airport in Kabul as hundreds of Afghans stood at the tarmac with several seen chasing US military planes as it left the airport. Videos posted on social networks showed scenes of panic and fear in Kabul as people huddled together at the airport desperate to leave the country. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: As it happens Although the Pentagon had announced earlier it was making preparations for mass evacuation, Taliban's abrupt entry into the Afghan capital led to panic in the city. Amid the confusion at the airport, a crisis cell has been set up to organise the reception of Afghan refugees on US bases. US officials said at least 2,000 Afghans have already been airlifted. WATCH - Kabul chaos: Shocking videos and photos from Afghanistan after Taliban takeover The US intends to transport thousands of interpreters and their families who helped the US forces in Afghanistan in the past 20 years. The US reopened the airport on Tuesday morning after it was closed for several hours due to breakdown in security on the tarmac disrupting evacuation efforts as a US C-17 transport aircraft landed with US Marines aboard. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of the videos Video courtesy -Twitter: @HamidShalizi (With inputs from Agencies)

WATCH : Fun amid chaos - Taliban fighters ride in bumper cars with guns; ride horses in merry-go-round in Kabul- Watch

Women in Afghanistan dread the return of the Taliban’s repressive rule in the country. Afghan women fear that they would have to live through those harrowing “same dark days” of Taliban rule from 1996-2001.

Spiralling violence in Afghanistan puts women at risk

The fate of women in Afghanistan under Taliban control has been one of the most discussed issues in recent days, especially since it became obvious that the insurgents will take over the nation.

Zarifa Ghafari, who made history in 2018 by becoming Afghanistan's first female mayor, is sitting at home, waiting for the Taliban to come for her.

Ghafari faced a mob of men on her first day in office, but she refused to back down and kept acting as mayor of Maidan Shahr, Wardak province's capital and a Taliban stronghold. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/inside-pictures-of-plane-at-kabul-airport-as-afghans-battle-to-flee-taliban-rule-406237">Inside pictures of plane at Kabul airport as Afghans battle to flee Taliban rule</a>

"I'm sitting here waiting for them to come. There is no one to help me or my family. I'm just sitting with them and my husband. And they will come for people like me and kill me," Zarifa Ghafari, the mayor of Maidan Shar, told the British newspaper i. "I can't leave my family. And anyway, where would I go?"

In March 2020, the Trump administration presented her with the International Women of Courage Award, during which she warned that Afghan women are "always worried for the future" since they "have not forgotten the Taliban's reign." 
 
Watch: Satellite images show crowd at Kabul airport amid Taliban's capture of Kabul

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/satellite-images-show-crowd-at-kabul-airport-amid-talibans-capture-of-kabul-406243/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Women were compelled to wear a burqa, were not permitted to leave the house without a male guardian, were not allowed to work or even go to school when they were in control from 1996 to 2001.

"Younger people are aware of what's happening. They have social media. They communicate. I think they will continue fighting for progress and our rights. I think there is a future for this country," Ghafari said.

At the age of 26, Ghafari made history when she became the youngest and first female mayor in Afghanistan's Maidan Wardak province.

Ghafari, like other women who have managed to break free, is now frightened about the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

The fate of women in Afghanistan under Taliban control has been one of the most discussed issues in recent days, especially since it became obvious that the insurgents will take over the nation.

The fate of women in Afghanistan under Taliban control has been one of the most discussed issues in recent days, especially since it became obvious that the insurgents will take over the nation. Zarifa Ghafari, who made history in 2018 by becoming Afghanistan's first female mayor, is sitting at home, waiting for the Taliban to come for her. Ghafari faced a mob of men on her first day in office, but she refused to back down and kept acting as mayor of Maidan Shahr, Wardak province's capital and a Taliban stronghold. Inside pictures of plane at Kabul airport as Afghans battle to flee Taliban rule "I'm sitting here waiting for them to come. There is no one to help me or my family. I'm just sitting with them and my husband. And they will come for people like me and kill me," Zarifa Ghafari, the mayor of Maidan Shar, told the British newspaper i. "I can't leave my family. And anyway, where would I go?" In March 2020, the Trump administration presented her with the International Women of Courage Award, during which she warned that Afghan women are "always worried for the future" since they "have not forgotten the Taliban's reign." Watch: Satellite images show crowd at Kabul airport amid Taliban's capture of Kabul Women were compelled to wear a burqa, were not permitted to leave the house without a male guardian, were not allowed to work or even go to school when they were in control from 1996 to 2001. "Younger people are aware of what's happening. They have social media. They communicate. I think they will continue fighting for progress and our rights. I think there is a future for this country," Ghafari said. At the age of 26, Ghafari made history when she became the youngest and first female mayor in Afghanistan's Maidan Wardak province. Ghafari, like other women who have managed to break free, is now frightened about the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

'Waiting for Taliban to kill me and others like me', says Afghanistan's first woman mayor

What does the return of the Taliban mean for the people of Afghanistan? The last time the Taliban were in power, they not only suspended active politics but also put an end to all civil rights. Is it going to be the same this time?

Taliban to establish 'Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan'

Taliban on Tuesday declared amnesty across Afghanistan and said that they want women to join their government. These are one of the first comments on governance and Afghan women's participation in the country's political and social life.

The comment on women joining the newly emerging Afghan government came from Enamullah Samangani, as per AP news agency. Samangani is a member of Taliban's cultural commission. He said that the Islamic Emirate did not want women to be victims and they should be in the government structure according to Shariah law.

Previous rule by the Taliban in the late 1990s saw them adhering to the hardline stance towards women.

During that period, the Taliban imposed harsh, oppressive restrictions on women and brutally punished, even killed those who appeared to 'violate' their diktat by slightest of margins.

There is apprehension and fear among women who think that it will be a return to 'dark days' once Taliban solidify their grip on power.

There are expressions of these sentiments in the online space as well.

On Monday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-womans-impassioned-blog-makes-waves-online-406127">an impassioned blog</a> written by a 24-year-old unnamed Afghan woman made waves online.

Women politicians and journalists have voiced concern about their own safety as well.

Taliban on Tuesday declared amnesty across Afghanistan and said that they want women to join their government. These are one of the first comments on governance and Afghan women's participation in the country's political and social life.

Taliban on Tuesday declared amnesty across Afghanistan and said that they want women to join their government. These are one of the first comments on governance and Afghan women's participation in the country's political and social life. The comment on women joining the newly emerging Afghan government came from Enamullah Samangani, as per AP news agency. Samangani is a member of Taliban's cultural commission. He said that the Islamic Emirate did not want women to be victims and they should be in the government structure according to Shariah law. Previous rule by the Taliban in the late 1990s saw them adhering to the hardline stance towards women. During that period, the Taliban imposed harsh, oppressive restrictions on women and brutally punished, even killed those who appeared to 'violate' their diktat by slightest of margins. There is apprehension and fear among women who think that it will be a return to 'dark days' once Taliban solidify their grip on power. There are expressions of these sentiments in the online space as well. On Monday, an impassioned blog written by a 24-year-old unnamed Afghan woman made waves online. Women politicians and journalists have voiced concern about their own safety as well.

Taliban say they want women to join their government

As chaotic scenes at Kabul airport on Monday went viral across the world, satellite images showed thousands of Afghans attempting to board flights in a desperate bid to flee the capital as the Taliban took control of Kabul.

Watch:

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US officials had closed the Kabul airport on Monday evening as Afghans crowded the main tarmac at Hamid Karzai international airport, however, it was opened on Tuesday as the US and French nationals began leaving Afghanistan.

<img alt="Satellite image of Kabul airport" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f94db49b-cca6-42e9-a4cd-ed3ff7e5c09e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sat2.JPG" />

Satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies on Monday at approximately 10:30 am (local time) showed people at the airport as US military planes taxied on the runway with several Afghans following the plane in desperation.

Dramatic photo of 640 Afghans crammed into a US Air Force C-17 military plane with men, women and children created waves on social media on Tuesday.

The chaos at Kabul airport led German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to declare the images "shameful".

"The failure of the years-long efforts to build a stable and viable society in Afghanistan raises fundamental questions for the past and future of our foreign policy and military engagement," Steinmeier said.

<img alt="Satellite image of Kabul airport" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c11cf74-597c-490d-83b9-9b2fa07adca5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sat1.JPG" />

"The images of desperation at Kabul airport are shameful for the political West," the German president said as nationals began pulling out of Afghanistan.

Reports say Iran and Turkey are bracing for a refugee influx after witnessing chaos in Kabul on Monday. US President Joe Biden however defended his move saying the Afghan government was given "every chance to determine their own future".

"American troops cannot and should not be fighting in a war and dying in a war that Afghan forces are not willing to fight for themselves," the US president said in a televised address.

The United States has reportedly sent at least 6,000 troops to ensure the safe evacuation of embassy officials although scenes of Afghans clinging to the transport planes led to widespread criticism of the Biden administration.

(With inputs from Agencies)

&nbsp;

As chaotic scenes at Kabul airport on Monday went viral across the world, satellite images showed thousands of Afghans attempting to board flights in a desperate bid to flee the capital as the Taliban took control of Kabul.

As chaotic scenes at Kabul airport on Monday went viral across the world, satellite images showed thousands of Afghans attempting to board flights in a desperate bid to flee the capital as the Taliban took control of Kabul. Watch: US officials had closed the Kabul airport on Monday evening as Afghans crowded the main tarmac at Hamid Karzai international airport, however, it was opened on Tuesday as the US and French nationals began leaving Afghanistan. Satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies on Monday at approximately 10:30 am (local time) showed people at the airport as US military planes taxied on the runway with several Afghans following the plane in desperation. Dramatic photo of 640 Afghans crammed into a US Air Force C-17 military plane with men, women and children created waves on social media on Tuesday. The chaos at Kabul airport led German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to declare the images "shameful". "The failure of the years-long efforts to build a stable and viable society in Afghanistan raises fundamental questions for the past and future of our foreign policy and military engagement," Steinmeier said. "The images of desperation at Kabul airport are shameful for the political West," the German president said as nationals began pulling out of Afghanistan. Reports say Iran and Turkey are bracing for a refugee influx after witnessing chaos in Kabul on Monday. US President Joe Biden however defended his move saying the Afghan government was given "every chance to determine their own future". "American troops cannot and should not be fighting in a war and dying in a war that Afghan forces are not willing to fight for themselves," the US president said in a televised address. The United States has reportedly sent at least 6,000 troops to ensure the safe evacuation of embassy officials although scenes of Afghans clinging to the transport planes led to widespread criticism of the Biden administration. (With inputs from Agencies)

WATCH - Satellite images show chaos at Kabul airport after Taliban takeover of Afghanistan

Former USSR leader Mikhail Gorbachev, who oversaw the withdrawal of Soviet Union forces from Afghanistan in 1989 after Moscow's failed decade-long campaign there, on Tuesday said that NATO's deployment to the country had been doomed from the beginning.

Talking to the&nbsp;RIA Novosti news agency,&nbsp;Gorbachev said that "from the very start (the US invasion) was a bad idea, although Russia initially supported it,".

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"Failure should have been admitted earlier," 90-year-old Gorbachev said.&nbsp;

"Now it is important to learn from the situation and at least not repeat such mistakes," he added.

Taking advantage of US troops' withdrawal from Afghanistan, Taliban militants completed a military takeover of the country on Sunday.&nbsp;

In 2001, after the September 11 attacks, the US invaded Afghanistan following the Taliban refusal to hand over Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden.&nbsp;

Similarly, conducted by the Soviet Union, the invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 was aimed at supporting an Afghan communist government at odds with Muslim guerrilla fighters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/guantanamo-ex-inmates-emerge-as-key-players-in-talibans-victory-in-afghanistan-406238" hreflang="en">Guantanamo ex-inmates emerge as key players in Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan&nbsp;</a>

Soon after coming into power in 1985, Gorbachev formally ended Soviet involvement in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Soviet presence in Afghanistan at a time when the Soviet Union was experiencing what turned out to be its last days was perceived by Gorbachev as a political mistake wasting precious resources.

After Moscow withdrew its main forces from Afghanistan, the Soviet-backed regime survived for three years, but never recovered from a Russian decision&nbsp;to cut off aid to them.&nbsp;The Soviet Union collapsed in 1992 and the regime later that year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-airport-chaotic-scenes-are-shameful-for-the-west-says-german-president-406240" hreflang="en">Kabul airport chaotic scenes are 'shameful for the West', says German president</a>

Over the course of a decade, as many as two million Afghans were killed by Soviet troops in their Afghanistan conflict. Additionally, seven million Afghans were forced from their homes. The Soviet Union also lost approximately 14,000 soldiers.&nbsp;

It was fighters of the anti-Soviet Mujahideen who helped to establish the Taliban in the early 1990s.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former USSR leader Mikhail Gorbachev, who oversaw the withdrawal of Soviet Union forces from Afghanistan in 1989 after Moscow's failed decade-long campaign there, on Tuesday said that NATO's deployment to the country had been doomed from the beginning.

Former USSR leader Mikhail Gorbachev, who oversaw the withdrawal of Soviet Union forces from Afghanistan in 1989 after Moscow's failed decade-long campaign there, on Tuesday said that NATO's deployment to the country had been doomed from the beginning. Talking to the RIA Novosti news agency, Gorbachev said that "from the very start (the US invasion) was a bad idea, although Russia initially supported it,". LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul "Failure should have been admitted earlier," 90-year-old Gorbachev said. "Now it is important to learn from the situation and at least not repeat such mistakes," he added. Taking advantage of US troops' withdrawal from Afghanistan, Taliban militants completed a military takeover of the country on Sunday. In 2001, after the September 11 attacks, the US invaded Afghanistan following the Taliban refusal to hand over Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. Similarly, conducted by the Soviet Union, the invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 was aimed at supporting an Afghan communist government at odds with Muslim guerrilla fighters. Also read | Guantanamo ex-inmates emerge as key players in Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan Soon after coming into power in 1985, Gorbachev formally ended Soviet involvement in Afghanistan. Soviet presence in Afghanistan at a time when the Soviet Union was experiencing what turned out to be its last days was perceived by Gorbachev as a political mistake wasting precious resources. After Moscow withdrew its main forces from Afghanistan, the Soviet-backed regime survived for three years, but never recovered from a Russian decision to cut off aid to them. The Soviet Union collapsed in 1992 and the regime later that year. Also read | Kabul airport chaotic scenes are 'shameful for the West', says German president Over the course of a decade, as many as two million Afghans were killed by Soviet troops in their Afghanistan conflict. Additionally, seven million Afghans were forced from their homes. The Soviet Union also lost approximately 14,000 soldiers. It was fighters of the anti-Soviet Mujahideen who helped to establish the Taliban in the early 1990s. (With inputs from agencies)

Doomed from start: US invasion of Afghanistan was a 'bad idea', says last Soviet leader Gorbachev

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan has left regional heavyweights&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and Turkey with a headache -- both countries may see an opportunity to boost their influence but neither wants a further influx of refugees.

This is especially the case right now as both countries are battling the coronavirus pandemic and facing economic difficulties.

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Analysts say everything depends on the unknown factor -- whether the Taliban present a more moderate stance that allows for international cooperation or they return to the unbridled extremism that led to their overthrow in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

"The situation is a huge risk for Turkey, there is no doubt.&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;will also stand to lose if the Taliban returns to its old ways and provides a safe haven" for Islamist extremists, Asli Aydintasbas, a senior fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), told AFP.

Iran&nbsp;and Turkey both risk seeing substantial inflows of refugees, many of whom cross from&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;into Turkey in the hope of reaching Europe.&nbsp;

Both already host large refugee populations -- 3.6 million Syrians in Turkey and 3.5 million Afghans in&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;-- and tolerance at home is running out.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic</a> has hit&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;hard, pushing the sanctions-battered country further into crisis, while in Turkey the economic growth that was always the bulwark of Erdogan's popularity has faded away.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/guantanamo-ex-inmates-emerge-as-key-players-in-talibans-victory-in-afghanistan-406238" hreflang="en">Guantanamo ex-inmates emerge as key players in Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan&nbsp;</a>

Turkish President Recept Tayyip Erdogan said last week that he was prepared to meet the Taliban leadership in a bid to secure peace while&nbsp;Iran's new hardline President Ebrahim Rasi said the US military "defeat" in Afghanistan was a chance to bring peace to the country.

On Tuesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu talked of "positive messages" coming from the Taliban on protection for civilians and foreigners, expressing hope they would follow through with positive actions.

'Ticking bomb'&nbsp;

But analysts say the Taliban takeover has robbed Erdogan of a strategic card he was eager to play -- an offer to provide military security at Kabul airport that might have improved relations with US President Joe Biden.

"The whole Turkish mission is in jeopardy as well as the idea of using Kabul airport as leverage in relaunching Turkey’s relationship with Washington," Aydintasbas said, adding it was "hard to imagine" the Taliban letting Turkey control the airport.

"A few days ago this looked like a golden opportunity for Turkey. Now it is a huge ticking bomb."

Meanwhile, "the most pressing issue" for Erdogan is the possible influx of refugees from Afghanistan at a time of growing unrest in Turkey over the long-term presence of Syrians in the country, she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fun-amid-chaos-taliban-fighters-ride-in-bumper-cars-with-guns-ride-horses-in-merry-go-around-in-kabul-watch-406201" hreflang="en">Fun amid chaos: Taliban fighters ride in bumper cars with guns; ride horses in merry-go-around in Kabul- Watch</a>

Aydintasbas said neighbouring countries "have no idea what Taliban 2.0 will look like".

"If the Taliban has become more moderate then Turkey could engage with it," she said.

The International Crisis Group argued in a research note that the Taliban's diplomatic engagement "has shifted to a regionally focused approach", emphasising dialogue with&nbsp;Iran, Russia, Central Asian states and China.

US-led stability&nbsp;

Rouzbeh Parsi of the Swedish Institute of International Affairs, said US forces leaving the region was&nbsp;Iran's stated goal, but their departure was far from entirely welcome for Tehran.

"US support for the governments in Afghanistan and Iraq has also been helpful for&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;in that it ensured a certain stability and US did the heavy lifting," he said.

Overwhelmingly Shiite&nbsp;Iran, which shares a more than 900-kilometre (550-mile) border with Afghanistan, appeared keen to achieve peaceful coexistence with the Sunni Taliban, he said.

"Iran&nbsp;has for some time, pragmatic as always, accepted that the Taliban are not going to disappear and that no outsider will be able to militarily defeat them," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-unidentified-man-shoots-at-a-civilian-trying-to-enter-kabul-airport-406227" hreflang="en">Watch: Unidentified man shoots at a civilian trying to enter Kabul airport</a>

"Iran&nbsp;is a country heavily beset by Covid, corruption, and a faltering economy. The ability and willingness to take on more Afghan refugees is probably not great."

Parsi added that&nbsp;Iran's future relationship with the new rulers in Kabul "hinges on the pragmatism of the Taliban", noting that Tehran would pay particular attention to the wellbeing of the mainly Shiite, Persian-speaking Hazara minority.

Marc Pierini, visiting scholar at Carnegie Europe and a former EU ambassador to Turkey, said Europe was anxiously watching the potential migrant flows after a million people reached its shores mainly through Turkey in 2015 when the Syrian conflict was at its peak.&nbsp;

"Handling this emergency will require a degree of confident humanitarian cooperation between the EU and&nbsp;Iran-Turkey, which will be difficult to achieve," he told AFP.

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan has left regional heavyweights Iran and Turkey with a headache -- both countries may see an opportunity to boost their influence but neither wants a further influx of refugees.

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan has left regional heavyweights Iran and Turkey with a headache -- both countries may see an opportunity to boost their influence but neither wants a further influx of refugees. This is especially the case right now as both countries are battling the coronavirus pandemic and facing economic difficulties. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul Analysts say everything depends on the unknown factor -- whether the Taliban present a more moderate stance that allows for international cooperation or they return to the unbridled extremism that led to their overthrow in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks. "The situation is a huge risk for Turkey, there is no doubt. Iran will also stand to lose if the Taliban returns to its old ways and provides a safe haven" for Islamist extremists, Asli Aydintasbas, a senior fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), told AFP. Iran and Turkey both risk seeing substantial inflows of refugees, many of whom cross from Iran into Turkey in the hope of reaching Europe. Both already host large refugee populations -- 3.6 million Syrians in Turkey and 3.5 million Afghans in Iran -- and tolerance at home is running out. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit Iran hard, pushing the sanctions-battered country further into crisis, while in Turkey the economic growth that was always the bulwark of Erdogan's popularity has faded away. Also read | Guantanamo ex-inmates emerge as key players in Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan Turkish President Recept Tayyip Erdogan said last week that he was prepared to meet the Taliban leadership in a bid to secure peace while Iran's new hardline President Ebrahim Rasi said the US military "defeat" in Afghanistan was a chance to bring peace to the country. On Tuesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu talked of "positive messages" coming from the Taliban on protection for civilians and foreigners, expressing hope they would follow through with positive actions. 'Ticking bomb' But analysts say the Taliban takeover has robbed Erdogan of a strategic card he was eager to play -- an offer to provide military security at Kabul airport that might have improved relations with US President Joe Biden. "The whole Turkish mission is in jeopardy as well as the idea of using Kabul airport as leverage in relaunching Turkey’s relationship with Washington," Aydintasbas said, adding it was "hard to imagine" the Taliban letting Turkey control the airport. "A few days ago this looked like a golden opportunity for Turkey. Now it is a huge ticking bomb." Meanwhile, "the most pressing issue" for Erdogan is the possible influx of refugees from Afghanistan at a time of growing unrest in Turkey over the long-term presence of Syrians in the country, she said. Also read | Fun amid chaos: Taliban fighters ride in bumper cars with guns; ride horses in merry-go-around in Kabul- Watch Aydintasbas said neighbouring countries "have no idea what Taliban 2.0 will look like". "If the Taliban has become more moderate then Turkey could engage with it," she said. The International Crisis Group argued in a research note that the Taliban's diplomatic engagement "has shifted to a regionally focused approach", emphasising dialogue with Iran, Russia, Central Asian states and China. US-led stability Rouzbeh Parsi of the Swedish Institute of International Affairs, said US forces leaving the region was Iran's stated goal, but their departure was far from entirely welcome for Tehran. "US support for the governments in Afghanistan and Iraq has also been helpful for Iran in that it ensured a certain stability and US did the heavy lifting," he said. Overwhelmingly Shiite Iran, which shares a more than 900-kilometre (550-mile) border with Afghanistan, appeared keen to achieve peaceful coexistence with the Sunni Taliban, he said. "Iran has for some time, pragmatic as always, accepted that the Taliban are not going to disappear and that no outsider will be able to militarily defeat them," he said. Also read | Watch: Unidentified man shoots at a civilian trying to enter Kabul airport "Iran is a country heavily beset by Covid, corruption, and a faltering economy. The ability and willingness to take on more Afghan refugees is probably not great." Parsi added that Iran's future relationship with the new rulers in Kabul "hinges on the pragmatism of the Taliban", noting that Tehran would pay particular attention to the wellbeing of the mainly Shiite, Persian-speaking Hazara minority. Marc Pierini, visiting scholar at Carnegie Europe and a former EU ambassador to Turkey, said Europe was anxiously watching the potential migrant flows after a million people reached its shores mainly through Turkey in 2015 when the Syrian conflict was at its peak. "Handling this emergency will require a degree of confident humanitarian cooperation between the EU and Iran-Turkey, which will be difficult to achieve," he told AFP.

Taliban takeover leaves Iran and Turkey fearing refugee influx

Afghanistan's neighbour Uzbekistan on Tuesday said that they are in close contact with the Taliban and that they will "strictly suppress" any attempts to breach their borders after the insurgent group seized power in the country.

The former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan, one of three Central Asian countries bordering Afghanistan, released the statement following days of mayhem during which Afghan troops illegally crossed into the republic to escape the Taliban's advance amid the US military pullout.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Uzbekistan's foreign ministry said that it supported the pledge of "internal Afghan forces" for an inclusive government and said Tashkent was "looking forward to achieving a comprehensive peace in the framework of the inter-Afghan talks in Doha."

Ministry officials say that they are in discussions with the Taliban over "issues of ensuring the protection of borders and maintaining calm in the border zone".

Kabul's government collapsed in a matter of days to the alarm of many Central Asian countries.

According to&nbsp;Russian news agencies Interfax and RIA Novosti, over 100 Afghan soldiers had been allowed to land at Bokhtar Airport in&nbsp;the south of the country&nbsp;by neighbouring Tajikistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-they-want-women-to-join-their-government-406258" hreflang="en">Taliban say they want women to join their government</a>

In comparison to other Central Asian nations that border Afghanistan, Tadjikistan has not yet held official talks with the Taliban.&nbsp;

Three fighter planes carrying the soldiers landed in Bokhtar on Monday night, reported RIA Novosti.&nbsp;

Its interior ministry announced Monday that it will hold joint military exercises with China from August 17 to 20 to "combat terrorism in mountainous areas."&nbsp;

A military drill led by Russia took place in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan earlier this month near their borders with Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan's neighbour Uzbekistan on Tuesday said that they are in close contact with the Taliban and that they will "strictly suppress" any attempts to breach their borders after the insurgent group seized power in the country.

Afghanistan's neighbour Uzbekistan on Tuesday said that they are in close contact with the Taliban and that they will "strictly suppress" any attempts to breach their borders after the insurgent group seized power in the country. The former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan, one of three Central Asian countries bordering Afghanistan, released the statement following days of mayhem during which Afghan troops illegally crossed into the republic to escape the Taliban's advance amid the US military pullout. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul Uzbekistan's foreign ministry said that it supported the pledge of "internal Afghan forces" for an inclusive government and said Tashkent was "looking forward to achieving a comprehensive peace in the framework of the inter-Afghan talks in Doha." Ministry officials say that they are in discussions with the Taliban over "issues of ensuring the protection of borders and maintaining calm in the border zone". Kabul's government collapsed in a matter of days to the alarm of many Central Asian countries. According to Russian news agencies Interfax and RIA Novosti, over 100 Afghan soldiers had been allowed to land at Bokhtar Airport in the south of the country by neighbouring Tajikistan. Also read | Taliban say they want women to join their government In comparison to other Central Asian nations that border Afghanistan, Tadjikistan has not yet held official talks with the Taliban. Three fighter planes carrying the soldiers landed in Bokhtar on Monday night, reported RIA Novosti. Its interior ministry announced Monday that it will hold joint military exercises with China from August 17 to 20 to "combat terrorism in mountainous areas." A military drill led by Russia took place in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan earlier this month near their borders with Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Uzbekistan says in contact with Taliban, warns over border violations

Turkish government officials said on Tuesday they welcomed Taliban fighters' "positive messages" to the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan.

During the past few months, Turkey has held discussions with Taliban leaders about a range of topics, including its offer to protect Kabul's airport following the withdrawal of US troops.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-india-brings-back-ambassador-embassy-staff-from-kabul-406158">LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul</a></h2>

On Monday, Turkey evacuated more than 300 Turkish nationals from Afghanistan after Taliban forces moved into the capital over the weekend. The country also moved its embassy staff to the safety of the airport.

Speaking at an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, the Turkish Foreign Minister said Ankara was taking a wait-and-see approach about its offer to protect the airport.

During an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, Turkish Foreign Minister&nbsp;Mevlut Cavusoglu&nbsp;said that Ankara is using a wait-and-see approach&nbsp;about its offer to protect the airport.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-they-want-women-to-join-their-government-406258" hreflang="en">Taliban say they want women to join their government</a>

Despite that, he said the Taliban's first remarks were encouraging.

"We welcome the positive messages given by the Taliban to foreigners, diplomatic missions and their own population. I hope we will see (the same approach) in their actions," he said in televised remarks.

Turkish personnel have been playing a role in the security of the strategic air hub for years, pointed out Cavusoglu, adding that Ankara wanted to observe what happens in Kabul to see how the situation plays out.

"We continue a dialogue with all parties in&nbsp;Afghanistan, including the Taliban," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/waiting-for-taliban-to-kill-me-and-others-like-me-says-afghanistans-first-woman-mayor-406254" hreflang="en">'Waiting for Taliban to kill me and others like me', says Afghanistan's first woman mayor</a>

"Right now, (the Afghans) are going to discuss all these issues among themselves. Who is going to take part in the transition, what kind of temporary government they will have. We will see and discuss all of this."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Turkish government officials said on Tuesday they welcomed Taliban fighters' "positive messages" to the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan.

Turkish government officials said on Tuesday they welcomed Taliban fighters' "positive messages" to the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan. During the past few months, Turkey has held discussions with Taliban leaders about a range of topics, including its offer to protect Kabul's airport following the withdrawal of US troops. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul On Monday, Turkey evacuated more than 300 Turkish nationals from Afghanistan after Taliban forces moved into the capital over the weekend. The country also moved its embassy staff to the safety of the airport. Speaking at an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, the Turkish Foreign Minister said Ankara was taking a wait-and-see approach about its offer to protect the airport. During an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Ankara is using a wait-and-see approach about its offer to protect the airport. Also read | Taliban say they want women to join their government Despite that, he said the Taliban's first remarks were encouraging. "We welcome the positive messages given by the Taliban to foreigners, diplomatic missions and their own population. I hope we will see (the same approach) in their actions," he said in televised remarks. Turkish personnel have been playing a role in the security of the strategic air hub for years, pointed out Cavusoglu, adding that Ankara wanted to observe what happens in Kabul to see how the situation plays out. "We continue a dialogue with all parties in Afghanistan, including the Taliban," he said. Also read | 'Waiting for Taliban to kill me and others like me', says Afghanistan's first woman mayor "Right now, (the Afghans) are going to discuss all these issues among themselves. Who is going to take part in the transition, what kind of temporary government they will have. We will see and discuss all of this." (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey welcomes 'positive messages' from Taliban, says in talks with the group

Australia has said that it will not be able to help all Afghans that assisted its military. Australia becomes a second country after the United Kingdom to admit to this possibility.

Australia & UK admit to being unable to evacuate all Afghan helpers

A day after the Taliban took over Kabul, India has evacuated its envoy to Afghanistan Rudrendra Tandon and also other embassy staff members safely.

India evacuates its embassy in Kabul amid escalating crisis in Afghanistan

The United States has laid out conditions for recognising a Taliban government. The US state department has said that the Taliban government will be recognised if it respects human rights, including women’s rights.

US lays out conditions for recognising a new government in Afghanistan

Horrifying scenes from Afghanistan are now making their way to the internet as thousands try to flee the war torn country that is falling deeper into the hands of militant group Taliban, than ever before.&nbsp;

The Afghan government collapsed on August 15 as the Taliban entered Kabul virtually unopposed leading to massive chaos and utter disruption of law and order. With fear and mass displacement of people from their homes courtesy the unforeseen circumstances, Afghanistan is now facing a&nbsp;humanitarian crisis.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-india-brings-back-ambassador-embassy-staff-from-kabul-406158" hreflang="en">LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul</a></h2>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-where-did-us-go-wrong-in-fight-against-taliban-406022">Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban?</a>

Here are some visuals that have been reported from Afghanistan as people hastily try&nbsp;to leave the country:

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In a desperate attempt to leave <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>, people are hanging on to the tires and the wing of the plane. Watch horrifying video of people falling from a flight takeoff at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a> Airport <a href="https://t.co/2g1DW29jSU">pic.twitter.com/2g1DW29jSU</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1427214932378996737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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People desparately running with the aircrafts. Shocking images from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a> airport. Watch!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/jGsArPzozo">pic.twitter.com/jGsArPzozo</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1427206946961063937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After the Taliban swept <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a>, residents are desperate to flee <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>. Watch the chaos at the Kabul airport. <a href="https://t.co/WbxK1wzHdM">pic.twitter.com/WbxK1wzHdM</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1427152454479532038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As the Taliban take control of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> presidential palace, former Afghan President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AshrafGhani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AshrafGhani</a>'s poster was pulled down. Watch! <a href="https://t.co/UL6VcwyRow">pic.twitter.com/UL6VcwyRow</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1427119931057860613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InPics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InPics</a> | Dramatic images have expounded, showing a scene of chaos on the runway, with civilians frantically clambering up an already overcrowded and buckling set of airstairs<a href="https://t.co/NmSGpSC5Kb">https://t.co/NmSGpSC5Kb</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gravitas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gravitas</a> | Barely a day after it took over <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a>, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> is controlling the streets of Afghanistan's capital. 
WION's correspondent <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnasMallick</a> captured what Kabul looks like after the Taliban takeover.<a href="https://twitter.com/MollyGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MollyGambhir</a> <a href="https://t.co/gOr8sGazPR">pic.twitter.com/gOr8sGazPR</a>
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Mayhem continuing at Kabul Airport. Shots being fired at individuals attempting to jump the wall <a href="https://t.co/aWbdigLF1o">pic.twitter.com/aWbdigLF1o</a>
— Saad Mohseni (@saadmohseni) <a href="https://twitter.com/saadmohseni/status/1427318610465280008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-osama-to-armadillo-6-movies-about-the-war-in-afghanistan-that-you-need-to-watch-399018" hreflang="en">From 'Osama' to 'Armadillo': 6 movies about the war in Afghanistan that you need to watch</a>

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify&nbsp;the authenticity of these videos and images.

Horrifying scenes from Afghanistan are now making their way to the internet as thousands try to flee the war torn country that is falling deeper into the hands of militant group Taliban, than ever before.

Horrifying scenes from Afghanistan are now making their way to the internet as thousands try to flee the war torn country that is falling deeper into the hands of militant group Taliban, than ever before. The Afghan government collapsed on August 15 as the Taliban entered Kabul virtually unopposed leading to massive chaos and utter disruption of law and order. With fear and mass displacement of people from their homes courtesy the unforeseen circumstances, Afghanistan is now facing a humanitarian crisis. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul ALSO READ | Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban? Here are some visuals that have been reported from Afghanistan as people hastily try to leave the country: In a desperate attempt to leave #Afghanistan, people are hanging on to the tires and the wing of the plane. Watch horrifying video of people falling from a flight takeoff at #Kabul Airport pic.twitter.com/2g1DW29jSU — WION (@WIONews) August 16, 2021 × People desparately running with the aircrafts. Shocking images from #Kabul airport. Watch!#Taliban #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/jGsArPzozo — WION (@WIONews) August 16, 2021 × After the Taliban swept #Kabul, residents are desperate to flee #Afghanistan. Watch the chaos at the Kabul airport. pic.twitter.com/WbxK1wzHdM — WION (@WIONews) August 16, 2021 × As the Taliban take control of the #Afghanistan presidential palace, former Afghan President #AshrafGhani's poster was pulled down. Watch! pic.twitter.com/UL6VcwyRow — WION (@WIONews) August 16, 2021 × #InPics | Dramatic images have expounded, showing a scene of chaos on the runway, with civilians frantically clambering up an already overcrowded and buckling set of airstairshttps://t.co/NmSGpSC5Kb — WION (@WIONews) August 16, 2021 × #Gravitas | Barely a day after it took over #Kabul, the #Taliban is controlling the streets of Afghanistan's capital. WION's correspondent @AnasMallick captured what Kabul looks like after the Taliban takeover.@MollyGambhir pic.twitter.com/gOr8sGazPR — WION (@WIONews) August 16, 2021 × Mayhem continuing at Kabul Airport. Shots being fired at individuals attempting to jump the wall pic.twitter.com/aWbdigLF1o — Saad Mohseni (@saadmohseni) August 16, 2021 × Also see: From 'Osama' to 'Armadillo': 6 movies about the war in Afghanistan that you need to watch Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of these videos and images.

WATCH - Kabul chaos: Shocking videos and photos from Afghanistan after Taliban takeover

In the Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan against the government forces, it seems former inmates of Guantanamo have played a crucial role. &nbsp;&nbsp;

One of the Taliban leaders, who gave a victory speech from the presidential palace, described himself as a former inmate of Guantanamo, while another detainee in the infamous prison is also emerging as a key figure in the regime change.&nbsp;

The first inmate, who is presently a commander of the Taliban, gave the address live-streamed by Al-Jazeera news channel from inside the presidential palace in Kabul. He said he had spent eight years in the US Navy-controlled detention centre in Guantanamo Bay.&nbsp;

According to experts, the name of the commander is Gholam Ruhani, who was accused by the US of being a security agent for the Taliban's Ministry of Intelligence with close family ties to the senior members of the group, a Daily Mail report said.&nbsp;

As per his Guantanamo file, he was born in 1975 and grew up in Ghazni, before being sent to Iran by his parents to avoid the Afghan-Soviet war.&nbsp;

He returned home in 1992 and after Taliban took over, joined the Ministry of Intelligence to avoid being drafted for combat operations. He was a part of a security detail patrolling the streets of Kabul, as per US officials.&nbsp;

The other inmate is Khairullah Khairkhwa. The Taliban member was released from Gitmo by Obama administration even though the Pentagon classified him as too dangerous to release, a New York Post report said.&nbsp;

Mullah Khairkhwa had previously served as the Taliban’s minister of interior in Afghanistan, where he oversaw enforcement of brutal Islamist punishments. &nbsp;

After 9/11, he was held in Pakistan and sent to Gitmo in 2002. The Pentagon had accused him of closely associating with Osama bin Laden and his henchmen.&nbsp;

In the Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan against the government forces, it seems former inmates of Guantanamo have played a crucial role. One of the Taliban leaders, who gave a victory speech from the presidential palace, described himself as a former inmate of Guantanamo, while another detainee in the infamous prison is also emerging as a key figure in the regime change.

In the Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan against the government forces, it seems former inmates of Guantanamo have played a crucial role. One of the Taliban leaders, who gave a victory speech from the presidential palace, described himself as a former inmate of Guantanamo, while another detainee in the infamous prison is also emerging as a key figure in the regime change. The first inmate, who is presently a commander of the Taliban, gave the address live-streamed by Al-Jazeera news channel from inside the presidential palace in Kabul. He said he had spent eight years in the US Navy-controlled detention centre in Guantanamo Bay. According to experts, the name of the commander is Gholam Ruhani, who was accused by the US of being a security agent for the Taliban's Ministry of Intelligence with close family ties to the senior members of the group, a Daily Mail report said. As per his Guantanamo file, he was born in 1975 and grew up in Ghazni, before being sent to Iran by his parents to avoid the Afghan-Soviet war. He returned home in 1992 and after Taliban took over, joined the Ministry of Intelligence to avoid being drafted for combat operations. He was a part of a security detail patrolling the streets of Kabul, as per US officials. The other inmate is Khairullah Khairkhwa. The Taliban member was released from Gitmo by Obama administration even though the Pentagon classified him as too dangerous to release, a New York Post report said. Mullah Khairkhwa had previously served as the Taliban’s minister of interior in Afghanistan, where he oversaw enforcement of brutal Islamist punishments. After 9/11, he was held in Pakistan and sent to Gitmo in 2002. The Pentagon had accused him of closely associating with Osama bin Laden and his henchmen.

Guantanamo ex-inmates emerge as key players in Taliban’s victory in Afghanistan 

As the Taliban consolidated power after overrunning <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/640-afghans-in-us-cargo-plane-afghans-fall-off-flying-plane-in-desperate-attempt-to-flee-taliban-watch-406167">Kabul </a>on Sunday, Turkey said it welcomes "positive messages" given by the Taliban to foreigners.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/inside-pictures-of-plane-at-kabul-airport-as-afghans-battle-to-flee-taliban-rule-406237">Inside pictures of plane at Kabul airport as Afghans battle to flee Taliban rule</a>

"We welcome the positive messages given by the Taliban to foreigners, diplomatic missions and their own population. I hope we will see the same approach in their actions," Turkey's&nbsp;foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said.

Meanwhile, Germany's defence minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer said NATO should learn lessons from the Afghanistan mission. German President said&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;airport's chaotic scenes are "shameful for the West".

Watch:

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"The question for us will be to what extent are we willing to carry the consequences for this, and to what extent we are prepared to take measures that up to this point we have left to the Americans," Kramp-Karrenbauer said.

Germany had sent its special forces to ensure the evacuation&nbsp;of its citizens amid chaotic scenes at Kabul airport on Monday. Armin Laschet, the leader of Angela Merkel's ruling party said it was "the biggest debacle" in NATO's history.

A spokesman for the German foreign ministry in a statement said: "Due to the chaotic situation at the airport and the regular exchange of fire at the access point yesterday, further German citizens and people to be evacuated could not be given access to the airport without the protection of the Bundeswehr [German army]."

Evacuations flights at<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-president-biden-pins-blame-for-afghanistan-debacle-on-ghani-govt-406173"> Kabul</a> airport were restarted on Tuesday after US authorities closed operations as Afghans entered the tarmac as several videos on social media appeared to show them chasing after military planes as it taxied on the runway.

Germany, France and Australia have reportedly organised charter flights to bring back their nationals.

Schools and universities remained closed in Kabul even as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said: "The world is watching".

(With inputs from Agencies)

 
&nbsp;

As the Taliban consolidated power after overrunning Kabul on Sunday, Turkey said it welcomes "positive messages" given by the Taliban to foreigners. Inside pictures of plane at Kabul airport as Afghans battle to flee Taliban rule "We welcome the positive messages given by the Taliban to foreigners, diplomatic missions and their own population.

As the Taliban consolidated power after overrunning Kabul on Sunday, Turkey said it welcomes "positive messages" given by the Taliban to foreigners. Inside pictures of plane at Kabul airport as Afghans battle to flee Taliban rule "We welcome the positive messages given by the Taliban to foreigners, diplomatic missions and their own population. I hope we will see the same approach in their actions," Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said. Meanwhile, Germany's defence minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer said NATO should learn lessons from the Afghanistan mission. German President said Kabul airport's chaotic scenes are "shameful for the West". Watch: "The question for us will be to what extent are we willing to carry the consequences for this, and to what extent we are prepared to take measures that up to this point we have left to the Americans," Kramp-Karrenbauer said. Germany had sent its special forces to ensure the evacuation of its citizens amid chaotic scenes at Kabul airport on Monday. Armin Laschet, the leader of Angela Merkel's ruling party said it was "the biggest debacle" in NATO's history. A spokesman for the German foreign ministry in a statement said: "Due to the chaotic situation at the airport and the regular exchange of fire at the access point yesterday, further German citizens and people to be evacuated could not be given access to the airport without the protection of the Bundeswehr [German army]." Evacuations flights at Kabul airport were restarted on Tuesday after US authorities closed operations as Afghans entered the tarmac as several videos on social media appeared to show them chasing after military planes as it taxied on the runway. Germany, France and Australia have reportedly organised charter flights to bring back their nationals. Schools and universities remained closed in Kabul even as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said: "The world is watching". (With inputs from Agencies)

Kabul airport chaotic scenes are 'shameful for the West', says German president

It’s been a heavy week for us all as the world watches Afghanistan crumble in the hands of militant group Taliban that has taken control over major parts of the country. After US troops pulled out of the country, the Afghanistan government collapsed and gave in to the miscreants.&nbsp;

While the world watches with a heavy heart at the sad state of affairs, on Monday’s episode of The Late Show, Stephen Colbert said it feels like a ripped ‘Band Aid’ scenario. He dedicated his entire monologue to the Taliban’ takeover of Afghanistan and the US’ withdrawal from the country after 20 years.&nbsp;

Stephen Colbert said, “The US has been there for 20 years. We spent $2 trillion. We trained a 300,000-man strong Afghan army, and the Taliban took it over in 10 days. The country is in complete chaos.”

Stephen noted that US President Joe Biden is facing some flak for not leaving the country with some stability and support. He admitted that Biden will face the music “because he’s the President.” He then cut to a clip in which ABC’s Martha Raddatz referred to a “massive intelligence failure” on the part of the US.&nbsp;

<h2>ALSO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-kabul-chaos-shocking-videos-and-photos-from-afghanistan-after-taliban-takeover-406056" hreflang="en">WATCH - Kabul chaos: Shocking videos and photos from Afghanistan after Taliban takeover</a></h2>

Stephen said, “That’s gotta sting when people describe your foreign policy the same way they describe Ron DeSantis.” He admitted that “it’s hard to argue that the White House didn’t shank the withdrawal.”

Joe Biden had said in a July 8 press conference that “the likelihood there’s going to be the Taliban overrunning everything and owning the whole country is highly unlikely.” Stephen said this was the most inaccurate prediction from a president since Abraham Lincoln said, ‘See you after the play.'”

<h2>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/the-art-and-cinema-we-risk-of-losing-in-talibans-takeover-of-afghanistan-406118" hreflang="en">The art and cinema we risk of losing in Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan</a></h2>

However, Stephen agreed that Biden was right in pulling out the troops as “American troops cannot and should not be fighting in a war and dying in a war that Afghan forces are not willing to fight for themselves.” Stephen said, “He’s right. Why should our soldiers be fighting radicals in a civil war in Afghanistan? We’ve got our own on Capitol Hill. What’s happening now is the responsibility of both parties, and the American people who voted them into office.”

He also touched on Biden’s points that we, as a country, did everything we could for the Afghans, and that the Taliban would have taken over Afghanistan, regardless of the timing of U.S. withdrawal.

“Maybe Biden’s right. Maybe there was no good alternative. Were we never supposed to leave? Make Afghanistan the 51st state?” he wondered. “In the end, you can make us accept that there was no good alternative, but you can’t make us feel good about it. The only people who can feel good about this are the service members and their families who aren’t going to see soldiers sent into harm’s way for no reason that the commander-in-chief of either party can articulate.”

The host ended with, “So pulling out might be the right thing to do, but it’s heartbreaking, it’s humbling, when the right thing feels so wrong.” 
&nbsp;

It’s been a heavy week for us all as the world watches Afghanistan crumble in the hands of militant group Taliban that has taken control over major parts of the country.

It’s been a heavy week for us all as the world watches Afghanistan crumble in the hands of militant group Taliban that has taken control over major parts of the country. After US troops pulled out of the country, the Afghanistan government collapsed and gave in to the miscreants. While the world watches with a heavy heart at the sad state of affairs, on Monday’s episode of The Late Show, Stephen Colbert said it feels like a ripped ‘Band Aid’ scenario. He dedicated his entire monologue to the Taliban’ takeover of Afghanistan and the US’ withdrawal from the country after 20 years. Stephen Colbert said, “The US has been there for 20 years. We spent $2 trillion. We trained a 300,000-man strong Afghan army, and the Taliban took it over in 10 days. The country is in complete chaos.” Stephen noted that US President Joe Biden is facing some flak for not leaving the country with some stability and support. He admitted that Biden will face the music “because he’s the President.” He then cut to a clip in which ABC’s Martha Raddatz referred to a “massive intelligence failure” on the part of the US. ALSO WATCH - Kabul chaos: Shocking videos and photos from Afghanistan after Taliban takeover Stephen said, “That’s gotta sting when people describe your foreign policy the same way they describe Ron DeSantis.” He admitted that “it’s hard to argue that the White House didn’t shank the withdrawal.” Joe Biden had said in a July 8 press conference that “the likelihood there’s going to be the Taliban overrunning everything and owning the whole country is highly unlikely.” Stephen said this was the most inaccurate prediction from a president since Abraham Lincoln said, ‘See you after the play.'” ALSO READ: The art and cinema we risk of losing in Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan However, Stephen agreed that Biden was right in pulling out the troops as “American troops cannot and should not be fighting in a war and dying in a war that Afghan forces are not willing to fight for themselves.” Stephen said, “He’s right. Why should our soldiers be fighting radicals in a civil war in Afghanistan? We’ve got our own on Capitol Hill. What’s happening now is the responsibility of both parties, and the American people who voted them into office.” He also touched on Biden’s points that we, as a country, did everything we could for the Afghans, and that the Taliban would have taken over Afghanistan, regardless of the timing of U.S. withdrawal. “Maybe Biden’s right. Maybe there was no good alternative. Were we never supposed to leave? Make Afghanistan the 51st state?” he wondered. “In the end, you can make us accept that there was no good alternative, but you can’t make us feel good about it. The only people who can feel good about this are the service members and their families who aren’t going to see soldiers sent into harm’s way for no reason that the commander-in-chief of either party can articulate.” The host ended with, “So pulling out might be the right thing to do, but it’s heartbreaking, it’s humbling, when the right thing feels so wrong.”

Stephen Colbert on US pulling out of Afghanistan amid rise of Taliban: Right thing feels so wrong

India on Tuesday safely evacuated over 150 citizens, including diplomats from Afghanistan amid chaos following Taliban takeover. The aircraft C-17 Globemaster took off at 7 a.m. this morning.

India evacuates its diplomats from Afghanistan amid chaos

As Taliban takes control of Afghanistan, here's a look at who's who of Taliban’s top leadership.

Who all comprise Taliban's top leadership?

As the Taliban took control of capital Kabul on Sunday and are on their way to take control of the government, WION speaks to Amar Sinha, Former envoy to Afghanistan over the security situation in the country and the future of Afghan women.

Hopeful of a peaceful transfer of power says Amar Sinha, former envoy to Afghan

Taliban are set to declare Afghanistan&nbsp;as an Islamic Emirate soon, as per senior members of the insurgent group. The flag of the country will also be changed&nbsp;as a symbol of the Taliban takeover.

The group took control of the presidential palace, soon after president Ashraf Ghani fled the country for Tajikistan.

As the day started, Taliban members were spotted entering the outskirts of Kabul on cars and motorbikes.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-taliban-take-control-of-afghanistan-presidential-palace-as-ghani-exits-country-405579" hreflang="en">LIVE:Taliban take control of Afghan presidential palace as Ghani exits country</a></h2>

After conquering Mazar-e-sharif and Jalalabad overnight, the Taliban turned towards capital Kabul. However, the group declared that it had no intention of taking over the city by force or violence and will wait for a 'peaceful transition of power' from the Afghan government.

As the Taliban proceeded to push its members in the capital city, Afghan president Ashraf Ghani commenced&nbsp;emergency talks with US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad and other top NATO officials.

While Ghani was in talks with the NATO representatives, the US Embassy started rescuing its employees from Kabul through helicopters. Smoke could also be seen coming from the roof of the Embassy as it was believed that the American employees were burning all papers containing sensitive information.

<img alt="Image" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E80Ty0tXoAMNkD4?format=jpg&amp;name=large" />

As the Taliban reached the&nbsp;Torkham Gate, which is the main border crossing between the Pakistan city of Torkham and Afghanistan, reports of the possibility of Ghani's resignation started doing rounds in the media.

However, while the news was unsubstantiated at that moment, a few hours later the Interior Minister of Afghanistan reported that the President had left the country.

"The former president of Afghanistan left Afghanistan and left the country and the nation in a state of agreement, and may God be with him," said Abdullah Abdullah a little later.&nbsp;

As soon as Ghani fled the country, the Taliban ordered its members to enter Kabul and take hold of all checkpoints abandoned by the Afghan forces.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/08/15/206792-an-afghan-soldier.jpg" />

However, the Taliban claim they have issued the order solely to protect the city from looting and chaos, and the locals should not be afraid of them.

The spokesperson has also urged locals to stay back in the country rather than fleeing as they plan to utilise the talents of the country. "No one should leave the country...we need all the talents and capacity, we need all of us to stay in the country and participate," the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken&nbsp;addressed criticism against the US, with respect to Saigon and blasted the critics by saying, "This is not Saigon. The US has succeeded in its mission to stop attacks on US."

"It's simply not in our interests to remain in Afghanistan," he added.

A little after his statement, it was reported that the US Ambassador has left Kabul, along with the American flag from the Embassy.

Many countries have spoken against the Taliban take over and are now sending military flights to rescue nationals from Afghanistan.

While Ghani claims he left the country to avoid bloodshed and to prevent a "disaster", what is the future of this South Asian country under the rule of the Taliban is yet to be seen.

Taliban are set to declare Afghanistan as an Islamic Emirate soon, as per senior members of the insurgent group. The flag of the country will also be changed as a symbol of the Taliban takeover.

Taliban are set to declare Afghanistan as an Islamic Emirate soon, as per senior members of the insurgent group. The flag of the country will also be changed as a symbol of the Taliban takeover. The group took control of the presidential palace, soon after president Ashraf Ghani fled the country for Tajikistan. As the day started, Taliban members were spotted entering the outskirts of Kabul on cars and motorbikes. LIVE:Taliban take control of Afghan presidential palace as Ghani exits country After conquering Mazar-e-sharif and Jalalabad overnight, the Taliban turned towards capital Kabul. However, the group declared that it had no intention of taking over the city by force or violence and will wait for a 'peaceful transition of power' from the Afghan government. As the Taliban proceeded to push its members in the capital city, Afghan president Ashraf Ghani commenced emergency talks with US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad and other top NATO officials. While Ghani was in talks with the NATO representatives, the US Embassy started rescuing its employees from Kabul through helicopters. Smoke could also be seen coming from the roof of the Embassy as it was believed that the American employees were burning all papers containing sensitive information. As the Taliban reached the Torkham Gate, which is the main border crossing between the Pakistan city of Torkham and Afghanistan, reports of the possibility of Ghani's resignation started doing rounds in the media. However, while the news was unsubstantiated at that moment, a few hours later the Interior Minister of Afghanistan reported that the President had left the country. "The former president of Afghanistan left Afghanistan and left the country and the nation in a state of agreement, and may God be with him," said Abdullah Abdullah a little later. As soon as Ghani fled the country, the Taliban ordered its members to enter Kabul and take hold of all checkpoints abandoned by the Afghan forces. However, the Taliban claim they have issued the order solely to protect the city from looting and chaos, and the locals should not be afraid of them. The spokesperson has also urged locals to stay back in the country rather than fleeing as they plan to utilise the talents of the country. "No one should leave the country...we need all the talents and capacity, we need all of us to stay in the country and participate," the spokesperson said. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressed criticism against the US, with respect to Saigon and blasted the critics by saying, "This is not Saigon. The US has succeeded in its mission to stop attacks on US." "It's simply not in our interests to remain in Afghanistan," he added. A little after his statement, it was reported that the US Ambassador has left Kabul, along with the American flag from the Embassy. Many countries have spoken against the Taliban take over and are now sending military flights to rescue nationals from Afghanistan. While Ghani claims he left the country to avoid bloodshed and to prevent a "disaster", what is the future of this South Asian country under the rule of the Taliban is yet to be seen.

Taliban to declare Afghanistan an Islamic Emirate as President Ghani exits country

How Taliban emerged & seized Afghanistan despite US involvement

Taliban is quickly taking over Afghanistan as they captured the capital city of Kabul on Sunday. Now, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has revealed that Afghanistan's star spinner Rashid Khan is worried about the situation of the country and is unable to get his family out.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taliban-have-won-rise-and-fall-of-afghan-president-ashraf-ghani-405867" hreflang="en">'Taliban have won': Rise and fall of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani</a>

"There`s a lot of things that are happening at home. We had a long chat here on the boundary talking about it and he`s worried: he can`t get his family out of Afghanistan and there`s a lot of things happening for him," Pietersen said on Sky Sports.

Rashid Khan, who is currently in England playing for Trent Rockets in the inaugural edition of the Hundred, had earlier put out a Tweet urging global leaders to step in and not leave the country in chaos.&nbsp;

He tweeted: "Dear World Leaders! My country is in chaos,thousand of innocent people, including children &amp; women, get martyred everyday, houses &amp; properties being destructed.Thousand families displaced..Don’t leave us in chaos. Stop killing Afghans &amp; destroying of Afghanistan. We want peace."

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Dear World Leaders! My country is in chaos,thousand of innocent people, including children &amp; women, get martyred everyday, houses &amp; properties being destructed.Thousand families displaced.. 
Don’t leave us in chaos. Stop killing Afghans &amp; destroying Afghaniatan🇦🇫. 
We want peace.🙏
— Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashidkhan_19/status/1425057234300641317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"There`s a lot of things that are happening at home. We had a long chat here on the boundary talking about it and he`s worried: he can`t get his family out of Afghanistan and there`s a lot of things happening for him," Pietersen said on Sky Sports.

Sports."For him to turn up and put on a performance like this under the pressure that he is currently under... for him to be able to forget that stuff and navigate his story and continue the momentum that he has - I think that`s probably one of the most heart-warming stories of this Hundred so far," he added.

Taliban is quickly taking over Afghanistan as they captured the capital city of Kabul on Sunday. Now, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has revealed that Afghanistan's star spinner Rashid Khan is worried about the situation of the country and is unable to get his family out.

Taliban is quickly taking over Afghanistan as they captured the capital city of Kabul on Sunday. Now, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has revealed that Afghanistan's star spinner Rashid Khan is worried about the situation of the country and is unable to get his family out. IN PICS| 'Taliban have won': Rise and fall of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani "There`s a lot of things that are happening at home. We had a long chat here on the boundary talking about it and he`s worried: he can`t get his family out of Afghanistan and there`s a lot of things happening for him," Pietersen said on Sky Sports. Rashid Khan, who is currently in England playing for Trent Rockets in the inaugural edition of the Hundred, had earlier put out a Tweet urging global leaders to step in and not leave the country in chaos. He tweeted: "Dear World Leaders! My country is in chaos,thousand of innocent people, including children & women, get martyred everyday, houses & properties being destructed.Thousand families displaced..Don’t leave us in chaos. Stop killing Afghans & destroying of Afghanistan. We want peace." Dear World Leaders! My country is in chaos,thousand of innocent people, including children & women, get martyred everyday, houses & properties being destructed.Thousand families displaced.. Don’t leave us in chaos. Stop killing Afghans & destroying Afghaniatan🇦🇫. We want peace.🙏 — Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) August 10, 2021 × "There`s a lot of things that are happening at home. We had a long chat here on the boundary talking about it and he`s worried: he can`t get his family out of Afghanistan and there`s a lot of things happening for him," Pietersen said on Sky Sports. Sports."For him to turn up and put on a performance like this under the pressure that he is currently under... for him to be able to forget that stuff and navigate his story and continue the momentum that he has - I think that`s probably one of the most heart-warming stories of this Hundred so far," he added.

Rashid Khan is worried, can't get his family out of Afghanistan, says Kevin Pietersen

Former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai urged people to stay in their homes, stating that he is working to resolve issues with the militant group through dialogue. Karzai has formed a committee with Abdullah Abdullah and Gulbuddin Hekmatyar for the smooth transition of power to the Taliban.

Taliban in Kabul: Hamid Karzai forms transition council with Abdullah and Hekmatyar

Taliban has captured Kabul and entered inside the presidential palace in the region. The President and the VP fled the country owing to Taliban's siege. Ex Afghanistan Government Adviser Torek Farhadi talks to WION about the matter.

Ex Afghanistan Government Adviser Torek Farhadi talks to WION on Taliban's siege

Mass exodus is underway in Kabul after Taliban captured majority of provincial cities in Afghanistan including its capital, Kabul.

Mass exodus underway in Kabul after Taliban capture majority of provincial cities

According to reports, Taliban insurgents, who entered Kabul on Sunday have now taken control over the Presidential Palace, hours after President Ashraf Ghani fled the war-torn nation.

Reports: Taliban claims taking control over Presidential palace as Ashraf Ghani flees

The Taliban have taken control over majority of areas in Afghanistan including Kabul. Afghan President and VP have fled the country after Taliban's siege in Afghanistan. In his statement, Ashraf Ghani said that he left the country to avoid bloodshed.

Taliban take control over majority of areas in Afghanistan including Kabul

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