Joe Biden administration is considering an expedited visa path for vulnerable Afghans including women journalists, activists and politicians who may be targeted by the Taliban.

US to consider visas for vulnerable Afghan women after military exit

President Joe Biden defended the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan, saying it was 'not inevitable' that the country would fall to the Taliban, and confirmed that military exit would be completed by August 31.

Biden amplifies Afghan pullout justification says Taliban takeover 'not inevitable'

Taliban official Shahabuddin Delawar declared in Moscow on Friday that the Taliban control 85 per cent of Afghanistan's territory.

After nearly two decades of fighting, foreign forces, including the US, are retreating, emboldening Taliban insurgents to try to take new territory in Afghanistan. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-return-of-taliban-in-afghanistan-and-the-us-retreat-396932">In Pictures | The return of Taliban in Afghanistan, and the US retreat</a> 
 
Meanwhile, The withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan is more than 90 per cent completed, the Pentagon's Central Command announced Tuesday.

CentCom said it had officially handed over seven former US bases to the Afghan security forces and had evacuated the equivalent of nearly 1,000 C-17 air freighter loads of equipment from the country, ahead of the September deadline to complete the pullout. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-achieved-its-goals-afghans-must-decide-own-future-president-joe-biden-396867">Also read | US achieved its goals, Afghans must decide own future: President Joe Biden</a>

On Friday US forces handed over the sprawling Bagram air base north of Kabul, the main centre of US military operations in the country for most of the past two decades of conflict.

Tuesday's announcement underscored that most of the process of withdrawing US military and civilian personnel ordered by President Joe Biden in April had been completed.

At the time of Biden's order, there were officially 2,500 US troops and 16,000 private contractors.

According to reports, there were also some 1,000 US special forces operating in Afghanistan at the time as well not included in the official tally. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban official Shahabuddin Delawar declared in Moscow on Friday that the Taliban control 85 per cent of Afghanistan's territory. After nearly two decades of fighting, foreign forces, including the US, are retreating, emboldening Taliban insurgents to try to take new territory in Afghanistan.

Taliban official Shahabuddin Delawar declared in Moscow on Friday that the Taliban control 85 per cent of Afghanistan's territory. After nearly two decades of fighting, foreign forces, including the US, are retreating, emboldening Taliban insurgents to try to take new territory in Afghanistan. In Pictures | The return of Taliban in Afghanistan, and the US retreat Meanwhile, The withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan is more than 90 per cent completed, the Pentagon's Central Command announced Tuesday. CentCom said it had officially handed over seven former US bases to the Afghan security forces and had evacuated the equivalent of nearly 1,000 C-17 air freighter loads of equipment from the country, ahead of the September deadline to complete the pullout. Also read | US achieved its goals, Afghans must decide own future: President Joe Biden On Friday US forces handed over the sprawling Bagram air base north of Kabul, the main centre of US military operations in the country for most of the past two decades of conflict. Tuesday's announcement underscored that most of the process of withdrawing US military and civilian personnel ordered by President Joe Biden in April had been completed. At the time of Biden's order, there were officially 2,500 US troops and 16,000 private contractors. According to reports, there were also some 1,000 US special forces operating in Afghanistan at the time as well not included in the official tally. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban controls 85% of Afghan territory, Taliban official says

In Pics | The return of Taliban in Afghanistan, and the US retreat

President Joe Biden strongly defended his decision to pull US military forces out of Afghanistan, saying the Afghan people must decide their own future. He also added that the Afghan military has the ability to repel the Taliban.

Biden says Afghan military is capable to repel Taliban

May 1997. The Taliban militia, backed by Pakistan, were moving swiftly to take control of Afghanistan. About two-thirds of the country was under its control and the rest under the Northern Alliance or Jumbish-e-Islami, a coalition of militias loyal to General Abdul Rashid Dostum, the Hizb-e-Wahadat of Karim Khalili and the Jamiat-e-Islami of Prof Burhanuddin Rabbani &amp; Ahmed Shah Masood, the Lion of Panjshir .&nbsp;

I was asked by my then media organization to travel to Afghanistan for a ground report. So, along with a camera person, I chose to go to Mazar-e-Sharif. &nbsp;

We flew from Delhi to Tashkent and onwards to the border town of Termez in Uzbekistan before taking the iron bridge over Amu Darya (Oxus River) to enter Afghanistan. This bridge was built by the Soviet Union, so that their tanks &amp; other heavy supplies could cross over smoothly. After the Soviet Union broke up, it was renamed as the Afghanistan-Uzbekistan Friendship Bridge.&nbsp;

<img alt="At Amu Darya" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="598b167f-9960-4156-803e-bb5a0b929d28" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/at%20Amu%20Darya.jpeg" />

At Amu Darya

The moment we crossed the bridge and entered border town of Haeratan in Afghanistan; we were greeted by smartly dressed Uzbek soldiers owing allegiance to Gen Abdul Rashid Dostum. We told them we were Indians and to our surprise one of them started singing the famous Raj Kapoor song, 'Mere Juta Hai Japani' and we were served piping hot green tea. The border formalities were over even before we could finish our green tea. The taxis parked nearby flaunted posters of Bollywood stars like Karishma Kapoor, Juhi Chawla &amp; Shahrukh Khan. &nbsp; &nbsp;

This was my first impression of Afghanistan – which is still imprinted in my mind—even though almost 25 years have gone by.&nbsp;

We were picked up by our local contact and then we drove for about 2-hours thru the highway to Mazar-i-Sharif. Sand covered most of the highway and we noticed burnt tanks, trucks etc on the way. Apparently, they belonged to the erstwhile Soviet army.&nbsp;

As we entered Mazar-e-Sharif, the majestic Hazrat Ali Mazar also popularly known as Blue Mosque surrounded by thousands of white doves, symbols of peace, greeted us. Markets were full of visitors, traffic unruly and Bollywood music blaring out of shops selling tape recorders and cassettes. &nbsp;

<img alt="At blue mosque" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8eefd217-6714-49a1-be76-44cac81246a1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/At%20blue%20mosque.jpeg" />

At Hazrat Ali Mazar, also known as Blue Mosque

We decided to start our reporting from the Balkh University located in Mazar-e-sharif. &nbsp;Here there were no strictures based on the Islamic way of life. Young girls were being imparted education and they mingled freely with men while sharing the same classrooms. It seemed like any other university. In contrast were the pictures from Kabul and areas under Taliban control that we had seen on TV in New Delhi, showing women being flogged for sending young girls to school or college. &nbsp;

This was the Mazar-e-Sharif I saw.&nbsp;

After spending almost two-days at the home of a local commander of the Northern Alliance in Mazar-i-Sharif, our request for a meeting with Lion of Panjshir, Ahmad Shah Masood materialized. The next morning we were on his personal chopper travelling to Takhar province’s capital Taloqan to meet the man himself, a legend whose exploits are the stuff of many stories in the region.&nbsp;

<img alt="With personal bodyguards of Masood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a3a4c073-efd6-4172-86e6-371707e7baa5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/With%20personal%20body%20guards%20of%20masood.jpeg" />

With personal bodyguards of Ahmed Shah Masood

The first glimpse of the man himself was overwhelming &amp; our first meeting was full of warmth.&nbsp;

The next three-days we spent travelling with him in his black Land Cruiser from one place to another including interiors of the province. His energy was infectious. We went from one meeting to another, where he discussed military strategy with his local commanders. The sole objective was how to defeat the advancing Taliban militia. On average, he was spending over 18-hours a day planning his moves against the rapidly advancing Taliban. &nbsp;

On sighting the Lion of Panjshir, locals would flock to greet him and shake hands. He knew many by first name. And would ask them about their wellbeing and that of their families. As day two ended and we sat to eat our dinner at a local military commander’s home, the man himself appeared and joined us for the meal. The conversation over the dinner ranged from his days fighting the Soviets as a Mujahideen to the future of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

His dream of seeing a peaceful Afghanistan, was then being shattered by the Taliban with support from Pakistan. He acknowledged that India was and will always remain a friend of Afghanistan. Then we talked about our respective families. This was Ahmad Shah Masood to me. Later, I was told that it is rare for the commander to share a meal like this with strangers, and the memorable meal is a privilege I cherish.&nbsp;

Finally, on day 3, we got an opportunity to interview the Lion of Panjshir on record. As we sat down for the formal interview, he was guarded. He talked about how the Taliban militia would never be able to enter the Northern Parts of the country; his relationship with other warlords like General Dostum; how they were planning to defeat the Taliban and retake Kabul; and, how each &amp; every citizen of the country was standing by with them. It was an exhaustive interview.

<img alt="Interviewing Masood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c45e8a06-ca05-4da0-a4d0-5ed6624c6505" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Interviewing%20masood.jpeg" />

Interviewing Masood

At the end of it, we bid adieu with a promise to remain in touch. It was a promise we couldn’t keep.&nbsp; 
Later in the day, we boarded his personal chopper for the flight back to Mazar-e-sharif. There was trouble in store. En route, our chopper was fired upon and we could hear the volley of bullets hitting the helicopter’s outer surface. But thanks to the Lion of Panjshir’s personal pilot, who was remarkably adept in handling the chopper, we managed to evade rest of the gunfire. And, just about survived to tell our story.

<img alt="Masood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="edb27b14-38ce-4563-8b7b-02eb2bcf8165" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202021-07-08%20at%2011.36.32%20AM.jpeg" />

But 2021 is proving to be very different from 1997. The Lion of Panjshir is no more. He was assassinated days before the 9/11 attacks on the US &nbsp;

Media reports emerging from northern areas tell a different story. The Taliban has almost encircled the one-time strongholds of the Northern Alliance. And it continues to make dramatic gains. The Taliban currently controls about 195 districts and in contests over another 129 districts. Afghanistan is once again confronted by the Taliban waging a war to take over the country. And, there is no telling how long the turmoil and violence will last.

Will peace ever return to this beautiful, rugged country? &nbsp;

This question, which I asked Ahmad Shah Masood in 1997, still eludes an answer. &nbsp;

May 1997. The Taliban militia, backed by Pakistan, were moving swiftly to take control of Afghanistan. About two-thirds of the country was under its control and the rest under the Northern Alliance or Jumbish-e-Islami, a coalition of militias loyal to General Abdul Rashid Dostum, the Hizb-e-Wahadat of Karim Khalili and the Jamiat-e-Islami of Prof Burhanuddin Rabbani & Ahmed Shah Masood, the Lion of Panjshir .

May 1997. The Taliban militia, backed by Pakistan, were moving swiftly to take control of Afghanistan. About two-thirds of the country was under its control and the rest under the Northern Alliance or Jumbish-e-Islami, a coalition of militias loyal to General Abdul Rashid Dostum, the Hizb-e-Wahadat of Karim Khalili and the Jamiat-e-Islami of Prof Burhanuddin Rabbani & Ahmed Shah Masood, the Lion of Panjshir . I was asked by my then media organization to travel to Afghanistan for a ground report. So, along with a camera person, I chose to go to Mazar-e-Sharif. We flew from Delhi to Tashkent and onwards to the border town of Termez in Uzbekistan before taking the iron bridge over Amu Darya (Oxus River) to enter Afghanistan. This bridge was built by the Soviet Union, so that their tanks & other heavy supplies could cross over smoothly. After the Soviet Union broke up, it was renamed as the Afghanistan-Uzbekistan Friendship Bridge. At Amu Darya The moment we crossed the bridge and entered border town of Haeratan in Afghanistan; we were greeted by smartly dressed Uzbek soldiers owing allegiance to Gen Abdul Rashid Dostum. We told them we were Indians and to our surprise one of them started singing the famous Raj Kapoor song, 'Mere Juta Hai Japani' and we were served piping hot green tea. The border formalities were over even before we could finish our green tea. The taxis parked nearby flaunted posters of Bollywood stars like Karishma Kapoor, Juhi Chawla & Shahrukh Khan. This was my first impression of Afghanistan – which is still imprinted in my mind—even though almost 25 years have gone by. We were picked up by our local contact and then we drove for about 2-hours thru the highway to Mazar-i-Sharif. Sand covered most of the highway and we noticed burnt tanks, trucks etc on the way. Apparently, they belonged to the erstwhile Soviet army. As we entered Mazar-e-Sharif, the majestic Hazrat Ali Mazar also popularly known as Blue Mosque surrounded by thousands of white doves, symbols of peace, greeted us. Markets were full of visitors, traffic unruly and Bollywood music blaring out of shops selling tape recorders and cassettes. At Hazrat Ali Mazar, also known as Blue Mosque We decided to start our reporting from the Balkh University located in Mazar-e-sharif. Here there were no strictures based on the Islamic way of life. Young girls were being imparted education and they mingled freely with men while sharing the same classrooms. It seemed like any other university. In contrast were the pictures from Kabul and areas under Taliban control that we had seen on TV in New Delhi, showing women being flogged for sending young girls to school or college. This was the Mazar-e-Sharif I saw. After spending almost two-days at the home of a local commander of the Northern Alliance in Mazar-i-Sharif, our request for a meeting with Lion of Panjshir, Ahmad Shah Masood materialized. The next morning we were on his personal chopper travelling to Takhar province’s capital Taloqan to meet the man himself, a legend whose exploits are the stuff of many stories in the region. With personal bodyguards of Ahmed Shah Masood The first glimpse of the man himself was overwhelming & our first meeting was full of warmth. The next three-days we spent travelling with him in his black Land Cruiser from one place to another including interiors of the province. His energy was infectious. We went from one meeting to another, where he discussed military strategy with his local commanders. The sole objective was how to defeat the advancing Taliban militia. On average, he was spending over 18-hours a day planning his moves against the rapidly advancing Taliban. On sighting the Lion of Panjshir, locals would flock to greet him and shake hands. He knew many by first name. And would ask them about their wellbeing and that of their families. As day two ended and we sat to eat our dinner at a local military commander’s home, the man himself appeared and joined us for the meal. The conversation over the dinner ranged from his days fighting the Soviets as a Mujahideen to the future of Afghanistan. His dream of seeing a peaceful Afghanistan, was then being shattered by the Taliban with support from Pakistan. He acknowledged that India was and will always remain a friend of Afghanistan. Then we talked about our respective families. This was Ahmad Shah Masood to me. Later, I was told that it is rare for the commander to share a meal like this with strangers, and the memorable meal is a privilege I cherish. Finally, on day 3, we got an opportunity to interview the Lion of Panjshir on record. As we sat down for the formal interview, he was guarded. He talked about how the Taliban militia would never be able to enter the Northern Parts of the country; his relationship with other warlords like General Dostum; how they were planning to defeat the Taliban and retake Kabul; and, how each & every citizen of the country was standing by with them. It was an exhaustive interview. Interviewing Masood At the end of it, we bid adieu with a promise to remain in touch. It was a promise we couldn’t keep. Later in the day, we boarded his personal chopper for the flight back to Mazar-e-sharif. There was trouble in store. En route, our chopper was fired upon and we could hear the volley of bullets hitting the helicopter’s outer surface. But thanks to the Lion of Panjshir’s personal pilot, who was remarkably adept in handling the chopper, we managed to evade rest of the gunfire. And, just about survived to tell our story. But 2021 is proving to be very different from 1997. The Lion of Panjshir is no more. He was assassinated days before the 9/11 attacks on the US Media reports emerging from northern areas tell a different story. The Taliban has almost encircled the one-time strongholds of the Northern Alliance. And it continues to make dramatic gains. The Taliban currently controls about 195 districts and in contests over another 129 districts. Afghanistan is once again confronted by the Taliban waging a war to take over the country. And, there is no telling how long the turmoil and violence will last. Will peace ever return to this beautiful, rugged country? This question, which I asked Ahmad Shah Masood in 1997, still eludes an answer.

Blog | Mazar-e-Sharif: Then and Now 

Afghan defence ministry said on Thursday that the governemnt forces had wrested back control of a provincial capital city from the Taliban

The ministry said that some fighting was continuing on the outskirts of Qala-e-Naw, capital of Badghis province. This province borders Turmenistan.

Insurgents had on Wednesday seized key government buildings in the city including police headquarters as part of a dramatic Taliban advance unfolding as foreign forces withdraw from Afghanistan after a 20-year-long intervention.

“The city is fully (back) under our control and we are conducting operations against the Taliban on the outskirts of the city,” Defence Ministry spokesman Fawad Aman said.

The ministry said that 69 Taliban fighters had been killed. Qala-e-naw was first provincial capital to see an all-out assault by the Taliban.

A large quantity of Taliban arms and ammunition was also seized by government forces, the ministry said on Twitter.

The rest of Badghis province is in Taliban hands. Western security officials say the Taliban have captured more than 100 districts in Afghanistan; the Taliban say they hold over 200 districts in 34 provinces comprising over half the country. Main cities and provincial capitals remain under government control.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghan defence ministry said on Thursday that the governemnt forces had wrested back control of a provincial capital city from the Taliban The ministry said that some fighting was continuing on the outskirts of Qala-e-Naw, capital of Badghis province.

Afghan defence ministry said on Thursday that the governemnt forces had wrested back control of a provincial capital city from the Taliban The ministry said that some fighting was continuing on the outskirts of Qala-e-Naw, capital of Badghis province. This province borders Turmenistan. Insurgents had on Wednesday seized key government buildings in the city including police headquarters as part of a dramatic Taliban advance unfolding as foreign forces withdraw from Afghanistan after a 20-year-long intervention. “The city is fully (back) under our control and we are conducting operations against the Taliban on the outskirts of the city,” Defence Ministry spokesman Fawad Aman said. The ministry said that 69 Taliban fighters had been killed. Qala-e-naw was first provincial capital to see an all-out assault by the Taliban. A large quantity of Taliban arms and ammunition was also seized by government forces, the ministry said on Twitter. The rest of Badghis province is in Taliban hands. Western security officials say the Taliban have captured more than 100 districts in Afghanistan; the Taliban say they hold over 200 districts in 34 provinces comprising over half the country. Main cities and provincial capitals remain under government control. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan forces retake provincial capital from Taliban

Smoke covered the provincial capital in Afghanistan on Thursday as fighting went on between Afghan forces and the Taliban. The fighting is going on for a second straight day. The government has flown in hundreds of commandos into Qala-i-Naw, the city that is capital of northwestern province of Badghis.

This is the first provincial capital to face all-out assault by the Taliban since US troop withdrawal.

With the US pullout "90 percent complete", according to the Pentagon, the insurgents have launched a blistering campaign to capture new territory, and fears are mounting that Afghan forces will be stretched without vital American air support.

Video obtained by AFP showed thick smoke billowing over the city, and the sound of gunfire could be heard. 
Badghis health official Abdul Latif Rostaee said at least 10 civilians had been taken to hospital since the fighting erupted.

"The Taliban have resumed their attacks from several directions with light and heavy weapons," Badghis Governor Hessamuddin Shams told AFP on Thursday.

"Our security forces are bravely fighting them and the enemy is being pushed back. They are fleeing. We will give a hard blow to the enemy."

On Wednesday, the Taliban briefly seized the police headquarters and the local office of the country's spy agency, but were later pushed back.

'Women will not be able to work'

Parisila Herawai, a rights activist in the city, expressed concern for the safety of women in particular.

"It is an emergency situation for all women, especially activists," she told AFP. 
"If the Taliban plan to remain in the city, we will not be able to work."

As news of the assault spread on Wednesday, social media was flooded with videos of clashes -- with some showing armed Taliban fighters on motorbikes entering the city, as onlookers cheered.

Local officials said some security officers had surrendered to the Taliban, and the insurgents opened the gates of the city jail, freeing hundreds of prisoners.

Most had since been recaptured, officials said.

Overnight, the defence ministry rushed hundreds of commandos to the city to launch a "large scale operation", spokesman Fawad Aman said on Twitter.

(With inputs from agencies)

Smoke covered the provincial capital in Afghanistan on Thursday as fighting went on between Afghan forces and the Taliban. The fighting is going on for a second straight day.

Smoke covered the provincial capital in Afghanistan on Thursday as fighting went on between Afghan forces and the Taliban. The fighting is going on for a second straight day. The government has flown in hundreds of commandos into Qala-i-Naw, the city that is capital of northwestern province of Badghis. This is the first provincial capital to face all-out assault by the Taliban since US troop withdrawal. With the US pullout "90 percent complete", according to the Pentagon, the insurgents have launched a blistering campaign to capture new territory, and fears are mounting that Afghan forces will be stretched without vital American air support. Video obtained by AFP showed thick smoke billowing over the city, and the sound of gunfire could be heard. Badghis health official Abdul Latif Rostaee said at least 10 civilians had been taken to hospital since the fighting erupted. "The Taliban have resumed their attacks from several directions with light and heavy weapons," Badghis Governor Hessamuddin Shams told AFP on Thursday. "Our security forces are bravely fighting them and the enemy is being pushed back. They are fleeing. We will give a hard blow to the enemy." On Wednesday, the Taliban briefly seized the police headquarters and the local office of the country's spy agency, but were later pushed back. 'Women will not be able to work' Parisila Herawai, a rights activist in the city, expressed concern for the safety of women in particular. "It is an emergency situation for all women, especially activists," she told AFP. "If the Taliban plan to remain in the city, we will not be able to work." As news of the assault spread on Wednesday, social media was flooded with videos of clashes -- with some showing armed Taliban fighters on motorbikes entering the city, as onlookers cheered. Local officials said some security officers had surrendered to the Taliban, and the insurgents opened the gates of the city jail, freeing hundreds of prisoners. Most had since been recaptured, officials said. Overnight, the defence ministry rushed hundreds of commandos to the city to launch a "large scale operation", spokesman Fawad Aman said on Twitter. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan govt sends commandos as Taliban surround Afghan city

Biden administration is considering an expedited visa path for vulnerable Afghans including women journalists, activists and politicians who may be targetted by the Taliban, Reuters cited US officials as saying.

Rights groups have been asking the State Department and White House to add up to 2,000 visas specifically for vulnerable women and women's advocates to a developing policy plan to evacuate thousands Afghans after the U.S. military pullout this month. The current plan includes translators who worked with foreign forces.

One of the officials said that US government was not only looking at women under threat but also men and minorities in high risk professions

Women who made gains during the two-decade U.S. occupation, and their supporters and advocates, should be part of any expedited list, rights groups have argued to the White House and State Department.

"Lives are at risk,” said Teresa Casale, advocacy director for Mina’s List, which advocates for women’s representation in governments around the world. "Women leaders are being actively targeted and killed by Taliban forces. They receive threats against their lives and safety every day."

The group and others are recommending these visas be added to an expedited activation process for Afghan people most at risk, by creating a fast track program in State Department, and that U.S. officials actively pursue diplomacy to other countries as well to secure them.

The White House has declined to comment.

Women police officers, media workers, judges and medical workers have been assassinated in Afghanistan as foreign military left the country.

Women who appear on television and radio faced particular threats, Human Rights Watch wrote in April. "Female reporters may be targeted not only for issues they cover but also for challenging perceived social norms prohibiting women from being in a public role and working outside the home."

Under the Taliban, women were barred from education or work, required to fully cover their bodies, and could not leave home without a male relative. "Moral offenses" were punished by flogging and stoning.

(With agency inputs)

Biden administration is considering an expedited visa path for vulnerable Afghans including women journalists, activists and politicians who may be targetted by the Taliban, Reuters cited US officials as saying.

Biden administration is considering an expedited visa path for vulnerable Afghans including women journalists, activists and politicians who may be targetted by the Taliban, Reuters cited US officials as saying. Rights groups have been asking the State Department and White House to add up to 2,000 visas specifically for vulnerable women and women's advocates to a developing policy plan to evacuate thousands Afghans after the U.S. military pullout this month. The current plan includes translators who worked with foreign forces. One of the officials said that US government was not only looking at women under threat but also men and minorities in high risk professions Women who made gains during the two-decade U.S. occupation, and their supporters and advocates, should be part of any expedited list, rights groups have argued to the White House and State Department. "Lives are at risk,” said Teresa Casale, advocacy director for Mina’s List, which advocates for women’s representation in governments around the world. "Women leaders are being actively targeted and killed by Taliban forces. They receive threats against their lives and safety every day." The group and others are recommending these visas be added to an expedited activation process for Afghan people most at risk, by creating a fast track program in State Department, and that U.S. officials actively pursue diplomacy to other countries as well to secure them. The White House has declined to comment. Women police officers, media workers, judges and medical workers have been assassinated in Afghanistan as foreign military left the country. Women who appear on television and radio faced particular threats, Human Rights Watch wrote in April. "Female reporters may be targeted not only for issues they cover but also for challenging perceived social norms prohibiting women from being in a public role and working outside the home." Under the Taliban, women were barred from education or work, required to fully cover their bodies, and could not leave home without a male relative. "Moral offenses" were punished by flogging and stoning. (With agency inputs)

US mulls visas for vulnerable Afghan women after military exit

Afghanistan is descending into chaos and violence. After taking control of more than 190 districts, the Taliban today stormed the capital of a province. WION's Palki tells you what this means for the Civilian Government of Afghanistan

Gravitas: Taliban storms capital of northwestern Afghan province

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will visit Iran today and meet the country’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. The main focus of the meeting will be the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, where the Taliban continue&nbsp;to make significant gains.

Jaishankar is expected to reach the country at around 3 pm (IST). He will make&nbsp;a stopover in Iran's capital Tehran while going to Moscow. He is going to Russia for the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC).&nbsp; 
 
Jaishankar had made a similar stopover in Iran in September of 2020 while on his Moscow visit.

Both countries have been working on the Chabahar port project which has been the key pillar of connectivity between, especially Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, India supplied cranes for the post. India is involved with the development of phase-I of the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar.&nbsp;

In December 2018, an Indian company, India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) took over the port operations, and as of December 2020, the port has handled 1.75 million tonnes of bulk cargo and more than 13000 TEUs of container cargo.

India used the&nbsp;port&nbsp;to send 75,000 MT of wheat to&nbsp;Afghanistan in 2020&nbsp;as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the covid pandemic.&nbsp;

India also supplied 20,000 litres of the pesticide Malathion 96% ULV to Iran via&nbsp;Chabahar&nbsp;port in 2020 to help Iran curb the menace of desert locusts.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will visit Iran today and meet the country’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. The main focus of the meeting will be the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, where the Taliban continue to make significant gains.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will visit Iran today and meet the country’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. The main focus of the meeting will be the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, where the Taliban continue to make significant gains. Jaishankar is expected to reach the country at around 3 pm (IST). He will make a stopover in Iran's capital Tehran while going to Moscow. He is going to Russia for the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC). Jaishankar had made a similar stopover in Iran in September of 2020 while on his Moscow visit. Both countries have been working on the Chabahar port project which has been the key pillar of connectivity between, especially Afghanistan. Earlier this year, India supplied cranes for the post. India is involved with the development of phase-I of the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar. In December 2018, an Indian company, India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) took over the port operations, and as of December 2020, the port has handled 1.75 million tonnes of bulk cargo and more than 13000 TEUs of container cargo. India used the port to send 75,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan in 2020 as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the covid pandemic. India also supplied 20,000 litres of the pesticide Malathion 96% ULV to Iran via Chabahar port in 2020 to help Iran curb the menace of desert locusts.

With Afghanistan in focus, India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar to land in Iran today

General&nbsp;Mir Asadullah Kohistani, the new commander of the Bagram airfield has said that his forces are getting ready for an offensive against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/putin-dials-tajikistan-president-amid-talibans-rapid-advance-in-afghanistan-396250">Taliban</a>&nbsp;even as the militants make&nbsp;rapid advances in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/consulates-remain-open-in-kandahar-mazar-says-india-as-taliban-makes-rapid-gains-in-afghanistan-396302">Also Read:&nbsp;Consulates remain open in Kandahar, Mazar, says India</a>

Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Asadullah spoke on Americans leaving Bagram without any information. He said, "We had done the initial plan and coordinated but on Friday morning, we heard that US troops had left Bagram. We were not aware about it."

Bagram airfield was the largest US&nbsp;military base in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/history-combatants-facts-and-timeline-us-led-military-intervention-in-afghanistan-396203">Afghanistan</a> and a symbol of American presence in the country.

WION: What is the current situation at the Bagram airfield?

General&nbsp;Mir Asadullah Kohistani: Right now, the situation is completely normal. All our troops are deployed inside and outside. Our patrol is going on, we don't have any problem so far.

WION: Americans never informed you&nbsp;that they are leaving?

Gen. Mir Asadullah Kohistani: We had done the initial plan and coordinated with them regarding deployment and safety and security out of Bagram.

We completed it on Thursday night&nbsp;but on Friday morning&nbsp;we heard that US troops had left Bagram. We were not aware about it. I think this is because of the phased departure they did not inform us for their safety&nbsp;and&nbsp;took their own security measures.

They did not inform us&nbsp;but the main point was everyone understood that all the Afghan National Army units were secure&nbsp;and there is no threat from outside or&nbsp;inside in Bagram.

WION: Have you reached out to the Americans on&nbsp;reasons why they left like this?

General&nbsp;Mir Asadullah Kohistani: The last contact with them was on Thursday night at 7:30 pm&nbsp;and after that contact&nbsp;point was cut off we didn't have&nbsp;any contact with them.

WION: What is the current situation related to advances by the Taliban? Will Kabul fall?

General&nbsp;Mir Asadullah Kohistani: Everybody knows&nbsp;we are involved in four&nbsp;decades of war. We fully understand we will take back all the area which is economically&nbsp;and strategically important.

The Afghan Army is a responsible force and is getting ready for offensive operation and as soon as possible we will start our offensive&nbsp;operation to change the situation.

General Mir Asadullah Kohistani, the new commander of the Bagram airfield has said that his forces are getting ready for an offensive against the Taliban even as the militants make rapid advances in the country.

General Mir Asadullah Kohistani, the new commander of the Bagram airfield has said that his forces are getting ready for an offensive against the Taliban even as the militants make rapid advances in the country. Also Read: Consulates remain open in Kandahar, Mazar, says India Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Asadullah spoke on Americans leaving Bagram without any information. He said, "We had done the initial plan and coordinated but on Friday morning, we heard that US troops had left Bagram. We were not aware about it." Bagram airfield was the largest US military base in Afghanistan and a symbol of American presence in the country. WION: What is the current situation at the Bagram airfield? General Mir Asadullah Kohistani: Right now, the situation is completely normal. All our troops are deployed inside and outside. Our patrol is going on, we don't have any problem so far. WION: Americans never informed you that they are leaving? Gen. Mir Asadullah Kohistani: We had done the initial plan and coordinated with them regarding deployment and safety and security out of Bagram. We completed it on Thursday night but on Friday morning we heard that US troops had left Bagram. We were not aware about it. I think this is because of the phased departure they did not inform us for their safety and took their own security measures. They did not inform us but the main point was everyone understood that all the Afghan National Army units were secure and there is no threat from outside or inside in Bagram. WION: Have you reached out to the Americans on reasons why they left like this? General Mir Asadullah Kohistani: The last contact with them was on Thursday night at 7:30 pm and after that contact point was cut off we didn't have any contact with them. WION: What is the current situation related to advances by the Taliban? Will Kabul fall? General Mir Asadullah Kohistani: Everybody knows we are involved in four decades of war. We fully understand we will take back all the area which is economically and strategically important. The Afghan Army is a responsible force and is getting ready for offensive operation and as soon as possible we will start our offensive operation to change the situation.

Exclusive: Getting ready for offensive against Taliban, says General Asadullah, Bagram airfield's new commander

As the Taliban launched fresh attacks in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-launches-fresh-attack-on-northwestern-afghan-province-396513">Qala-i-Naw</a>, the capital of Badghis located in the northwestern Afghan province, Afghan special forces carried out operations in Kunduz city with several districts under the control of the militant group.

Pentagon had said on Tuesday that 90 per cent of US troops had pulled out of the region as the Taliban continued to gain a foothold in the northern areas.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-forces-mobilise-as-taliban-mounts-offensive-396253/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Afghan troops have been battling the Taliban with several districts falling in the past month as foreign troops have retreated denying government soldiers security cover.

Last week US troops handed over the Bagram airbase to Afghan&nbsp;forces and pulled out of the area after nearly 20 years. President Joe Biden had pledged to bring back US troops by September 11, however, the pullback has occurred ahead of schedule in most cases.

Amid the renewed fighting in several areas, RIA news agency reported that Tajikistan has appealed to the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) consisting of countries from Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan for&nbsp;help in dealing&nbsp;with unstable security condiction along the border with&nbsp;Afghanistan.

Russian President Vladimir Putin had earlier called President Emomali Rakhmon assuring him of all help after hundreds of Afghan troops had poured into Tajikistan&nbsp;as&nbsp;the Taliban made rapid gains.

Russia already has a military base in Afghanistan even as foreign minister Lavrov said Russia was ready to use its military base

"We will do everything we can, including using the capabilities of the Russian military base on Tajikistan's border with Afghanistan, to prevent any aggressive impulses towards our allies," Lavrov said.

Meanwhile, UK PM Boris Johnson said the current situation in Afghanistan is "fraught with risks".

UK under former PM Tony Blair had entered the war in Afghanistan in 2001. At least 400 British troops have died in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

As the Taliban launched fresh attacks in Qala-i-Naw, the capital of Badghis located in the northwestern Afghan province, Afghan special forces carried out operations in Kunduz city with several districts under the control of the militant group.

As the Taliban launched fresh attacks in Qala-i-Naw, the capital of Badghis located in the northwestern Afghan province, Afghan special forces carried out operations in Kunduz city with several districts under the control of the militant group. Pentagon had said on Tuesday that 90 per cent of US troops had pulled out of the region as the Taliban continued to gain a foothold in the northern areas. Watch: Afghan troops have been battling the Taliban with several districts falling in the past month as foreign troops have retreated denying government soldiers security cover. Last week US troops handed over the Bagram airbase to Afghan forces and pulled out of the area after nearly 20 years. President Joe Biden had pledged to bring back US troops by September 11, however, the pullback has occurred ahead of schedule in most cases. Amid the renewed fighting in several areas, RIA news agency reported that Tajikistan has appealed to the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) consisting of countries from Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan for help in dealing with unstable security condiction along the border with Afghanistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin had earlier called President Emomali Rakhmon assuring him of all help after hundreds of Afghan troops had poured into Tajikistan as the Taliban made rapid gains. Russia already has a military base in Afghanistan even as foreign minister Lavrov said Russia was ready to use its military base "We will do everything we can, including using the capabilities of the Russian military base on Tajikistan's border with Afghanistan, to prevent any aggressive impulses towards our allies," Lavrov said. Meanwhile, UK PM Boris Johnson said the current situation in Afghanistan is "fraught with risks". UK under former PM Tony Blair had entered the war in Afghanistan in 2001. At least 400 British troops have died in Afghanistan. (With inputs from Agencies)

Afghan forces launch attacks in Kunduz as Taliban pounds northwestern province

Taliban has attacked a dam built by India in Afghanistan. India could reportedly bring back expats. Tajikistan has deployed 20,000 troops at the Afghan border & Russia is conducting military exercises.

Gravitas: India's fears come true: Taliban targets Indian project

Taliban on Wednesday launched an attack on&nbsp;Qala-i-Naw, capital of Badghis, as it continued its&nbsp;assault with&nbsp;US troops leaving&nbsp;Afghanistan.

The militants have been gaining a foothold in the north which wasn't their traditional stronghold amid fierce fighting with Afghan troops.

Reports had earlier said hundreds of Afghan soldiers had fled to neighbouring Tajikistan as President Putin called President Emomali Rakhmonto to assure him of all help as the&nbsp;US declared on Tuesday that 90 per cent of its troops had withdrawn from the country.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-fears-come-true-taliban-targets-indian-project-396327/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As talks failed to make any headway in Doha, Iran said it was ready to help.&nbsp;

The Afghan government delegation&nbsp;met Taliban representatives in Tehran as fighting raged in the country. The Taliban delegation was headed by Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai with Younus Qanooni representing the government as Iran's foreign minister Zarif called both sides to commit to political solutions.&nbsp;

On the ground, however, reports said the Taliban have entered Badghis city with some troops reportedly surrendering to the militant group.

Afghanistan's defence minister Bismillah Mohammadi said war is raging as the Taliban launched an attack on Qala-i-Naw. It is the Taliban's first assault on a provincial capital since they started their major offensive as fighting takes place inside the city.

The Taliban already controls the countryside in the western province as Afghan soldiers carry on their battle with most US troops having pulled out of key areas.

Meanwhile, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said that the situation in &nbsp;Afghanistan could "swiftly deteriorate" with the "hasty exit of American and other NATO troops."

"They were unable to achieve visible results when it comes to stabilizing the situation during the decades they spent there."&nbsp;

Amid the fighting, Tajikistan President Emomali Rakhmon has&nbsp;ordered the mobilization of 20,000 reservists to bolster the country's border with Afghanistan after several hundred Afghan government troops poured into the country after&nbsp;being pushed back by the Taliban.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban on Wednesday launched an attack on Qala-i-Naw, capital of Badghis, as it continued its assault with US troops leaving Afghanistan. The militants have been gaining a foothold in the north which wasn't their traditional stronghold amid fierce fighting with Afghan troops.

Taliban on Wednesday launched an attack on Qala-i-Naw, capital of Badghis, as it continued its assault with US troops leaving Afghanistan. The militants have been gaining a foothold in the north which wasn't their traditional stronghold amid fierce fighting with Afghan troops. Reports had earlier said hundreds of Afghan soldiers had fled to neighbouring Tajikistan as President Putin called President Emomali Rakhmonto to assure him of all help as the US declared on Tuesday that 90 per cent of its troops had withdrawn from the country. Watch: As talks failed to make any headway in Doha, Iran said it was ready to help. The Afghan government delegation met Taliban representatives in Tehran as fighting raged in the country. The Taliban delegation was headed by Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai with Younus Qanooni representing the government as Iran's foreign minister Zarif called both sides to commit to political solutions. On the ground, however, reports said the Taliban have entered Badghis city with some troops reportedly surrendering to the militant group. Afghanistan's defence minister Bismillah Mohammadi said war is raging as the Taliban launched an attack on Qala-i-Naw. It is the Taliban's first assault on a provincial capital since they started their major offensive as fighting takes place inside the city. The Taliban already controls the countryside in the western province as Afghan soldiers carry on their battle with most US troops having pulled out of key areas. Meanwhile, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said that the situation in Afghanistan could "swiftly deteriorate" with the "hasty exit of American and other NATO troops." "They were unable to achieve visible results when it comes to stabilizing the situation during the decades they spent there." Amid the fighting, Tajikistan President Emomali Rakhmon has ordered the mobilization of 20,000 reservists to bolster the country's border with Afghanistan after several hundred Afghan government troops poured into the country after being pushed back by the Taliban. (With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban launches fresh attack on northwestern Afghan province

Afghanistan government delegation held a meeting with Taliban representatives in Tehran. The highly anticipated talks come as Afghanistan faces the domino effect of American troops exit from the country.

Afghan delegation meets Taliban in Tehran: Iran foreign minister

Taliban and Afghan delegation hold meeting in Tehran

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Tuesday said that the Taliban cannot make the Afghan government surrender even in the next one hundred years.

The Khaama Press reported that Ghani in a cabinet meeting at the presidential palace of Afghanistan also said that the Taliban and its supporters are solely responsible for the current bloodshed and destruction in the country.

National Security Advisor Hamdullah Muhib said that the Taliban`s territory expansion does not mean they are being welcomed by Afghans, and added that people are ready to defend their territories.

He also informed that seven black hawk choppers are soon to be handed over to Afghan National Defense and Security forces that will help bring the ongoing conflict under control.

Meanwhile, the country`s Defence Ministry informed that over 200 Taliban terrorists have been killed in the last 24 hours. Taliban, on the other hand, claimed that they have captured six more districts in the same duration.

At least 10,000 members of Afghan commando forces are engaged in suppressing the Taliban across the country.

Afghanistan has been witnessing a surge in violence as the Taliban has intensified its offensive against the government. This comes as foreign forces are withdrawing from the war-torn country.

As the Taliban have taken control of several districts across the country, US intelligence assessments have suggested the country`s civilian government could fall to the terror group within months of US forces withdrawing completely.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Tuesday said that the Taliban cannot make the Afghan government surrender even in the next one hundred years. The Khaama Press reported that Ghani in a cabinet meeting at the presidential palace of Afghanistan also said that the Taliban and its supporters are solely responsible for the current bloodshed and destruction in the country.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Tuesday said that the Taliban cannot make the Afghan government surrender even in the next one hundred years. The Khaama Press reported that Ghani in a cabinet meeting at the presidential palace of Afghanistan also said that the Taliban and its supporters are solely responsible for the current bloodshed and destruction in the country. National Security Advisor Hamdullah Muhib said that the Taliban`s territory expansion does not mean they are being welcomed by Afghans, and added that people are ready to defend their territories. He also informed that seven black hawk choppers are soon to be handed over to Afghan National Defense and Security forces that will help bring the ongoing conflict under control. Meanwhile, the country`s Defence Ministry informed that over 200 Taliban terrorists have been killed in the last 24 hours. Taliban, on the other hand, claimed that they have captured six more districts in the same duration. At least 10,000 members of Afghan commando forces are engaged in suppressing the Taliban across the country. Afghanistan has been witnessing a surge in violence as the Taliban has intensified its offensive against the government. This comes as foreign forces are withdrawing from the war-torn country. As the Taliban have taken control of several districts across the country, US intelligence assessments have suggested the country`s civilian government could fall to the terror group within months of US forces withdrawing completely.

Ghani says Taliban cannot make Afghan government surrender, even in 100 years

Government forces plan a counteroffensive in Afghanistan's northern provinces after losing ground to the Taliban. The Taliban now control roughly a third of all 421 districts and district centers in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan army plan counteroffensive against Taliban in northern provinces

The Taliban plan to present a written peace proposal to the Afghan government side as soon as next month, a spokesman for the Islamist insurgents said even as they make major territorial gains in the breach left by departing foreign forces. 
 
Hundreds of Afghan security force members have fled into neighbouring Tajikistan in the face of Taliban advances since the United States vacated its main Afghan base, centrepiece of US&nbsp;and NATO might for almost two decades in the country, as part of a plan to withdraw all foreign troops by September&nbsp;11. 
 
While the transfer of Bagram Air Base to the Afghan army added momentum to a Taliban drive to seize control over new districts, Taliban leaders renewed the long stalled talks with Afghan government envoys in Qatar's capital Doha last week. 
 
"The peace talks and process will be accelerated in the coming days ... and they are expected to enter an important stage,&nbsp;naturally it will be about peace plans," Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told Reuters on Monday. 
 
"Possibly it will take a month to reach that stage when both sides will share their written peace plan," he said, adding that the latest round of talks were at a critical juncture. 
 
"Although we (Taliban) have the upper hand on the battlefield, we are very serious about talks and dialogue." 
 
The upsurge in fighting and the flight of thousands of members of the tattered Afghan security forces have raised grave doubt about the US-backed peace negotiations, which began last year under the then-President Donald Trump's administration. 
 
Responding to a request for comment on the Taliban representative's remarks, a spokesperson for the US&nbsp;State Department said a negotiated settlement was the only way to end 40 years of war in Afghanistan. 
 
"We urge the sides to engage in serious negotiations to determine a political roadmap for Afghanistan’s future that leads to a just and durable settlement, the official said. 
 
"The world will not accept the imposition by force of a government in Afghanistan," the official added. "Legitimacy and assistance for any Afghan government can only be possible if that government has a basic respect for human rights."

The Taliban plan to present a written peace proposal to the Afghan government side as soon as next month, a spokesman for the Islamist insurgents said even as they make major territorial gains in the breach left by departing foreign forces.

The Taliban plan to present a written peace proposal to the Afghan government side as soon as next month, a spokesman for the Islamist insurgents said even as they make major territorial gains in the breach left by departing foreign forces. Hundreds of Afghan security force members have fled into neighbouring Tajikistan in the face of Taliban advances since the United States vacated its main Afghan base, centrepiece of US and NATO might for almost two decades in the country, as part of a plan to withdraw all foreign troops by September 11. While the transfer of Bagram Air Base to the Afghan army added momentum to a Taliban drive to seize control over new districts, Taliban leaders renewed the long stalled talks with Afghan government envoys in Qatar's capital Doha last week. "The peace talks and process will be accelerated in the coming days ... and they are expected to enter an important stage, naturally it will be about peace plans," Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told Reuters on Monday. "Possibly it will take a month to reach that stage when both sides will share their written peace plan," he said, adding that the latest round of talks were at a critical juncture. "Although we (Taliban) have the upper hand on the battlefield, we are very serious about talks and dialogue." The upsurge in fighting and the flight of thousands of members of the tattered Afghan security forces have raised grave doubt about the US-backed peace negotiations, which began last year under the then-President Donald Trump's administration. Responding to a request for comment on the Taliban representative's remarks, a spokesperson for the US State Department said a negotiated settlement was the only way to end 40 years of war in Afghanistan. "We urge the sides to engage in serious negotiations to determine a political roadmap for Afghanistan’s future that leads to a just and durable settlement, the official said. "The world will not accept the imposition by force of a government in Afghanistan," the official added. "Legitimacy and assistance for any Afghan government can only be possible if that government has a basic respect for human rights."

Taliban aim to present written peace plan at talks as soon as next month

Afghanistan has descended into chaos. The Taliban has captured 9 districts in the last 24 hours. 1,037 Afghan troops have fled to Afghanistan. The onslaught is more than an internal threat. It could soon become a threat for the entire region.

Gravitas: Afghanistan descends into chaos

The upsurge in fighting and the flight of thousands of members of the tattered Afghan security forces have raised grave doubt about the US-backed peace negotiations.

Taliban may present written Afghan peace plan next month

The Afghanistan army has vowed to secure major cities and highways amid a rise in Taliban attacks. The newly appointed Afghan army chief General Wali Mohammad has said that the forces' top priority was to safeguard the major cities, border towns, and highways.

Afghan army vows to safeguard major cities, border towns & highways

Amid&nbsp;fighting in Afghanistan, reports said at least 1,000 Afghan troops have fled to Tajikistan after facing defeat against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibanned-from-kite-running-to-breakdancing-afghan-pastimes-again-under-threat-395920">Taliban</a>&nbsp;even as US troops continue to their pullout.

The Taliban has been seizing territories in the northern region even as US troops handed over Bagram airbase to Afghan security forces. According to Tajikistan's national security committee, over 1,000 Afghan troops fled after the clashes.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-captures-key-districts-in-afghanistan-300-military-troops-flee-to-tajikistan-395934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There were earlier reports of Afghan troops crossing over to Tajikstan, however, on Sunday Afghan forces retreated in big numbers. Taliban took over six districts in northern Badakshan province bordering Tajikistan and China, including Takhar provinces.

The northern region was a traditional stronghold of the anti-Taliban forces in the 90s. Reports had earlier said the Afghan forces were due to launch a counterattack.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had earlier spoken to&nbsp;Tajikistan President Emomali Rakhmon to discuss the issue with the escalation of the situation in Afghanistan's northern areas being the main agenda of the discussion.

The White House had said on Friday that the US troop pullout would be complete by the end of August. President Joe Biden had set September 11 as the final departure date of the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.

As the US troops left Bagram, the Taliban said: "Afghans can get closer to stability and peace with the full withdrawal of foreign forces."

The US has however said it would be assisting Afghanistan and would provide $3 billion security cover in 2022 even as the Taliban refuse to declare a ceasefire as districts keep falling with peace talks stalling in Doha.

Reports said the Taliban is closing in on Kandahar and Helmand with some districts on the outskirts already taken by the militants.

Meanwhile, Russia's foreign ministry said that its consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif in northern Afghanistan was being suspended over&nbsp;security concerns.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

Amid fighting in Afghanistan, reports said at least 1,000 Afghan troops have fled to Tajikistan after facing defeat against the Taliban even as US troops continue to their pullout.

Amid fighting in Afghanistan, reports said at least 1,000 Afghan troops have fled to Tajikistan after facing defeat against the Taliban even as US troops continue to their pullout. The Taliban has been seizing territories in the northern region even as US troops handed over Bagram airbase to Afghan security forces. According to Tajikistan's national security committee, over 1,000 Afghan troops fled after the clashes. Watch: There were earlier reports of Afghan troops crossing over to Tajikstan, however, on Sunday Afghan forces retreated in big numbers. Taliban took over six districts in northern Badakshan province bordering Tajikistan and China, including Takhar provinces. The northern region was a traditional stronghold of the anti-Taliban forces in the 90s. Reports had earlier said the Afghan forces were due to launch a counterattack. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had earlier spoken to Tajikistan President Emomali Rakhmon to discuss the issue with the escalation of the situation in Afghanistan's northern areas being the main agenda of the discussion. The White House had said on Friday that the US troop pullout would be complete by the end of August. President Joe Biden had set September 11 as the final departure date of the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan. As the US troops left Bagram, the Taliban said: "Afghans can get closer to stability and peace with the full withdrawal of foreign forces." The US has however said it would be assisting Afghanistan and would provide $3 billion security cover in 2022 even as the Taliban refuse to declare a ceasefire as districts keep falling with peace talks stalling in Doha. Reports said the Taliban is closing in on Kandahar and Helmand with some districts on the outskirts already taken by the militants. Meanwhile, Russia's foreign ministry said that its consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif in northern Afghanistan was being suspended over security concerns. (With inputs from Agencies)

Hundreds of Afghan troops flee to Tajikistan as Taliban advances

The Taliban outlawed dozens of seemingly innocuous activities and pastimes in Afghanistan during their 1996-2001 rule - including kite flying, TV soap operas, pigeon racing, fancy haircuts, and even playing music. These have made a comeback in the years since, but fears are growing they will be banned again if the hardline Islamists return to power.

'Talibanned': From kite-running to breakdancing, Afghan pastimes again under threat

Bagram Air base buzzed again on Monday as Afghan forces settled in the vast complex. US forces have fully vacated the base which was their main hub for 20 years for 20 years until their withdrawal last week.

American soldiers handed over the base to0 Afghan security forces.

“They (Americans) are completely out now and everything is under our control, including watchtowers, air traffic and the hospital,” a senior Afghan government official told Reuters.

Reuters journalists on Monday visited the heavily fortified compound, long a symbol of Western forces deployed to shore up the Afghan government against the Taliban's campaign to regain power after being toppled by a U.S. intervention in 2001.

At the air base, dozens of vehicles left behind by US forces could be seen. Afghan officials and personnel could be seen travelling in others.

Hundreds of Afghan security personnel moved into barracks that once housed US soldiers.

Outside the walls of the vast base, things are not as serene. The Taliban have ramped up offensives against Afghan government forces across the country, particularly in the north where insurgents have gained territory rapidly.

On Sunday, hundreds of members of the Afghan security forces fled to refuge in neighbouring Tajikistan.

There are fears that Afghanistan may once again see a civil war for control of the country. Peace talks between the Taliban and Afghan government remain inconclusive

Neighbourhoods and markets in the shadow of the base were left ruing the past and bracing for what comes next.

“It is not a problem for us if there are foreign forces (here) or they leave, but the fact that the Taliban are taking over districts at any moment affects our work,” Wasim Shirzad, a shopkeeper told Reuters.

Another shopkeeper Nematullah Ferdaws, agreed: “Most shopkeepers do not invest...because they are hesitant about the country's future.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Bagram Air base buzzed again on Monday as Afghan forces settled in the vast complex. US forces have fully vacated the base which was their main hub for 20 years for 20 years until their withdrawal last week.

Bagram Air base buzzed again on Monday as Afghan forces settled in the vast complex. US forces have fully vacated the base which was their main hub for 20 years for 20 years until their withdrawal last week. American soldiers handed over the base to0 Afghan security forces. “They (Americans) are completely out now and everything is under our control, including watchtowers, air traffic and the hospital,” a senior Afghan government official told Reuters. Reuters journalists on Monday visited the heavily fortified compound, long a symbol of Western forces deployed to shore up the Afghan government against the Taliban's campaign to regain power after being toppled by a U.S. intervention in 2001. At the air base, dozens of vehicles left behind by US forces could be seen. Afghan officials and personnel could be seen travelling in others. Hundreds of Afghan security personnel moved into barracks that once housed US soldiers. Outside the walls of the vast base, things are not as serene. The Taliban have ramped up offensives against Afghan government forces across the country, particularly in the north where insurgents have gained territory rapidly. On Sunday, hundreds of members of the Afghan security forces fled to refuge in neighbouring Tajikistan. There are fears that Afghanistan may once again see a civil war for control of the country. Peace talks between the Taliban and Afghan government remain inconclusive Neighbourhoods and markets in the shadow of the base were left ruing the past and bracing for what comes next. “It is not a problem for us if there are foreign forces (here) or they leave, but the fact that the Taliban are taking over districts at any moment affects our work,” Wasim Shirzad, a shopkeeper told Reuters. Another shopkeeper Nematullah Ferdaws, agreed: “Most shopkeepers do not invest...because they are hesitant about the country's future.” (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan soldiers occupy Bagram air base, former hub of US forces

Afghanistan is on the verge of where it all started-into the hands of Taliban. During Taliban's last reign from 1996 to 2001, it has outlawed dozens of harmless activities. The people in Afghanistan now stare at their dreams coming to end. Watch this report

Afghanistan people fear the return of the Taliban

Taliban have besieged important districts & strategic provinces. Thousands of Afghan troops have started fleeing. After years of financial support from the US govt, Afghanistan has failed to put up a fight against Taliban.

Afghanistan: How wealthy is the Taliban?

The Taliban's march through northern Afghanistan gained momentum overnight with the capture of several districts from fleeing Afghan forces, several hundred of whom fled across the border into Tajikistan.

Taliban captures several districts in Afghanistan, forces flee to Tajikistan

In a significant development, women in Ghor have taken up arms to defend their motherland against the Taliban. Photographs of Ghor women holding guns and rocket launchers are being shared on social media.

Afghanistan: Women pick up arms against Taliban in Ghor

Taliban captures key districts in Afghanistan, 300 military troops flee to Tajikistan

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