UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the international community to engage with the Taliban to prevent Afghanistan's economy from collapsing completely.

"It is hard to give humanitarian assistance within Afghanistan without engaging with the de facto authorities," Guterres told journalists on the sidelines of a donor conference, adding that working with the Taliban was "extremely necessary at the moment."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-cash-crunch-fleeing-afghans-sell-possessions-at-kabuls-busy-bazaars-412774">Also read | Amid cash crunch, fleeing Afghans sell possessions at Kabul's busy bazaars</a>

The United Nations has requested the international community to contribute $606 million to Afghanistan, where poverty and hunger have increased dramatically since the Taliban took power, and billions in foreign aid have dried up due to Western mistrust of the new leadership.&nbsp; 
 
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-can-study-but-in-gender-segregated-classrooms-taliban-minister-412606">Afghan women can study but in gender-segregated classrooms: Taliban Minister</a>

After decades of war, suffering and insecurity, Afghans are facing "perhaps their most perilous hour", UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday in his opening remarks to a conference in Geneva seeking aid for Afghanistan, adding that "the people of Afghanistan need a lifeline.

"Let us be clear: This conference is not simply about what we will give to the people of Afghanistan. It is about what we owe," he said.

Between 1996 and 2001, the Taliban ruled Afghanistan, prohibiting women from working and preventing young girls from attending school. They were deposed in an operation led by the United States, which accused them of sheltering al-Qaeda militants responsible for the September 11 attacks.

Last month, the Taliban surged back to power in a rapid sweep when the last US-led NATO troops withdrew and the Western-backed government's forces melted away.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the international community to engage with the Taliban to prevent Afghanistan's economy from collapsing completely.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the international community to engage with the Taliban to prevent Afghanistan's economy from collapsing completely. "It is hard to give humanitarian assistance within Afghanistan without engaging with the de facto authorities," Guterres told journalists on the sidelines of a donor conference, adding that working with the Taliban was "extremely necessary at the moment." Also read | Amid cash crunch, fleeing Afghans sell possessions at Kabul's busy bazaars The United Nations has requested the international community to contribute $606 million to Afghanistan, where poverty and hunger have increased dramatically since the Taliban took power, and billions in foreign aid have dried up due to Western mistrust of the new leadership. Also Read | Afghan women can study but in gender-segregated classrooms: Taliban Minister After decades of war, suffering and insecurity, Afghans are facing "perhaps their most perilous hour", UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday in his opening remarks to a conference in Geneva seeking aid for Afghanistan, adding that "the people of Afghanistan need a lifeline. "Let us be clear: This conference is not simply about what we will give to the people of Afghanistan. It is about what we owe," he said. Between 1996 and 2001, the Taliban ruled Afghanistan, prohibiting women from working and preventing young girls from attending school. They were deposed in an operation led by the United States, which accused them of sheltering al-Qaeda militants responsible for the September 11 attacks. Last month, the Taliban surged back to power in a rapid sweep when the last US-led NATO troops withdrew and the Western-backed government's forces melted away. (With inputs from agencies)

Engage with Taliban to avert total collapse of Afghan economy: UN chief Antonio Guterres

The United Nations is convening an aid conference in Geneva in order to raise more than USD 600 million in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan. It has warned of a humanitarian crisis after the Taliban takeover.

More than half the population, or 18 million people were dependent on aid even before Taliban's seizure of Kabul last month. The number is likely to increase due to shortage of cash and food as well as drought, UN officials warned.

Abrupt end in foreign donations following collapse of Ashraf Ghani-led government has put pressure on UN programmes.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said the organisation was struggling financially.

"At the present moment the U.N. is not even able to pay its salaries to its own workers," he told reporters on Friday.

The Geneva conference, due to begin on Monday afternoon, will be attended by top U.N. officials including Guterres, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross Peter Maurer, as well as dozens of government representatives including German foreign minister Heiko Maas.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-can-study-but-in-gender-segregated-classrooms-taliban-minister-412606">Afghan women can study but in gender-segregated classrooms: Taliban Minister</a>

About a third of the $606 million being sought would be used by the U.N. World Food Programme which found that 93% of the 1,600 Afghans it surveyed in August and September were not consuming sufficient foods, mostly because they could not get access to cash to pay for it.

"It's now a race against time and the snow to deliver life-saving assistance to the Afghan people who need it most," said WFP deputy regional director Anthea Webb. "We are quite literally begging and borrowing to avoid food stocks running out."

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations is convening an aid conference in Geneva in order to raise more than USD 600 million in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan. It has warned of a humanitarian crisis after the Taliban takeover.

The United Nations is convening an aid conference in Geneva in order to raise more than USD 600 million in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan. It has warned of a humanitarian crisis after the Taliban takeover. More than half the population, or 18 million people were dependent on aid even before Taliban's seizure of Kabul last month. The number is likely to increase due to shortage of cash and food as well as drought, UN officials warned. Abrupt end in foreign donations following collapse of Ashraf Ghani-led government has put pressure on UN programmes. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said the organisation was struggling financially. "At the present moment the U.N. is not even able to pay its salaries to its own workers," he told reporters on Friday. The Geneva conference, due to begin on Monday afternoon, will be attended by top U.N. officials including Guterres, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross Peter Maurer, as well as dozens of government representatives including German foreign minister Heiko Maas. Also Read | Afghan women can study but in gender-segregated classrooms: Taliban Minister About a third of the $606 million being sought would be used by the U.N. World Food Programme which found that 93% of the 1,600 Afghans it surveyed in August and September were not consuming sufficient foods, mostly because they could not get access to cash to pay for it. "It's now a race against time and the snow to deliver life-saving assistance to the Afghan people who need it most," said WFP deputy regional director Anthea Webb. "We are quite literally begging and borrowing to avoid food stocks running out." (With inputs from agencies)

UN seeks to raise $600 million to avoid Afghan humanitarian crisis

Inside the Bagram detention centre in Afghanistan U.N seeks $600 mn aid for Afghanistan Who won the second german election debate?

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The UN's Syria envoy said he held "very good discussions" in Damascus Saturday, and expressed hopes that a committee to discuss a post-war constitution for the country could soon reconvene.

"We had very substantial, very good discussions," Norwegian diplomat Geir Pedersen said after meeting Syria's Foreign Minister Faisal al-Meqdad.

"We discussed... the economic and humanitarian challenges here in Syria, the challenges when it comes to livelihoods, and what we all can do the help to improve that situation."

The envoy said he hoped "to move forward also on the constitutional committee" working towards a post-war constitution, and that it would be "possible to call for a sixth round" of talks between its members.

The UN-backed committee made up of 45 people, 15 delegates each representing the Damascus regime, the opposition and civil society&nbsp; was created in September 2019 but has since made little headway.

Pedersen said a fifth session in January had been "a missed opportunity and disappointment".

Since then, Bashar al-Assad in July took the oath of office for a fourth term as Syria's president, after officially winning 95 percent of the vote in an election dismissed abroad.

After clawing back large parts of the country from rebels and jihadists with key Russian backing over the years, he vowed to make "liberating those parts of the homeland that still need to be" one of his top priorities.

Endless rounds of UN-backed peace talks have failed to stem Syria's war, which has killed around 500,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal suppression of anti-government protests in 2011.

In recent years UN efforts have instead focused around the work of the constitutional committee.

The UN's Syria envoy said he held "very good discussions" in Damascus Saturday, and expressed hopes that a committee to discuss a post-war constitution for the country could soon reconvene.

The UN's Syria envoy said he held "very good discussions" in Damascus Saturday, and expressed hopes that a committee to discuss a post-war constitution for the country could soon reconvene. "We had very substantial, very good discussions," Norwegian diplomat Geir Pedersen said after meeting Syria's Foreign Minister Faisal al-Meqdad. "We discussed... the economic and humanitarian challenges here in Syria, the challenges when it comes to livelihoods, and what we all can do the help to improve that situation." The envoy said he hoped "to move forward also on the constitutional committee" working towards a post-war constitution, and that it would be "possible to call for a sixth round" of talks between its members. The UN-backed committee made up of 45 people, 15 delegates each representing the Damascus regime, the opposition and civil society was created in September 2019 but has since made little headway. Pedersen said a fifth session in January had been "a missed opportunity and disappointment". Since then, Bashar al-Assad in July took the oath of office for a fourth term as Syria's president, after officially winning 95 percent of the vote in an election dismissed abroad. After clawing back large parts of the country from rebels and jihadists with key Russian backing over the years, he vowed to make "liberating those parts of the homeland that still need to be" one of his top priorities. Endless rounds of UN-backed peace talks have failed to stem Syria's war, which has killed around 500,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal suppression of anti-government protests in 2011. In recent years UN efforts have instead focused around the work of the constitutional committee.

UN envoy hopeful Syria constitution talks to resume

The United Nations has condemned the Taliban's increasingly violent response to peaceful protests including the use of live ammunition that killed several people.

Afghanistan: UN condemns Taliban's response to peaceful protest

Sounding a warning on what is at stake for education in Afghanistan, UNESCO has said advances since 2001 must be upheld in the face of a looming humanitarian crisis. In a statement issued on Friday, the UN agency said that the right to education for all learners, especially girls, must be upheld.

According to a new UNESCO report, the total number of enrolled students increased from around 1 million to 10 million learners; the number of teachers increased by 58 per cent, and the female literacy rate almost doubled from 17 per cent to 30 per cent.

As per the report, progress on female enrolment was particularly striking: the number of girls in primary school increased from almost zero in 2001 to 2.5 million in 2018. In 2021, 4 out of 10 students in primary education are girls. The number of girls in higher education increased from around 5,000 in 2001 to around 90,000 in 2018, the report said.

The UNESCO report entitled "The Right to Education: What is at stake in Afghanistan?" details the progress made at all levels of the system, and sets out the wide range of constitutional and legal commitments the country made to advance the right to education.

"Since 2001, Afghanistan has ratified international normative instruments on education and women's rights and enshrined the right to education for all citizens in the Constitution, guaranteeing 9 years of compulsory education for all boys and girls," the report said.

Afghanistan's development and education challenges, however, remain colossal: the country remains among the poorest in the world and has one of the lowest Human Development Index scores.

According to the UN, half of primary school-aged children are not enrolled in school, and 93% of children in late primary are not proficient in reading.

Both the COVID-19 pandemic and the conflict have put additional strains on education development, with millions of learners affected by the closure of schools and other educational institutions, said the report.

According to the UNESCO report, the number of internally displaced persons is projected to increase, heightening the risk of learning losses among children and "generational catastrophe" which will negatively affect the sustainable development of the country for years to come.

The report warns that the combination of the lack of female teachers, severe constraints in paying teachers` salaries, and the withdrawal of international aid could have immediate and serious consequences for the continuity of education. The country is heavily reliant on international aid, which accounts for half its education expenditure.

"If a ban on co-education and males teaching females is implemented, this will deal a huge blow to women's participation in higher education and to girls education more broadly, negatively impacting their lives, work, and citizenship," according to the report.

Sounding a warning on what is at stake for education in Afghanistan, UNESCO has said advances since 2001 must be upheld in the face of a looming humanitarian crisis.

Sounding a warning on what is at stake for education in Afghanistan, UNESCO has said advances since 2001 must be upheld in the face of a looming humanitarian crisis. In a statement issued on Friday, the UN agency said that the right to education for all learners, especially girls, must be upheld. According to a new UNESCO report, the total number of enrolled students increased from around 1 million to 10 million learners; the number of teachers increased by 58 per cent, and the female literacy rate almost doubled from 17 per cent to 30 per cent. As per the report, progress on female enrolment was particularly striking: the number of girls in primary school increased from almost zero in 2001 to 2.5 million in 2018. In 2021, 4 out of 10 students in primary education are girls. The number of girls in higher education increased from around 5,000 in 2001 to around 90,000 in 2018, the report said. The UNESCO report entitled "The Right to Education: What is at stake in Afghanistan?" details the progress made at all levels of the system, and sets out the wide range of constitutional and legal commitments the country made to advance the right to education. "Since 2001, Afghanistan has ratified international normative instruments on education and women's rights and enshrined the right to education for all citizens in the Constitution, guaranteeing 9 years of compulsory education for all boys and girls," the report said. Afghanistan's development and education challenges, however, remain colossal: the country remains among the poorest in the world and has one of the lowest Human Development Index scores. According to the UN, half of primary school-aged children are not enrolled in school, and 93% of children in late primary are not proficient in reading. Both the COVID-19 pandemic and the conflict have put additional strains on education development, with millions of learners affected by the closure of schools and other educational institutions, said the report. According to the UNESCO report, the number of internally displaced persons is projected to increase, heightening the risk of learning losses among children and "generational catastrophe" which will negatively affect the sustainable development of the country for years to come. The report warns that the combination of the lack of female teachers, severe constraints in paying teachers` salaries, and the withdrawal of international aid could have immediate and serious consequences for the continuity of education. The country is heavily reliant on international aid, which accounts for half its education expenditure. "If a ban on co-education and males teaching females is implemented, this will deal a huge blow to women's participation in higher education and to girls education more broadly, negatively impacting their lives, work, and citizenship," according to the report.

Amid looming humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, critical gains on education must be upheld: UN

The offensive by Huthi rebels in Yemen's northern Marib province "must stop," the UN Security Council was told Friday by the organisation's new envoy for the country, Hans Grundberg from Sweden.

"Civilians, including the many internally displaced persons who sought refuge in Marib, live in constant fear of violence and renewed displacement," the newly-appointed official said.&nbsp;

"The UN and the international community has been clear in its message: The offensive must stop."

The offensive in the Marib region has been going on since the beginning of 2020 and has "killed thousands of young Yemenis," the envoy said.

"The fighting must stop, the violence has to come to an end," he insisted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nine-in-10-afghans-are-not-consuming-enough-food-world-food-programme-412149">Also read |&nbsp;Nine in 10 Afghans are not consuming enough food: World Food Programme</a>

The province of Marib, the last bastion of government power in the war-torn north of the country, is regularly the scene of violent clashes.

"The peace process has been stalled for too long. The conflict parties have not discussed a comprehensive settlement since 2016," Grundberg said.&nbsp;

He said he would soon travel to Saudi Arabia to meet Yemeni President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, and planned to see the Huthis as well.

Talks are also planned with Saudi, Omani, Emirati, Kuwaiti, Iranian and Egyptian officials, he said.&nbsp;

The conflict in Yemen, triggered in 2014 by a rebel offensive, has killed tens of thousands of people according to NGOs, and brought millions more to the brink of starvation.

The offensive by Huthi rebels in Yemen's northern Marib province "must stop," the UN Security Council was told Friday by the organisation's new envoy for the country, Hans Grundberg from Sweden.

The offensive by Huthi rebels in Yemen's northern Marib province "must stop," the UN Security Council was told Friday by the organisation's new envoy for the country, Hans Grundberg from Sweden. "Civilians, including the many internally displaced persons who sought refuge in Marib, live in constant fear of violence and renewed displacement," the newly-appointed official said. "The UN and the international community has been clear in its message: The offensive must stop." The offensive in the Marib region has been going on since the beginning of 2020 and has "killed thousands of young Yemenis," the envoy said. "The fighting must stop, the violence has to come to an end," he insisted. Also read | Nine in 10 Afghans are not consuming enough food: World Food Programme The province of Marib, the last bastion of government power in the war-torn north of the country, is regularly the scene of violent clashes. "The peace process has been stalled for too long. The conflict parties have not discussed a comprehensive settlement since 2016," Grundberg said. He said he would soon travel to Saudi Arabia to meet Yemeni President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, and planned to see the Huthis as well. Talks are also planned with Saudi, Omani, Emirati, Kuwaiti, Iranian and Egyptian officials, he said. The conflict in Yemen, triggered in 2014 by a rebel offensive, has killed tens of thousands of people according to NGOs, and brought millions more to the brink of starvation.

Huthi offensive in Yemen 'must stop': New UN envoy

Since Taliban took control of Afghanistan heartbreaking images, videos and stories have been coming in from the country. Now, UN has warned that that Afghanistan is on the brink of 'universal poverty'.

UN special envoy Deborah Lyons has asked world leaders to come together and help Afghanistan from falling into extreme poverty.

Lyons has warned that Afghanistan’s economy and culture are on the brink of total collapse of the country, and has also said that this can lead to spread of Islamic State to the neighbouring countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-asia-diary-afghan-refugees-rebuild-their-lives-412083">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-asia-diary-afghan-refugees-rebuild-their-lives-412083/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The economy must be allowed to breathe for a few more months, giving the Taliban a chance to demonstrate flexibility and a genuine will to do things differently this time, notably from a human rights, gender, and counter-terrorism perspective," Lyons said.

As predicted, humanitarian crisis is worsening in the country, leading to an impending danger for women and minority groups, in addition to other locals. However, there is another "looming crisis" that is being caused by the suspension of funds that used to come in from international groups and other countries. The freezing of billions of dollars in Afghan assets can cause "a severe economic downturn that could throw many more millions into poverty and hunger".

The ongoing crisis will set the country back for years and can also call departure of refugees.

UN envoy has urged the international groups and world leaders to provide humanitarian relief "on a "large scale"&nbsp;to prevent "a total breakdown of the economy and social order".

Since Taliban took control of Afghanistan heartbreaking images, videos and stories have been coming in from the country. Now, UN has warned that that Afghanistan is on the brink of 'universal poverty'.

Since Taliban took control of Afghanistan heartbreaking images, videos and stories have been coming in from the country. Now, UN has warned that that Afghanistan is on the brink of 'universal poverty'. UN special envoy Deborah Lyons has asked world leaders to come together and help Afghanistan from falling into extreme poverty. Lyons has warned that Afghanistan’s economy and culture are on the brink of total collapse of the country, and has also said that this can lead to spread of Islamic State to the neighbouring countries. WATCH | "The economy must be allowed to breathe for a few more months, giving the Taliban a chance to demonstrate flexibility and a genuine will to do things differently this time, notably from a human rights, gender, and counter-terrorism perspective," Lyons said. As predicted, humanitarian crisis is worsening in the country, leading to an impending danger for women and minority groups, in addition to other locals. However, there is another "looming crisis" that is being caused by the suspension of funds that used to come in from international groups and other countries. The freezing of billions of dollars in Afghan assets can cause "a severe economic downturn that could throw many more millions into poverty and hunger". The ongoing crisis will set the country back for years and can also call departure of refugees. UN envoy has urged the international groups and world leaders to provide humanitarian relief "on a "large scale" to prevent "a total breakdown of the economy and social order".

Afghanistan on brink of complete economy fall and extreme poverty: UN Envoy

The UN special envoy for Afghanistan urged the world to unite to prevent the collapse of the Afghan economy, to address fears that the Taliban’s Islamic state may spread to its neighbours, and to fight terrorism.

UN envoy urges economic support to stop Afghanistan breakdown

17 out of the Taliban's 33 ministers are sanctioned by the United Nations. Their Interior Minister is one of the most dreaded terrorists in the world. Palki Sharma brings you the key players of the Taliban regime.

Gravitas: The key players in Taliban's cabinet

According to UN officials, a lack of clarity on the Taliban's position on women in Afghanistan has generated "incredible fear" across the country.

UN officials warn of 'incredible fear' among women across Afghanistan

Speaking to WION's Susan Tehrani, UN spokesperson Farhan Haq said that the Taliban doesn't engage in the recognition of governments. Farhan Haq was speaking about the newly formed Taliban government in Afghanistan.

UN doesn't engage in recognition of governments: UN spokesperson Farhan Faq

Military leaders have declared a nationwide curfew in Guinea. The military is also set to replace all governance. UN secretary General Antonio Gutters has condemned the coup.

Military leaders declare nationwide curfew in Guinea

Australia's government should increase its efforts to phase out coal or else climate change will dramatically damage the country's economy, Selwin Hart, the United Nations special adviser on climate change, said on Sunday.

Australia's reliance on coal-fired power makes it one of the world's largest carbon emitters per capita, but its conservative government has steadfastly backed Australia's new deputy PM casts shadow over 2050 net zero emissions ambition fossil fuel industries, saying tougher action on emissions would cost jobs.

"We fully understand the role that coal and other fossil fuels have played in Australia's economy, even if mining accounts for a small fraction,&nbsp;around 2%,&nbsp;of overall jobs," Hart said in a speech at the Australian National University in Canberra.

"But it's essential to have a broader, more honest and rational conversation about what is in Australia's interests."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-normal-israels-health-expert-says-fourth-shot-of-covid-vaccine-needed-410904">Also read |&nbsp;New normal: Israel's health expert says fourth shot of Covid vaccine needed</a>

The UN&nbsp;has called for phasing out coal by 2030 in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries, which include Australia.

In July, energy and environment ministers from the Group of 20 big economies failed to deliver a deal to phase out coal by 2025. But some experts said there were chances of progress at U.N. climate talks in Glasgow in November.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has said Australia is on a path to net zero carbon emissions but has stopped short of committing to a timeline. He has said that Australia would update its 2030 emissions projections going into the Glasgow talks.

Most other developed countries have signed up to a target of net zero emissions by 2050.

Hart said that the Australian government should "seize the moment" and switch to renewables.

"If the world does not rapidly phase out coal, climate change will wreak havoc right across the Australian economy: from agriculture to tourism, and right across the services sector," he said.

Australia's government should increase its efforts to phase out coal or else climate change will dramatically damage the country's economy, Selwin Hart, the United Nations special adviser on climate change, said on Sunday.

Australia's government should increase its efforts to phase out coal or else climate change will dramatically damage the country's economy, Selwin Hart, the United Nations special adviser on climate change, said on Sunday. Australia's reliance on coal-fired power makes it one of the world's largest carbon emitters per capita, but its conservative government has steadfastly backed Australia's new deputy PM casts shadow over 2050 net zero emissions ambition fossil fuel industries, saying tougher action on emissions would cost jobs. "We fully understand the role that coal and other fossil fuels have played in Australia's economy, even if mining accounts for a small fraction, around 2%, of overall jobs," Hart said in a speech at the Australian National University in Canberra. "But it's essential to have a broader, more honest and rational conversation about what is in Australia's interests." Also read | New normal: Israel's health expert says fourth shot of Covid vaccine needed The UN has called for phasing out coal by 2030 in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries, which include Australia. In July, energy and environment ministers from the Group of 20 big economies failed to deliver a deal to phase out coal by 2025. But some experts said there were chances of progress at U.N. climate talks in Glasgow in November. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has said Australia is on a path to net zero carbon emissions but has stopped short of committing to a timeline. He has said that Australia would update its 2030 emissions projections going into the Glasgow talks. Most other developed countries have signed up to a target of net zero emissions by 2050. Hart said that the Australian government should "seize the moment" and switch to renewables. "If the world does not rapidly phase out coal, climate change will wreak havoc right across the Australian economy: from agriculture to tourism, and right across the services sector," he said.

UN urges Australia to speed up efforts to drop coal

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres will travel to Geneva to convene a high-level conference on aid for Afghanistan on September 13, his spokesman said Friday.

The country, now under the control of the Taliban after 20 years of war, is facing a "looming humanitarian catastrophe," Stephane Dujarric warned.

"The conference will advocate for a swift scale-up in funding so the lifesaving humanitarian operation can continue; and appeal for full and unimpeded humanitarian access to make sure Afghans continue to get the essential services they need," &nbsp;he said in a statement.

He said development gains must also be protected in the country and that the rights of women were an "essential" part of Afghanistan's future stability.

Even before the Taliban victory, Afghanistan was heavily aid-dependent -- with 40 percent of the country's GDP drawn from foreign funding.

The UN has warned 18 million people are facing a humanitarian disaster, and another 18 million could quickly join them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blame-for-afghanistan-lies-on-president-biden-says-911-era-nypd-commissioner-410532">Also read |&nbsp;Exclusive: Blame for Afghanistan 'lies on President Biden', says 9/11-era NYPD commissioner&nbsp;</a>

"One in three Afghans do not know where their next meal will come from. Nearly half of all children under the age of five are predicted to be acutely malnourished in the next 12 months," Dujarric said.&nbsp;

Residents in Kabul have voiced worry over the country's long-running economic difficulties, now seriously compounded by the hardline movement's takeover.

The United States ended its war in Afghanistan on August 30, two weeks after the Afghan government fell and the Taliban took control of Kabul.

Those days were marked by a frenzied evacuation of Americans, other foreigners and Afghans fleeing the new Taliban regime.&nbsp;

Since the US departure, the Taliban have been working with Qatar to get the airport in Kabul, a lifeline for aid, operational again.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the United Nations said it had resumed humanitarian flights to parts of the country, linking the Pakistani capital Islamabad with Mazar-i-Sharif in northern Afghanistan and Kandahar in the south.

The country's flag carrier Ariana Afghan Airlines resumed domestic flights on Friday, while the United Arab Emirates sent a plane carrying "urgent medical and food aid."

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres will travel to Geneva to convene a high-level conference on aid for Afghanistan on September 13, his spokesman said Friday.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres will travel to Geneva to convene a high-level conference on aid for Afghanistan on September 13, his spokesman said Friday. The country, now under the control of the Taliban after 20 years of war, is facing a "looming humanitarian catastrophe," Stephane Dujarric warned. "The conference will advocate for a swift scale-up in funding so the lifesaving humanitarian operation can continue; and appeal for full and unimpeded humanitarian access to make sure Afghans continue to get the essential services they need," he said in a statement. He said development gains must also be protected in the country and that the rights of women were an "essential" part of Afghanistan's future stability. Even before the Taliban victory, Afghanistan was heavily aid-dependent -- with 40 percent of the country's GDP drawn from foreign funding. The UN has warned 18 million people are facing a humanitarian disaster, and another 18 million could quickly join them. Also read | Exclusive: Blame for Afghanistan 'lies on President Biden', says 9/11-era NYPD commissioner "One in three Afghans do not know where their next meal will come from. Nearly half of all children under the age of five are predicted to be acutely malnourished in the next 12 months," Dujarric said. Residents in Kabul have voiced worry over the country's long-running economic difficulties, now seriously compounded by the hardline movement's takeover. The United States ended its war in Afghanistan on August 30, two weeks after the Afghan government fell and the Taliban took control of Kabul. Those days were marked by a frenzied evacuation of Americans, other foreigners and Afghans fleeing the new Taliban regime. Since the US departure, the Taliban have been working with Qatar to get the airport in Kabul, a lifeline for aid, operational again. On Thursday, the United Nations said it had resumed humanitarian flights to parts of the country, linking the Pakistani capital Islamabad with Mazar-i-Sharif in northern Afghanistan and Kandahar in the south. The country's flag carrier Ariana Afghan Airlines resumed domestic flights on Friday, while the United Arab Emirates sent a plane carrying "urgent medical and food aid."

UN chief to host Afghanistan aid meeting in Geneva on Sept 13: Spokesman

The UN has warned that extreme weather conditions are becoming more frequent and costly. Calling for better mitigation plans, experts said that the situation continues to worsen.

UN says weather disasters becoming costlier, calls for better mitigation plan

The humanitarian situation in Ethiopia's war-torn&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;is&nbsp;set&nbsp;to "worsen&nbsp;dramatically" and to deadly effect, the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;warned Thursday, blaming an "aid blockade" for the escalating&nbsp;crisis.

Northern Ethiopia has been wracked by violence since November, when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops into&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;to topple the&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;People's Liberation Front, the regional ruling party, saying the move came in response to attacks on army camps.

Although the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize winner promised a swift victory, the war has dragged on for months, triggering a humanitarian&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;in&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;that has left 400,000 people facing famine-like conditions, according to the United Nations.

"Stocks of relief aid, cash and fuel are running very low or are completely depleted. Food stocks already ran out on 20 August," the&nbsp;UN's acting humanitarian coordinator for Ethiopia, Grant Leaity, said in a statement.

"The region remains under a&nbsp;de facto&nbsp;humanitarian aid blockade,&nbsp;where&nbsp;access&nbsp;to bring life-saving humanitarian relief&nbsp;continues to be extremely restricted," Leaity said, adding that no trucks had been able to enter&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;since August 22.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-protest-in-afghanistans-herat-over-right-to-education-work-410216">Also read |&nbsp;Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work</a>

"With the inability to bring in sufficient and sustained levels of humanitarian supplies, cash and fuel, the humanitarian situation in the north of Ethiopia is&nbsp;set&nbsp;to&nbsp;worsen&nbsp;dramatically, particularly in&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;region," he added, urging Abiy's government to ease restrictions.&nbsp;

Since the conflict erupted, the Ethiopian authorities and the Tigrayan rebels have traded blame over the issue, with each side accusing the other of obstructing aid convoys and driving a desperate population into famine.

As the rebels have pushed into the neighbouring Afar and Amhara regions, the situation&nbsp;there has also worsened, with 1.7 million people facing hunger, Leaity said.

"The lives of millions of civilians... depend on our capacity to reach them with food, nutrition supplies, medicine and other critical assistance. We need to reach them immediately and&nbsp;without obstruction to avert famine and significant levels of mortality."

'Stealing aid'

Ethiopian forces and Tigrayan rebels alike have also been accused of looting aid, with the US aid agency this week calling the alleged thefts a "great concern for humanitarians".

"Throughout nine months of conflict all of the warring parties have been stealing aid," Sean Jones,&nbsp;head of the USAID mission in Addis Ababa, told Ethiopian state broadcaster EBC on Tuesday, according to a transcript released by the American embassy.

TPLF spokesman Getachew Reda on Wednesday condemned the alleged looters for their "unacceptable behaviour", but said that while the rebels could not "vouch for...&nbsp;off-grid fighters in such matters, we have evidence that such looting is mainly orchestrated by local individuals and groups".

In a separate statement, the&nbsp;UN's Leaity condemned the killings of aid workers in&nbsp;Tigray, saying another 11 deaths had been reported between January and July this year, bringing the total number slain to 23 since war erupted.

"Once again we are shaken by this news. Violence against aid workers is intolerable," he said.

"We reiterate our call for humanitarians to be respected and protected and for the acts that led to the death of our colleagues to be fully investigated. Accountability must be pursued to deter attacks against humanitarian personnel," he added.

The humanitarian situation in Ethiopia's war-torn Tigray is set to "worsen dramatically" and to deadly effect, the UN warned Thursday, blaming an "aid blockade" for the escalating crisis.

The humanitarian situation in Ethiopia's war-torn Tigray is set to "worsen dramatically" and to deadly effect, the UN warned Thursday, blaming an "aid blockade" for the escalating crisis. Northern Ethiopia has been wracked by violence since November, when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops into Tigray to topple the Tigray People's Liberation Front, the regional ruling party, saying the move came in response to attacks on army camps. Although the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize winner promised a swift victory, the war has dragged on for months, triggering a humanitarian crisis in Tigray that has left 400,000 people facing famine-like conditions, according to the United Nations. "Stocks of relief aid, cash and fuel are running very low or are completely depleted. Food stocks already ran out on 20 August," the UN's acting humanitarian coordinator for Ethiopia, Grant Leaity, said in a statement. "The region remains under a de facto humanitarian aid blockade, where access to bring life-saving humanitarian relief continues to be extremely restricted," Leaity said, adding that no trucks had been able to enter Tigray since August 22. Also read | Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work "With the inability to bring in sufficient and sustained levels of humanitarian supplies, cash and fuel, the humanitarian situation in the north of Ethiopia is set to worsen dramatically, particularly in Tigray region," he added, urging Abiy's government to ease restrictions. Since the conflict erupted, the Ethiopian authorities and the Tigrayan rebels have traded blame over the issue, with each side accusing the other of obstructing aid convoys and driving a desperate population into famine. As the rebels have pushed into the neighbouring Afar and Amhara regions, the situation there has also worsened, with 1.7 million people facing hunger, Leaity said. "The lives of millions of civilians... depend on our capacity to reach them with food, nutrition supplies, medicine and other critical assistance. We need to reach them immediately and without obstruction to avert famine and significant levels of mortality." 'Stealing aid' Ethiopian forces and Tigrayan rebels alike have also been accused of looting aid, with the US aid agency this week calling the alleged thefts a "great concern for humanitarians". "Throughout nine months of conflict all of the warring parties have been stealing aid," Sean Jones, head of the USAID mission in Addis Ababa, told Ethiopian state broadcaster EBC on Tuesday, according to a transcript released by the American embassy. TPLF spokesman Getachew Reda on Wednesday condemned the alleged looters for their "unacceptable behaviour", but said that while the rebels could not "vouch for... off-grid fighters in such matters, we have evidence that such looting is mainly orchestrated by local individuals and groups". In a separate statement, the UN's Leaity condemned the killings of aid workers in Tigray, saying another 11 deaths had been reported between January and July this year, bringing the total number slain to 23 since war erupted. "Once again we are shaken by this news. Violence against aid workers is intolerable," he said. "We reiterate our call for humanitarians to be respected and protected and for the acts that led to the death of our colleagues to be fully investigated. Accountability must be pursued to deter attacks against humanitarian personnel," he added.

Tigray crisis 'set to worsen dramatically', UN warns

In a study released on Tuesday, the UN's Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) said migratory species are likely to be hit hardest by plastic pollution. 
 
It was the first study to examine the impacts that plastic pollution has on animals living on land and in freshwater environments in Asia-Pacific.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plastic-pollution-is-booming-from-coronavirus-and-will-get-worse-after-the-pandemic-304641">Plastic pollution is booming from coronavirus and will get worse after the pandemic</a>

Case studies of the Ganges and Mekong river&nbsp;basins were used for the study. These two river basins together contribute more than 200,000 tonnes of plastic pollution per year to the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. 
 
However, not all plastic pollution ends up in the ocean. According to the study, freshwater and terrestrial species, as well as birds and land animals, are impacted by plastic pollution in river ecosystems and on land. 
 
The presence of plastic waste in freshwater can cause air-breathing mammals to drown since entanglement in the waste can prevent them from reaching the surface.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plastic-pollution-flowing-into-oceans-to-triple-by-2040-study-315624">Plastic pollution flowing into oceans to triple by 2040: Study</a>

Species like Ganges River Dolphins and Mekong river's Irrawaddy Dolphins, both of which are classified as Endangered on the IUCN red list are especially vulnerable. 
 
Another marine mammal classified endangered by CMS in the Asia-Pacific region is the Dugong, for which drowning due to entanglement in nets has been shown to be the most significant threat, including in river deltas. 
 
Dugong deaths have also been linked to plastic consumption in India and Thailand. 
 
Most plastic is used and disposed of on land, yet the majority of research on plastic pollution has been conducted on marine ecosystems, whereas terrestrial environments were exceedingly underrepresented in the collection of plastic pollution data.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-call-for-binding-global-treaty-to-target-production-of-new-plastics-395392">Scientists call for binding global treaty to target production of new plastics</a>

Plastic ingestion negatively impacts a broad variety of land animals as well. 
 
The Asian elephant which is protected under the CMS since 2020, has been observed eating plastic in Thailand and scavenging on trash dumps in Sri Lanka. 
 
In the Asia-Pacific region, birds account for almost 80 per cent of the CMS-listed species, and there is significant evidence of their interaction with plastics. 
 
A number of species of migratory birds, including the black-faced spoonbill and the osprey, have been observed building nests from plastic, fishing lines, and shipping debris, which often causes chicks to become entangled and perish.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/plastic-coming-from-take-out-and-convenience-food-littering-the-ocean-study-390961">Plastic coming from take-out and convenience food littering the ocean: Study</a>

CMS Executive Secretary Amy Fraenkel said: "Since most plastic pollution is generated on land, it is unfortunately not surprising that it is impacting migratory and other animal species that live on land and in freshwater environments. 
 
"Clearly, we have huge gaps in the scientific literature of the threats of plastic pollution on many CMS species. We need more research to better identify risks to these species, and take appropriate steps to address them."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a study released on Tuesday, the UN's Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) said migratory species are likely to be hit hardest by plastic pollution.

In a study released on Tuesday, the UN's Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) said migratory species are likely to be hit hardest by plastic pollution. It was the first study to examine the impacts that plastic pollution has on animals living on land and in freshwater environments in Asia-Pacific. Also read | Plastic pollution is booming from coronavirus and will get worse after the pandemic Case studies of the Ganges and Mekong river basins were used for the study. These two river basins together contribute more than 200,000 tonnes of plastic pollution per year to the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. However, not all plastic pollution ends up in the ocean. According to the study, freshwater and terrestrial species, as well as birds and land animals, are impacted by plastic pollution in river ecosystems and on land. The presence of plastic waste in freshwater can cause air-breathing mammals to drown since entanglement in the waste can prevent them from reaching the surface. Also read | Plastic pollution flowing into oceans to triple by 2040: Study Species like Ganges River Dolphins and Mekong river's Irrawaddy Dolphins, both of which are classified as Endangered on the IUCN red list are especially vulnerable. Another marine mammal classified endangered by CMS in the Asia-Pacific region is the Dugong, for which drowning due to entanglement in nets has been shown to be the most significant threat, including in river deltas. Dugong deaths have also been linked to plastic consumption in India and Thailand. Most plastic is used and disposed of on land, yet the majority of research on plastic pollution has been conducted on marine ecosystems, whereas terrestrial environments were exceedingly underrepresented in the collection of plastic pollution data. Also read | Scientists call for binding global treaty to target production of new plastics Plastic ingestion negatively impacts a broad variety of land animals as well. The Asian elephant which is protected under the CMS since 2020, has been observed eating plastic in Thailand and scavenging on trash dumps in Sri Lanka. In the Asia-Pacific region, birds account for almost 80 per cent of the CMS-listed species, and there is significant evidence of their interaction with plastics. A number of species of migratory birds, including the black-faced spoonbill and the osprey, have been observed building nests from plastic, fishing lines, and shipping debris, which often causes chicks to become entangled and perish. Also read | Plastic coming from take-out and convenience food littering the ocean: Study CMS Executive Secretary Amy Fraenkel said: "Since most plastic pollution is generated on land, it is unfortunately not surprising that it is impacting migratory and other animal species that live on land and in freshwater environments. "Clearly, we have huge gaps in the scientific literature of the threats of plastic pollution on many CMS species. We need more research to better identify risks to these species, and take appropriate steps to address them." (With inputs from agencies)

UN report identifies migratory species as most vulnerable to plastic pollution

Nuclear-armed North Korea appears to have restarted its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor in a "deeply troubling" development, the UN atomic agency has said, a possible sign Pyongyang is expanding its banned weapons programme.

The development on the 5-megawatt reactor in Yongbyon, North Korea's main nuclear complex, comes with nuclear talks between Pyongyang and Washington at a standstill.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un offered to dismantle part of the Yongbyon complex at a second summit with then US president Donald Trump but not other sites, in exchange for sanctions relief, and his offer was rejected.

North Korea is under multiple sets of international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes, which have seen rapid progress under Kim.

"Since early July, there have been indications, including the discharge of cooling water, consistent with the operation of the reactor," the International Atomic Energy Agency said in its annual report.

The Yongbyon reactor appeared to have been inactive from December 2018 until then, added the report dated Friday.

IAEA inspectors were kicked out of North Korea in 2009, and the agency has since monitored it from outside.

The possible operation of the reactor follows a recent indication that Pyongyang is also using a nearby radiochemical laboratory to separate plutonium from spent fuel previously removed from the reactor.

The signs of the reactor and laboratory operations were "deeply troubling", the IAEA said, adding the activities were a "clear violation" of UN resolutions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-conducts-drone-strike-on-explosive-laden-car-in-kabul-409269">Also read |&nbsp;US conducts drone strike on explosive-laden car in Kabul</a>

A senior US State Department official said Washington was aware of the report and was closely coordinating with partner countries.

"This report underscores the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy so we can achieve the complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula," the official told AFP.&nbsp;

"We continue to seek dialogue with the DPRK so we can address this reported activity and the full range of issues related to denuclearisation."

US North Korea envoy Sung Kim last week re-iterated his willingness to meet his North Korean counterparts "anywhere, at any time".

Nuclear arsenal

The Biden administration has previously promised a "practical, calibrated approach", including diplomatic efforts, to persuade the impoverished North to give up its banned weapons programmes.

But Pyongyang has never shown any indication it would be willing to surrender its nuclear arsenal, and this month Kim's sister and key adviser Kim Yo Jong demanded the withdrawal of US troops from the peninsula.&nbsp;

Pyongyang has stayed away from nuclear talks since the collapse of the second Trump-Kim summit in Hanoi and has rebuffed South Korean efforts to revive dialogue.

About 100 kilometres&nbsp;north of Pyongyang, Yongbyon is home to the country's first nuclear reactor, and is the only known source of plutonium for North Korea's weapons programme.

Yongbyon is not believed to be North Korea's only uranium enrichment facility and closing it down would not in and of itself signal an end to the country's atomic programme.

North Korea suspended nuclear and missile testing during a diplomatic process in 2018 but said it was abandoning its self-declared moratorium in January 2020.

It has subsequently carried out a series of short-range missile launches but has not conducted a nuclear test since 2017.

Nuclear-armed North Korea appears to have restarted its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor in a "deeply troubling" development, the UN atomic agency has said, a possible sign Pyongyang is expanding its banned weapons programme.

Nuclear-armed North Korea appears to have restarted its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor in a "deeply troubling" development, the UN atomic agency has said, a possible sign Pyongyang is expanding its banned weapons programme. The development on the 5-megawatt reactor in Yongbyon, North Korea's main nuclear complex, comes with nuclear talks between Pyongyang and Washington at a standstill. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un offered to dismantle part of the Yongbyon complex at a second summit with then US president Donald Trump but not other sites, in exchange for sanctions relief, and his offer was rejected. North Korea is under multiple sets of international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes, which have seen rapid progress under Kim. "Since early July, there have been indications, including the discharge of cooling water, consistent with the operation of the reactor," the International Atomic Energy Agency said in its annual report. The Yongbyon reactor appeared to have been inactive from December 2018 until then, added the report dated Friday. IAEA inspectors were kicked out of North Korea in 2009, and the agency has since monitored it from outside. The possible operation of the reactor follows a recent indication that Pyongyang is also using a nearby radiochemical laboratory to separate plutonium from spent fuel previously removed from the reactor. The signs of the reactor and laboratory operations were "deeply troubling", the IAEA said, adding the activities were a "clear violation" of UN resolutions. Also read | US conducts drone strike on explosive-laden car in Kabul A senior US State Department official said Washington was aware of the report and was closely coordinating with partner countries. "This report underscores the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy so we can achieve the complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula," the official told AFP. "We continue to seek dialogue with the DPRK so we can address this reported activity and the full range of issues related to denuclearisation." US North Korea envoy Sung Kim last week re-iterated his willingness to meet his North Korean counterparts "anywhere, at any time". Nuclear arsenal The Biden administration has previously promised a "practical, calibrated approach", including diplomatic efforts, to persuade the impoverished North to give up its banned weapons programmes. But Pyongyang has never shown any indication it would be willing to surrender its nuclear arsenal, and this month Kim's sister and key adviser Kim Yo Jong demanded the withdrawal of US troops from the peninsula. Pyongyang has stayed away from nuclear talks since the collapse of the second Trump-Kim summit in Hanoi and has rebuffed South Korean efforts to revive dialogue. About 100 kilometres north of Pyongyang, Yongbyon is home to the country's first nuclear reactor, and is the only known source of plutonium for North Korea's weapons programme. Yongbyon is not believed to be North Korea's only uranium enrichment facility and closing it down would not in and of itself signal an end to the country's atomic programme. North Korea suspended nuclear and missile testing during a diplomatic process in 2018 but said it was abandoning its self-declared moratorium in January 2020. It has subsequently carried out a series of short-range missile launches but has not conducted a nuclear test since 2017.

North Korea appears to have restarted nuclear reactor: UN agency

The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal on Saturday for aid for some seven million Afghan farmers in the war-ravaged nation facing the threat of severe drought.&nbsp;

COVID-19 has further affected the agricultural workers in the country, which is now controlled by the Taliban.

The UN's Food and Agricultural Organization said that the farmers worst affected by a drought in the country are among some 14 million people, or one in three Afghans, who are "acutely food insecure and need urgent humanitarian assistance".

"Urgent agricultural support now is key to counter the impact of the drought and a worsening situation in Afghanistan's vast rural areas in the weeks and months ahead," FAO director Qu Dongyu said in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-tells-citizens-to-leave-kabul-airport-gates-immediately-408913">Also read |&nbsp;US tells citizens to leave Kabul airport gates 'immediately'</a>

"If we fail to assist the people most affected by the acute drought, large numbers will be forced to abandon their farms and be displaced in certain areas," Qu added.&nbsp;

"This threatens to further deepen food insecurity and poses yet another threat to the stability of Afghanistan."

The organisation said it was facing a funding shortfall of $18 million to support its drought response plan in Afghanistan. It is hoping to help 250,000 families, or around 1.5 million people, for the upcoming winter wheat season.&nbsp;

But the funding shortfall means only 110,000 families can be supported.&nbsp;

The appeal comes as humanitarian organisations fear the Taliban's arrival could hamper access for aid deliveries and personnel.

The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal on Saturday for aid for some seven million Afghan farmers in the war-ravaged nation facing the threat of severe drought.

The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal on Saturday for aid for some seven million Afghan farmers in the war-ravaged nation facing the threat of severe drought. COVID-19 has further affected the agricultural workers in the country, which is now controlled by the Taliban. The UN's Food and Agricultural Organization said that the farmers worst affected by a drought in the country are among some 14 million people, or one in three Afghans, who are "acutely food insecure and need urgent humanitarian assistance". "Urgent agricultural support now is key to counter the impact of the drought and a worsening situation in Afghanistan's vast rural areas in the weeks and months ahead," FAO director Qu Dongyu said in a statement. Also read | US tells citizens to leave Kabul airport gates 'immediately' "If we fail to assist the people most affected by the acute drought, large numbers will be forced to abandon their farms and be displaced in certain areas," Qu added. "This threatens to further deepen food insecurity and poses yet another threat to the stability of Afghanistan." The organisation said it was facing a funding shortfall of $18 million to support its drought response plan in Afghanistan. It is hoping to help 250,000 families, or around 1.5 million people, for the upcoming winter wheat season. But the funding shortfall means only 110,000 families can be supported. The appeal comes as humanitarian organisations fear the Taliban's arrival could hamper access for aid deliveries and personnel.

UN issues urgent appeal to help drought-hit Afghan farmers

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the terrorist attack at the Kabul airport. He also called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council amidst the security collapse in Afghanistan.

UN Chief condemns Kabul airport blasts, calls permanent members' meet

According to the United Nations, Madagascar is on the brink of experiencing the world's first "climate change famine" as thousands of people are already suffering "catastrophic" levels of hunger and food insecurity.

UN World Food Programme's Shelley Thakral was quoted by the BBC as saying, "These are famine-like conditions and they're being driven by climate not conflict".

She added, "This is unprecedented. These people have done nothing to contribute to climate change. They don't burn fossil fuels… and yet they are bearing the brunt of climate change".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-afghanistan-minister-now-delivers-pizzas-in-germany-report-408316">Also read |&nbsp;Former Afghanistan minister now delivers pizzas in Germany: Report</a>

The UN estimates that 30,000 people are currently experiencing the highest internationally recognised level of food insecurity, which is level five.

Also, there are concerns the number affected could rise sharply as Madagascar enters the traditional "lean season" before harvest.

In the remote village of Fandiova, in Amboasary district, families recently showed a visiting WFP team the locusts that they were eating.

The impact of the current drought is now being felt in larger towns in southern Madagascar too as many children are forced to beg on the streets for food.

According to the United Nations, Madagascar is on the brink of experiencing the world's first "climate change famine" as thousands of people are already suffering "catastrophic" levels of hunger and food insecurity.

According to the United Nations, Madagascar is on the brink of experiencing the world's first "climate change famine" as thousands of people are already suffering "catastrophic" levels of hunger and food insecurity. UN World Food Programme's Shelley Thakral was quoted by the BBC as saying, "These are famine-like conditions and they're being driven by climate not conflict". She added, "This is unprecedented. These people have done nothing to contribute to climate change. They don't burn fossil fuels… and yet they are bearing the brunt of climate change". Also read | Former Afghanistan minister now delivers pizzas in Germany: Report The UN estimates that 30,000 people are currently experiencing the highest internationally recognised level of food insecurity, which is level five. Also, there are concerns the number affected could rise sharply as Madagascar enters the traditional "lean season" before harvest. In the remote village of Fandiova, in Amboasary district, families recently showed a visiting WFP team the locusts that they were eating. The impact of the current drought is now being felt in larger towns in southern Madagascar too as many children are forced to beg on the streets for food.

Madagascar on brink of famine, says UN

The Biden administration's plan of withdrawing all American personnel out of Afghanistan by August 31 has not changed, according to US Defence Department Press Secretary John Kirby.&nbsp;

“Every day, we are making progress in bringing Americans out, as well as Special Immigrant Visa applications and vulnerable Afghans,” he continued.

Kirby stated, “We are committed to getting any and all Americans who wish to go out.”&nbsp;

“We still believe – certainly now that we have been able to increase the capacity and the flow -- we believe that we have the ability to get that done by the end of the month.”&nbsp;

Earlier, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Tuesday that his group will accept "no extensions" to the August 31 deadline set by the Biden administration for the removal of all American forces from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

According to the Pentagon, new bases may be required to house Afghans evacuated from the war-torn country.

According to CNN, the US has evacuated some 12,700 individuals from Kabul airport in the last 24 hours, citing a White House official.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Biden administration's plan of withdrawing all American personnel out of Afghanistan by August 31 has not changed, according to US Defence Department Press Secretary John Kirby.

The Biden administration's plan of withdrawing all American personnel out of Afghanistan by August 31 has not changed, according to US Defence Department Press Secretary John Kirby. “Every day, we are making progress in bringing Americans out, as well as Special Immigrant Visa applications and vulnerable Afghans,” he continued. Kirby stated, “We are committed to getting any and all Americans who wish to go out.” “We still believe – certainly now that we have been able to increase the capacity and the flow -- we believe that we have the ability to get that done by the end of the month.” Earlier, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Tuesday that his group will accept "no extensions" to the August 31 deadline set by the Biden administration for the removal of all American forces from Afghanistan. According to the Pentagon, new bases may be required to house Afghans evacuated from the war-torn country. According to CNN, the US has evacuated some 12,700 individuals from Kabul airport in the last 24 hours, citing a White House official. (With inputs from agencies)

'No change' to August 31 withdrawal deadline: Pentagon’s John Kirby

The Taliban said they would not agree to an extension of a looming deadline to evacuate Afghans from Kabul airport, even as Western countries said they were running out of time.

In answer to WION's Anas Mallick's query concerning a covert meeting between the chief of the American intelligence agency CIA, William J Burns, and Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar, the spokesperson declined to confirm or deny it.

"All diplomats and embassies, including the United States, have been meeting with the Islamic Emirates Political Office," a Taliban spokeswoman asserted.

He said he can not confirm Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar's meeting with CIA Director.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> at the Taliban press conference in Kabul. In response to <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnasMallick</a>’s question on a secret meeting between Taliban leader Mullah Baradar &amp; the CIA chief, the spokesperson refuses to confirm/deny. Says the political office has been meeting all embassies in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afganistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afganistan</a>. <a href="https://t.co/Ppamy2WJVv">pic.twitter.com/Ppamy2WJVv</a>
— Palki Sharma (@palkisu) <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu/status/1430167767823573003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to the Washington Post, who cited anonymous US officials, CIA Director William J Burns conducted a secret meeting with Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar in Kabul on Monday.&nbsp;

According to the Washington Post, this was the highest-level face-to-face meeting between the two sides and came more than a week after the militant organisation seized power in Afghanistan. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/shocking-images-of-children-trapped-at-kabul-airport-amid-evacuation-407731">Pictures | Shocking images of children trapped at Kabul airport amid evacuation</a>

About 50,000 foreigners and Afghans have fled the country from Kabul's airport since the Taliban swept into power nine days ago, according to the US government.

Many Afghans fear a repeat of the brutal interpretation of sharia law the Taliban implemented when they were first in power from 1996-2001, and retribution for working with the US-backed government over the past two decades. 
 
Watch | Kabul airport witnesses rush after people flee Afghanistan owing to Taliban's siege

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kabul-airport-witnesses-rush-after-people-flee-afghanistan-owing-to-talibans-siege-408035/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Taliban, who ended two decades of war with an astonishingly swift rout of government forces, have been publicly tolerant of the evacuation effort.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban said they would not agree to an extension of a looming deadline to evacuate Afghans from Kabul airport, even as Western countries said they were running out of time.

The Taliban said they would not agree to an extension of a looming deadline to evacuate Afghans from Kabul airport, even as Western countries said they were running out of time. In answer to WION's Anas Mallick's query concerning a covert meeting between the chief of the American intelligence agency CIA, William J Burns, and Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar, the spokesperson declined to confirm or deny it. "All diplomats and embassies, including the United States, have been meeting with the Islamic Emirates Political Office," a Taliban spokeswoman asserted. He said he can not confirm Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar's meeting with CIA Director. .@WIONews at the Taliban press conference in Kabul. In response to @AnasMallick’s question on a secret meeting between Taliban leader Mullah Baradar & the CIA chief, the spokesperson refuses to confirm/deny. Says the political office has been meeting all embassies in #Afganistan. pic.twitter.com/Ppamy2WJVv — Palki Sharma (@palkisu) August 24, 2021 × According to the Washington Post, who cited anonymous US officials, CIA Director William J Burns conducted a secret meeting with Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar in Kabul on Monday. According to the Washington Post, this was the highest-level face-to-face meeting between the two sides and came more than a week after the militant organisation seized power in Afghanistan. Pictures | Shocking images of children trapped at Kabul airport amid evacuation About 50,000 foreigners and Afghans have fled the country from Kabul's airport since the Taliban swept into power nine days ago, according to the US government. Many Afghans fear a repeat of the brutal interpretation of sharia law the Taliban implemented when they were first in power from 1996-2001, and retribution for working with the US-backed government over the past two decades. Watch | Kabul airport witnesses rush after people flee Afghanistan owing to Taliban's siege The Taliban, who ended two decades of war with an astonishingly swift rout of government forces, have been publicly tolerant of the evacuation effort. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Taliban evade WION’s question on secret meeting between Mullah Baradar and CIA chief

If reports are to be believed, serious violations have been committed by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The violations, include executions of civilians and restrictions on women and on protests against its rule. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, Michelle Bachelet, the top UN human rights official, said that she had received credible reports of the violations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch | Reports: WHO says Kabul airport curbs blocking medical supplies for Afghans

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Bachelet has urged the United Nations Human Rights Council, which is holding an emergency session at the request of Pakistan and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to set up a mechanism to closely monitor Taliban actions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking before an emergency session on Afghanistan, the UN official said, "A fundamental red line will be the Taliban's treatment of women and girls.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-expected-to-decide-within-24-hours-on-afghan-evacuation-deadline-407926">Biden expected to decide within 24 hours on Afghan evacuation deadline</a> &nbsp;

She urged the Taliban to honour commitments to respect the rights of women and girls, and ethnic and religious minorities, and refrain from reprisals. She said, “The onus is now fully on the Taliban to translate these commitments into reality." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bachelet told the council, "I strongly urge the Taliban to adopt norms of responsive governance and human rights, and to work to re-establish social cohesion and reconciliation, including through respect for the rights of all who have suffered during the decades of conflict." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If reports are to be believed, serious violations have been committed by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The violations, include executions of civilians and restrictions on women and on protests against its rule.

If reports are to be believed, serious violations have been committed by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The violations, include executions of civilians and restrictions on women and on protests against its rule. On Tuesday, Michelle Bachelet, the top UN human rights official, said that she had received credible reports of the violations. Watch | Reports: WHO says Kabul airport curbs blocking medical supplies for Afghans × Bachelet has urged the United Nations Human Rights Council, which is holding an emergency session at the request of Pakistan and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to set up a mechanism to closely monitor Taliban actions. Speaking before an emergency session on Afghanistan, the UN official said, "A fundamental red line will be the Taliban's treatment of women and girls.” Also Read: Biden expected to decide within 24 hours on Afghan evacuation deadline She urged the Taliban to honour commitments to respect the rights of women and girls, and ethnic and religious minorities, and refrain from reprisals. She said, “The onus is now fully on the Taliban to translate these commitments into reality." Bachelet told the council, "I strongly urge the Taliban to adopt norms of responsive governance and human rights, and to work to re-establish social cohesion and reconciliation, including through respect for the rights of all who have suffered during the decades of conflict." (With inputs from agencies)

Citing reports of executions, UN rights chief seeks mechanism to monitor Taliban actions

India highlighted its concerns over Pakistan-based international terrorist groups at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meet. India raised flag over terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)

India's envoy to UN, Indra Mani Pandey said,""Stability in Afghanistan is linked to the peace and security of the region. &nbsp;We hope that the situation in Afghanistan does not pose a challenge to its neighbours and its territory is not used by terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), to threaten any other country."

Afghanistan has become unstable and thousands of people have been leaving the country ever since the Taliban took over Afghan national capital Kabul on August 15. Many of the Afghans who are leaving are worried over future under the Taliban rule.

Pandey hoped that "there is an inclusive and broad-based dispensation which represents all sections of Afghan society" &amp; said that "voices of Afghan women, aspirations of Afghan children and the rights of minorities must be respected".&nbsp;

He explained, "A broad-based representation would help the arrangement gain more acceptability and legitimacy."

International community has largely called for the same -- inclusive set up, one that is not dominated by one ethnicity but has representation from everyone given Afghanistan is an ethnically diverse country.

Calling, the security situation "precarious" he said, a "grave humanitarian crisis is unfolding"

"Everyone is concerned about the increasing violations of fundamental rights of Afghan citizens" &amp; "Afghans are worried about whether their right to live with dignity would be respected," he added.

Heartbreaking visuals have emerged over last few days from Afghanistan especially around the Kabul Airport. The airport has been thronged by people who want to flee the country.&nbsp;

India on its part has been evacuating hundreds of its nationals and many Afghan vulnerable groups like the minority Hindus and Sikhs. Over last few days India has brought more than 40 Afghan Sikhs to Delhi. In addition 3 copies of Sikh Holy Book 'Guru Granth Sahib' have also been brought. Union ministers, Hardeep Singh Puri &amp; V Muraleedharan were at the airport to receive the Holy Books.

Indra Mani called on the international community to "ensure full support to the people of Afghanistan in their desire for peace, stability and security in the country and to enable all Afghans, including women, children and minorities, to live in peace and dignity."

He also pointed out to India's contribution to the country in the last 20 years in terms of humanitarian assistance, capacity building, connectivity. During the Covid crisis, India sent 75,000 MTs of wheat to Afghanistan to ensure food security during the pandemic.

India highlighted its concerns over Pakistan-based international terrorist groups at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meet. India raised flag over terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) India's envoy to UN, Indra Mani Pandey said,""Stability in Afghanistan is linked to the peace and security of the region.

India highlighted its concerns over Pakistan-based international terrorist groups at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meet. India raised flag over terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) India's envoy to UN, Indra Mani Pandey said,""Stability in Afghanistan is linked to the peace and security of the region. We hope that the situation in Afghanistan does not pose a challenge to its neighbours and its territory is not used by terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), to threaten any other country." Afghanistan has become unstable and thousands of people have been leaving the country ever since the Taliban took over Afghan national capital Kabul on August 15. Many of the Afghans who are leaving are worried over future under the Taliban rule. Pandey hoped that "there is an inclusive and broad-based dispensation which represents all sections of Afghan society" & said that "voices of Afghan women, aspirations of Afghan children and the rights of minorities must be respected". He explained, "A broad-based representation would help the arrangement gain more acceptability and legitimacy." International community has largely called for the same -- inclusive set up, one that is not dominated by one ethnicity but has representation from everyone given Afghanistan is an ethnically diverse country. Calling, the security situation "precarious" he said, a "grave humanitarian crisis is unfolding" "Everyone is concerned about the increasing violations of fundamental rights of Afghan citizens" & "Afghans are worried about whether their right to live with dignity would be respected," he added. Heartbreaking visuals have emerged over last few days from Afghanistan especially around the Kabul Airport. The airport has been thronged by people who want to flee the country. India on its part has been evacuating hundreds of its nationals and many Afghan vulnerable groups like the minority Hindus and Sikhs. Over last few days India has brought more than 40 Afghan Sikhs to Delhi. In addition 3 copies of Sikh Holy Book 'Guru Granth Sahib' have also been brought. Union ministers, Hardeep Singh Puri & V Muraleedharan were at the airport to receive the Holy Books. Indra Mani called on the international community to "ensure full support to the people of Afghanistan in their desire for peace, stability and security in the country and to enable all Afghans, including women, children and minorities, to live in peace and dignity." He also pointed out to India's contribution to the country in the last 20 years in terms of humanitarian assistance, capacity building, connectivity. During the Covid crisis, India sent 75,000 MTs of wheat to Afghanistan to ensure food security during the pandemic.

UNHRC meet on Afghanistan: India raises concern over Pakistan-based terror groups

UN humnitarian head, Isabelle Carlsen has commented on the Afghan crisis and said that many women and children are trapped in Afghanistan amid the crisis. 'We call for protection of civilians,' she said.

UN Humanitarian head speaks on Afghanistan Crisis

The United Nations Human Rights Council held a special session to deal with 'serious human rights issues and situations in Afghanistan'. The special session has been convened at the official request submitted jointly by Pakistan, the Coordinator of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and Afghanistan.

UN Human Rights Council holds a special session to deal with situations in Afghanistan

The United Nations Security Council held a meeting in New York over the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. The session was called at the request of Estonia and Norway by India, which holds the presidency of the UNSC for the month of August.

UNSC holds special session on Afghanistan requested by Estonia and Norway

The United Nations Security Council held a meeting under India's presidency in New York over the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.

UN Security Council holds emergency meeting on Afghanistan under India's presidency

The 15-member United Nations Security Council met on Monday to discuss Afghanistan under India's presidency as the Taliban has taken control over the country and the capital city Kabul is under its grips.

15-member UN Security Council holds emergency meet on Afghanistan

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