As Afghanistan’s President, Ashraf Ghani, left the country, Taliban members were ordered to enter and take over the capital city Kabul.

A little after Ghani left the country, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan issued a formal statement that clarified that the Taliban troops have been ordered to enter Kabul and take hold of all checkpoints abandoned by the Afghan forces.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-president-ghani-leaves-afghanistan-as-taliban-enter-capital-kabul-405579" hreflang="en">LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul</a></h2>

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-president-ashraf-ghani-leaves-for-tajikistan-as-taliban-enters-kabul-405773">WATCH |</a>

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While the social media went abuzz with images that showed Taliban members painting over advertisements that featured women, the Taliban claimed that women will be given more freedom this time.

"We will respect rights of women...our policy is that women will have access to education and work, to wear the hijab,"&nbsp;Taliban Spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on a live BBC report.&nbsp;

The Taliban have also claimed that they have no intention of "taking revenge" from the Afghan forces and the pro-government soldiers and officials should join hands with the Taliban for the 'betterment of the nation'.

As Afghanistan’s President, Ashraf Ghani, left the country, Taliban members were ordered to enter and take over the capital city Kabul. A little after Ghani left the country, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan issued a formal statement that clarified that the Taliban troops have been ordered to enter Kabul and take hold of all checkpoints abandoned by the Afghan forces.

As Afghanistan’s President, Ashraf Ghani, left the country, Taliban members were ordered to enter and take over the capital city Kabul. A little after Ghani left the country, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan issued a formal statement that clarified that the Taliban troops have been ordered to enter Kabul and take hold of all checkpoints abandoned by the Afghan forces. LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul 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. WATCH | While the social media went abuzz with images that showed Taliban members painting over advertisements that featured women, the Taliban claimed that women will be given more freedom this time. "We will respect rights of women...our policy is that women will have access to education and work, to wear the hijab," Taliban Spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on a live BBC report. The Taliban have also claimed that they have no intention of "taking revenge" from the Afghan forces and the pro-government soldiers and officials should join hands with the Taliban for the 'betterment of the nation'.

'Don't be afraid of us': Taliban take over Kabul as President Ghani leaves Afghan

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani left for Afghanistan following the Taliban's advance into the capital Kabul. According to reports, Afghan Vice President Amrullah Saleh has also left the country.

Taliban in Kabul: Both Afghan Prez and Vice Prez have left the country

Amid rumours that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani might step down as the Taliban continues to make territorial advances. Ghani says that he will continue to fight the terror group.

Afghanistan Turmoil: Ashraf Ghani's message to the nation - Will continue to fight

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has left the capital for Tajikistan as the Taliban took control of Kabul on Sunday and are on their way to take control of the government.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani leaves for Tajikistan as Taliban enters Kabul

The Taliban want to take control of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;"in the next few days", a spokesman for the group told the BBC Sunday, as their fighters encircled the capital.

"In next few days, we want a peaceful transfer," Suhail Shaheen, based in Qatar as part of the group's negotiating team, told the BBC.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-president-ghani-leaves-afghanistan-as-taliban-enter-capital-kabul-405579">LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul</a></h2>

Shaheen laid out the policies of the Taliban ahead of an expected power transfer that would re-install the hardline Islamic group two decades after US-led forces toppled them in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

"We want an inclusive Islamic government... that means all Afghans will be part of that government," Shaheen said.&nbsp;

"We will see that in the future as the peaceful transfer is taking place."

He also said foreign embassies and workers would not be targeted by the group's fighters and they should remain in the country.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/back-to-harrowing-times-afghan-women-fear-taliban-rule-405547">Back to harrowing times: Afghan women fear Taliban rule</a>

"There will be no risk to diplomats, NGOs, to anyone. All should continue their work as they were continuing in the past. They won’t harm them, they should remain."

Rebuffing fears the country would be plunged back to the dark days of the group's ultra-conservative version of Islamic law, Shaheen said the Taliban will instead seek a "new chapter" of tolerance.

"We want to work with any Afghan, we want to open a new chapter of peace, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and national unity for the country and for the people of&nbsp;Afghanistan," he said.

But many officials, soldiers and police have surrendered or abandoned their posts, fearing reprisals against anyone suspected of working with the Western-backed government or Western forces.

Shaheen said that would not happen.

"We reassure that there is no revenge on anyone. Any case will be investigated."

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The Doha-based spokesman said the group would also review its relationship with the United States, which it has waged a deadly insurgency against for decades.

"Our relationship was in the past," he said. "In future, if it will touch our agenda no more, it will be a new chapter of cooperation."

The Taliban want to take control of Afghanistan "in the next few days", a spokesman for the group told the BBC Sunday, as their fighters encircled the capital. "In next few days, we want a peaceful transfer," Suhail Shaheen, based in Qatar as part of the group's negotiating team, told the BBC.

The Taliban want to take control of Afghanistan "in the next few days", a spokesman for the group told the BBC Sunday, as their fighters encircled the capital. "In next few days, we want a peaceful transfer," Suhail Shaheen, based in Qatar as part of the group's negotiating team, told the BBC. LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul Shaheen laid out the policies of the Taliban ahead of an expected power transfer that would re-install the hardline Islamic group two decades after US-led forces toppled them in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks. "We want an inclusive Islamic government... that means all Afghans will be part of that government," Shaheen said. "We will see that in the future as the peaceful transfer is taking place." He also said foreign embassies and workers would not be targeted by the group's fighters and they should remain in the country. Also read | Back to harrowing times: Afghan women fear Taliban rule "There will be no risk to diplomats, NGOs, to anyone. All should continue their work as they were continuing in the past. They won’t harm them, they should remain." Rebuffing fears the country would be plunged back to the dark days of the group's ultra-conservative version of Islamic law, Shaheen said the Taliban will instead seek a "new chapter" of tolerance. "We want to work with any Afghan, we want to open a new chapter of peace, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and national unity for the country and for the people of Afghanistan," he said. But many officials, soldiers and police have surrendered or abandoned their posts, fearing reprisals against anyone suspected of working with the Western-backed government or Western forces. Shaheen said that would not happen. "We reassure that there is no revenge on anyone. Any case will be investigated." The Doha-based spokesman said the group would also review its relationship with the United States, which it has waged a deadly insurgency against for decades. "Our relationship was in the past," he said. "In future, if it will touch our agenda no more, it will be a new chapter of cooperation."

Taliban want peaceful transfer of power in 'next few days'

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on Sunday to hold further crisis talks on&nbsp;Afghanistan, his office said, as he recalled parliament from its summer break.

A Downing Street spokesperson said Johnson had called a meeting of the COBR emergencies committee to discuss the situation, which follows the withdrawal of US-led forces, the second such meeting in three days.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-president-ghani-leaves-afghanistan-as-taliban-enter-capital-kabul-405579">LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul</a></h2>

Parliament on Sunday said it had approved Johnson's request to call back MPs on Wednesday for an urgent debate on what Britain, which lost 457 troops in the two-decade-long war, should do next.

Taliban fighters were on the outskirts of Kabul on Sunday and on the brink of a complete military takeover of&nbsp;Afghanistan, leading British politicians to call for a last-ditch intervention.

Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood, chairman of the Commons Defence Committee, urged Johnson to "think again" about stepping in.

"We have an ever-shrinking window of opportunity to recognise where this country is going as a failed state," he told Times Radio.

"Just because the Americans won't, does not mean to say that we should be tied to the thinking, the political judgement -- particularly when it is so wrong -- of our closest security ally.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-ban-covid-19-vaccine-in-eastern-afghanistans-paktia-province-report-405235" hreflang="en">Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report</a>

"We could prevent this, otherwise history will judge us very, very harshly in not stepping in," he warned.

Ellwood said the government could deploy the Royal Navy's HMS Queen Elizabeth carrier strike group to provide air support.

He called the crisis "the biggest single policy disaster since Suez".

'Deeply shocking'&nbsp;

Johnson vowed on Friday that Britain will not "turn our backs" on&nbsp;Afghanistan, even as he confirmed the imminent withdrawal of most embassy staff in the face of a rapid Taliban onslaught.

However, he said that those calling for an intervention "have got to be realistic about the power of the UK or any power to impose a military solution -- a combat solution -- in&nbsp;Afghanistan".

With the Islamists seizing control of more Afghan cities, Britain is deploying around 600 troops to help evacuate its roughly 3,000 nationals from the country, and Johnson said the "vast bulk" of remaining embassy staff in Kabul would return to the UK.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-captures-mazar-e-sharif-fourth-largest-city-of-afghanistan-405447" hreflang="en">Taliban captures Mazar-e-Sharif, fourth largest city of Afghanistan</a>

The Foreign Office said on Sunday that Britain had "temporarily&nbsp;suspended most operations" at its embassy in Kabul and was doing "all we can to enable remaining British nationals, and those Afghans who have worked for us and who are eligible for relocation, to leave&nbsp;Afghanistan".

Opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer backed the move to recall parliament, saying in a statement: "The situation in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is deeply shocking and seems to be worsening by the hour.

"The government has been silent while&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;collapses, which, let's be clear will have ramifications for us here in the UK.

"We need parliament recalled so the government can update MPs on how it plans to work with allies to avoid a humanitarian crisis and a return to the days of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;being a base for extremists."

Most of the remaining British troops assigned to the NATO mission in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;left last month, according to Johnson.

As well as the fallen troops, the conflict has cost Britain around £40 billion ($55 billion, 46.7 billion euros).

In 2014, the British mission in&nbsp;Afghanistan, centred on the restive southern province of Helmand, shifted from a combat operation to one focused on supporting Afghan national forces, with the help of around 750 troops.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on Sunday to hold further crisis talks on Afghanistan, his office said, as he recalled parliament from its summer break.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on Sunday to hold further crisis talks on Afghanistan, his office said, as he recalled parliament from its summer break. A Downing Street spokesperson said Johnson had called a meeting of the COBR emergencies committee to discuss the situation, which follows the withdrawal of US-led forces, the second such meeting in three days. LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul Parliament on Sunday said it had approved Johnson's request to call back MPs on Wednesday for an urgent debate on what Britain, which lost 457 troops in the two-decade-long war, should do next. Taliban fighters were on the outskirts of Kabul on Sunday and on the brink of a complete military takeover of Afghanistan, leading British politicians to call for a last-ditch intervention. Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood, chairman of the Commons Defence Committee, urged Johnson to "think again" about stepping in. "We have an ever-shrinking window of opportunity to recognise where this country is going as a failed state," he told Times Radio. "Just because the Americans won't, does not mean to say that we should be tied to the thinking, the political judgement -- particularly when it is so wrong -- of our closest security ally. Also read | Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report "We could prevent this, otherwise history will judge us very, very harshly in not stepping in," he warned. Ellwood said the government could deploy the Royal Navy's HMS Queen Elizabeth carrier strike group to provide air support. He called the crisis "the biggest single policy disaster since Suez". 'Deeply shocking' Johnson vowed on Friday that Britain will not "turn our backs" on Afghanistan, even as he confirmed the imminent withdrawal of most embassy staff in the face of a rapid Taliban onslaught. However, he said that those calling for an intervention "have got to be realistic about the power of the UK or any power to impose a military solution -- a combat solution -- in Afghanistan". With the Islamists seizing control of more Afghan cities, Britain is deploying around 600 troops to help evacuate its roughly 3,000 nationals from the country, and Johnson said the "vast bulk" of remaining embassy staff in Kabul would return to the UK. Also read | Taliban captures Mazar-e-Sharif, fourth largest city of Afghanistan The Foreign Office said on Sunday that Britain had "temporarily suspended most operations" at its embassy in Kabul and was doing "all we can to enable remaining British nationals, and those Afghans who have worked for us and who are eligible for relocation, to leave Afghanistan". Opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer backed the move to recall parliament, saying in a statement: "The situation in Afghanistan is deeply shocking and seems to be worsening by the hour. "The government has been silent while Afghanistan collapses, which, let's be clear will have ramifications for us here in the UK. "We need parliament recalled so the government can update MPs on how it plans to work with allies to avoid a humanitarian crisis and a return to the days of Afghanistan being a base for extremists." Most of the remaining British troops assigned to the NATO mission in Afghanistan left last month, according to Johnson. As well as the fallen troops, the conflict has cost Britain around £40 billion ($55 billion, 46.7 billion euros). In 2014, the British mission in Afghanistan, centred on the restive southern province of Helmand, shifted from a combat operation to one focused on supporting Afghan national forces, with the help of around 750 troops.

UK PM holds Afghanistan crisis talks, recalls parliament

The Taliban took control of Afghanistan's capital Kabul on Sunday and are on their way to take control of the government. According to reports, President Ashraf Ghani is likely to step down from his post in the next few hours and has left Afghanistan.

Reports: President Ashraf Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban take control

Turkey will work with Pakistan to help stabilise Afghanistan and prevent a new flood of refugees, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Sunday.

"Turkey is facing a growing migratory wave of Afghans transiting through Iran," he said, alongside his Pakistan counterpart Arif Alvi.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-president-ghani-leaves-afghanistan-as-taliban-enter-capital-kabul-405579">LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul</a></h2>

"We will continue efforts to enable the return of stability in the region, beginning with Afghanistan,", Erdogan said.

"To do that, we have to pursue and strengthen our cooperation with Pakistan."

"We are determined to mobilise all the means at our disposal to succeed," the Turkish leader said.

The comments came with the Taliban poised to take power on the outskirts of Kabul.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-captures-mazar-e-sharif-fourth-largest-city-of-afghanistan-405447" hreflang="en">Taliban captures Mazar-e-Sharif, fourth largest city of Afghanistan</a>

The Taliban resurgence comes after NATO troops withdrew following a decision by US President Joe Biden to pull out.

The Pakistan president was in Istanbul for the launch of a naval vessel built by Turkey for the south Asian nation that borders Afghanistan and is a key regional player.

Turkey has several hundred soldiers deployed in Afghanistan and has offered to take charge of security at Kabul's international airport after the US completes its military withdrawal by the end of August, provided financial and logistical support are forthcoming.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-ban-covid-19-vaccine-in-eastern-afghanistans-paktia-province-report-405235" hreflang="en">Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report</a>

Erdogan has also proposed to meet the Taliban leader for talks.

The arrival of Afghan migrants on Turkey's eastern border has become a hot political topic in Ankara, with the opposition pressing the government to take strong measures to stop the influx.

The government has responded by stepping up construction of a border wall with Iran in recent days.

"With this wall, we will totally stop the arrivals," Erdogan said Sunday.

Turkey will work with Pakistan to help stabilise Afghanistan and prevent a new flood of refugees, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Sunday. "Turkey is facing a growing migratory wave of Afghans transiting through Iran," he said, alongside his Pakistan counterpart Arif Alvi.

Turkey will work with Pakistan to help stabilise Afghanistan and prevent a new flood of refugees, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Sunday. "Turkey is facing a growing migratory wave of Afghans transiting through Iran," he said, alongside his Pakistan counterpart Arif Alvi. LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul "We will continue efforts to enable the return of stability in the region, beginning with Afghanistan,", Erdogan said. "To do that, we have to pursue and strengthen our cooperation with Pakistan." "We are determined to mobilise all the means at our disposal to succeed," the Turkish leader said. The comments came with the Taliban poised to take power on the outskirts of Kabul. Also read | Taliban captures Mazar-e-Sharif, fourth largest city of Afghanistan The Taliban resurgence comes after NATO troops withdrew following a decision by US President Joe Biden to pull out. The Pakistan president was in Istanbul for the launch of a naval vessel built by Turkey for the south Asian nation that borders Afghanistan and is a key regional player. Turkey has several hundred soldiers deployed in Afghanistan and has offered to take charge of security at Kabul's international airport after the US completes its military withdrawal by the end of August, provided financial and logistical support are forthcoming. Also read | Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report Erdogan has also proposed to meet the Taliban leader for talks. The arrival of Afghan migrants on Turkey's eastern border has become a hot political topic in Ankara, with the opposition pressing the government to take strong measures to stop the influx. The government has responded by stepping up construction of a border wall with Iran in recent days. "With this wall, we will totally stop the arrivals," Erdogan said Sunday.

Turkey to work with Pakistan to stop new wave of Afghan migrants

Taliban terrorists have entered the outskirts of Kabul and are awaiting a 'peaceful transfer' of the power. Negotiation talks for the transition of power are underway but the government workers are fleeing the city in helicopters.

Afghanistan: Negotiation talks for transition of power are underway

Taliban fighters have entered the outskirts of the Afghanistan capital, Kabul and said that they are awaiting a “peaceful transfer” of the city after promising not to take it by force.

Afghanistan: Taliban enters Kabul, awaits 'peaceful transfer' of power

Afghan women are looking into the future with uncertainty and fear as the Taliban terrorists are sweeping across the country taking one province after another. The Taliban now control more than two-thirds of the country, just two weeks before the U.S. plans to withdraw its last troops.

Afghan women fear for their future as Taliban gain foothold

The Taliban terrorists have entered the outskirts of Afghanistan's capital Kabul from all sides. The Taliban's spokesperson has said that they have instructed their forces to stay at the gate of the capital.

Afghanistan: Taliban enters the outskirts of Kabul

According to reports Taliban have reached the gates of the Afghan capital Kabul. However, the Taliban says they have no plans to take Kabul 'by force'.

No plans to take Kabul by force: Taliban

The threat to Kabul worsens with every passing minute. The Taliban are closing in on the Afghanistan capital. The latest reports say the terrorists have taken over another provincial capital- maidan-shahr city.

Afghanistan Turmoil: Taliban reach the doorstep of Kabul

With every passing day, the Taliban is tightening its noose around Afghanistan. Taking over the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad the Taliban has now left the capital Kabul as the last major urban area under government control.

WION in Afghanistan: Kabul only major Afghan city in government control

As the negotiations for the&nbsp;transition process are underway, Taliban have announced that it will not&nbsp;enter Kabul for now.&nbsp;In a statement, it said as it is a largely and densely populated city, it wants to enter peacefully and&nbsp;not fight in Kabul.&nbsp;

“Since the capital Kabul is a large and densely populated city, the Mujahideen of the Islamic Emirate do not intend to enter the city by force or war, but rather to enter Kabul peacefully. Negotiations are underway to ensure that the transition process is completed safely and securely, without compromising the lives, property and honor of anyone, and without compromising the lives of Kabulis,” the statement read.&nbsp;

The Taliban has&nbsp;instructed all its forces to stand at the gates of Kabul&nbsp;and not try to enter the city.&nbsp;

The group said it&nbsp;wants a government that is acceptable to everyone. It was declared by the&nbsp;Islamic Emirate&nbsp;of Afghanistan, which the group calls its government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Praise be to God that with the help of God Almighty and the broad support of our people, all parts of the country have come under the control of the Islamic Emirate,” it said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The statement also said, “We reiterate that the Islamic Emirate does not intend to take revenge on anyone, all those who have served in the military and civilian sectors in the Kabul administration are forgiven and safe, no one will be retaliated against. All should stay in their own country, in their own place and home, and not try to leave the country.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As the negotiations for the transition process are underway, Taliban have announced that it will not enter Kabul for now. In a statement, it said as it is a largely and densely populated city, it wants to enter peacefully and not fight in Kabul.

As the negotiations for the transition process are underway, Taliban have announced that it will not enter Kabul for now. In a statement, it said as it is a largely and densely populated city, it wants to enter peacefully and not fight in Kabul. “Since the capital Kabul is a large and densely populated city, the Mujahideen of the Islamic Emirate do not intend to enter the city by force or war, but rather to enter Kabul peacefully. Negotiations are underway to ensure that the transition process is completed safely and securely, without compromising the lives, property and honor of anyone, and without compromising the lives of Kabulis,” the statement read. The Taliban has instructed all its forces to stand at the gates of Kabul and not try to enter the city. The group said it wants a government that is acceptable to everyone. It was declared by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, which the group calls its government. “Praise be to God that with the help of God Almighty and the broad support of our people, all parts of the country have come under the control of the Islamic Emirate,” it said. The statement also said, “We reiterate that the Islamic Emirate does not intend to take revenge on anyone, all those who have served in the military and civilian sectors in the Kabul administration are forgiven and safe, no one will be retaliated against. All should stay in their own country, in their own place and home, and not try to leave the country.” (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban declare not to enter Kabul for now, wait for transition

Afghan women are now fearing that they would have to live through those harrowing days of Taliban rule from 1996-2001. The time when women were forced to stay at home and forbidden to study or go to work.&nbsp;

The women were not allowed to step out of their homes without a male escort.&nbsp;

However, as of now, there are no confirmed reports of any such extreme measures being adopted by the Taliban.

An Associated Press report quoted families fleeing their homes and taking refuge on the sidewalks and parks in Kabul.&nbsp;

The girls riding home in a motorised rickshaw in the Takhar province in northern Afghanistan were stopped and lashed for wearing “revealing sandals”. This is the area that has been captured by the Taliban.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-address-to-nation-afghan-president-vows-to-prevent-further-instability-405337">Also read |&nbsp;In address to nation, Afghan President vows to prevent further instability</a>

For those, who have lived under the Taliban rule before 2001, diktats bring a flashback of the atrocious time.&nbsp;

Zarmina Kakar, a women's rights activist in Kabul, was a year old when the Taliban entered Kabul for the first time in 1996.&nbsp;

Her mother took her out to buy her ice cream and was whipped by a Taliban fighter for revealing her face for a few minutes.&nbsp; 
“Today again, I feel that if Taliban come to power, we will return back to the same dark days,” she said.

During that time, the Taliban carried out public executions, chopped off the hands of thieves and stoned women accused of adultery.

Associated Press interviewed Zahra (name changed) who has been working from home.

However, after the Taliban took over Herat, she is not being able to work and she does not know when she will be able to work again.&nbsp;

Also, she is apprehensive that she will not be able to play the guitar, and her brother will be able to play football.&nbsp;

She fears that the women community of the country will again be pushed back to the wall.

Afghan women are now fearing that they would have to live through those harrowing days of Taliban rule from 1996-2001. The time when women were forced to stay at home and forbidden to study or go to work.

Afghan women are now fearing that they would have to live through those harrowing days of Taliban rule from 1996-2001. The time when women were forced to stay at home and forbidden to study or go to work. The women were not allowed to step out of their homes without a male escort. However, as of now, there are no confirmed reports of any such extreme measures being adopted by the Taliban. An Associated Press report quoted families fleeing their homes and taking refuge on the sidewalks and parks in Kabul. The girls riding home in a motorised rickshaw in the Takhar province in northern Afghanistan were stopped and lashed for wearing “revealing sandals”. This is the area that has been captured by the Taliban. Also read | In address to nation, Afghan President vows to prevent further instability For those, who have lived under the Taliban rule before 2001, diktats bring a flashback of the atrocious time. Zarmina Kakar, a women's rights activist in Kabul, was a year old when the Taliban entered Kabul for the first time in 1996. Her mother took her out to buy her ice cream and was whipped by a Taliban fighter for revealing her face for a few minutes. “Today again, I feel that if Taliban come to power, we will return back to the same dark days,” she said. During that time, the Taliban carried out public executions, chopped off the hands of thieves and stoned women accused of adultery. Associated Press interviewed Zahra (name changed) who has been working from home. However, after the Taliban took over Herat, she is not being able to work and she does not know when she will be able to work again. Also, she is apprehensive that she will not be able to play the guitar, and her brother will be able to play football. She fears that the women community of the country will again be pushed back to the wall.

Back to harrowing times: Afghan women fear Taliban rule

A new axis of evil is emerging. It runs from Taliban's strong base in Kandahar to the offices of PTI in Islamabad all the way to Beijing. Palki Sharma tells you how this 'troika of tyranny & terror' could make India its first target.

Gravitas: Pak, Taliban & China: A new Axis of evil

Has the India-built Salma Dam fallen to the Taliban? A Twitter account - believed to be affiliated with the Taliban claims that the men who were guarding the dam "surrendered" to the Taliban. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Afghanistan: Has the Salma Dam fallen to the Taliban?

Adding to the Afghanistan crisis, the Taliban has now taken control of the northern Afghan holdout city of Mazar-e-sharif, local media reports claimed.

The fourth-largest city in Afghanistan fell to the Taliban on Saturday after locals reported that the insurgents had launched an intense assault there.

Balkh lawmaker Abas Ebrahimzada reported that the national army corps was the first to surrender, which was followed by giving up by the pro-government militias and other security forces.

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Mazar E Sharif falls to Taliban. Spox tweets video of the city. Herat, Kandahar, Mazar E Sharif are now under Taliban control. <a href="https://t.co/Q4bq64uP1t">pic.twitter.com/Q4bq64uP1t</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1426606177178112009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"They are parading on their vehicles and motorbikes, firing into the air in celebration,"&nbsp;Atiqullah Ghayor, who lives near the city's famed blue mosque, was quoted saying by AFP.

This news has come a few hours after Afghan President&nbsp;Ashraf Ghani posted a pre-recorded message in which he thanked the Afghan forces for their bravery against the Taliban.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-turmoil-fighting-underway-30-miles-from-kabul-405418">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-turmoil-fighting-underway-30-miles-from-kabul-405418/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Under the current situation, remobilising of the security and defence forces is our top priority and required measures are underway for this purpose," Ghani said. "I know that you are concerned about your present and future but I assure you as your president that my focus is to prevent further instability, violence and displacement of my people."

Assuring people that he will not let another war bring out the horrifying memories, he said, "To do this, I have started widespread consultations within and outside the government, with political leaders and international partners and I will soon share the results with the people."

Adding to the Afghanistan crisis, the Taliban has now taken control of the northern Afghan holdout city of Mazar-e-sharif, local media reports claimed. The fourth-largest city in Afghanistan fell to the Taliban on Saturday after locals reported that the insurgents had launched an intense assault there.

Adding to the Afghanistan crisis, the Taliban has now taken control of the northern Afghan holdout city of Mazar-e-sharif, local media reports claimed. The fourth-largest city in Afghanistan fell to the Taliban on Saturday after locals reported that the insurgents had launched an intense assault there. Balkh lawmaker Abas Ebrahimzada reported that the national army corps was the first to surrender, which was followed by giving up by the pro-government militias and other security forces. Mazar E Sharif falls to Taliban. Spox tweets video of the city. Herat, Kandahar, Mazar E Sharif are now under Taliban control. pic.twitter.com/Q4bq64uP1t — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 14, 2021 × "They are parading on their vehicles and motorbikes, firing into the air in celebration," Atiqullah Ghayor, who lives near the city's famed blue mosque, was quoted saying by AFP. This news has come a few hours after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani posted a pre-recorded message in which he thanked the Afghan forces for their bravery against the Taliban. WATCH | "Under the current situation, remobilising of the security and defence forces is our top priority and required measures are underway for this purpose," Ghani said. "I know that you are concerned about your present and future but I assure you as your president that my focus is to prevent further instability, violence and displacement of my people." Assuring people that he will not let another war bring out the horrifying memories, he said, "To do this, I have started widespread consultations within and outside the government, with political leaders and international partners and I will soon share the results with the people."

Taliban captures Mazar-e-Sharif, fourth largest city of Afghanistan

While many European nations are evacuating their embassy staff from Kabul. Taliban has issued a statement. The Taliban insurgents claim that no embassies or diplomats will be targeted by the group.

'No danger to embassies and diplomats', assures Taliban

It has been a 24-hour blitzkrieg in Afghanistan. The Taliban have completed their sweep of the country’s south as they took over four more provincial capitals.

Afghanistan Crisis: Afghan army and warlords surrender to Taliban

The situation in Afghanistan is turning from bad to worse rapidly. In the wake of the Taliban's rise thousand have arrived in Kabul to seek safety. Hundreds of families and individuals have gathered in makeshift camps on the city's outskirts. Our correspondent Anas Mallick visited one of the refugee camps inside Kabul. Take a look.

Afghanistan Crisis: Kabul on the brink of humanitarian crisis

Taliban insurgents have seized Afghanistan's second- and third-biggest cities, local officials said on Friday, as resistance from government forces crumbled and fears grew that an assault on the capital Kabul could be just days away. 
 
A government official confirmed that Kandahar, the economic hub of the south, was under Taliban control as US-led international forces complete their withdrawal after 20 years of war. 
 
Herat in the west also fell to the hardline Islamist group. 
 
"The city looks like a frontline, a ghost town," provincial council member Ghulam Habib Hashimi said by telephone from the city of about 600,000 people near the border with Iran. 
 
"Families have either left or are hiding in their homes." 
 
A US&nbsp;defence official said there was concern that the Taliban, ousted from power in 2001 after the September&nbsp;11 attacks on the United States, could make a move on Kabul within days. 
 
President Joe Biden's administration on Thursday announced plans to send 3,000 additional troops to help evacuate US&nbsp;embassy staff, and the Pentagon said most would be in Kabul by the end of the weekend. Britain also confirmed the start of a military operation to support the evacuation of its nationals. 
 
"Kabul is not right now in an imminent threat environment, but clearly ... if you just look at what the Taliban has been doing, you can see that they are trying to isolate Kabul," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Friday. 
 
The White House said Biden was receiving regular briefings from his national security team on efforts to remove US&nbsp;civilians. 
 
The US&nbsp;embassy in the Afghan capital informed staff that burn bins and an incinerator were available to destroy material including papers and electronic devices to "reduce the amount of sensitive material on the property," according to an advisory seen by Reuters. 
 
A State Department spokesperson said the embassy was following standard procedure to "minimise our footprint." 
 
The United Nations has said it would not evacuate its personnel from Afghanistan but was relocating some to Kabul from other parts of the country. Many other Western embassies and aid groups said they were bringing some staff home. 
 
UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that "Afghanistan is spinning out of control" and urged all parties to do more to protect civilians. 
 
"This is the moment to halt the offensive. This is the moment to start serious negotiation. This is the moment to avoid a prolonged civil war, or the isolation of Afghanistan," Guterres told reporters in New York. 
 
Afghan First Vice President Amrullah Saleh said after a security meeting chaired by President Ashraf Ghani that he was proud of the armed forces and the government would do all it could to strengthen resistance to the Taliban.

Taliban insurgents have seized Afghanistan's second- and third-biggest cities, local officials said on Friday, as resistance from government forces crumbled and fears grew that an assault on the capital Kabul could be just days away.

Taliban insurgents have seized Afghanistan's second- and third-biggest cities, local officials said on Friday, as resistance from government forces crumbled and fears grew that an assault on the capital Kabul could be just days away. A government official confirmed that Kandahar, the economic hub of the south, was under Taliban control as US-led international forces complete their withdrawal after 20 years of war. Herat in the west also fell to the hardline Islamist group. "The city looks like a frontline, a ghost town," provincial council member Ghulam Habib Hashimi said by telephone from the city of about 600,000 people near the border with Iran. "Families have either left or are hiding in their homes." A US defence official said there was concern that the Taliban, ousted from power in 2001 after the September 11 attacks on the United States, could make a move on Kabul within days. President Joe Biden's administration on Thursday announced plans to send 3,000 additional troops to help evacuate US embassy staff, and the Pentagon said most would be in Kabul by the end of the weekend. Britain also confirmed the start of a military operation to support the evacuation of its nationals. "Kabul is not right now in an imminent threat environment, but clearly ... if you just look at what the Taliban has been doing, you can see that they are trying to isolate Kabul," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Friday. The White House said Biden was receiving regular briefings from his national security team on efforts to remove US civilians. The US embassy in the Afghan capital informed staff that burn bins and an incinerator were available to destroy material including papers and electronic devices to "reduce the amount of sensitive material on the property," according to an advisory seen by Reuters. A State Department spokesperson said the embassy was following standard procedure to "minimise our footprint." The United Nations has said it would not evacuate its personnel from Afghanistan but was relocating some to Kabul from other parts of the country. Many other Western embassies and aid groups said they were bringing some staff home. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that "Afghanistan is spinning out of control" and urged all parties to do more to protect civilians. "This is the moment to halt the offensive. This is the moment to start serious negotiation. This is the moment to avoid a prolonged civil war, or the isolation of Afghanistan," Guterres told reporters in New York. Afghan First Vice President Amrullah Saleh said after a security meeting chaired by President Ashraf Ghani that he was proud of the armed forces and the government would do all it could to strengthen resistance to the Taliban.

Taliban seize more Afghan cities, assault on capital Kabul expected

After tightening territorial stranglehold around Kabul the Taliban are closing in on the Afghanistan capital. The insurgents have now camped just 50 kilometers away from Kabul.

Afghanistan Turmoil: Fighting underway 30 miles from Kabul

WION speaks with Retired United States Army Officer Colonel Lawrence Sellin about ongoing Afghanistan turmoil. Watch this report to know more.

WION speaks with Retired US Army Officer Colonel Lawrence Sellin

Recent reports reveal that President Joe Biden's administration has held secret talks with more countries than previously known in a desperate attempt to secure deals for temporarily housing at-risk Afghans working for the US government.&nbsp;

Seeing the Taliban's advances as a threat to those still awaiting Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs), Washington is looking for third countries to host them until their paperwork is completed and they can come to the United States, as per a Reuter's report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-ban-covid-19-vaccine-in-eastern-afghanistans-paktia-province-report-405235" hreflang="en">Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report</a>

An official in the know says that an agreement to house about 8,000 Afghans in Qatar, a country that has a large US military base, has been close for weeks, but no official announcement has been made.

Afghanistan nationals who served as interpreters and/or performed other jobs,&nbsp;for the US government, can apply to the SIV program.

So far, approximately 1,200 Afghans have been evacuated to the United States under "Operation Allies Refuge" with an additional 3,500 expected in the coming weeks. Some Afghans will be taken to a US military base in Virginia for paperwork and some will go directly to US hosts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-nato-eu-un-confirm-they-will-not-recognise-govt-formed-through-military-405223" hreflang="en">Afghanistan: NATO, EU, UN confirm they will not recognise govt formed through military</a>

Taking into account the Taliban's rapid advance in Afghanistan, the United States has decided to send around 1,000 personnel to Qatar to expedite the processing of SIVs.

Countries hesitant

As per two US officials, who wanted to stay anonymous, concerns surround the quality of security vetting and health screening in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> process before the Afghans could fly, resulting in some countries hesitating to accept the Afghans.

The Biden administration explored having Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan accept thousands of applicants, but that effort has so far proved ineffective.

"There's concerns that you might expect: 'Who are these people? How do you know these people? Can you assure that these people will get visas to the United States? Who's going to care for and feed these people. What happens if these people wander off this facility you've got them in?" a senior State Department official said.

After encountering reluctance from some countries, the US has turned to others who might be willing to help, in exchange for assistance.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-afghan-peace-talks-hit-a-deadlock-has-the-us-failed-208235/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For taking in several thousand Afghans, the United States has offered concessions to Kosovo in economic and political terms, but officials are concerned about the country's capacity to house the new arrivals.

The 1,200 Afghans evacuated represent less than 1 per cent of the 21,000 people on the SIV pipeline, and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Biden</a> administration has been struggling to find temporary housing for the evacuees.

When family members are counted, advocates estimate that 50,000 and 80,000 people will be evacuated under the SIV program.

(With inputs from agencies)

Recent reports reveal that President Joe Biden's administration has held secret talks with more countries than previously known in a desperate attempt to secure deals for temporarily housing at-risk Afghans working for the US government.

Recent reports reveal that President Joe Biden's administration has held secret talks with more countries than previously known in a desperate attempt to secure deals for temporarily housing at-risk Afghans working for the US government. Seeing the Taliban's advances as a threat to those still awaiting Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs), Washington is looking for third countries to host them until their paperwork is completed and they can come to the United States, as per a Reuter's report. Also read | Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report An official in the know says that an agreement to house about 8,000 Afghans in Qatar, a country that has a large US military base, has been close for weeks, but no official announcement has been made. Afghanistan nationals who served as interpreters and/or performed other jobs, for the US government, can apply to the SIV program. So far, approximately 1,200 Afghans have been evacuated to the United States under "Operation Allies Refuge" with an additional 3,500 expected in the coming weeks. Some Afghans will be taken to a US military base in Virginia for paperwork and some will go directly to US hosts. Also read | Afghanistan: NATO, EU, UN confirm they will not recognise govt formed through military Taking into account the Taliban's rapid advance in Afghanistan, the United States has decided to send around 1,000 personnel to Qatar to expedite the processing of SIVs. Countries hesitant As per two US officials, who wanted to stay anonymous, concerns surround the quality of security vetting and health screening in the COVID-19 process before the Afghans could fly, resulting in some countries hesitating to accept the Afghans. The Biden administration explored having Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan accept thousands of applicants, but that effort has so far proved ineffective. "There's concerns that you might expect: 'Who are these people? How do you know these people? Can you assure that these people will get visas to the United States? Who's going to care for and feed these people. What happens if these people wander off this facility you've got them in?" a senior State Department official said. After encountering reluctance from some countries, the US has turned to others who might be willing to help, in exchange for assistance. For taking in several thousand Afghans, the United States has offered concessions to Kosovo in economic and political terms, but officials are concerned about the country's capacity to house the new arrivals. The 1,200 Afghans evacuated represent less than 1 per cent of the 21,000 people on the SIV pipeline, and the Biden administration has been struggling to find temporary housing for the evacuees. When family members are counted, advocates estimate that 50,000 and 80,000 people will be evacuated under the SIV program. (With inputs from agencies)

Seeking asylum for SIV applicants: A desperate bid by the Biden administration

In a pre-recorded message to the nation on Friday, Afghanistan’s President Ashraf Ghani said remobilisation of the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF) is his top priority. He said the required measures are underway to reach this goal, but he also vowed to prevent further bloodshed in the country. &nbsp;

Thanking the Afghan forces for their bravery in defending the country, Ghani said he will not allow the “imposed war” to bring more devastation and death to the people.&nbsp;

“Under the current situation, remobilising of the security and defence forces is our top priority and required measures are underway for this purpose,” Ghani said.&nbsp;

“I know that you are concerned about your present and future but I assure you as your president that my focus is to prevent further instability, violence and displacement of my people,” he added. &nbsp;

“To do this, I have started widespread consultations within and outside the government, with political leaders and international partners and I will soon share the results with the people,” the president said, while adding that he will not allow the imposed war on Afghans to bring further killings, loss of the gains of the last 20 years, destruction of public property and continued instability.&nbsp;

In a pre-recorded message to the nation on Friday, Afghanistan’s President Ashraf Ghani said remobilisation of the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF) is his top priority.

In a pre-recorded message to the nation on Friday, Afghanistan’s President Ashraf Ghani said remobilisation of the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF) is his top priority. He said the required measures are underway to reach this goal, but he also vowed to prevent further bloodshed in the country. Thanking the Afghan forces for their bravery in defending the country, Ghani said he will not allow the “imposed war” to bring more devastation and death to the people. “Under the current situation, remobilising of the security and defence forces is our top priority and required measures are underway for this purpose,” Ghani said. “I know that you are concerned about your present and future but I assure you as your president that my focus is to prevent further instability, violence and displacement of my people,” he added. “To do this, I have started widespread consultations within and outside the government, with political leaders and international partners and I will soon share the results with the people,” the president said, while adding that he will not allow the imposed war on Afghans to bring further killings, loss of the gains of the last 20 years, destruction of public property and continued instability.

In address to nation, Afghan President vows to prevent further instability

Even when its government is being accused of supporting numerous terrorist groups, such as Taliban, LeT, etc, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated the country’s commitment for stability in Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The prime minister made the statement in his Independence Day message on Saturday. Khan also said, the country had rendered immense sacrifices and paid a heavy price for instability on its Western border. &nbsp;

“We have consistently stressed that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan. Pakistan will continue to support a negotiated political settlement for durable peace and stability in Afghanistan,” PM added. &nbsp;

In the message, he said, “We want peace within and peace without, to pursue our socio-economic agenda. Naya Pakistan has shifted its focus from geo-politics to geo-economics, with the well-being and welfare of our people as the topmost priority.” &nbsp;

Earlier, Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M Isaczai, speaking at United Nations Security Council, had exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country by saying how the group continues to enjoy 'safe haven'. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He was speaking at the session of UNSC organised under India's presidency of the top UN body. The session was held days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar had called India's external Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Afghan envoy Isaczai highlighted, how "graphic reports and videos of Taliban fighters congregating close to the Durand Line to enter Afghanistan, fund-raising events, transfer of dead bodies for mass burial, and treatment of injured Taliban in Pakistani hospitals are emerging and are widely available." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Last month at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had publicly slammed Pakistani PM Imran Khan for his country's support to the group and terror elements that are causing mayhem in his country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Even when its government is being accused of supporting numerous terrorist groups, such as Taliban, LeT, etc, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated the country’s commitment for stability in Afghanistan.

Even when its government is being accused of supporting numerous terrorist groups, such as Taliban, LeT, etc, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated the country’s commitment for stability in Afghanistan. The prime minister made the statement in his Independence Day message on Saturday. Khan also said, the country had rendered immense sacrifices and paid a heavy price for instability on its Western border. “We have consistently stressed that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan. Pakistan will continue to support a negotiated political settlement for durable peace and stability in Afghanistan,” PM added. In the message, he said, “We want peace within and peace without, to pursue our socio-economic agenda. Naya Pakistan has shifted its focus from geo-politics to geo-economics, with the well-being and welfare of our people as the topmost priority.” Earlier, Afghan envoy to the United Nations Ghulam M Isaczai, speaking at United Nations Security Council, had exposed Pakistan's support to the ongoing Taliban offensive in the country by saying how the group continues to enjoy 'safe haven'. He was speaking at the session of UNSC organised under India's presidency of the top UN body. The session was held days after Afghan foreign minister Hanif Atmar had called India's external Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar. The Afghan envoy Isaczai highlighted, how "graphic reports and videos of Taliban fighters congregating close to the Durand Line to enter Afghanistan, fund-raising events, transfer of dead bodies for mass burial, and treatment of injured Taliban in Pakistani hospitals are emerging and are widely available." Last month at the Uzbekistan connectivity summit, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had publicly slammed Pakistani PM Imran Khan for his country's support to the group and terror elements that are causing mayhem in his country.

Accused of supporting Taliban, Pak PM reiterates commitment for Afghan stability

In a letter to US President Joe Biden,&nbsp;Congressman Mike Waltz&nbsp;on Friday&nbsp;urged&nbsp;the administration to take immediate steps to provide assistance to the&nbsp;Afghan people in fight against the Taliban. He said it is time to&nbsp;make significant changes to the regional strategy.&nbsp;

Waltz asked&nbsp;Biden to&nbsp;provide military resources to assist the Afghan National Security Forces,&nbsp;including air support to&nbsp;check&nbsp;the Taliban offensive. The&nbsp;congressman also asked to&nbsp;immediately cut off aid to Pakistan and consider sanctions, and ask for Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad’s resignation “due to his catastrophic diplomatic strategy.”&nbsp;

Waltz&nbsp;wrote,&nbsp;“The Afghan Government and its people desperately need our help and I urge you to reverse course and provide military resources to assist the Afghan National Security Forces.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;an Afghan lawmaker says the Taliban have captured Logar province, just south of the capital, Kabul.&nbsp;Homa Ahmadi, a lawmaker form Logar, says that Taliban control the entire province, including its capital, and reached a district in the neighbouring Kabul province on Saturday.&nbsp;

That puts the insurgents less than 80 kilometers south of the nation's capital. The Taliban have also captured much of northern, western and southern Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The Taliban launched a multi-pronged assault early on Saturday on Mazar-e-Sharif, a major city in northern Afghanistan defended by powerful former warlords.&nbsp;

Munir Ahmad Farhad, a spokesman for the provincial governor in northern Balkh province, said the Taliban attacked the city from several directions setting off heavy fighting on its outskirts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a letter to US President Joe Biden, Congressman Mike Waltz on Friday urged the administration to take immediate steps to provide assistance to the Afghan people in fight against the Taliban.

In a letter to US President Joe Biden, Congressman Mike Waltz on Friday urged the administration to take immediate steps to provide assistance to the Afghan people in fight against the Taliban. He said it is time to make significant changes to the regional strategy. Waltz asked Biden to provide military resources to assist the Afghan National Security Forces, including air support to check the Taliban offensive. The congressman also asked to immediately cut off aid to Pakistan and consider sanctions, and ask for Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad’s resignation “due to his catastrophic diplomatic strategy.” Waltz wrote, “The Afghan Government and its people desperately need our help and I urge you to reverse course and provide military resources to assist the Afghan National Security Forces.” Meanwhile, an Afghan lawmaker says the Taliban have captured Logar province, just south of the capital, Kabul. Homa Ahmadi, a lawmaker form Logar, says that Taliban control the entire province, including its capital, and reached a district in the neighbouring Kabul province on Saturday. That puts the insurgents less than 80 kilometers south of the nation's capital. The Taliban have also captured much of northern, western and southern Afghanistan. The Taliban launched a multi-pronged assault early on Saturday on Mazar-e-Sharif, a major city in northern Afghanistan defended by powerful former warlords. Munir Ahmad Farhad, a spokesman for the provincial governor in northern Balkh province, said the Taliban attacked the city from several directions setting off heavy fighting on its outskirts. (With inputs from agencies)

US lawmaker asks Biden to change course as Taliban reach near Kabul 

A journalist confronted the&nbsp;Pentagon’s chief spokesman, John Kirby&nbsp;about the 'irony' of&nbsp;bringing in 3,000 troops after just pulling 2,500 out of Afghanistan.

"There's a certain irony here that the drawdown was for 2,500 troops, and you are sending in an additional 3,000 to get out civilians, and ramping it up super-quick. And on top of that, another 3,500 in Kuwait...I mean, isn't this ironic?," a journalist asked Kirby on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kirby said the influx of fresh troops does not mean the US&nbsp;is reentering combat with the Taliban.

“This is a temporary mission with a narrow focus,” he told reporters at the Pentagon.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-advances-in-afghanistan-us-and-britain-to-evacuate-embassies-405040">Taliban advances in Afghanistan, US and Britain to evacuate embassies</a>

In addition to sending three infantry battalions, two from the Marine Corps and one from the Army,&nbsp;to the airport, the Pentagon will dispatch 3,500 to 4,000 troops from a combat brigade of the 82nd Airborne Division to Kuwait to act as a reserve force.

Kirby said they will be on standby “in case we need even more” than the 3,000 going to Kabul.

Also, about 1,000 Army and Air Force troops, including military police and medical personnel, will be sent to Qatar in coming days to support a State Department effort to accelerate its processing of Special Immigrant Visa applications from Afghans who once worked for the US&nbsp;government and feel threatened by the Taliban, Kirby said.

The 3,000 troops who are to arrive at the Kabul airport in the next day or two, Kirby said, are to assist with security at the airport and to help process the departure of embassy personnel,&nbsp;not to get involved in the Afghan government’s war with the Taliban.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;decision has cast new doubt on Washington's strategy to influence Afghanistan's peace process by maintaining aid and diplomatic personnel even after the troop withdrawal.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-turmoil-taliban-claims-13th-provincial-capital-405086/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

About 3,500 additional US&nbsp;troops would be sent to the region from Fort Bragg in North Carolina to be on standby if the situation worsened, as well as 1,000 personnel to help process Afghans going through a special immigration process.

It is common for the US&nbsp;military to send in troops to evacuate personnel in combat zones.

The United States has ordered&nbsp;the deployment of thousands of troops to Afghanistan to evacuate their nationals, as the Taliban overran more key regional cities in an offensive that has left the capital dangerously exposed.

The orders came as the Taliban took control of Kandahar, the nation's second biggest city in the insurgency's heartland, leaving only Kabul and pockets of other territory in government hands.

The State Department said Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday and told him the United States "remains invested in the security and stability of Afghanistan" in the face of Taliban violence.

They said Washington was reducing its "civilian footprint" in Kabul given the "evolving security situation" and would increase the tempo of Special Immigration Visa flights for Afghans who helped the US&nbsp;effort in the country, a State Department statement said.

'Not abandonment'&nbsp;

Biden has insisted he has no regrets with his decision, but the speed and ease of the Taliban's urban victories in recent days has been a surprise and forced new calculations.

The Afghan government has now effectively lost control of most of the country, following an eight-day blitz into urban centres by the Taliban that has also stunned Kabul's American backers.

The offensive was launched in early May after the United States and its allies all but withdrew its forces from Afghanistan, with President Joe Biden determined to end two decades of war by September 11.

(With inputs from agencies)

A journalist confronted the Pentagon’s chief spokesman, John Kirby about the 'irony' of bringing in 3,000 troops after just pulling 2,500 out of Afghanistan. "There's a certain irony here that the drawdown was for 2,500 troops, and you are sending in an additional 3,000 to get out civilians, and ramping it up super-quick.

A journalist confronted the Pentagon’s chief spokesman, John Kirby about the 'irony' of bringing in 3,000 troops after just pulling 2,500 out of Afghanistan. "There's a certain irony here that the drawdown was for 2,500 troops, and you are sending in an additional 3,000 to get out civilians, and ramping it up super-quick. And on top of that, another 3,500 in Kuwait...I mean, isn't this ironic?," a journalist asked Kirby on Thursday. Kirby said the influx of fresh troops does not mean the US is reentering combat with the Taliban. “This is a temporary mission with a narrow focus,” he told reporters at the Pentagon. Also read| Taliban advances in Afghanistan, US and Britain to evacuate embassies In addition to sending three infantry battalions, two from the Marine Corps and one from the Army, to the airport, the Pentagon will dispatch 3,500 to 4,000 troops from a combat brigade of the 82nd Airborne Division to Kuwait to act as a reserve force. Kirby said they will be on standby “in case we need even more” than the 3,000 going to Kabul. Also, about 1,000 Army and Air Force troops, including military police and medical personnel, will be sent to Qatar in coming days to support a State Department effort to accelerate its processing of Special Immigrant Visa applications from Afghans who once worked for the US government and feel threatened by the Taliban, Kirby said. The 3,000 troops who are to arrive at the Kabul airport in the next day or two, Kirby said, are to assist with security at the airport and to help process the departure of embassy personnel, not to get involved in the Afghan government’s war with the Taliban. The decision has cast new doubt on Washington's strategy to influence Afghanistan's peace process by maintaining aid and diplomatic personnel even after the troop withdrawal. About 3,500 additional US troops would be sent to the region from Fort Bragg in North Carolina to be on standby if the situation worsened, as well as 1,000 personnel to help process Afghans going through a special immigration process. It is common for the US military to send in troops to evacuate personnel in combat zones. The United States has ordered the deployment of thousands of troops to Afghanistan to evacuate their nationals, as the Taliban overran more key regional cities in an offensive that has left the capital dangerously exposed. The orders came as the Taliban took control of Kandahar, the nation's second biggest city in the insurgency's heartland, leaving only Kabul and pockets of other territory in government hands. The State Department said Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday and told him the United States "remains invested in the security and stability of Afghanistan" in the face of Taliban violence. They said Washington was reducing its "civilian footprint" in Kabul given the "evolving security situation" and would increase the tempo of Special Immigration Visa flights for Afghans who helped the US effort in the country, a State Department statement said. 'Not abandonment' Biden has insisted he has no regrets with his decision, but the speed and ease of the Taliban's urban victories in recent days has been a surprise and forced new calculations. The Afghan government has now effectively lost control of most of the country, following an eight-day blitz into urban centres by the Taliban that has also stunned Kabul's American backers. The offensive was launched in early May after the United States and its allies all but withdrew its forces from Afghanistan, with President Joe Biden determined to end two decades of war by September 11. (With inputs from agencies)

US is sending 3,000 troops to Kabul as 2,500 leave, journalist confronts Pentagon about the irony

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