WION Ground Report: In the Afghan province of Laghman, the Taliban has taken 3 out of 5 districts. WION's Anas Mallick visited the province and found that the Afghan forces are now guarding a key highway and pushing back against the Taliban.

Gravitas: Exclusive: Locals caught in the middle of crossfire in Laghman

After blasts hit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/car-bomb-attack-at-afghanistan-defence-ministers-house-in-kabul-gunmen-enter-his-house-reports-402675">Kabul</a>, the United States said "it does bear all the hallmarks of the spate of Taliban attacks" even as US troops continue their pullout from the region.

A car bomb explosion had ripped Kabul on Tuesday including several blasts amid gunfire in the Afghan capital. At least four people were killed and 20 injured during the attack.

Afghanistan's defence minister Bismillah Mohammadi said it was a suicide car bomb attack targeting his house. The attack took place near the heavily fortified "Green Zone".

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-panjshir-vows-to-resist-taliban-push-402670/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It's important for the Taliban to recognise that it cannot achieve its objectives by seizing power through violence," State Department spokesman Ned Price said.

Taliban has stepped its attacks in the rural areas and provinces in Afghanistan for the past two months seizing several districts amid heavy fighting with Afghan troops.

"We're not in a position to attribute it officially just yet but of course it does bear all the hallmarks of the spate of&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;attacks that we have seen in recent weeks," Ned Price said.

Reports say Herat is under siege by the Taliban as Afghan and US planes have carried out air raids even as the Taliban has continued to surge.

The talks in Doha have been deadlocked as the Taliban has made gains on the ground in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

US State Department spokesman Ned Price had recently said the militant group would become "international pariahs" if they&nbsp;gave up negotiations "and the concern on the part of all of us, one of the many concerns, is that the result will be civil war."

Ned Price said the US "unequivocally condemns the bombing" even as a security alert was sounded in the Afghan capital.

The UN Assistance Mission for Afghanistan (UNAMA) said it was deeply concerned for the Afghan civilians as fighting worsens while calling for an "immediate end to fighting in urban areas".

(With inputs from Agencies)

After blasts hit Kabul, the United States said "it does bear all the hallmarks of the spate of Taliban attacks" even as US troops continue their pullout from the region.

After blasts hit Kabul, the United States said "it does bear all the hallmarks of the spate of Taliban attacks" even as US troops continue their pullout from the region. A car bomb explosion had ripped Kabul on Tuesday including several blasts amid gunfire in the Afghan capital. At least four people were killed and 20 injured during the attack. Afghanistan's defence minister Bismillah Mohammadi said it was a suicide car bomb attack targeting his house. The attack took place near the heavily fortified "Green Zone". Watch: "It's important for the Taliban to recognise that it cannot achieve its objectives by seizing power through violence," State Department spokesman Ned Price said. Taliban has stepped its attacks in the rural areas and provinces in Afghanistan for the past two months seizing several districts amid heavy fighting with Afghan troops. "We're not in a position to attribute it officially just yet but of course it does bear all the hallmarks of the spate of Taliban attacks that we have seen in recent weeks," Ned Price said. Reports say Herat is under siege by the Taliban as Afghan and US planes have carried out air raids even as the Taliban has continued to surge. The talks in Doha have been deadlocked as the Taliban has made gains on the ground in Afghanistan. US State Department spokesman Ned Price had recently said the militant group would become "international pariahs" if they gave up negotiations "and the concern on the part of all of us, one of the many concerns, is that the result will be civil war." Ned Price said the US "unequivocally condemns the bombing" even as a security alert was sounded in the Afghan capital. The UN Assistance Mission for Afghanistan (UNAMA) said it was deeply concerned for the Afghan civilians as fighting worsens while calling for an "immediate end to fighting in urban areas". (With inputs from Agencies)

Kabul attacks bear the 'hallmark' of Taliban: US

Defying security concerns, Afghanistan’s first vice president Amrullah Saleh took to streets on Tuesday to protest the rising incidents of Taliban’s offensive against the country’s security forces in a rush to grab power by force.&nbsp;

Joining a civilian protest in streets of Kabul, Saleh chanted ‘Allah-o-Akbar' and slammed Pakistan for supporting the Taliban. The Afghan vice president said, "God is not Pakistan's product."&nbsp;

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It was such an historic moment to echo the Kabul masses " Allah o Akbar, death to Talib terrorists &amp; their backer". Unforgettable moments of emotions &amp; patriotism. در سه بخش کابل با مردم همصدایی کردم که الله و اکبر و نابود باد طالب و حامی طالب. لحظه های فراموش ناشدنی پر از احساس
— Amrullah Saleh (@AmrullahSaleh2) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmrullahSaleh2/status/1422628477346500623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In a tweet after taking part in the protest, Saleh said, "It was such an historic moment to echo the Kabul masses ‘Allah o Akbar’, death to Talib terrorists and their backer. Unforgettable moments of emotions and patriotism." &nbsp;

Before the protest, he had said on Twitter, "Shame to its backer(s)." &nbsp;

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First vice president, <a href="https://twitter.com/AmrullahSaleh2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmrullahSaleh2</a> on the streets of Kabul among people. 
God is great <a href="https://t.co/Kyfj9fGDG8">pic.twitter.com/Kyfj9fGDG8</a>
— Fawad Aman (@FawadAman2) <a href="https://twitter.com/FawadAman2/status/1422628827113697281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Saleh had said, "Pakistan is a direct party to the Afghan conflict and crisis. Treating them as normal neighbour won't help the peace process. Defining their role in war and peace must be part of the discussion. Silence, sugar coating, appeasement or simply ignoring it won't help. Taliban leaders are in Pakistan." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan has been long blamed for providing support to Taliban terrorists in Afghanistan. It is no secret that scores of top Afghan Taliban leaders are hidden in Pakistan. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Defying security concerns, Afghanistan’s first vice president Amrullah Saleh took to streets on Tuesday to protest the rising incidents of Taliban’s offensive against the country’s security forces in a rush to grab power by force.

Defying security concerns, Afghanistan’s first vice president Amrullah Saleh took to streets on Tuesday to protest the rising incidents of Taliban’s offensive against the country’s security forces in a rush to grab power by force. Joining a civilian protest in streets of Kabul, Saleh chanted ‘Allah-o-Akbar' and slammed Pakistan for supporting the Taliban. The Afghan vice president said, "God is not Pakistan's product." It was such an historic moment to echo the Kabul masses " Allah o Akbar, death to Talib terrorists & their backer". Unforgettable moments of emotions & patriotism. در سه بخش کابل با مردم همصدایی کردم که الله و اکبر و نابود باد طالب و حامی طالب. لحظه های فراموش ناشدنی پر از احساس — Amrullah Saleh (@AmrullahSaleh2) August 3, 2021 × In a tweet after taking part in the protest, Saleh said, "It was such an historic moment to echo the Kabul masses ‘Allah o Akbar’, death to Talib terrorists and their backer. Unforgettable moments of emotions and patriotism." Before the protest, he had said on Twitter, "Shame to its backer(s)." First vice president, @AmrullahSaleh2 on the streets of Kabul among people. God is great pic.twitter.com/Kyfj9fGDG8 — Fawad Aman (@FawadAman2) August 3, 2021 × Earlier, Saleh had said, "Pakistan is a direct party to the Afghan conflict and crisis. Treating them as normal neighbour won't help the peace process. Defining their role in war and peace must be part of the discussion. Silence, sugar coating, appeasement or simply ignoring it won't help. Taliban leaders are in Pakistan." Pakistan has been long blamed for providing support to Taliban terrorists in Afghanistan. It is no secret that scores of top Afghan Taliban leaders are hidden in Pakistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Taking to streets, Afghan first VP Saleh slams Pak for supporting Taliban 

The Taliban on Wednesday claimed responsibility for a huge bomb attack in Kabul targeting the defence minister. Fighting has been particularly heavy around the city of Herat, near the western border with Iran, and Lashkar Gah and Kandahar in the south.

Afghanistan: Taliban claim responisibilty for major attack in Kabul

Warning more assaults on top government officials,&nbsp;the Taliban&nbsp;claimed to have carried out the&nbsp;deadly attack on the Afghan&nbsp;defence&nbsp;minister&nbsp;in Kabul. The group spokesman said&nbsp;on&nbsp;Wednesday,&nbsp;its fighters were behind the incident.&nbsp;

In a statement,&nbsp;Zabihullah&nbsp;Mujahid,&nbsp;spokesman,&nbsp;Taliban said,&nbsp;"Last night a martyrdom attack was carried out on the&nbsp;defence&nbsp;minister's residence."&nbsp;&nbsp;

He also added&nbsp;that more&nbsp;'retaliatory operations'&nbsp;against top government officials were being planned.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the attack,&nbsp;at least eight people, including a woman, were killed.&nbsp;More than 20 others were also hurt in a car bomb blast. The incident happened&nbsp;near&nbsp;Acting Defense Minister Gen Bismillah Mohammadi’s&nbsp;residence on Tuesday night, said&nbsp;Interior Ministry&nbsp;on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The attack was carried out around&nbsp;8 pm local time in&nbsp;Shirpoor&nbsp;area, district 10, Kabul.&nbsp;In the area, most of the high-ranking government officials reside.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At first,&nbsp;car bomb exploded&nbsp;close to Minister’s&nbsp;house&nbsp;and then, around&nbsp;four gunmen entered a nearby house and fought&nbsp;with&nbsp;security guards.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The security forces&nbsp;also&nbsp;arrived at the scene shortly,&nbsp;and ambulances were also seen leaving the area within an hour of the incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Warning more assaults on top government officials, the Taliban claimed to have carried out the deadly attack on the Afghan defence minister in Kabul. The group spokesman said on Wednesday, its fighters were behind the incident.

Warning more assaults on top government officials, the Taliban claimed to have carried out the deadly attack on the Afghan defence minister in Kabul. The group spokesman said on Wednesday, its fighters were behind the incident. In a statement, Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman, Taliban said, "Last night a martyrdom attack was carried out on the defence minister's residence." He also added that more 'retaliatory operations' against top government officials were being planned. In the attack, at least eight people, including a woman, were killed. More than 20 others were also hurt in a car bomb blast. The incident happened near Acting Defense Minister Gen Bismillah Mohammadi’s residence on Tuesday night, said Interior Ministry on Wednesday. The attack was carried out around 8 pm local time in Shirpoor area, district 10, Kabul. In the area, most of the high-ranking government officials reside. At first, car bomb exploded close to Minister’s house and then, around four gunmen entered a nearby house and fought with security guards. The security forces also arrived at the scene shortly, and ambulances were also seen leaving the area within an hour of the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Attack on Afghan defence minister in Kabul claimed by Taliban  

The US State Department spokesman Ned Price Monday on August 2 said that the Taliban is responsible for 'outrageous and atrocious acts of violence.'

Taliban fighters pushed deeper into the southern Afghan provincial capital of Lashkargah on Monday and closed in on government buildings, a senior official said, as the insurgents pressed a rapid advance.

Heavy fighting was raging close to the National Directorate of Security, the prison and the police headquarters in the main city in Helmand province, the government official said, asking not to be named.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-taliban-says-it-doesnt-have-ties-with-pak-based-terror-groups-like-let-jem-398814">Also read |&nbsp;Exclusive:&nbsp;Taliban says it doesn't have ties with Pak-based terror groups like&nbsp;LeT,&nbsp;JeM</a>

Taliban fighters have moved in on three provincial capitals in the last few days and seized territory nationwide since Washington said it planned a complete withdrawal of troops by September.

Most of their advances have focused on rural areas and they have yet to take full control of a major city.

Price engaged in a testy exchange about the situation in Afghanistan with a reporter at the State Department.

The US State Department spokesman Ned Price Monday on August 2 said that the Taliban is responsible for 'outrageous and atrocious acts of violence.' Taliban fighters pushed deeper into the southern Afghan provincial capital of Lashkargah on Monday and closed in on government buildings, a senior official said, as the insurgents pressed a rapid advance.

The US State Department spokesman Ned Price Monday on August 2 said that the Taliban is responsible for 'outrageous and atrocious acts of violence.' Taliban fighters pushed deeper into the southern Afghan provincial capital of Lashkargah on Monday and closed in on government buildings, a senior official said, as the insurgents pressed a rapid advance. Heavy fighting was raging close to the National Directorate of Security, the prison and the police headquarters in the main city in Helmand province, the government official said, asking not to be named. Also read | Exclusive: Taliban says it doesn't have ties with Pak-based terror groups like LeT, JeM Taliban fighters have moved in on three provincial capitals in the last few days and seized territory nationwide since Washington said it planned a complete withdrawal of troops by September. Most of their advances have focused on rural areas and they have yet to take full control of a major city. Price engaged in a testy exchange about the situation in Afghanistan with a reporter at the State Department.

Taliban responsible for 'outrageous and atrocious acts of violence': US State Department

Helmand was the centrepiece of the US and British military campaign, and any Taliban gains there would be a blow for the Afghan government.

Intense clashes leads to severe casualties in Lashkar Gah

Pakistan’s support for Taliban in Afghanistan would eventually lead to endangering of the security of the war-ravaged nation, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned on Tuesday.

“All those who are supporting Taliban should know that if the Taliban settles down and takes power, they would soon revolt against themselves and endanger the security” of Afghanistan, he told WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma in an exclusive interview.

“Anybody in any part of the world who considers themselves as the basis and symbol of the religion and tries to force upon others its will by weapons and arms, is going to be a serious threat and danger to all nations.”

 
Ahmadinejad cautioned both Afghanistan's neighbours, regional nations and extra-regional powers against meddling in the country as US troops complete their withdrawal after 20 years.

The government in Kabul has persistently accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban. Pakistan President Imran Khan, in recent remarks, had defended the insurgent group, saying they are also regular Afghans.

None of the neighbours of Afghanistan—Iran, Pakistan, India, China— or Persian Gulf countries, NATO and Russia- &nbsp;should meddle in Afghanistan’s affairs, Ahmadinejad said.

On the future of Afghanistan, he said the will of the people should prevail.

“People of Afghanistan should elect their representatives. And none of these groups are the representatives of people of Afghanistan.”

Any group that takes weapons, attacks and occupies some parts of the country cannot call themselves the representatives of the nation and be entitled to rights, he said.

“If we accept this logic, then we will be accepting that the entire world would always be unstable , and whoever is more violent, would be dominant. Then rights and laws would be meaningless,” he said.

<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;Part of the interview will air on WION on Tuesday at 3:30 PM GMT.</o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Pakistan’s support for Taliban in Afghanistan would eventually lead to endangering of the security of the war-ravaged nation, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned on Tuesday.

Pakistan’s support for Taliban in Afghanistan would eventually lead to endangering of the security of the war-ravaged nation, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned on Tuesday. “All those who are supporting Taliban should know that if the Taliban settles down and takes power, they would soon revolt against themselves and endanger the security” of Afghanistan, he told WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma in an exclusive interview. “Anybody in any part of the world who considers themselves as the basis and symbol of the religion and tries to force upon others its will by weapons and arms, is going to be a serious threat and danger to all nations.” Ahmadinejad cautioned both Afghanistan's neighbours, regional nations and extra-regional powers against meddling in the country as US troops complete their withdrawal after 20 years. The government in Kabul has persistently accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban. Pakistan President Imran Khan, in recent remarks, had defended the insurgent group, saying they are also regular Afghans. None of the neighbours of Afghanistan—Iran, Pakistan, India, China— or Persian Gulf countries, NATO and Russia- should meddle in Afghanistan’s affairs, Ahmadinejad said. On the future of Afghanistan, he said the will of the people should prevail. “People of Afghanistan should elect their representatives. And none of these groups are the representatives of people of Afghanistan.” Any group that takes weapons, attacks and occupies some parts of the country cannot call themselves the representatives of the nation and be entitled to rights, he said. “If we accept this logic, then we will be accepting that the entire world would always be unstable , and whoever is more violent, would be dominant. Then rights and laws would be meaningless,” he said. Part of the interview will air on WION on Tuesday at 3:30 PM GMT.

Exclusive: Pakistan's support to Taliban will endanger security of Afghanistan, warns former Iran president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad

Chanting ‘Allahu Akbar’ or 'God is Great’, several residents united against Taliban and marched on the streets of Herat city, which lies on the west, on Monday night, a TOLOnews report said.&nbsp;

The residents also announced their support to the Afghanistan government forces and vowed to defend the province. The residents also looked to celebrate Afghan National Defence and Security Forces’ (ANDSF) advances in the fight against the Taliban in southern Herat. The fighting has been going on for seven days in Herat.&nbsp;

The move was also welcomed by Afghans across the country as netizens created a hashtag of 'Herat uprising' and 'Allahu Akbar’, while announcing their support for the Heratis. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The residents of Kabul took to social media and looked to come up with a similar show of support in Kabul on Tuesday night. &nbsp;

While welcoming the move, First Vice President Amrullah Saleh said, he was just waiting for this day and he is thrilled by this act of the residents. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, Herat governor Gen Abdul Saboor Qani said the security forces in the province have air support. A large scale military operation is underway to clear the province of Taliban. &nbsp;

Three civilians were killed and 10 more were wounded in an explosion, which targeted a bus carrying civilians, in Herat on Monday evening, officials said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Chanting ‘Allahu Akbar’ or 'God is Great’, several residents united against Taliban and marched on the streets of Herat city, which lies on the west, on Monday night, a TOLOnews report said.

Chanting ‘Allahu Akbar’ or 'God is Great’, several residents united against Taliban and marched on the streets of Herat city, which lies on the west, on Monday night, a TOLOnews report said. The residents also announced their support to the Afghanistan government forces and vowed to defend the province. The residents also looked to celebrate Afghan National Defence and Security Forces’ (ANDSF) advances in the fight against the Taliban in southern Herat. The fighting has been going on for seven days in Herat. The move was also welcomed by Afghans across the country as netizens created a hashtag of 'Herat uprising' and 'Allahu Akbar’, while announcing their support for the Heratis. The residents of Kabul took to social media and looked to come up with a similar show of support in Kabul on Tuesday night. While welcoming the move, First Vice President Amrullah Saleh said, he was just waiting for this day and he is thrilled by this act of the residents. On Tuesday, Herat governor Gen Abdul Saboor Qani said the security forces in the province have air support. A large scale military operation is underway to clear the province of Taliban. Three civilians were killed and 10 more were wounded in an explosion, which targeted a bus carrying civilians, in Herat on Monday evening, officials said. (With inputs from agencies)

In support for Afghan forces, Herat residents unite to give a tough fight to Taliban  

Aghan forces battled the Taliban in Lashkargah as the fighting intensified in the city in southern Helmand province. The clashes intensified just hours after the Aghan government announced the deployment of hundreds of commandos to the area.

Afghanistan security forces battle Taliban in Lashkargah

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has reiterated that Taliban have changed compared to 20 years ago, but the change has been negative, and they have become more 'cruel’.&nbsp;

The Afghanistan president said the group will show no will for peace and will not get back to the negotiating table unless the situation changes on the battlefield, a TOLOnews report said.&nbsp;

Ghani made these remarks while addressing an event at the inauguration of what the Presidential Palace termed 'electronic governance’.&nbsp;

While highlighting the importance of the implementation of his six-month plan, Ghani said one part of it includes public mobilisation for defending the system under the leadership of the National Directorate of Security.&nbsp;

“A Talib that has changed in the last 24 hours. What is their change? They have become more cruel, more oppressive, more non-Muslim,” president said.&nbsp;

The Taliban has also been blamed by Ghani for creating the conditions for the presence of foreign terrorists in Afghanistan. Ghani said that the country’s situation will witness a change within the next six months after following his plan.&nbsp;

Ghani said, “They will not engage in meaningful negotiations unless the situation changes on the battlefield; therefore, we should have a clear stance. For this, there is a need for a countrywide mobilisation.” &nbsp;

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has reiterated that Taliban have changed compared to 20 years ago, but the change has been negative, and they have become more 'cruel’.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has reiterated that Taliban have changed compared to 20 years ago, but the change has been negative, and they have become more 'cruel’. The Afghanistan president said the group will show no will for peace and will not get back to the negotiating table unless the situation changes on the battlefield, a TOLOnews report said. Ghani made these remarks while addressing an event at the inauguration of what the Presidential Palace termed 'electronic governance’. While highlighting the importance of the implementation of his six-month plan, Ghani said one part of it includes public mobilisation for defending the system under the leadership of the National Directorate of Security. “A Talib that has changed in the last 24 hours. What is their change? They have become more cruel, more oppressive, more non-Muslim,” president said. The Taliban has also been blamed by Ghani for creating the conditions for the presence of foreign terrorists in Afghanistan. Ghani said that the country’s situation will witness a change within the next six months after following his plan. Ghani said, “They will not engage in meaningful negotiations unless the situation changes on the battlefield; therefore, we should have a clear stance. For this, there is a need for a countrywide mobilisation.”

Afghan President: Taliban have turned more 'cruel’ in 20 years  

Security forces have hit back at the rising assaults of Taliban in Afghanistan. Afghan govt bombed Taliban's possessions after the insurgence swamped major cities. Taliban claimed the attack saying govt possessions were bombarding their positions from the airport.

Afghan security forces hit back at  rising assaults of Taliban in country

The people of Afghanistan have been historically fighting for the last 34 years, says Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, Ex-PM Afghanistan.

Afghanistan: Former afghan PM Gulbuddin Hekmatyar Speaks to WION

As Taliban insurgents make gains in Afghanistan and security forces struggle to contain them, an international human rights monitor accused the Taliban insurgency there, of executing suspected government officials and security personnel, and sometimes even their family members.

Afghanistan: Taliban wages fierce battles, 3 major cities under attack

The American departure from Afghanistan has left the country in complete shambles. More and more districts are being taken by the Taliban. Afghan Ambassador to India Farid Mamundzay speaks with WION about ongoing situation in Afghanistan.

Afghan Ambassador to India Farid Mamundzay speaks with WION

According to Kandahar airport chief Massoud Pashtun, 'last night three rockets were fired at the airport and two of them hit the runway, due to this all flights from the airport have been cancelled.

Rockets hit Kandahar airport in southern Afghanistan

Afghan Taliban will not allow Daesh militants to penetrate into their country, said Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. &nbsp;

The foreign minister made the statement while addressing a press conference at Multan's Raza Hall on Saturday. He added the Afghan forces have the capacity to combat Daesh, a report by The News said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Qureshi said peace in Afghanistan was important for regional stability. And Pakistan is in consultation with other countries in the region to ensure the development and prosperity of the war-torn country.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Taliban have for weeks launched withering assaults in different parts of the country and are making significant territorial gains largely in sparsely populated rural areas as the US military withdrawal is at the final stages. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In recent weeks, they have brought increasing pressure on several provincial capitals and seized key border crossings.&nbsp;

The capture of any major urban centre would take their current offensive to another level and fuel concerns that the army is incapable of resisting the Taliban's battlefield gains. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The government has repeatedly dismissed the Taliban's steady territorial gains over the summer as lacking strategic value.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Afghan Taliban will not allow Daesh militants to penetrate into their country, said Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. The foreign minister made the statement while addressing a press conference at Multan's Raza Hall on Saturday.

Afghan Taliban will not allow Daesh militants to penetrate into their country, said Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. The foreign minister made the statement while addressing a press conference at Multan's Raza Hall on Saturday. He added the Afghan forces have the capacity to combat Daesh, a report by The News said on Sunday. Qureshi said peace in Afghanistan was important for regional stability. And Pakistan is in consultation with other countries in the region to ensure the development and prosperity of the war-torn country. Meanwhile, the Taliban have for weeks launched withering assaults in different parts of the country and are making significant territorial gains largely in sparsely populated rural areas as the US military withdrawal is at the final stages. In recent weeks, they have brought increasing pressure on several provincial capitals and seized key border crossings. The capture of any major urban centre would take their current offensive to another level and fuel concerns that the army is incapable of resisting the Taliban's battlefield gains. The government has repeatedly dismissed the Taliban's steady territorial gains over the summer as lacking strategic value. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak Foreign Minister says Taliban will not allow Daesh to resurge in Afghanistan 

A report suggests that Indian journalist Danish Siddiqui was not caught in a crossfire in Afghanistan, he was hunted and murdered by the Taliban. The terror group has also killed a popular Afghan comic and is holding many civilians captive. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas | Report: Journalist Danish Siddiqui was murdered by the Taliban

As Taliban insurgents make gains in Afghanistan and security forces struggle to contain them, an international human rights monitor accused the Taliban insurgency there, of executing suspected government officials and security personnel, and sometimes even their family members.

US-based Human Rights Watch&nbsp;(HRW) condemned the Taliban's retaliatory actions in a statement, noting that the group had pledged they would not harm Afghan government employees or those assisting the&nbsp;United States and NATO troops.

The insurgent group has denied the allegations. 
 
HRW reports that among recent executions was one committed by the Taliban in southern Kandahar province earlier this month,&nbsp;Nazar Mohammad a.k.a Khasha Zwan a&nbsp;popular Kandahari comedian.&nbsp;

According to reports, the slain man who worked with the Afghan police had posted routines on TikTok that included songs and jokes.&nbsp;He was beaten and shot to death by Taliban fighters on July 22, 2021.

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Khasha Zwan was apparently executed by Taliban forces because he made fun of Taliban leaders, said Human Rights Watch's, Patrica Gossman.

Gossman alleged that his murder, along with other recent abuses, demonstrates the Taliban's willingness to brutally crush even the mildest of criticism or objection.

The Taliban didn't admit to killing Khasha Zwan until a video appeared online showing two men slapping and abusing him.

After a video of two&nbsp;insurgents&nbsp;physically abusing the detained comedian went viral on social media, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid acknowledged the incident was the work of insurgent fighters.

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Mujahid said the men responsible for killing Zwan have been arrested and will be tried, given that they were obligated to bring the comedian to a Taliban court rather than kill him. 
 
As well as holding scores of government and police associates in Kandahar, insurgent commanders are also accused of detaining a number of civilians. 
 
Taliban forces cannot use brute force against their critics as they advance, says Gossman adding that while the Taliban leadership often denies the abuses, it is their fighters behind these attacks, so it is their responsibility to stop the slaughter. 
 
US government also condemned the death of the comic.

Ross Wilson, acting US ambassador in Kabul, tweeted&nbsp;“Nazar Mohammad 'Khasha'&nbsp;was a beloved comedian, bringing laughter &amp; joy to his community even in dark times. The Taliban kidnapped &amp; lynched him, then gleefully published video evidence on Twitter. We condemn these sickening actions &amp; the Taliban leadership should too.”

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Nazar "Khasha" Mohammad was a beloved comedian, bringing laughter &amp; joy to his community even in dark times. The Taliban kidnapped &amp; lynched him, then gleefully published video evidence on Twitter. We condemn these sickening actions &amp; the Taliban leadership should too. <a href="https://t.co/hXROjj83eC">https://t.co/hXROjj83eC</a>
— Chargé d’Affaires Ross Wilson (@USAmbKabul) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbKabul/status/1420394331865747463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Afghanistan saw its latest wave of Taliban attacks in early May after the US&nbsp;and NATO began formally withdrawing the last of their remaining troops. 
 
Under President Joe Biden's orders, the process&nbsp;is scheduled to be completed by August 31.

Washington signed a deal with the Taliban in February 2020 that called for the insurgents to reduce violence and to negotiate a peace treaty with the Afghan government in return for the military withdrawal. 
 
Peace talks between the warring sides were supposed to begin in September in Qatar, however, the US-backed process to resolve the Afghan dispute has largely stalled and violence has escalated.

According to a United Nations report, civilian casualties in Afghanistan increased by 47 per cent in the first half of 2021 compared to the same period last year. 
 
The report warns that unless the warring parties negotiate urgently a peace deal in the next few months, Afghanistan could experience its highest-ever number of civilian casualties.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-meets-antony-blinken-discusses-regional-concerns-tension-in-afghanistan-401217/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

While on a visit to India on Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also expressed his concern over the&nbsp;“deeply troubling”&nbsp;reports of increased attacks against Afghan civilians.

He called on the warring parties to proactively negotiate a peace settlement, "An Afghanistan that does not respect the rights of its people, an Afghanistan that commits atrocities against its own people would become a pariah state,".

(With inputs from agencies)

As Taliban insurgents make gains in Afghanistan and security forces struggle to contain them, an international human rights monitor accused the Taliban insurgency there, of executing suspected government officials and security personnel, and sometimes even their family members. US-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) condemned the Taliban's retaliatory actions in a statement, noting that the group had pledged they would not harm Afghan government employees or those assisting the United States and NATO troops. The insurgent group has denied the allegations. HRW reports that among recent executions was one committed by the Taliban in southern Kandahar province earlier this month, Nazar Mohammad a.k.a Khasha Zwan a popular Kandahari comedian. According to reports, the slain man who worked with the Afghan police had posted routines on TikTok that included songs and jokes. He was beaten and shot to death by Taliban fighters on July 22, 2021. Khasha Zwan was apparently executed by Taliban forces because he made fun of Taliban leaders, said Human Rights Watch's, Patrica Gossman. Gossman alleged that his murder, along with other recent abuses, demonstrates the Taliban's willingness to brutally crush even the mildest of criticism or objection. The Taliban didn't admit to killing Khasha Zwan until a video appeared online showing two men slapping and abusing him. After a video of two insurgents physically abusing the detained comedian went viral on social media, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid acknowledged the incident was the work of insurgent fighters. Mujahid said the men responsible for killing Zwan have been arrested and will be tried, given that they were obligated to bring the comedian to a Taliban court rather than kill him. As well as holding scores of government and police associates in Kandahar, insurgent commanders are also accused of detaining a number of civilians. Taliban forces cannot use brute force against their critics as they advance, says Gossman adding that while the Taliban leadership often denies the abuses, it is their fighters behind these attacks, so it is their responsibility to stop the slaughter. US government also condemned the death of the comic. Ross Wilson, acting US ambassador in Kabul, tweeted “Nazar Mohammad 'Khasha' was a beloved comedian, bringing laughter & joy to his community even in dark times. The Taliban kidnapped & lynched him, then gleefully published video evidence on Twitter. We condemn these sickening actions & the Taliban leadership should too.” Nazar "Khasha" Mohammad was a beloved comedian, bringing laughter & joy to his community even in dark times. The Taliban kidnapped & lynched him, then gleefully published video evidence on Twitter. We condemn these sickening actions & the Taliban leadership should too. https://t.co/hXROjj83eC — Chargé d’Affaires Ross Wilson (@USAmbKabul) July 28, 2021 × Afghanistan saw its latest wave of Taliban attacks in early May after the US and NATO began formally withdrawing the last of their remaining troops. Under President Joe Biden's orders, the process is scheduled to be completed by August 31. Washington signed a deal with the Taliban in February 2020 that called for the insurgents to reduce violence and to negotiate a peace treaty with the Afghan government in return for the military withdrawal. Peace talks between the warring sides were supposed to begin in September in Qatar, however, the US-backed process to resolve the Afghan dispute has largely stalled and violence has escalated. According to a United Nations report, civilian casualties in Afghanistan increased by 47 per cent in the first half of 2021 compared to the same period last year. The report warns that unless the warring parties negotiate urgently a peace deal in the next few months, Afghanistan could experience its highest-ever number of civilian casualties. While on a visit to India on Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also expressed his concern over the “deeply troubling” reports of increased attacks against Afghan civilians. He called on the warring parties to proactively negotiate a peace settlement, "An Afghanistan that does not respect the rights of its people, an Afghanistan that commits atrocities against its own people would become a pariah state,". (With inputs from agencies)

Human Rights Watch dismayed by mounting Taliban revenge killings

A report has revealed that the award-winning Indian photojournalist Danish Siddiqui was “brutally murdered” by the Taliban. US-based Washington Examiner reported that the Taliban targeted a mosque where Siddiqui was getting medical aid. They identified him and murdered him.

Taliban targets mosque, kills award-winning photojournalist Danish Siddiqui

Since the Taliban's offensive has begun, the world has focused on the violence and casualties. But, the streets of Kabul are bustling, businesses are open & people are out and about. Palki Sharma tells you how a resilient Kabul is pushing back against the Taliban.

Gravitas | Exclusive: A Bustling Kabul pushes back against Taliban

As the Taliban captures more and more territory in Afghanistan, WION goes behind the headlines. What is life like in the country right now and what do the security forces think about the latest Taliban advances? Join WION's Anas Mallick as he travels across the country to report from the heart of the conflict.

WION in Afghanistan: Taliban continues to make rapid advances

Afghanistan is witnessing violence like never before. The Taliban is making bold territorial gains compromising Afghans' faith in their government. Recently, the terror group admitted to the cold-blooded murder of Afghanistan's most popular comedian. All peace negotiations have failed to achieve any goal. WION tells you what impact the situation in Afghanistan is having on its people.

Afghan women fear they will lose hard won rights after Taliban's return

Afghanistan's Taliban took responsibility this week for the killing of a comic in the country's south, raising the specter of revenge killings as the U.S. and NATO put the final touches on their departure.

Taliban takes responsibility for killing of Afghan comic

As Taliban continues to make advances in parts of the country, Kabul still believes that the forces can hold them back. When US troops started withdrawing, many thought that Kabul would fall in 6 months. As the Taliban continues to make advances Kabul remains unperturbed to the violence surrounding it.

Taliban captures more and more territories in Afghanistan

Imran Khan, Pakistan's prime minister, said on Tuesday that the Taliban were not some military outfit but 'normal civilians'.

Khan remarked that Pakistan, Afghanistan's eastern neighbour, shelters three million Afghan refugees during a TV interview with American network PBS.

Questioning the United States motive for the Afghan invasion he also said that the US has 'really messed it up in Afghanistan'.

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“When they say Pakistan handed the Taliban safe havens and sanctuaries, where are these safe-havens? When you mentioned there are three million Afghan refugees in Pakistan, who are, by the way, the same ethnic group as the Taliban, Pashtuns, Imran Khan said, "Now there are camps of 500,000 people."

“There are camps of 100,000 people. And Taliban are not some military outfit. They are normal civilians. And if there are some civilians in these camps, how is Pakistan supposed to hunt these people down? How can you call them sanctuaries?” he added.

Pakistan has long been accused of assisting Taliban rebels against the Afghan National Security Forces with the military, logistical, financial, and intelligence support (ANSF). 
 
Due to his continuous support for the Taliban, Imran Khan has earned the moniker 'Taliban Khan' in Pakistan's politics.

Khan slammed the US for attempting to "find a military solution in Afghanistan when there was never one."

He commented on the situation, saying that "sadly, the negotiating power of the Americans or the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) forces had gone" by the time the world powers realised there was no military option.

When questioned if he thought the Taliban's return was a good thing for Afghanistan, Imran Khan repeated that the only beneficial conclusion would be a political settlement "that is inclusive."

(With inputs from agencies)

Imran Khan, Pakistan's prime minister, said on Tuesday that the Taliban were not some military outfit but 'normal civilians'. Khan remarked that Pakistan, Afghanistan's eastern neighbour, shelters three million Afghan refugees during a TV interview with American network PBS.

Imran Khan, Pakistan's prime minister, said on Tuesday that the Taliban were not some military outfit but 'normal civilians'. Khan remarked that Pakistan, Afghanistan's eastern neighbour, shelters three million Afghan refugees during a TV interview with American network PBS. Questioning the United States motive for the Afghan invasion he also said that the US has 'really messed it up in Afghanistan'. Due to his continuous support for the Taliban, Imran Khan has earned the moniker 'Taliban Khan' in Pakistan's politics. × “When they say Pakistan handed the Taliban safe havens and sanctuaries, where are these safe-havens? When you mentioned there are three million Afghan refugees in Pakistan, who are, by the way, the same ethnic group as the Taliban, Pashtuns, Imran Khan said, "Now there are camps of 500,000 people." “There are camps of 100,000 people. And Taliban are not some military outfit. They are normal civilians. And if there are some civilians in these camps, how is Pakistan supposed to hunt these people down? How can you call them sanctuaries?” he added. Pakistan has long been accused of assisting Taliban rebels against the Afghan National Security Forces with the military, logistical, financial, and intelligence support (ANSF). Due to his continuous support for the Taliban, Imran Khan has earned the moniker 'Taliban Khan' in Pakistan's politics. Khan slammed the US for attempting to "find a military solution in Afghanistan when there was never one." He commented on the situation, saying that "sadly, the negotiating power of the Americans or the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) forces had gone" by the time the world powers realised there was no military option. When questioned if he thought the Taliban's return was a good thing for Afghanistan, Imran Khan repeated that the only beneficial conclusion would be a political settlement "that is inclusive." (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban are 'normal civilians', Pakistan can't hunt them down: PM Imran Khan

Taliban assassinations of Afghan pilots detailed by Reuters this month mark another "worrisome development" for the Afghan Air Force as it reels from a surge in fighting, a US government watchdog said in a report released on Thursday (July 29). 
 
At least seven Afghan pilots have been assassinated off base in recent months, two senior Afghan government officials told Reuters, part of what the Islamist Taliban says is a campaign to see U.S.-trained Afghan pilots "targeted and eliminated." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-fighting-between-taliban-and-afghan-troops-russia-to-bolster-tajikistans-military-401156">Also read: Amid fighting between Taliban and Afghan troops, Russia to bolster Tajikistan's military</a> 
 
As the United States prepares to formally end its 20-year military mission in Afghanistan on Aug. 31, Taliban insurgents are quickly seizing territory once controlled by the U.S.-backed government of President Ashraf Ghani, raising fears they could eventually try to take the capital Kabul. 
 
The Special Inspector General for Afghan Reconstruction (SIGAR), in its quarterly report to Congress covering the three-month period through June, broadly portrayed an Afghan Air Force (AAF) under growing strain from battling the Taliban amid the U.S. withdrawal - and becoming less ready to fight. 
 
The AAF`s fleet of UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, for example, had a 39 percent readiness rate in June, about half the level of April and May. All Afghan airframes were flying at least 25 percent over their recommended scheduled-maintenance intervals, SIGAR reported. 
 
"All aircraft platforms are overtaxed due to increased requests for close air support, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance missions and aerial resupply now that the (Afghan military) largely lacks U.S. air support," it wrote. 
 
At the same time, air crews remain over-tasked due to the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan and a pace of operations that "has only increased”, it said. 
 
SIGAR also cited the Reuters report. 
 
"Another worrisome development concerning AAF aircrew was a (Reuters) report that the Taliban is deliberately targeting Afghan pilots," it said, before presenting the Reuters` findings without additional comment. 
 
Along with Afghanistan`s Special Forces, the Afghan Air Force is a pillar of the nation`s strategy for preventing a Taliban takeover of cities. But special operations forces are also being misused, SIGAR reported. 
 
It said most Afghan National Army corps refuse to execute missions without support from its elite commandos. Citing NATO data, SIGAR said that when Afghan commandos arrive, they are misused to perform tasks intended for conventional forces, including route clearance and checkpoint security. 
 
Still, the report cautioned that it was difficult to evaluate what constituted military misuse of the elite forces when the Afghan government "is fighting for its existence".

Taliban assassinations of Afghan pilots detailed by Reuters this month mark another "worrisome development" for the Afghan Air Force as it reels from a surge in fighting, a US government watchdog said in a report released on Thursday (July 29).

Taliban assassinations of Afghan pilots detailed by Reuters this month mark another "worrisome development" for the Afghan Air Force as it reels from a surge in fighting, a US government watchdog said in a report released on Thursday (July 29). At least seven Afghan pilots have been assassinated off base in recent months, two senior Afghan government officials told Reuters, part of what the Islamist Taliban says is a campaign to see U.S.-trained Afghan pilots "targeted and eliminated." Also read: Amid fighting between Taliban and Afghan troops, Russia to bolster Tajikistan's military As the United States prepares to formally end its 20-year military mission in Afghanistan on Aug. 31, Taliban insurgents are quickly seizing territory once controlled by the U.S.-backed government of President Ashraf Ghani, raising fears they could eventually try to take the capital Kabul. The Special Inspector General for Afghan Reconstruction (SIGAR), in its quarterly report to Congress covering the three-month period through June, broadly portrayed an Afghan Air Force (AAF) under growing strain from battling the Taliban amid the U.S. withdrawal - and becoming less ready to fight. The AAF`s fleet of UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, for example, had a 39 percent readiness rate in June, about half the level of April and May. All Afghan airframes were flying at least 25 percent over their recommended scheduled-maintenance intervals, SIGAR reported. "All aircraft platforms are overtaxed due to increased requests for close air support, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance missions and aerial resupply now that the (Afghan military) largely lacks U.S. air support," it wrote. At the same time, air crews remain over-tasked due to the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan and a pace of operations that "has only increased”, it said. SIGAR also cited the Reuters report. "Another worrisome development concerning AAF aircrew was a (Reuters) report that the Taliban is deliberately targeting Afghan pilots," it said, before presenting the Reuters` findings without additional comment. Along with Afghanistan`s Special Forces, the Afghan Air Force is a pillar of the nation`s strategy for preventing a Taliban takeover of cities. But special operations forces are also being misused, SIGAR reported. It said most Afghan National Army corps refuse to execute missions without support from its elite commandos. Citing NATO data, SIGAR said that when Afghan commandos arrive, they are misused to perform tasks intended for conventional forces, including route clearance and checkpoint security. Still, the report cautioned that it was difficult to evaluate what constituted military misuse of the elite forces when the Afghan government "is fighting for its existence".

Taliban assassinations of Afghan pilots 'worrisome,' US government watchdog says

The Taliban fought with Afghan government forces on the outskirts of Herat while scores of families were fleeing the city from the western Afghanistan city. The Taliban have tightened the noose around Herat.

The Taliban have already seized several districts on the outskirts of the city. They have also captured two border crossings in Herat province.

Violence has surged since early May, when US-led foreign forces began a final withdrawal which is now almost complete.

An AFP correspondent in Herat said the Taliban and government forces were fighting on the road leading to the city airport, while residents said clashes were also going on in the nearby districts of Injil and Guzara.

"People there are terrified," said local Abdul Rab Ansari, who fled to the city from Guzara.

"The fighting is heavy but they have not captured the district of Guzara so far," said Mohammad Allahyar, who also sought shelter in the city.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan told AFP that gunshots had been fired close to a UN facility in Herat.&nbsp;

"No UN personnel were engaged nor affected by the reported incident," it said.

Afghan forces and militiamen of veteran warlord and anti-Taliban commander Ismail Khan have been deployed around the city of about 600,000 inhabitants.

Khan, who previously fought the Soviet occupation forces in the 1980s and then the Taliban during their hardline regime in the 1990s, has vowed to fight the militants again to counter their staggering advances in recent months.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban fought with Afghan government forces on the outskirts of Herat while scores of families were fleeing the city from the western Afghanistan city. The Taliban have tightened the noose around Herat.

The Taliban fought with Afghan government forces on the outskirts of Herat while scores of families were fleeing the city from the western Afghanistan city. The Taliban have tightened the noose around Herat. The Taliban have already seized several districts on the outskirts of the city. They have also captured two border crossings in Herat province. Violence has surged since early May, when US-led foreign forces began a final withdrawal which is now almost complete. An AFP correspondent in Herat said the Taliban and government forces were fighting on the road leading to the city airport, while residents said clashes were also going on in the nearby districts of Injil and Guzara. "People there are terrified," said local Abdul Rab Ansari, who fled to the city from Guzara. "The fighting is heavy but they have not captured the district of Guzara so far," said Mohammad Allahyar, who also sought shelter in the city. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan told AFP that gunshots had been fired close to a UN facility in Herat. "No UN personnel were engaged nor affected by the reported incident," it said. Afghan forces and militiamen of veteran warlord and anti-Taliban commander Ismail Khan have been deployed around the city of about 600,000 inhabitants. Khan, who previously fought the Soviet occupation forces in the 1980s and then the Taliban during their hardline regime in the 1990s, has vowed to fight the militants again to counter their staggering advances in recent months. (With inputs from agencies)

Civilians flee as Taliban tighten grip around Herat

The crossing with Afghanistan was reopened after consultations with the Taliban who are the day-to-day affairs in areas under their control.

WION in Afghanistan: Traders and truckers pay twice at border

US President Joe Biden informed today that "an important milestone" had been reached as the first flight carrying <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-fighting-between-taliban-and-afghan-troops-russia-to-bolster-tajikistans-military-401156">Afghans</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-fighting-between-taliban-and-afghan-troops-russia-to-bolster-tajikistans-military-401156"> </a>who worked as interpreters for the US defence forces landed in America.

"Today is an important milestone as we continue to fulfill our promise to the thousands of Afghan nationals who served shoulder-to-shoulder with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-assassinations-of-afghan-pilots-worrisome-us-government-watchdog-says-401616">American</a> troops and diplomats over the last 20 years in Afghanistan," President Biden said.

The White House informed 200 interpreters arrived in the US and are in the process of completing health checks and other processing details after that they will be sent to their homes across the country.

The interpreters arrived at Fort Lee military base in Virginia for final paperwork and medical examinations to start a new life in the US.

The US initiative called "Operation Allies Refuge" will reportedly bring in Afghans under the Special Immigrant Visas (SIV) allowing them to bring their families.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-exclusive-a-bustling-kabul-pushes-back-against-taliban-401590/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"These arrivals are just the first of many as we work quickly to relocate SIV-eligible Afghans out of harm's way — to the United States, to US facilities abroad, or to third countries — so that they can wait in safety while they finish their visa applications," President Biden said.

At least 2,500 SIV applicants are set to arrive as part of the first list with several thousand more to follow in subsequent weeks. The SIV programme was created in 2006 for Iraqi and Afghan interpreters who risked retaliation for working with&nbsp;US troops.

Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/positive-thing-says-us-secretary-of-state-blinken-on-chinas-talks-with-taliban-401449">Antony Blinken</a> said the Biden administration is committed to helping those who helped the US in "hard times in Afghanistan over the last 20 years - translators and interpreters".

All US troops are set to pull out over the next four weeks with the deadline set on August 31 by President Biden.

The US Congress on Thursday had cleared $1.1 billion fund to resettle the Afghans who supported the US mission. It will now be tabled&nbsp;in the House of Representatives and will then reach President Biden for his final approval.

(With inputs from Agencies)

US President Joe Biden informed today that "an important milestone" had been reached as the first flight carrying Afghans who worked as interpreters for the US defence forces landed in America.

US President Joe Biden informed today that "an important milestone" had been reached as the first flight carrying Afghans who worked as interpreters for the US defence forces landed in America. "Today is an important milestone as we continue to fulfill our promise to the thousands of Afghan nationals who served shoulder-to-shoulder with American troops and diplomats over the last 20 years in Afghanistan," President Biden said. The White House informed 200 interpreters arrived in the US and are in the process of completing health checks and other processing details after that they will be sent to their homes across the country. The interpreters arrived at Fort Lee military base in Virginia for final paperwork and medical examinations to start a new life in the US. The US initiative called "Operation Allies Refuge" will reportedly bring in Afghans under the Special Immigrant Visas (SIV) allowing them to bring their families. Watch: "These arrivals are just the first of many as we work quickly to relocate SIV-eligible Afghans out of harm's way — to the United States, to US facilities abroad, or to third countries — so that they can wait in safety while they finish their visa applications," President Biden said. At least 2,500 SIV applicants are set to arrive as part of the first list with several thousand more to follow in subsequent weeks. The SIV programme was created in 2006 for Iraqi and Afghan interpreters who risked retaliation for working with US troops. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the Biden administration is committed to helping those who helped the US in "hard times in Afghanistan over the last 20 years - translators and interpreters". All US troops are set to pull out over the next four weeks with the deadline set on August 31 by President Biden. The US Congress on Thursday had cleared $1.1 billion fund to resettle the Afghans who supported the US mission. It will now be tabled in the House of Representatives and will then reach President Biden for his final approval. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Important milestone': First flight of Afghan interpreters arrives in US

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