CURRENT NEWS ARTICLES
Taliban deputy says there is no excuse for education bans on Afghan women and girls
Associated Press January 19, 2025 A senior Taliban figure has urged the group’s leader to scrap education bans on Afghan women and girls, saying there is no excuse for them, in a rare public rebuke of government policy. Sher Abbas Stanikzai, political deputy at the Foreign Ministry, made the remarks in a speech on Saturday in
Artists and Activists in Netherlands rally against treatment of women in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 19, 2025 A number of artists and human rights activists have protested in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in support of Afghan women. The gathering, held on Saturday, January 18, aimed to oppose gender apartheid, violence, and the suppression of women in the country. This protest was initiated by “Bamdad – House
Iran deports over 3,000 Afghan refugees in one day: Norwegian Refugee Council
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 19, 2025 Jan Egeland, the head of the Norwegian Refugee Council, has announced that Iran deported over 3,000 Afghan refugees in a single day. He warned that these individuals have no resources to restart their lives in Afghanistan, a country where millions are already in desperate need of assistance.
Scores of Afghans have left for the US after their visas were processed in the Philippines
By JIM GOMEZ Associated Press January 18, 2025 MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Nearly 200 Afghan nationals have been flown on to the United States after their special immigration visas were processed in the Philippines as part of an agreement between Manila and Washington, the U.S. Embassy in Manila said Sunday. The Afghans left the Philippines in several
Funding cuts to Afghanistan are the biggest threat to helping women, aid agency chief warns
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS January 19, 2025 Funding cuts to Afghanistan are the biggest threat to helping the country’s women, the chief of a top aid agency warned Sunday. Jan Egeland, the secretary-general of the Norwegian Refugee Council, said women and girls were bearing the brunt of dwindling financial support for nongovernmental groups and humanitarian assistance to
UK Joins Call for Justice on Afghan Women’s Rights Violations
TOLOnews TV Network 18 Jan 2025 Chile, Costa Rica, Spain, France, Luxembourg, and Mexico are the six countries that initiated this process, which has since been joined by others. The UK government has joined the group of countries that have referred Afghanistan’s violations of women’s human rights to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The
Pezeshkian and Putin Stress Stability in Afghanistan
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 18 Jan 2025 Pezeshkian said that he also discussed cooperation in the South Caucasus, Syria, and the Middle East with Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Masoud Pezeshkian, president of Iran, emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in Afghanistan during a press conference with his Russian counterpart. Masoud Pezeshkian stated
EU, UNHCR Join Forces for Afghan Refugees
Sabria Abdal Tolo news 18 Jan 2025 According to the EU report, Afghans represent one of the world’s largest refugee populations, with 2.6 million registered globally. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the European Union (EU) have signed a new agreement to continue to support displaced Afghans and host communities in Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, and
They were part of Afghanistan’s first-ever all-female flight. Then their lives were turned upside down.
The World By Shirin Jaafari January 16, 2025 In 2021, six women — two pilots and four cabin crew — participated in Afghanistan’s first-ever all-female flight. It was a historic moment. Their photos and videos were shared all over the world. Then, a few months later, their lives were turned upside down when the Taliban
Austin, the first Black defense secretary, ends his term marred by Afghanistan but buoyed by Ukraine
By TARA COPP Associated Press January 17, 2025 WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will bid farewell Friday to the forces and personnel he has led through a tumultuous term that had three major military crises, a global pandemic and a personal brush with cancer that became a flashpoint for the way it was mishandled. Austin, 71, spent
India steps up engagement with Taliban
By Anjana Pasricha Voice of America January 15, 2025 New Delhi — The first high level diplomatic meeting held between India and the Taliban leadership marked a significant step in rebuilding New Delhi’s influence in Afghanistan, according to analysts. They say New Delhi’s growing engagement with the Taliban is prompted by strategic considerations in the Central Asian
HRW Expresses Concern Over Increasing Restrictions on Women in Afghanistan
TOLOnews 17 Jan 2025 The report also mentions that critical journalists were arrested, and additional restrictions were imposed on the media this year. Human Rights Watch (HRW) in its 2024 annual report expressed concern over what it describes as worsening human rights conditions in Afghanistan. According to the report, restrictions on women have intensified this
White House: Pakistan still victim of Terrorism from across the border
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 16, 2025 The White House National Security spokesperson stated that the people of Pakistan continue to suffer from terrorist attacks coming from the Afghanistan border. John Kirby emphasized that the United States will continue to cooperate with Pakistan in countering terrorism. In a press briefing on Wednesday, Kirby mentioned
Pakistan denies military presence in Wakhan Corridor, reaffirms Afghanistan’s sovereignty
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 16, 2025 The spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs once again denied the entry of Pakistani military forces into the Wakhan Corridor of Afghanistan. Shafqat Ali Khan stated, “This region is part of Afghanistan, and we respect its territorial integrity.” In a press conference in Islamabad on Thursday,
UN warns of rising child malnutrition in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 16, 2025 The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Afghanistan has warned of a potential rise in child malnutrition cases this year, adding that climate change in 2025 will affect the lives of hundreds of thousands of children in Afghanistan. In a report published
Ministry of Economy Calls on UN to Focus Aid on Development Projects
TOLOnews TV Network 15 Jan 2025 Several other UNAMA officials, including Indrika Ratwatte, the deputy head of the organization, also attended the meeting. The acting head of the Ministry of Economy has called on the United Nations to focus its 2025 aid on development projects in Afghanistan. Abdul Rahman Habib, the spokesperson for the Ministry
Countries Call for Lifting Restrictions on Women in Afghanistan
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 15 Jan 2025 A statement from Germany’s foreign ministry said that the Islamic Emirate must adhere to Afghanistan’s commitments to international laws. Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and Canada have urged the Islamic Emirate to remove the current restrictions on women. A statement from Germany’s foreign ministry said that the Islamic
Muttaqi Urges Global Aid in 4th Meeting With UN Agencies
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 15 Jan 2025 Muttaqi also stated that to support the private sector, the Islamic Emirate has recently allocated 33,000 hectares of land for industrial parks. Amir Khan Muttaqi, acting foreign minister, in the fourth meeting between the Islamic Emirate and United Nations agencies in Kabul, called on the international community
Afghans evacuated by US in chaos of withdrawal are languishing in foreign camps, documents reveal
Alice Speri The Guardian Tue 14 Jan 2025 Exclusive: records show evacuees with pending applications to enter US ‘forced to remain in limbo’ in at least 36 countries, some in ‘untenable conditions’ Afghan citizens who fled the country with American assistance after the US’s chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan remain stranded in third countries, new documents shared exclusively
Why India is reaching out to the Taliban now
Soutik Biswas BBC News 14 Jan 2025 India’s foreign secretary Vikram Misri met acting Afghan foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai India’s latest diplomatic outreach to Afghanistan’s Taliban government signals a marked shift in how it sees the geopolitical reality in the region. This comes more than three years after India suffered a major
Joe Biden: China and Russia wanted the US stuck in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 14, 2025 U.S. President Joe Biden, in a speech reflecting on his foreign policy legacy, defended the decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan, stating it allowed his administration to focus on “more immediate challenges.” Biden emphasized that rival powers like Russia and China were pleased to see the U.S.
IFJ urges immediate release of Afghan journalist Mahdi Ansari
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 14, 2025 The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), continuing its response to the detention of Mahdi Ansari, has called on the Taliban to drop all charges against the journalist and release him from prison. In a statement released late Monday, January 13, the IFJ condemned the Taliban’s Supreme Court
UN requests $ 279 million for health services in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 14, 2025 The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) states that $279.7 million is required to provide health assistance in Afghanistan. On Tuesday, January 14, OCHA announced through a message on its X platform that health assistance is planned to reach approximately 9.3 million people.
Pakistan, Afghanistan, and UNHCR to Hold Talks on Afghan Refugees
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 14 Jan 2025 The ministry also reported that over the past two weeks, more than 200 Afghan families have returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan. The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations has announced plans to hold a trilateral meeting with Pakistan and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to
Biden: Afghanistan No Longer Poses a Threat to the US
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 14 Jan 2025 Biden added that the United States has maintained its capability to manage Afghanistan remotely over the past three years. Joe Biden, the President of the United States, said in his final speech as president on Monday (January 13) that Afghanistan has not been a safe haven for
CNN reporter defends Afghanistan story that led to defamation lawsuit
By Jeremy Barr The Washington Post January 13, 2025 Chief national security correspondent Alex Marquardt denied that his report about security contractor Zachary Young was a “hit piece.” CNN chief national security correspondent Alex Marquardt told a Florida jury Monday that he never had any ill intent while reporting a 2021 story that featured security
The Taliban made me marry my boss: how one word led to a forced marriage
Haniya Frotan Rukhshana Media reporter The Guardian Mon 13 Jan 2025 Afghanistan’s ‘morality police’ arrested Samira at work in Kabul – and then made the 19-year-old marry her employer. It was a normal summer morning in July last year when 19-year-old Samira* made her way to the carpet-weaving shop where she worked in Kabul to
Pakistan must move beyond Security-Centric Policies, says former Ambassador
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 13, 2025 Outgoing ambassador of Pakistan in Kabul Mansoor Ahmad, September 1, 2022. (PHOTO: Screenshot from interview video) A visionary approach to Afghanistan relations should focus on the full spectrum of ties with Afghanistan rather than being confined to selective security aspects, Pakistan’s former ambassador to Afghanistan states. Pakistan’s
Afghan refugees deserve special support: Former US House Speaker
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 13, 2025 Newton Gingrich, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, stated that Afghan refugees who fought alongside American forces and risked their lives deserve special support. He emphasized that America must not abandon its allies in difficult circumstances. In a television interview with CBS, Gingrich highlighted
Girls’ Education is a fundamental right: Hamid Karzai welcomes Islamabad Conference Statement
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 13, 2025 Hamid Karzai, the former president of Afghanistan, welcomed the final statement from the International Conference on Girls’ Education in Islamic Countries held in Islamabad. He emphasized that girls’ education is an undeniable and fundamental right. On Monday, January 13, Karzai posted on his social media account, asserting
Pakistan watches with caution as old ally Taliban gets closer to India
By Abid Hussain Al Jazeera Published On 13 Jan 2025 Islamabad, Pakistan – When the Taliban took over Kabul in August 2021, then-Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan famously said the Afghan group had “broken the shackles of slavery” as they returned to power for the first time since 2001. Taliban’s ascension was seen as a
Biden speaks with relatives of Americans held by Taliban, but deal to bring them home still elusive
BY ERIC TUCKER Associated Press January 12, 2025 WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden spoke Sunday with relatives of three Americans the U.S. government is looking to bring home from Afghanistan, but no agreement has been reached on a deal to get them back, family members said. Biden’s call with family members of Ryan Corbett, George Glezmann and
Islamic Conference Statement: Women’s Education ‘Urgent Social Necessity’
TOLOnews TV Network 13 Jan 2025 According to the 17-article resolution, the participants recognized women’s education not only as a religious obligation but also as a vital societal need. Participants of the Islamic countries’ conference in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, issued a resolution emphasizing the importance of women’s education. According to the 17-article resolution,
Nearly $6.7 Billion in Aid Since 2021: What Has Changed in Afghanistan?
Najibullah Lalzoy Manager, Online Tolo News 12 Jan 2025 The aid has also doubled the number of malnourished children receiving treatment, from 1.1 million in 2021 to 2.2 million in 2023. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) reports that Afghanistan has received approximately $6.7 billion in aid since the Islamic
Malala Yousafzai: ‘Taliban’ Has Denied Afghan Girls’ Right to Education
TOLOnews TV Network 12 Jan 2025 Malala Yousafzai, education activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner, stated that the interim government of Afghanistan has deprived Afghan girls of their right to education. Speaking on the second day of a conference titled “Women’s Education in Islamic Societies: Challenges and Opportunities” in Islamabad, she remarked that Afghanistan is
Ryan Corbett’s Family Seeks Trump’s Help for His Release
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 12 Jan 2025 American media reported that Ryan Corbett’s wife said her last contact with him was on New Year’s Day, and she is concerned about his health. The family of Ryan Corbett, an American citizen detained in Afghanistan, is attempting to meet with Donald Trump, President-elect of the United
Why is India courting the Taliban now?
By Ruchi Kumar Al Jazeera Published On 11 Jan 2025 The meeting in Dubai between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Amir Khan Muttaqi, acting foreign minister of the Taliban, on Wednesday this week has confirmed India’s intentions to raise its influence with the Afghan leadership, analysts say. India has been gradually upping relations with
Afghan Taliban refuses to attend girls’ education summit in Pakistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 11, 2025 The Afghan Taliban government is notably absent from a global summit on girls’ education in the Muslim world, being hosted by Pakistan. The event, which aims to address the challenges and promote the empowerment of girls in Muslim countries, is being held in Islamabad. Speaking to AFP,
Taliban Central Bank to auction $16 million amid Afghani currency drop
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 11, 2025 Following the depreciation of the Afghani currency against foreign currencies, the Taliban-controlled central bank has announced the auction of $16 million USD. The bank issued a statement on X, stating that the amount will be sold on Sunday, January 12. Private banks and exchange service providers have
Islamic Emirate: Prisoner Exchange Talks with US Remain Unsuccessful
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 11 Jan 2025 The deputy spokesperson said that the caretaker government is striving to secure the release of several Afghan citizens detained in the United States. Hamdullah Fitrat, the deputy spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, has stated that negotiations on a prisoner exchange with the US are ongoing but have
Shahbaz Sharif Criticizes Muslim World for Failing on Women’s Education
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 12 Jan 2025 The ban on girls’ and women’s education in Afghanistan has faced various global criticisms over the past three years. The first day of the Islamic countries’ conference titled “The International Conference on Girls’ Education in Muslim Communities: Challenges and Opportunities,” concluded today (Saturday) in Islamabad, the capital
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan escalate amid border clashes
By Rick Noack, Haq Nawaz Khan and Shaiq Hussain The Washington Post January 10, 2025 Pakistan carried out airstrikes inside Afghanistan, which Islamabad blames for harboring extremists who have been waging an insurgency in Pakistan. When Kabul fell to the Afghan Taliban in 2021, the head of Pakistan’s intelligence service was one of the first
Lisa Nandy rejects calls for England to boycott Afghanistan cricket match
Kiran Stacey Political correspondent The Guardian Fri 10 Jan 2025 Culture secretary says it should go ahead despite pressure for it to be cancelled over Taliban’s treatment of women England should be allowed to play next month’s cricket match against Afghanistan, the culture and sport secretary has said, despite calls for a boycott over the Taliban government’s
108 Afghan families deported from Iran and Pakistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 10, 2025 The Ministry of Refugees and Returnees reported that 108 Afghan families returned to Afghanistan after being expelled from Iran and Pakistan. According to the Bakhtar News Agency, on Friday, January 10, officials from the Ministry of Refugees and Returnees stated that these 108 families returned to Afghanistan
UNHCR Urges Pakistan to Halt Forced Deportations of Afghan Refugees
Bibi Amina Hakimi Tolo News 10 Jan 2025 A representative of the organization told TOLOnews that the forced expulsion of Afghan refugees by Pakistan violates international laws. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Pakistan has called for the suspension of Afghan refugee deportations from the country. Qaiser Khan, Deputy Spokesperson for UNHCR
US Congress Introduces Bill to Block Aid to Islamic Emirate
Liluma Qadiry Tolo News 10 Jan 2025 The Ministry of Economy stressed that humanitarian aid should not be used as a political pressure tool against Afghanistan. Tim Burchett, Vice Chair of US Congress’ Foreign Affairs Committee, has introduced a bill to ensure that US taxpayers’ money does not fall into the hands of the Islamic
Afghanistan’s Untapped Economic Potential Hindered By Limited Trade and Investment, Says UN Expert
By Ayanangsha Maitra Khaama Press January 9, 2025 Afghanistan’s economy possesses immense untapped potential, particularly in its natural resources and commercial opportunities, but much of this potential remains unrealized due to limited direct trade, according to Dr. Nagesh Kumar, former Director of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP).
Over 1,300 Afghan refugees deported from Germany in a single year
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 9, 2025 German media reports have highlighted the continued deportation of Afghan migrants from the country, with more than 1,300 Afghan asylum seekers being expelled in 2024 alone. The Deutsche Welle (DW) news network reported on Wednesday, January 8, citing the German Ministry of the Interior, that a total
UNICEF to continue supporting Health workers in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 9, 2025 The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced that it currently supports 28,000 health workers and nurses in Afghanistan. In a message posted on X/Twitter on Thursday, January 9th, UNICEF stated that it would continue supporting healthcare workers in Afghanistan throughout year. The aim is to provide
UNAMA Official Concerned By Increasing Restrictions on Women, Girls
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 9 Jan 2025 In the interview, Gagnon described her mission as serving as a bridge between the international community and the current authorities in Afghanistan. Georgette Gagnon, the deputy special representative for the UN Secretary General in Afghanistan, in an exclusive interview with TOLOnews expressed concern over the increasing restrictions on
White House Reacts to Trump’s Criticism of US Aid to Afghanistan
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 9 Jan 2025 The Deputy Minister of Economy, stated: “This aid is not handed over to the Islamic Emirate but is used to improve the economic of the people.” The criticism by Donald Trump, the US President-elect, regarding sending cash aid to Afghanistan has drawn a reaction from the White
Girls Once Again Demand Access to Education
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 9 Jan 2025 It is not yet clear whether the Islamic Emirate will participate in this meeting. A number of schoolgirls in Afghanistan are urging the Islamic Emirate to fulfill its commitments regarding education. The schoolgirls have called on participants of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting, scheduled to
‘Flat packing them’: soldier says SAS described killing Afghans in casual way
Dan Sabbagh Defence and security editor The Guardian Tue 7 Jan 2025 Inquiry hears elite forces had a ‘kill all males on target whether they posed a threat or not’ policy in Afghanistan Afghans who were killed by members of the SAS in Afghanistan were described dismissively as having been “flat packed” according to revealing testimony given
U.K. Special Forces Allowed to ‘Get Away With Murder’ in Afghanistan, Inquiry Told
By Mark Landler Reporting from London The New York Times Jan. 8, 2025 Evidence released by an official inquiry into alleged war crimes painted a disturbing picture of an elite fighting force with a culture of impunity. British special forces soldiers used extreme methods against militants in Afghanistan, including covering a man with a pillow
CNN defamation trial comes at a rough time for legacy media — and for the struggling network
BY DAVID BAUDER Associated Press January 8, 2025 At a particularly inopportune time for legacy media, CNN is on trial in Florida this week, accused of defaming a Navy veteran involved in rescuing endangered Afghans from the country when the U.S. ended its involvement there in 2021. NEW YORK (AP) — At a particularly inopportune
Pakistan Expels Afghan Families, Mistreatment, Coercion Reported
Sadaqat Ghorzang Tolo News 8 Jan 2025 Several other Afghan migrants stated that Pakistani forces had illegally beaten them at the Torkham crossing and taken their money. The government of Pakistan has forcibly expelled nearly 250 Afghan families, including those with legal documents, over the past week. The newly expelled families have complained about the
Islamic Emirate: We Have Not Received Any Financial Aid from US
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 8 Jan 2025 Fitrat added that the Islamic Emirate has not requested assistance from the United States. Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate, has rejected claims of billions of dollars in US aid to Afghanistan, stating that the interim government has not received any funds from the United
US Congressman urges Trump to halt financial aid to Taliban
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 7, 2025 Amid widespread criticism of continued U.S. cash aid to the Taliban, a U.S. Congress representative has called for an end to such aid and urged President-elect Donald Trump to halt the country’s financial assistance to the Taliban. Tim Burchett, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives,
WFP expresses concerns over Afghanistan’s Economic Crisis
By Fidel Rahmati Tolo News January 7, 2025 The World Food Programme (WFP) in Afghanistan has expressed deep concern over the country’s worsening economic crisis as temperatures drop, highlighting that millions are in urgent need of aid. In a statement posted on its X page on Tuesday, January 7, WFP stated that Afghan families are
Afghanistan Awards Major Mining Contracts Worth 213 Billion Afs
Lailuma Qadiri ToloNews 7 Jan 2025 The major mines contracted this solar year include various minerals such as cement, salt, ruby, barite, and other resources. The Ministry of Mines and Petroleum has informed TOLOnews that since the beginning of the current solar year, it has awarded contracts for nine major mines to domestic and international
Iran warns Taliban it will use all means to secure water rights from Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 6, 2025 Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, stated that Tehran will use all available tools to secure its water rights from shared and border rivers with Afghanistan. He emphasized that the issue has been a priority for the Islamic Republic since Afghanistan began constructing dams. According to IRNA
OIC Summit in Islamabad to Address Women’s Education in Islam
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 6 Jan 2025 This comes as the issue of women’s education in Afghanistan has been a contentious topic over the past three years. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is set to hold a summit focused on women’s education in Islam. This summit will take place in Islamabad, the capital
Afghan Migrants in Pakistan Face Arrests, Harassment, Escalating Tensions
By TOLOnews TV Network 6 Jan 2025 These migrants have stated that, fearing arrest, they are unable to even leave their homes. Some Afghan migrants in Pakistan have reported that the arrests of Afghan migrants by Pakistani police are ongoing. These migrants have stated that, fearing arrest, they are unable to even leave their homes.
Over 500 Afghan children killed or injured by explosives in 2024: UNICEF
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 5, 2025 The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported that more than 500 Afghan children were killed or injured in 2024 due to explosions from unexploded ordnance and remnants of war. UNICEF stated that last year, it trained 3 million children and their guardians on how to identify and
Escalating Crackdowns, Deportations of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan, Iran
TOLOnews TV Network 5 Jan 2025 According to them, Pakistani police are even arresting and deporting refugees who possess legal documents. In recent days, Afghan refugees in Pakistan have once again complained about arrests and house-to-house searches by Pakistani police. “It has been four or five days that Pakistani police, with all their resources, have
Deputy UNSG: My Commitment to Defending Afghan Women’s Rights ‘Unwavering’
TOLOnews TV Network 5 Jan 2025 She stressed that women’s rights in Afghanistan must be ensured based on Islamic laws. The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina J. Mohammed said that the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan continue to face repeated attacks. The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations said: “Women’s and
Blinken: US Foreign Policy Toward Afghanistan Will Not Change
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 5 Jan 2025 Blinken stated that Washington no longer wants to engage in wars and considers ending the war in Afghanistan one of the achievements of the Biden administration. Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, said that the future administration of Donald Trump will not change US foreign policy
Canada warns citizens against traveling to Afghanistan amid security concerns
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 4, 2025 The Canadian government has advised its citizens not to travel to Afghanistan due to the “dangerous security situation and instability.” It also noted that consular assistance in the country is highly limited. On Friday, January 3, Canada issued a statement highlighting several reasons for the advisory, including
Islamic Emirate Assures Safety of Foreign Nationals
TOLOnews TV Network 4 Jan 2025 The Islamic Emirate dismissed concerns over Afghanistan’s security situation as baseless and assured the safety of foreign nationals in the country. The Canadian government in a statement advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Afghanistan “for security reasons.” In this statement, Canada cited “the unfavorable security situation, armed conflicts,
Stanikzai to Trump: Islamic Emirate Ready for Engagement with US
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 4 Jan 2025 In another part of his speech, Stanikzai criticized what he referred to as anti-government propaganda by some countries. Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated today (Saturday) during a graduation ceremony at a madrasa that the Islamic Emirate has closed the door on
30 Rare Birds Rescued in Bamyan
TOLOnews TV Network 3 Jan 2025 In recent years, the market for buying and selling these birds has grown in Bamyan, with hunters selling a single Saira bird for up to 10,000 afghani. The Bamyan Directorate of Environmental Protection states that 30 rare birds, whose hunting is prohibited, have been rescued from hunters and returned
WFP: Funding shortage limits aid to half of Afghanistan’s hungry this winter
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press January 3, 2025 The World Food Program (WFP) has announced that due to a lack of funding, it can only provide aid to 7 million out of the 14 million hungry people in Afghanistan. Pauline Eloff, the head of the emergency department at the WFP, wrote on X/Twitter on Thursday, January
Islamic Emirate, Pakistani Forces Clash in Khost
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 3 Jan 2025 Initially, Pakistani forces targeted the Alisher district of Khost with rocket attacks, and then the forces of the Islamic Emirate responded to these attacks. Military clashes between the forces of the Islamic Emirate and Pakistan in Khost province ended this morning (Friday, January 3) after several hours.
Islamic Emirate Reacts to ICG’s Report on Afghanistan
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 3 Jan 2025 The Ministry of Economy said that the sanctions imposed by the world over the past three years have been unfair and should be lifted as soon as possible. The International Crisis Group (ICG) stated that some countries refrained from negotiating with the Islamic Emirate in a way
Tensions Escalate After Pakistan Pounds Afghanistan With Airstrikes
By Zia ur-Rehman Reporting from Karachi, Pakistan The New York Times Jan. 2, 2025 Pakistani leaders were once friends of the Taliban in Afghanistan. Now, cross-border violence has become alarmingly frequent. Airstrikes by Pakistani warplanes inside Afghanistan have intensified tensions in recent days in an already volatile region. Once-close ties between Pakistan’s leaders and the
Islamic Emirate Denies Allegations of Requesting Money from Pakistan
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 2 Jan 2025 Hamdullah Fitrat, the Deputy Spokesman of the Islamic Emirate, stated that the Islamic Emirate has made no such request of Pakistan. The Islamic Emirate has called the claims made by Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif regarding a request for money from Pakistan regrettable. Hamdullah Fitrat, the Deputy
300 people arrested in Afghanistan for human trafficking charges
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 31, 2024 The Ministry of Interior of the Taliban-run government announced that around 300 people, including several women, have been arrested and punished for human trafficking. Abdul Mateen Qani, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, stated on Monday, December 30, that a four-year strategy has been developed to combat
UN official criticizes Taliban’s recent decision: “The chosen path is wrong”
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 31, 2024 The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has urged the Taliban to revoke all discriminatory orders against Afghanistan’s women. Volker Turk called the recent Taliban warning regarding the termination of NGO licenses for employing women an “absolute mistake.” In a letter on Tuesday, Turk expressed deep
2024 Ends With Still No Recognition of Interim Govt
Mitra Majeedy Tolo News 31 Dec 2024 Officials of the Islamic Emirate have said that the interim government is directly engaging with other countries, which, in their view, amounts to recognition. The year 2024 proved to be politically tumultuous for the Islamic Emirate, with key issues such as the fate of the constitution and the
Islamic Emirate’s Foreign Policy: Triumphs and Trials in 2024
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 31 Dec 2024 On December 6, Norway limited its relations with the Islamic Emirate, citing human rights violations in Afghanistan. The reopening of embassies, the appointment of new Islamic Emirate consuls to several Afghan embassies abroad, and the closure of others were some of the major developments in Afghanistan’s foreign
Afghan Refugees in 2024: A Year of Hardship and Forced Returns
By Liluma Qadiry Tolo News 31 Dec 2024 Since the start of the second wave of deportations, 93,000 Afghan refugees have been forcibly returned from Pakistan. The year 2024 was marked by significant challenges for Afghan refugees in host countries. Key issues included the second wave of forced deportations from Pakistan, continued mistreatment in Iran
Shah wa Arous Dam in Kabul Officially Opens With Ceremony
TOLOnews TV Network 31 Dec 2024 The Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs, emphasized the dam’s importance in agricultural development and providing drinking water to parts of Kabul. The Shah wa Arous Dam in Kabul was inaugurated today (Tuesday) by the Ministry of Energy and Water during a ceremony attended by the deputy prime ministers.
Raffaella Iodice: A Legacy of Advocacy for Afghan Women
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 30 Dec 2024 Media outlets reported that she passed away due to a stroke. Following the passing of Raffaella Iodice, the former chargé d’affaires of the European Union Delegation to Afghanistan, Josep Borrell Fontelles, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, described her as an inspiring example of commitment
David Page obituary
William Crawley The Guardian Sun 29 Dec 2024 My friend and colleague David Page, who has died aged 80, was the former editor of BBC Urdu and other Asian language services, a scholar of Pakistan’s history and a committed advocate of aid to Afghanistan. David had been the first editor of the BBC Pashto language service that
The Taliban say they will close all NGOs employing Afghan women
BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Updated 6:35 AM EST, December 30, 2024 The Taliban say they will close all national and foreign nongovernmental groups in Afghanistan employing women. It comes two years after they told NGOs to suspend the employment of Afghan women, allegedly because they didn’t wear the Islamic headscarf correctly. In a letter published on X
Kam Air banned from European Airspace
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 30, 2024 Privately-owned airline Kam Air Reports indicate that the European Union has added the airline “Kam Air” to the list of carriers banned from operating in its airspace. The European Union recently published a list of 129 airlines from various countries that are not permitted to fly within
UNICEF treats 475,000 malnourished children in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 30, 2024 The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced that in 2024, it has treated over 475,000 malnourished children in Afghanistan. On Monday, December 30, UNICEF stated in a message on its X/Twitter page, emphasizing that children suffering from malnutrition in Afghanistan require nutritious food. The report states
Over 1 Million Afghan Migrants Returned in 9 Months: Ministry
Shabnam Amini Tolo News 30 Dec 2024 Some migrants who have returned from Pakistan are also seeking government support to provide them with jobs and basic amenities. The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation said that in the past nine months, more than one million Afghan migrants have returned to Afghanistan, either forcibly or voluntarily, from
Concerns Raised Over Economic Consequences of Women’s Work Ban
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews Reporter 30 Dec 2024 These activists have urged the Islamic Emirate to lift restrictions on women’s education and employment. Some women’s rights activists, in response to the suspension of women’s work in non-governmental organizations, told TOLOnews that banning women from work exacerbates economic challenges. These activists have urged the Islamic Emirate
Ignoring Warnings, a Growing Band of Tourists Venture to Afghanistan
By David Zucchino Photographs by Elise Blanchard Reporting from Bamiyan and Herat Provinces and Kabul in Afghanistan The New York Times Dec. 29, 2024 With the war now over, the Taliban are welcoming foreign travelers, even as governments advise their citizens to stay away. Yi-Pin Lin, an associate professor at Tufts University, proudly says he has
Religious Scholars Voice Support for Islamic Emirate’s Window Regulations
TOLOnews TV Network 29 Dec 2024 Some of these scholars consider this decree important and effective in preventing potential harm to women. A number of religious scholars in the country have welcomed the leader of the Islamic Emirate’s decree on regulations to prevent the construction of windows in buildings facing towards neighbors. Some of these
Pakistan’s Rocket Attack on Afghan Mosque Kills 3 People
Mohammad Yousuf Hanif Tolo News 29 Dec 2024 Some family members of the victims are calling on the international community for justice. Residents of Dand-e-Patan district in Paktia province report that on Saturday, three people were killed and five others were injured when a rocket fired by Pakistan struck a mosque. Some family members of
Islamic Emirate: UNSC Meetings Without Afghan Representative ‘Ineffective’
TOLOnews TV Network 29 Dec 2024 Some political analysts also stress the need for a representative of the caretaker government in such meetings. The Islamic Emirate described the United Nations Security Council’s meetings on Afghanistan as unilateral and ineffective in the absence of a representative from the caretaker government. Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesman of the
Afghan Taliban hit ‘several points’ in Pakistan in retaliation for attacks
Al Jazeera Published On 28 Dec 2024 The attacks come days after the Taliban pledged retaliation for Pakistani air strikes inside Afghanistan. Afghan Taliban forces have targeted “several points” in neighbouring Pakistan, Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defense said, days after Pakistani aircraft carried out aerial bombardments inside the country. The statement from the defence ministry on Saturday did
Khalilzad: Doha Deal Path to Govt Through Negotiations
TOLOnews TV Network 28 Dec 2024 The Doha Agreement, signed in February 2020 between the Islamic Emirate and the United States in Doha. Zalmay Khalilzad has stated that the “nature of Afghanistan’s political system” is not explicitly mentioned in the Doha Agreement; however, the agreement clearly specifies that the “nature of Afghanistan’s new government” should
UN Calls for Political Roadmap and Reversal of Restrictions in Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 28 Dec 2024 The members also recognized the vital role of the United Nations in promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan. Members of the United Nations Security Council have emphasized the need to develop a political roadmap to achieve a stable Afghanistan, fully integrate it into the international community, and fulfill its
Mawlawi Abdul Kabir: Afghanistan Must Maintain Balance Between East, West
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 28 Dec 2024 Mawlawi Abdul Kabir also described Afghanistan’s current political situation as positive. Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, the deputy political prime minister, stated that the interim government is prepared for positive engagement with the world to rebuild and improve the country’s economic situation. In an interview with RTA, Mawlawi Abdul
Our Reporter Returned to Afghanistan, Seeking Lessons and Secrets
By Azam Ahmed Azam Ahmed, a Times correspondent and former bureau chief in Afghanistan, made repeated trips to areas in the country that had once been off-limits to foreigners. The New York Times Dec. 28, 2024 Here’s what he found. The Talib looked as ragged as his outpost, a trailer banked on a snowy mountain
UN condemns Pakistani airstrikes in Paktika, Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 27, 2024 Richard Bennett, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights for Afghanistan, has expressed his regret over the Pakistani airstrikes in the Bermal district of Paktika province. On Friday, December 27, Bennett posted a message on X/Twitter, expressing his sorrow over the deaths of Afghan civilians, including
Kabir: Doha Agreement Does Not Define Nature of Our System
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 27 Dec 2024 He also emphasized that all citizens who worked under the previous regime have been pardoned by the Islamic Emirate. Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs Mawlawi Abdul Kabir said the caretaker government is working within the framework of Islamic principles to expand relations with the world. Speaking
Building resilience to address Afghanistan’s food security crisis
FARIS HADAD-ZERVOS DINA UMALI-DEININGER World Bank Blogs DECEMBER 23, 2024 Farmer planting wheat seeds in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Photo: FAO/Hashim Azizi Afghanistan is facing a severe food security crisis, with millions struggling to access adequate food. An estimated 11.6 million Afghans—25 percent of the population—are experiencing food insecurity. Climate shocks are exacerbating this crisis. The ongoing
Dozens of House lawmakers rally around funding Afghan visa program as Trump vows major spending cuts
By Elizabeth Elkind Fox News Published December 24, 2024 Trump promised to cut ‘hundreds of billions of dollars’ in spending A group of 51 bipartisan lawmakers is urging House negotiators to keep up the flow of dollars to a visa program for Afghans fleeing the Taliban takeover of their country. Reps. Jason Crow, D-Colo., and
Pakistan air strikes in Afghanistan spark Taliban warning of retaliation
Al Jazeera Published On 25 Dec 2024 Islamabad, Pakistan – The Pakistani military conducted air raids in neighbouring Afghanistan late on Tuesday night, targeting hideouts of the Pakistan Taliban, known by the acronym TTP, armed group in Paktika province, according to security officials. While no official statement was issued by Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or
Over 180 cases of Journalists rights violations recorded in Afghanistan in 2024: AFJC
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 26, 2024 The Afghanistan Journalists Center released its annual report on December 26, 2024, highlighting the challenging situation for media outlets and journalists in the country. The report indicates that 181 cases of journalist rights violations were recorded, and 18 media outlets were shut down due to the Taliban’s repressive
Muttaqi: Targeting Women, Children ‘Neither Courage Nor Manliness’
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 26 Dec 2024 The acting Foreign Minister urged Pakistan to adopt a measured policy towards Afghanistan. Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting foreign minister, referring to Pakistan’s deadly attacks on Paktika province, said Afghans will not forget aggression against their homeland. Speaking at an event marking the 45th anniversary of the
Taliban accuse Pakistan of conducting strikes inside Afghanistan
By Ayaz Gul Voice of America December 24, 2024 Taliban authorities accuse Pakistan of carrying out airstrikes in Barmal, a district in the Afghan border province of Paktika, that resulted in several civilian casualties, including women and children. ISLAMABAD — Taliban authorities said Tuesday that Pakistan carried out airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan that resulted in
Behind Afghanistan’s Fall, U.S.-Backed Militias Worse Than the Taliban
Azam Ahmed The New York Times Azam Ahmed, a former Kabul bureau chief for The Times, returned to Afghanistan after the Taliban took control to report on the secrets the Americans left behind. He reported this story from Kunduz, Afghanistan. Dec. 24, 2024 Trump blamed Biden. Biden blamed the Afghan military. Our investigation found that
Stanikzai Calls for Regional Unity Against West
TOLOnews TV Network 23 Dec 2024 According to Stanikzai, the US and NATO are common enemies of Afghanistan and Iran, which necessitates stronger ties between Kabul and Tehran. Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, the Deputy Political Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized a united approach among regional countries against the West, particularly the US and NATO, during
Saudi Embassy resumes operations in Kabul after one-year hiatus
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 23, 2024 The Saudi Embassy in Kabul has announced that it has resumed its operations after nearly a year-long hiatus. The embassy made the announcement on Sunday, December 22, stating that “the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Kabul has resumed its activities as of December 22.”
UN supports over 80,000 women-led small businesses in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 23, 2024 The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced its support for over 80,000 small businesses led by women in Afghanistan, contributing significantly to the growth of local families. In a video message shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, December 22, Stephen Rodrigues,
Afghanistan Journalists Center confirms release of seven Arezo TV employees from prison
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 23, 2024 The Afghanistan Journalists Center reported that the employees of Arezo TV, who had been detained, were released after two weeks upon providing “guarantees.” In a statement released on Sunday, December 22, the center announced the release of Amanullah Azimi, Khalid Barkazi, Amir Hossein Attryan, Zahir Faizi, Samir
Greek authorities say boat capsizing victims and survivors were from Afghanistan. 2 Turks arrested
Associated Press December 21, 2024 ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Greece’s coast guard said Saturday it was searching for survivors or victims of a speedboat capsizing a day earlier involving migrants off the eastern Greek island of Rhodes. The capsizing, the result of the boat’s maneuvering to evade a patrol vessel according to authorities, left eight confirmed dead.
New Restrictions in Iran Pose Challenge for Afghan Refugees
Beheshta Arab Tolo News 22 Dec 2024 Some of these refugees are urging the authorities in the caretaker government to address these challenges seriously. A number of Afghan refugees in Iran have expressed concerns about the newly imposed restrictions in the country, saying these limitations will make it challenging for them to find suitable jobs
Islamic Emirate, Saudi Arabia Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Relations
TOLOnews TV Network 22 Dec 2024 Some political analysts consider such meetings effective in resolving certain challenges between the two countries. Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb, acting ambassador of the Islamic Emirate in Islamabad, met with Saidia Arabia’s deputy ambassador for Afghanistan in Pakistan to discuss bilateral relations. According to Shakeeb, the meeting focused on strengthening bilateral
Mawlawi Abdul Kabir: Islamic Emirate Represents Afghanistan Well
TOLOnews TV Network 22 Dec 2024 During the program, he described the people as supporters of the caretaker government. The Political Deputy of the Prime Minister said that the caretaker government can effectively represent Afghanistan. Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, speaking at a graduation ceremony in Logar province, emphasized that the Islamic Emirate has established direct relations
Dozens killed in two passenger bus crashes in Afghanistan
Al Jazeera Published On 19 Dec 2024 At least 50 people killed in accidents on the same highway in Ghazni province between Kabul and southern Kandahar city. Two bus crashes in central Afghanistan have killed at least 50 people and injured dozens more, according to officials. The accidents took place on the same highway in
G7 representatives urge Taliban to restore women’s rights and tackle terrorism
ByFidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 21, 2024 G7 Special Representatives have expressed deep concern over the Taliban’s recent decision to ban women and girls from attending health institutes in Afghanistan. In a joint statement issued on Friday, December 20, they stated that this ban would have devastating consequences for all Afghans, especially mothers and newborns,
NRC: 760,000 Afghans Returned from Pakistan Since October
By Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 21 Dec 2024 Officials from this organization emphasize their support for returnees in Afghanistan. The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) stated that nearly 760,000 Afghans have returned from Pakistan since October last year. Officials from this organization emphasize their support for returnees in Afghanistan. Kiana Alavi, advocacy manager of the
Ministry: Afghanistan Rich in Nearly All Kinds of Precious Stones
By TOLOnews TV Network 21 Dec 2024 Economic experts consider investment in precious and semi-precious stones to be effective for the country’s economic growth. The Ministry of Mines and Petroleum stated that Afghanistan, with its 120 types of precious and semi-precious stones, is considered one of the richest countries in the region. According to Homayoun
Fitrat: Islamic Emirate Not Isolated, Maintains Intl Relations
Tolo News 20 Dec 2024 Earlier, the US Secretary of State said that the interim government has become isolated due to its shift in policies since its initial days in power. The Islamic Emirate has rejected the statement of the US Secretary of State regarding its isolation, emphasizing that the interim government maintains relations with
Khalilzad: Others Can Learn from Ahmed al-Sharaa
Reuters and TOLOnews 21 Dec 2024 The US had previously set the reward for information leading to the capture of Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of HTS. Zalmay Khalilzad, the former US special envoy for Afghan peace, referred to the US removal of the bounty on Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and
Anas Haqqani: US’s Divisive Policies in Afghanistan Have Failed
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 19 Dec 2024 Haqqani also pointed out that Daesh deceives young people in Islamic countries and seeks to challenge the security that exists in Afghanistan. Anas Haqqani, a senior member of the Islamic Emirate, stated that the United States used divisive policies over the past two decades to achieve its
Watch: Blinken testifies before House on Biden Afghanistan withdrawal
BY THE HILL STAFF 12/11/24 09:55 AM ET Secretary of State Antony Blinken testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Wednesday morning, over three years after the Biden administration’s chaotic withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan. The hearing also came just a few months after House Republicans unveiled their long-awaited report analyzing the event that led to the deaths of
After emigrating from Afghanistan, a young wrestler feels at home on the mat
By Michael Howes The Washington Post December 15, 2024 Zahid Shujaee has the same routine every day. His alarm rings at 5 a.m. He wakes his 16-year-old brother, Arshad, and the pair arrive at Blake less than two hours later. After school ends at 2:30 p.m., wrestling practice runs for three hours. When that’s over,
The Once Booming Drug Town Going Bust Under Taliban Rule
By Azam Ahmed Reporting from Bakwa District, Afghanistan The New York Times Dec. 18, 2024 An oasis stretched far into the desert, a vast sea of emerald stalks and scarlet poppy flowers that grew to the horizon. The Taliban operated openly, running a social experiment unlike anything in the country. Tens — then hundreds —
‘We lived in constant fear of Taliban kidnap’
Chris McHugh BBC News 16 Dec 2024 Parwiz Bakhtari worked for the Afghan government before the Taliban swept to power in 2021 Living in constant fear of kidnap. Making up stories at Taliban checkpoints. Being separated from his family to be questioned. These are experiences that Parwiz Bakhtari, an Afghan man who is being housed
Sweden: ‘Current Situation in Afghanistan Shows Few Hopeful Signs’
TOLOnews TV Network 18 Dec 2024 The Islamic Emirate has not yet commented on the contents of this report. The Swedish government has stated that there are “few hopeful signs” in Afghanistan’s current situation, and the country no longer receives the same level of international attention as it once did. In a report titled “Experiences
US ‘Has Engagements’ With Islamic Emirate to Advance ‘National Interests’
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 18 Dec 2024 The Islamic Emirate has not yet commented on this matter. Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the US Department of State, said during a press briefing that Washington engages with Afghanistan’s interim government to advance its own interests. The State Department spokesperson told reporters: “We have engagements with the
Russia Passes Law to Normalize Ties with Islamic Emirate
TOLOnews TV Network 18 Dec 2024 According to the report, the approved law allows Russia’s Supreme Court to suspend the ban on groups that have been blacklisted by Moscow. Reuters has reported that the Russian parliament passed a law yesterday paving the way for normalizing relations with Afghanistan’s interim government. According to the report, the
Islamic Emirate Appeals to Citizens to Stay in Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 17 Dec 2024 Earlier, some Iranian media outlets, quoting officials, reported that Iran has expelled over 1.5 million illegal migrants in the past year. Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, urged Afghan citizens to refrain from illegal migration, emphasizing the government’s ongoing efforts to create job opportunities and improve the
Leader of the Islamic Emirate Overseeing Critical Economic Decisions
TOLOnews TV Network 17 Dec 2024 The Afghanistan Chamber of Industries and Mines described the leader’s recent decisions as impactful for Afghanistan’s economic growth and development. The Economic Deputy of the Prime Minister’s Office announced on Tuesday that the leader of the Islamic Emirate chaired an extraordinary meeting of the Economic Commission, where decisions were
In aid-starved Afghanistan, relief workers fight a forgotten hunger crisis
MARI SAITO, CHARLOTTE GREENFIELD and MOHAMMAD YUNUS YAWAR Reuters Filed Dec. 10, 2024 HERAT, Afghanistan When Khalid Riaz turns off a dusty, single-lane road into a village in Guzara district, half an hour south of the bustling heart of Herat city in western Afghanistan, he is immediately greeted by a group of children. Some barefoot and sucking their thumbs, the children
Taliban’s Khalil Ur-Rahman Haqqani killed: Why it matters
By Ruchi Kumar Al Jazeera Published On 16 Dec 2024 The most high-profile assassination in Afghanistan since 2021 has sparked questions over divisions within the Taliban. The Taliban’s minister of refugees, Khalil Ur-Rahman Haqqani, was killed along with four others in a suicide attack in Kabul on Wednesday. The deceased minister was a senior leader within
Mujahid: Sanctions on Afghanistan Harm All Parties
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 16 Dec 2024 China’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, recently reiterated this stance, describing the freezing of Afghanistan’s assets as illegal and unilateral. Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, has criticized the sanctions imposed by the international community on Afghanistan, saying that they have created significant obstacles
Expanding Relations Between Islamic Emirate, UK Discussed: Foreign Ministry
TOLOnews TV Network 16 Dec 2024 Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai expressed hope during the meeting that bilateral political relations between Kabul and London would strengthen. Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, the Deputy Political Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with the chargé d’affaires of the British Embassy for Afghanistan, Robert Chatterton Dickson. Hafiz Zia Ahmad Takal, the
US Embassy: Injustice against women in Afghanistan threatens global justice
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 15, 2024 The U.S. Embassy for Afghanistan, operating from Qatar, has stated that injustice against women in Afghanistan is a threat to global justice. On Saturday, December 14, the embassy issued a statement on its X page, stating that the restrictions imposed by the Taliban on women threaten the
Unexploded Ordnance Claims 137 Lives in 2024: Official
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 15 Dec 2024 Rustamkhil also stated that 57 teams are actively working to raise public awareness about the dangers of mines. The Directorate of Mine Action Coordination says that since the beginning of 2024, 137 people have been killed and 330 others injured as a result of unexploded ordnance detonations. Nooruddin
Rina Amiri: Our efforts over the last three and a half years have not been effective
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 14, 2024 Rina Amiri, the U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan’s Women, spoke at a conference in Spain about the deteriorating situation for Afghan women. She emphasized that despite international efforts over the past three and a half years, the condition of Afghan women has only worsened. Amiri stated, “Please
Islamic Emirate Denounces Extension of UN Sanctions Monitoring Mission
TOLOnews TV Network 15 Dec 2024 According to the UN, all 15 members of the Security Council voted in favor of extending the committee’s mission. The Islamic Emirate has condemned the extension of the UN Sanctions Committee’s monitoring mission, saying that sanctions on its officials are unjust and that continuing such sanctions will yield no
Mujahid: Niklasson Unable to Normalize EU- Islamic Emirate Relations
TOLOnews TV Network 15 Dec 2024 This comes as Tomas Niklasson’s mission as the EU Special Representative for Afghanistan has officially ended. Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, said the role of the EU Special Representative for Afghanistan was not effective in normalizing relations between the Islamic Emirate and EU member states. Commenting
What I Learned From a Reclusive Taliban Commander
By Azam Ahmed Azam Ahmed, a former Kabul bureau chief, made several trips back to Afghanistan, searching for the untold stories of a war gone wrong. The New York Times Dec. 13, 2024 The Taliban commander wore sunglasses and a heavy wool coat, as if he might leave at any moment. Between us, on a
UN Security Council criticizes Taliban ban on Afghan women’s medical education
BY EDITH M. LEDERER Associated Press December 13, 2024 UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The U.N. Security Council said Friday it was deeply concerned about the recent decision by Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers to ban women from medical education, which could leave millions of women and girls without health care in the future. The council criticized “the increasing erosion”
Faiq urges Taliban to honor people’s demands and international obligations
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 13, 2024 Nasseer Ahmad Faiq, Acting Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to the United Nations, Urges Taliban to Respect the Wishes of the People and the International Community. Faiq, the Acting Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to the United Nations, called on the Taliban to respect the demands of the Afghan
CSTO meeting held on Afghanistan’s security situation
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 13, 2024 Kazakh Media Reports CSTO Meeting on Afghanistan’s Security and Political Situation Held in Moscow Kazakh media outlets recently reported that a meeting on the military-political situation in Afghanistan was held in Moscow by the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). According to the reports, the meeting was chaired
UNAMA Chief at UNSC Calls for Engagement With Interim Govt
TOLOnews TV Network 13 Dec 2024 Japan’s representative noted that the implementation of such decisions would negatively impact Afghanistan’s social and healthcare systems. The head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and the UN special envoy on Afghanistan Roza Otunbayeva stressed the importance of engaging with Afghanistan’s interim government during the 4th
US Reacts to Attack on Acting Refugees Minister Khalil Rahman Haqqani
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 13 Dec 2024 The US National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby, referring to the attack on the acting Minister of Refugees and Repatriation in Kabul, that the US had previously identified ISIS threats in Afghanistan. Kirby said that the United States has maintained and improved its remote counterterrorism capabilities even
Thousands attend the funeral of a Taliban minister killed by an Islamic State suicide bomber
BY SAIFULLAH ZAHIR Associated Press December 12, 2024 GARDA SERAI, Afghanistan (AP) — Thousands of people attended the funeral on Thursday of a Taliban minister killed in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan’s capital, Kabul, the day before that was claimed by the Islamic State group. The funeral for Khalil Haqqani, the minister for refugees and
ISIS-K claims responsibility for attack on Taliban Ministry of Refugees
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 12, 2024 The ISIS-Khorasan branch has claimed responsibility for the attack on the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation of the Taliban in Kabul. On the night of Wednesday, December 11, the group issued a statement on their Telegram channel, acknowledging their role in the attack on Khalil-ur-Rahman Haqqani, the
Attack on Refugees Ministry Sparks Int’l Condemnation
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 12 Dec 2024 Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, and several other countries have condemned this incident. The attack on the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation provoked diverse reactions from nations and global organizations. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, and several other countries have condemned this incident. Saudi Arabia,
Girls Urge Islamic Emirate Not to Halt Medical Education
TOLOnews 12 Dec 2024 Women’s rights activists consider the presence of female doctors, midwives, and nurses essential in society. As the ten-day deadline arrives for medical education institutes to implement a ban on female students, young women have urged the Islamic Emirate not to close medical education institutions to them. Muska, one of thousands of
Khalil Rahman Haqqani’s Role in Afghanistan’s Developments
TOLOnews TV Network 12 Dec 2024 In 2001, when the United States invaded Afghanistan, Khalil Rahman’s home in Kabul was targeted by an airstrike. Khalil Rahman Haqqani, the Islamic Emirate’s acting Minister of Refugees and Repatriation, was born in 1966 in the village of Kando in Gerda Serai district of Paktia province. At the age
How America Created the Enemy It Feared Most
By Azam Ahmed Photographs by Bryan Denton Azam Ahmed, a former Kabul bureau chief, made repeated trips to the Waygal Valley of Afghanistan, an area that was once off-limits. The New York Times Dec. 13, 2024, Updated 9:33 a.m. ET The United States killed its own allies, sabotaging itself in a part of Afghanistan where it never
Afghan blast kills key minister, shocking Taliban
By Rick Noack and Haq Nawaz Khan The Washington Post December 11, 2024 Khalil Haqqani was the acting minister for refugees and a key member of the notorious Haqqani network. Senior Taliban minister Khalil Haqqani was killed in an attack Wednesday, the Taliban’s chief spokesman said, marking the highest-profile government casualty since the Taliban takeover
An explosion in the Afghan capital kills the Taliban refugee minister
BY MUNIR AHMED Associated Press December 11, 2024 ISLAMABAD (AP) — A suicide bombing in the Afghan capital on Wednesday killed the Taliban refugee minister and two others, officials said, in the most brazen attack on a member of the Taliban inner circle since they returned to power three years ago. The explosion struck inside
Iran reports 50% drop in Afghanistan border traffic with new security wall
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 11, 2024 Iran’s Military Commander Reports 50% Decrease in Afghanistan Border Crossings After Completing 35-Kilometer Wall. General Amir Gholam-Aliyan, the ground commander of Iran’s southeastern forces, announced that the completion of a 35-kilometer section of the border wall along Iran’s eastern border with Afghanistan has led to a 50%
Russia and Uzbekistan collaborate on Afghanistan-Trans Railway Project
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 11, 2024 Denis Manturov, the First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, announced that Russia and Uzbekistan are jointly working on the construction of the Afghanistan-Trans railway in the country. According to the Russian state news agency TASS, Manturov made this statement during the 25th session of the Intergovernmental Commission
Islamic Emirate Praises Russia’s Decision to Remove It From Blacklist
TOLOnews TV Network 11 Dec 2024 The spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, stated that this step is a significant move in expanding relations between Russia and the Islamic Emirate. The Islamic Emirate has praised the decision of the Russian State Duma to approve the bill to remove the name of the Islamic Emirate from the
Azizi: Afghanistan Holds $1 Trillion in Lithium Reserves
By TOLOnews TV Network 11Dec 2024 The Acting Minister of Industry and Commerce said that Afghanistan is considered one of the richest countries in terms of natural and mineral resources, particularly lithium. According to Nooruddin Azizi, the value of Afghanistan’s lithium mines is estimated at one trillion dollars. “A study conducted by the Americans themselves
Islamic Emirate: Khalil Rahman Haqqani Martyred in ‘Cowardly’ Attack
TOLOnews TV Network 11 Dec 2024 The Islamic Emirate, in a statement, announced that Khalil Rahman Haqqani, the acting Minister of Refugees and Repatriation, was killed in today’s explosion. A deadly explosion occurred this afternoon (Wednesday) at the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation. The Islamic Emirate, in a statement, announced that Khalil Rahman Haqqani, the
Russian lawmakers advance a bill removing the terrorist designation for the Taliban
Associated PressUpdated 10:04 AM EST, December 10, 2024 MOSCOW (AP) — The lower house of the Russian parliament gave initial approval Tuesday to a long-discussed bill that would set the stage for Moscow to remove the designation of the Taliban in Afghanistan as a terrorist group. Under the bill passed by the State Duma in the first
UN humanitarian aid reaches over 15 million in Afghanistan in 9 months
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 10, 2024 The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) for Afghanistan has reported that it has provided aid to 15.3 million people in Afghanistan over the past nine months. On Tuesday, December 10, OCHA published a message on its X page, stating that 23.7 million
35,000 female students in Afghanistan denied education as Medical Institutions close
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 10, 2024 Sources in the Taliban’s Ministry of Health told AFP that at least 35,000 female students have been deprived of their education due to the ban on women in medical institutions. These students were enrolled in 10 government institutes and over 150 private ones, according to the sources.
Lavrov Urges Pragmatic Ties With Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 10 Dec 2024 Lavrov noted that the UN’s blacklist is limited to a few officials of the Islamic Emirate. Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, stated at the 22nd Doha Forum that Afghanistan’s caretaker government “are not, as an organization, on the UN terrorist list. Several leaders of the Taliban are on the
Human Rights Day: Islamic Emirate’s Commitments and Global Concerns
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 10 Dec 2024 Mujahid said that human rights are upheld in Afghanistan and urged global institutions to view the country through the lens of Afghan values and Islamic law. On December 10, International Human Rights Day, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) urged the Islamic Emirate to honor global
Shaheen Criticizes US for Actions Related to Doha Agreement
Hadia Ziaei Tolo, News 9 Dec 2024 Shaheen stated that the name of the Islamic Emirate was supposed to be removed from the blacklist three months after the agreement was signed. Suhail Shaheen, the head of the Political Office of the Islamic Emirate in Qatar, in remarks to TOLOnews, accused the United States of violating
UNAMA Studies Climate Impacts and Drought in Afghanistan
Sabria Abdal Tolo News 9 Dec 2024 According to UNAMA, the aim of this research is to identify the number of vulnerable individuals and determine their needs in facing these crises. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has stated that it is conducting research on the impact of climate change and ways to
President Japarov Urges Recognition of Islamic Emirate, Release of Funds
Ebadullah Ebadi, Journalist Tolo News 8 Dec 2024 He called for the release of these funds, arguing they could be used to develop Afghanistan’s infrastructure, agriculture, and alleviate poverty. Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov, in an interview with Turkish news outlet TRT Avaz, urged the leaders of European countries and the United States to acknowledge the
Afghanistan’s Rashid, Nabi urge Taliban to revoke ban on women’s education
By Al Jazeera Staff Published On 5 Dec 2024 The star cricketers were responding to reports that the Taliban had forbidden females from receiving medical education and training. Afghanistan’s top cricket stars Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi have urged the Taliban to reconsider their ban on women’s access to medical education and training, terming the
Taliban move to ban women training as nurses and midwives ‘an outrageous act of ignorance’
Ruchi Kumar and Zahra Joya for Rukhshana Media The Guardian Fri 6 Dec 2024 The Taliban’s ban on Afghan women attending nursing and midwife courses has been condemned as “an outrageous act of ignorance” by human rights organisations. The official decree detailing the ban has not been shared publicly, but several media reports confirmed that the order was announced at
Director of Radio Voice of Badghis released after one month in custody
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 6, 2024 The Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) reports that Abdul Razzaq Seddiqi, the director of Radio Voice of Badghis, has been released from Taliban custody after a month in detention. On Friday, December 6, the Center issued a statement confirming that Seddiqi was freed after 34 days, following a
Oxford University to host event on women of Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 7, 2024 The Women’s Rights Network, amid growing concerns about the current situation in Afghanistan, announced that it will hold a meeting to highlight the issues faced by the women in Afghanistan. According to Daily Oxford, the meeting will take place on Saturday, December 7 at the University of
Iran detains and deports 800 illegal migrants daily, plans to expel 2 million more
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 7, 2024 Abbas Ali Mohammadian, the head of Tehran’s police, has announced that around 700 to 800 illegal migrants are arrested and deported from Iran daily. According to the state news agency IRNA, on Friday, December 6, the Iranian official reported that 70,000 undocumented migrants have been expelled
Norway Limits Diplomatic Ties with the Islamic Emirate
Hayatullah Rahimi Web Editor Tolo News 7 Dec 2024 The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs wrote that this decision was made in response to human rights violations in Afghanistan. The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that it will limit its relations with Afghanistan and will not accept the new ambassador of the Islamic
22nd Doha Forum Kicks Off With Focus on Afghanistan
By TOLOnews TV Network 8 Dec 2024 The forum also discussed the Ministry of Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice under the Islamic Emirate. The 22nd session of the Doha Forum commenced today (Saturday) in the Qatari capital with the participation of representatives from over 100 countries, including diplomats and high-ranking officials. Rosa Otunbayeva,
Decker: Upholding Doha Agreement, Supporting Afghan People Key Priorities
TOLOnews TV Network 8 Dec 2024 Regarding the issue of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, Munir Akram added that Pakistan will not expel those refugees who have entered the country legally. Karen Decker, the Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Afghanistan, told TOLOnews on the sidelines of the Doha Forum that the United States has
Khalilzad: ‘Taliban’ Must Be Prepared to Discuss Important Issues
Mohammad Farshad Daryosh TOLOnews’ Reporter 8 Dec 2024 Khalilzad also expressed hope that with the arrival of the new US government, relations between Kabul and Washington would improve. Zalmay Khalilzad, former US special representative for peace in Afghanistan, has urged the interim government officials to be ready for discussions with the new US administration. In
Afghanistan: Economy Shows Modest Growth After Two Years of Severe Contraction, But Recovery Remains Fragile
World Bank DECEMBER 4, 2024 WASHINGTON, December 4, 2024—The Afghan economy is showing signs of moderate growth, but still faces significant headwinds, including fiscal constraints, trade imbalances, and a limited capacity for public investment, according to the World Bank’s latest Afghanistan Development Update.Afghanistan’s economic recovery remains uncertain. Modest GDP growth of 2.7%, driven by private consumption,
Thanks to peace, two unexpected words are echoing across Afghanistan’s capital: Luxury housing
BY RIAZAT BUTT Associated Press December 3, 2024 KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — In a town that has been through it all and is clawing its way back, a man named Omidullah is looking to hit paydirt. The Kabul real estate agent is selling a nine-bedroom, nine-bath, white-and-gold villa in the Afghan capital. On the roof’s
World Bank describes Afghanistan’s economic future as ‘Uncertain’ and Challenging
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 5, 2024 The World Bank, in its latest report titled “Renewing Development in Afghanistan,” has warned about the economic future of the country, highlighting that Afghanistan’s economic outlook is facing many challenges. The report, published on Wednesday, December 4, shows a modest 2.7% growth in Afghanistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However,
Chaudhry: Afghanistan Should Be Treated as an Independent Country
TOLOnews TV Network 5 December 2024 Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, the Director General of the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, has emphasized the importance of improving relations between Kabul and Islamabad and stated that Afghanistan should be treated as an independent country. Chaudhry added that Pakistan should not interfere in Afghanistan’s internal affairs, including the type
Ministry Comments on Suspension of Arezo Television Broadcast
By TOLOnews TV Network 5 December 2024 The Ministry of Vice and Virtue also called on the media to respect Islamic values, national interests, and social ethics in their operations. The spokesperson for the Ministry of Vice and Virtue, Saif-ul-Islam Khyber, stated that Arezo Television was shut down to uphold Islamic values, prevent the misuse
EU condemns reported Taliban move to suspend medical education for women and girls
BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS December 4, 2024 The European Union on Wednesday condemned the Taliban for violating human rights and women’s access to education after media reports that the Taliban’s leader has ordered private and public institutions to stop providing medical courses for women and girls in Afghanistan. The Taliban have neither confirmed the order nor responded
Unequal Aid Distribution Sparks Complaints Among Kabul Residents
TOLOnews TV Network 4 Dec 2024 The Ministry of Economy has also stated that ensuring transparency and oversight in aid distribution is one of its key programs. Some residents of Kabul city have complained about the process of aid distribution in the country, saying that the aid is being distributed unequally among those in need.
Karzai Calls for Immediate Reversal of Girls’ Medical Education Ban
Mursaleen Muwahed Web Journalist 4 December 2024 This comes amid widespread reactions, both domestically and internationally, to the closing of medical institutes to girls. Hamid Karzai, the former president of Afghanistan, has said that the closing of medical institutes to girls is “deeply regrettable, especially at a time when women and mothers across the country
Haqqani Highlights Responsibility, Ethics in Ensuring Country’s Security
Haroon Nasir Tolo News 2 Dec 2024 According to Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani, the confidence in the security of the country is so high that Afghanistan’s security is now cited as an example abroad. Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani, the acting Minister of Interior, at a seminar in Ghazni, has referred to the positive interaction, good ethics, and
UNSC to Hold Meeting on Afghanistan This Month
TOLOnews TV Network 2 Dec 2024 This will be the fourth Security Council meeting on Afghanistan in 2024. The United Nations Security Council has stated that the head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) will present a quarterly report on the situation in Afghanistan at a meeting of the Security Council scheduled for
Afghanistan: Surge in synthetic drugs could threaten public health
UN News Global Perspective Human Stories 27 November 2024 A man gazing into the distance at a drug treatment centre in Kabul, Afghanistan. The latest report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reveals significant gaps in Afghanistan’s ability to address substance use disorders, highlighting urgent issues with access, resources, and infrastructure.
Winter Crisis in Afghanistan: One-Quarter of population unable to access sufficient food, warns WFP
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 1, 2024 The World Food Program (WFP) has warned of a worsening food crisis in Afghanistan as the winter season approaches, stating that one-quarter of the population in the country is unable to afford enough food to sustain their lives. In a report released on Sunday, December 1st, the
Kam Air to launch weekly Kabul-Doha flights starting December 17
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press December 1, 2024 Kam Air, an Afghanistan’s airline, has announced that it will begin flights between Kabul and Doha starting on December 17. On Sunday, December 1st, the airline stated in a statement that it will launch a new weekly route between Kabul and Doha, with flights scheduled every
UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture to Visit Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 1 Dec 2024 The committee intends to visit Afghanistan, Mozambique, New Zealand, Peru, Serbia, Burundi, France, and Mexico. The UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture has announced plans to visit several countries, including Afghanistan, in 2025. The committee intends to visit Afghanistan, Mozambique, New Zealand, Peru, Serbia, Burundi, France, and Mexico. In
Women arrested by Taliban for begging report rape and killings in Afghan jails
Yalda Amini* for Zan Times The Guardian Fri 29 Nov 2024 Draconian new laws allow mass incarceration of women and children forced to beg because of work ban Destitute Afghan women arrested for begging under draconian new Taliban laws have spoken of “brutal” rapes and beatings in detention. Over the past few months, many women said they
ICC Prosecutor: Significant progress in Gender Discrimination Investigation in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 30, 2024 The International Criminal Court (ICC) confirmed that it has received a case regarding human rights violations against women in Afghanistan, submitted by six countries. The six countries—Chile, Costa Rica, Spain, France, Luxembourg, and Mexico—referred the case to the ICC on November 29, 2024. This is in response
UN Commissioner: Justice for women and girls in Afghanistan is non-negotiable
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 30, 2024 The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has spoken out against the restrictive measures imposed by the Taliban on women and girls in Afghanistan, stating that justice and equality for Afghanistan’s women and girls are non-negotiable. In a statement made on Friday, November 29,
Women despair over Taliban rules, but many Afghan returnees don’t see it
By Rick Noack The Washington Post November 28, 2024 Afghans living abroad are flocking back to visit relatives for the first time since the Taliban takeover. Severe restrictions on women are not top of mind. KABUL — For the first time since the Taliban takeover three years ago, Afghans living outside the country have begun
6 countries refer Afghanistan’s women’s rights violations to International Criminal Court
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 29, 2024 Chile, Costa Rica, Spain, France, Luxembourg, and Mexico have referred the case of women’s rights violations in Afghanistan to the International Criminal Court (ICC). These six countries called on the ICC prosecutor on Thursday to investigate the ongoing and systematic violations of the rights of women and
1.2 million migrants deported from Iran annually: Iranian Official
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 29, 2024 An Iranian official stated that every year, 1.2 million undocumented migrants are deported from Iran. Nader Yarahmadi, head of the Center for Foreign Nationals and Immigrants in Iran, stated that each year, 1.2 million undocumented migrants are deported from the country. He warned undocumented migrants to leave
China Seeks Stronger Ties With Islamic Emirate
TOLOnews TV Network 29 Nov 2024 The question now is how effective China’s efforts will be in addressing Afghanistan’s current crisis. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has outlined details of the nine-day visit of its Special Representative for Afghanistan, Yue Xiaoyong, in a statement. According to the statement, Yue Xiaoyong engaged in deep discussions about
Putin: Bilateral Relations With Interim Govt Will ‘Further Expand’
TOLOnews TV Network 29 Nov 2024 He said that Russia has bilateral relations with Afghanistan’s interim government. Russian President Vladimir Putin has stressed building strong relations with Afghanistan. At the conclusion of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) summit, Putin stated that the stabilization of the situation in Afghanistan cannot be ignored. He said that
Opium production in Afghanistan sees 30% increase in 2024: UN Report
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 27, 2024 The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports that opium production in Afghanistan is still 93% lower than in 2022, but it has increased by about 30% in 2024. In its latest report, published on Wednesday, November 27, the UNODC notes that the
Sharp rise in Afghan migrants crossing Panama-Colombia border to reach US
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 27, 2024 The Federation for Immigration Reform in the U.S. has reported a significant increase in the number of Afghan migrants crossing a key immigration passage at the Panama-Colombia border in their attempt to reach the U.S. According to the report, which was published on Tuesday, November 26, the
Islamic Emirate Not Invited to ECO Foreign Ministers Meeting
TOLOnews TV Network 26 Nov 2024 According to Iran’s Foreign Ministry, based on a decision by the ECO Secretariat, the Islamic Emirate has not been invited to participate in the meeting. The meeting of foreign ministers from member states of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) is scheduled to take place on December 3-4 in Mashhad,
G.O.P. Senator Blocking Promotion of General Who Commanded Afghan Withdrawal
By Helene CooperThomas Gibbons-Neff and Eric Schmitt The New York Times Nov. 26, 2024 Lt. Gen. Christopher T. Donahue was recently selected to lead the U.S. Army’s Europe Command as the war in Ukraine heads into its fourth year. A Republican senator is blocking the promotion of Lt. Gen. Christopher T. Donahue, the commander of U.S. troops
Taliban detained journalists over 250 times in Afghanistan since takeover, U.N. says
By Reuters Nov 26, 2024 The Taliban-led foreign ministry said the arrest figure was “exaggerated” and that those arrested had committed a crime. The United Nations’ mission to Afghanistan said Tuesday that the ruling Taliban had arbitrarily detained journalists 256 times since their takeover three years ago and urged authorities there to protect the media. In a
CSTO to approve plan strengthening Tajikistan-Afghanistan Border Security
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 26, 2024 The Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) has announced that the plan to strengthen the border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan will be approved in the next two days. Azerbaijani media reported on Tuesday, November 26, that the CSTO is set to approve this plan on November 28. The
Red Cross warns of adverse effects of climate change in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 26, 2024 The Khaama Press podcast talks about climate change in Afghanistan and its effects. Najibullah Sadid, an expert in water management, discusses the problems caused by climate change in the country. In its latest report, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has warned about the “adverse”
Iran to expel 2.5 million undocumented Afghan migrants by year-end
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 26, 2024 Ahmad Masoumifar, the head of Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative office, has warned that by the end of this year, 2.5 million undocumented Afghan migrants will be expelled from Iran. According to the state-run news agency IRNA, the reduction in the entry of illegal Afghan migrants
Yue Xiaoyong: Beijing in Dialogue Over Islamic Emirate Recognition
Mitra Majeedy Tolo News 26 Nov 2024 Yue explained that China’s efforts have contributed to a growing consensus among nations to engage with the Islamic Emirate. Yue Xiaoyong, China’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, said that China is engaging in consultations with regional countries regarding the recognition of Afghanistan’s caretaker government. In an exclusive interview with
UNAMA Reports Challenges Facing Media Freedom in Afghanistan
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 26 Nov 2024 After three years into the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate’s rule in the country, the media law and other related media regulations have yet to be ratified. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has released a report detailing the state of the media in the
‘Don’t forget us’: Teenage refugee reminds Gen Z of silenced Afghan girls
Flora Drury BBC News 23 Nov 2024 Nila Ibrahimi beat 165 other nominees to be named this year’s International Children’s Peace Prize winner When Nila Ibrahimi set out to build a website telling the stories of Afghan girls, it wasn’t just to give them a voice. The 17-year-old Afghan refugee was also determined to remind
CSTO raises concerns over terrorist activity in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 25, 2024 The Secretary-General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) stated that a significant number of terrorist groups remain active in Afghanistan. Imangali Tasmagambetov described terrorist activities in Afghanistan as a serious problem and announced that a plan to strengthen the Tajikistan-Afghanistan border would be approved on November
Mujahid: No Implementation of UN’s Independent Assessment
TOLOnews TV Network 25 Nov 2024 Zabihullah Mujahid said that some countries are creating obstacles to the recognition of the Islamic Emirate. The Islamic Emirate stated that one year after the preparation of an independent assessment of Afghanistan’s situation by the UN, no progress has been made toward its implementation. Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the
Efforts for Women’s Rights Being Made, But More Needed: Mujahid
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 25 Nov 2024 Meanwhile, several United Nations officials have called for immediate action to end violence against women in Afghanistan on this occasion. Coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the Islamic Emirate announced its commitment to ensuring women’s rights in Afghanistan. Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson
China Calls for Islamic Emirate’s Participation in Regional Meeting
TOLOnews TV Network 25 Nov 2024 The date for the fifth foreign ministers’ meeting of Afghanistan’s neighboring countries has not yet been announced. China has requested the Islamic Emirate to participate in the fifth meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan’s neighboring countries. Yue Xiaoyong, China’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, in a meeting with Amir Khan
Afghanistan receives First Direct Shipment from China
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 23, 2024 Afghanistan has received its first direct shipment from China via rail, facilitated by trade efforts with China, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, marking a milestone in regional economic connectivity. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Afghanistan announced that, as a result of efforts and visits by Nooruddin Azizi,
Republican blocks promotion of general involved in Afghanistan withdrawal
Martin Pengelly in Washington The Guardian Friday, 22 Nov 2024 The US general who was photographed as the last American soldier to leave Afghanistan is seeing a promotion blocked by a sole Republican senator, multiple outlets reported. The move comes amid Markwayne Mullin stalls promotion of Lt Gen Christopher Donahue, photographed as last US soldier to leaveseparate reports that
Russia Signals Openness to Removing ‘Taliban’ from Terrorist List
Sabria Abdal Tolo News 24 Nov 2024 The Russian official also stressed that it is still too early for Moscow to take an official stance on recognizing the Islamic Emirate. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko told TASS news agency that Moscow does not intend to obstruct the process of removing the “Taliban” from Russia’s
Attack on Baghlan Worshippers Spark Domestic, Int’l Reactions
TOLOnews TV Network 23 Nov 2024 Hamid Karzai condemned the attack as a terrorist and inhumane act, expressing condolences to the families of the victims. The shooting of worshippers in Nahrin District of Baghlan Province has elicited both domestic and international reactions. Former President Hamid Karzai condemned the attack as a terrorist and inhumane act,
IOM Reports Drop in Afghan Migration Movements
TOLOnews TV Network 23 Nov 2024 Previously, the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations reported that over 100,000 Afghan migrants had returned to the country in the past month. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) stated in a recent report that the return rate of Afghans to Afghanistan decreased by 3% in the past week compared
Taliban arrests several suspects in Baghlan Shrine attack
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 22, 2024 The Taliban’s police command in Baghlan has confirmed that at least 10 people were killed in an armed attack on the “Sayed Padshah Agha” shrine in Nahrin district of Baghlan province. The statement mentioned that several suspects have been arrested, and investigations into the incident
UN Chief: Awards to Julia Parsi and Nila Ebrahimi inspire girls in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 22, 2024 The UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights described the awards given to Julia Parsi, a women’s rights activist, and Nila Ebrahimi, an education activist, as inspiring. Richard Bennett called their efforts “strong and unwavering.” On Friday, November 22, Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights
Islamic Emirate Seeks Climate Cooperation at COP 29
Hayatullah Rahim Web Editor Tolo News 22 Nov 2024 In the same meeting, Matiul Haq Khalis, NEPA head, also requested technical and financial cooperation for Afghanistan. Matiul Haq Khalis, the head of the Islamic Emirate delegation at the COP 29 summit, held meetings on the sidelines with representatives from the United Nations Climate Technology Centre
Nighttime Mosque Attack in Baghlan Leaves Eleven Dead
TOLOnews TV Network 22 Nov 2024 Local sources reported the number of deaths as eleven, but Baghlan’s security command said in a statement that the number is ten. Eleven people were killed in a nighttime shooting by unidentified individuals in the Nahrin district of Baghlan province. According to reports, these individuals were killed while performing
4,000 Afghans enter Iran daily with Visas: Iranian Official
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 21, 2024 Nader YarAhmadi, head of the Center for Foreign Nationals and Immigrants Affairs at Iran’s Ministry of Interior, stated that over 4,000 Afghan nationals with valid passports and visas enter Iran daily. He noted that more than 500,000 visas are issued annually to Afghans. According to YarAhmadi,
UNICEF urges focus on Afghan children’s plight on world children’s day
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 20, 2024 The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for greater attention to the plight of children in Afghanistan on the occasion of World Children’s Day, celebrated on November 20. In a message shared on the social media platform X, UNICEF highlighted that “children pay the highest price
Pakistan proposes International Conference to address Afghan refugee issues
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 20, 2024 Mohammad Abbas Khan, Pakistan’s High Commissioner for Refugees, has called for an international conference to increase the acceptance of Afghan refugees living in Pakistan by Western countries. According to a report by the Dawn newspaper, Pakistan’s High Commissioner for Refugees emphasized that Western countries should expedite the process of
Malala: I never imagined women’s rights would be lost so easily
Amber Sandhu & Kulsum Hafeji BBC Newsbeat 17 Nov 2024 Malala Yousafzai has campaigned for women’s rights since she was shot by a Taliban gunman in 2012 A bullet failed to silence her, now Malala Yousafzai is lending her voice to the women of Afghanistan. In just a few years since the Taliban retook control
Revealed: the truth behind the Taliban’s brutal Kabul ‘regeneration’ programme
By Mark Townsend, Jessica Purkiss and Fahim Abed The Guardian Mon 18 Nov 2024 When the Taliban began a sweeping redevelopment drive in Kabul soon after returning to power three years ago, they claimed there was a need to modernise Afghanistan’s historic capital. A new investigation, however, reveals that the Taliban’s regeneration programme has left
Pakistan provides China with fresh information on TTP activities in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 19, 2024 Pakistani media reported that Islamabad shared “compelling evidence” with China’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Yu Xiaoyong, regarding the presence of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other groups operating from Afghan territory. According to The Express Tribune, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented this evidence during Yu Xiaoyong’s visit
China, Pakistan Discuss Collaborating to Foster Peace in Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 19 Nov 2024 Prior to Yue Xiaoyong’s visit, Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, also visited Pakistan and held talks on Afghanistan. Yue Xiaoyong, China’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, met with senior Pakistani officials to discuss relations with Afghanistan and the role of neighboring countries in fostering peace and stability. The
33% of Afghans Without Healthcare, WHO Official Warns
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 19 Nov 2024 Salvador pointed out that decades of continuous challenges have left Afghanistan’s healthcare system fragile, requiring a structural approach to address its issues. Edwin Ceniza Salvador, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Representative in Afghanistan, revealed in an exclusive interview with TOLOnews that 33% of Afghanistan’s population still lacks access
Attack From Afghanistan Kills Chinese National In Tajikistan, Sources Say
Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty By RFE/RL’s Tajik Service November 18, 2024, 10:59 GMT Tajik troops in the volatile Shamsiddin Shohin district bordering Afghanistan (file photo) One Chinese national was killed and five others, four of them Chinese, were injured in a cross-border attack in Tajikistan’s Zarbuzi Gorge, two sources close to a Tajik investigation told RFE/RL’s Tajik Service
Qatar, Turkey Advocate for Inclusive Govt and Stability in Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 16 Nov 2024 Previously, the presidents of Türkiye and Uzbekistan have pledged support for Afghanistan during the 11th Summit of the Turkic States in Bishkek. The President of Türkiye and the Emir of Qatar, in a joint statement, emphasized the formation of an inclusive government and the importance of respecting citizens’ rights
Pakistan warns Taliban: Don’t test our patience
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 15, 2024 The spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry urged the Taliban on Thursday to take immediate and effective action against Pakistani militants based in Afghanistan, deeming any support for them unacceptable. Mumtaz Zahra Baloch warned the Afghan Taliban not to “test the patience of the Pakistani people.” In a
German Chancellor summoned to address Afghanistan evacuation operation
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 15, 2024 German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was summoned to a parliamentary inquiry committee on Thursday to address questions about the military evacuation from Afghanistan in 2021. The committee is investigating the withdrawal of German forces and the country’s response to the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul. As a witness, Chancellor
Foreign Policy Piece Calls for US, West to Engage With Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 15 Nov 2024 It also reads that the Islamic Emirate leadership prefers de facto engagement and displays of diplomatic respect to de jure legitimacy. A Foreign Policy opinion piece by Jens Vesterlund Mathiesen, Adam Weinstein, and Galina Mikkelsen says that the new US administration led by President-elect Donald Trump and the West
Washington: Recognition of ‘Taliban’ Depends on Women’s Participation
By TOLOnews TV Network 15 Nov 2024 The Islamic Emirate has not yet commented on the matter. Vedant Patel, Deputy Spokesperson for the US Department of State, has once again stated that recognition of Afghanistan’s interim government is contingent upon women’s participation in society. In a press briefing, Patel said that as long as the
WHO links forced Afghan repatriation from Pakistan to polio resurgence
By Ayaz Gul VOA News November 14, 2024 ISLAMABAD — The World Health Organization has labeled a forced repatriation of Afghan nationals from Pakistan as a “major setback” for polio eradication efforts, contributing to the regional resurgence of the paralytic disease. Pakistan and neighboring Afghanistan are the only two polio-endemic nations, reporting 49 and 23 cases
How the Taliban are erasing Afghanistan’s women – photo essay
The Guardian Thu 14 Nov 2024 The journalist Mélissa Cornet and the photographer Kiana Hayeri met more than 100 Afghan girls and women in seven provinces, and found resistance and defiance but also despair Earlier this year, I spent 10 weeks travelling with the photographer Kiana Hayeri across seven provinces of Afghanistan, speaking to more than 100
Khalilzad: Doha Agreement Can Serve as a Framework for Cooperation
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 14 Nov 2024 Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai further mentioned that the Islamic Emirate favors positive relations with all countries, including the United States. Zalmay Khalilzad, the former US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, stated at a gathering at the University of Florida that the Doha Agreement is the only official
Afghanistan’s annual Carpet Production exceeds three million square meters
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 12, 2024 The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has reported that Afghanistan’s annual carpet production has surged to an unprecedented level, reaching an estimated value of around $330 million per year. On Monday, November 11, USAID posted on its X page, emphasizing its continued support for Afghanistan’s carpet industry.
Iran to transfer 1,000 Afghan prisoners to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 13, 2024 Askar Jalalian, Iran’s Deputy Minister of Justice for International Affairs and Human Rights, announced that within the next two months, 1,000 Afghan prisoners will be transferred to Afghanistan. He also expressed intentions to visit Kabul to discuss the transfer of these prisoners and the repatriation of Iranian
WFP: Food Crisis Persists in Afghanistan
Sabria Abdal Tolo News 13 Nov 2024 According to this report, despite minor improvements, 11.6 million people in Afghanistan still face crisis-level food insecurity or worse. The World Food Program (WFP) has reported a slight improvement in food security in Afghanistan; however, food needs remain very high in the country. According to this report, despite
Baradar: Reducing Poverty, Job Creation ‘Priority’ for Islamic Emirate
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 13 Nov 2024 This conference was organized by the Central Bank of Afghanistan. Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, stated on Wednesday at the National Conference on Microfinance Opportunities and Challenges in Kabul that reducing poverty and unemployment, as well as creating job opportunities for
OCHA Head: Efforts Being Made to Provide Winter Assistance
TOLOnews TV Network 13 Nov 2024 Isabelle Moussard Carlsen reported that only 32% of OCHA’s total requested budget has been met from the beginning of the year until November. Isabelle Moussard Carlsen, head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Afghanistan told TOLOnews in an exclusive interview that OCHA
US spends over $14 billion on Afghan evacuation and resettlement: SIGAR
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 12, 2024 The U.S. Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) announced that the United States has spent over $14 billion in the past three years on relocating and resettling Afghans in the U.S. The Washington Times reported on Sunday, November 10, that this $14 billion was allocated to evacuation flights
Mine Clearance Organization warns of IED contamination in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 12, 2024 The Mine Clearance Organization recently announced that over 65 square kilometers of land in Afghanistan is contaminated with improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The organization has called on the global community to increase political and financial support for clearing these devices from Afghanistan’s lands. According to the Mine
Special Team Formed to Assess Drought in Afghanistan: OCHA
Lailuma Qadiri Tolo News 12 Nov 2024 Under this program, health, education, and cash assistance for heating homes in winter will be provided to 18,000 families. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has announced the formation of a task force to assess drought conditions in Afghanistan. During a meeting with
Shaheen: Trump Seems ‘More Pragmatic,’ Relations Should Be ‘Realistic’
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 12 Nov 2024 Shaheen emphasized that the interim government is ready for positive engagement with all countries, including the United States. The head of the Islamic Emirate’s political office in Qatar, Suhail Shaheen, told a Japanese media outlet that Afghanistan’s interim government is hopeful for strengthened ties between Kabul and
Murrow Award rescinded for acclaimed ‘Retrograde’ documentary
By Manuel Roig-Franzia The Washington Post November 11, 2024 The Radio Television Digital News Association decision to pull back the award follows a Washington Post report on warnings the filmmakers of “Retrograde” received about endangering Afghans. A scene in Afghanistan from the 2022 documentary “Retrograde.” (National Geographic Documentary Films/Everett Collection) The Radio Television Digital News Association
Are women’s rights in Afghanistan negotiable?
Annegret Mathari SWI/SwissInfo.ch November 9, 2024 The Taliban regime is not recognised internationally. This makes it difficult for UN bodies to deal with this de facto government. Non-governmental organisations criticise the UN for making concessions to the Taliban at the expense of women. In an email ahead of our scheduled interview, Nazifa Jalali said she
Afghanistan attends U.N. climate talks for first time since Taliban return to power
BY SIBI ARASU Associated Press November 11, 2024 BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) — For the first time since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, Afghanistan on Monday sent a delegation to the United Nations climate talks in a bid to garner help in dealing with global warming. Matuil Haq Khalis, who’s head of the country’s
Stanikzai Calls for UN Seat for Islamic Emirate
Haroon Nasir Tolo News 11 Nov 2024 He also asserted that the caretaker government has no issues with any country and supports peace and stability. Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, has requested that the United Nations grant Afghanistan’s seat to the caretaker government. In a meeting in Kabul, he discussed
Islamic Emirate Delegates Travels to Azerbaijan to Attend COP29
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 10 Nov 2024 The question now is how beneficial Afghanistan’s participation in this summit could be in attracting aid to combat climate change. A delegation from the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA), headed by the agency’s general director, has departed for Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. The president of the Afghan
UN concerned about growing hardships for women in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 9, 2024 The World Food Program (WFP) reports that earning opportunities for women in Afghanistan have become increasingly difficult over time. Due to the restrictions imposed by the Taliban, women have been banned from many jobs and barred from working in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or receiving education beyond the
UN: This Year Over 760,000 Afghan Refugees Returned from Pakistan
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 9 Nov 2024 At the same time, some Afghan refugees in Pakistan have criticized the worsening situation for Afghan citizens. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported that over 761,200 Afghan refugees have returned from Pakistan in the past year. Of these, more than 36,000 individuals were forcibly
SIGAR Review of Afghan Interim Government Performance
TOLOnews TV Network 9Nov 2024 The report attributes the uncertain future of Afghanistan to the interim government’s reluctance to adopt international human rights standards. The US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) has addressed issues such as governance, the Ministry of Vice and Virtue’s laws, international relations, and security in Afghanistan in its quarterly
India sends envoy to Kabul for humanitarian and economic talks
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 8, 2024 Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, stated that an Indian representative recently visited Kabul to discuss the use of Chabahar Port to strengthen economic ties and provide humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. During a press conference in Delhi on Thursday, Jaiswal shared details of the
CSTO warns of terrorist threats from Afghanistan persist
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 8, 2024 The Secretary-General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) warned that the risk of terrorism spreading in Central Asia remains persistent. Imangali Tasmagambetov emphasized that the CSTO continues to monitor the challenges and threats emanating from Afghanistan. On Thursday, November 7, Russia’s state news agency TASS reported
Over 1,000 Former Officials Return to Afghanistan, Says Commission
TOLOnews TV Network 8 Nov 2024 According to Ahmadullah Wasiq, those returning to the country face no threats and are also issued security cards. The commission for contact with former political figures and leaders has told TOLOnews that since its establishment, over a thousand people have returned to the country. Ahmadullah Wasiq, the spokesperson for
Indian Delegates Meet Islamic Emirate Officials, Karzai
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 7 Nov 2024 The Indian delegation also discussed the expansion of India’s humanitarian cooperation with Afghanistan in its meeting with the acting Minister of Defense. J.P. Singh, India’s joint secretary of the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division of the external affairs ministry, in separate meetings with Afghanistan’s acting foreign and defense ministers, stressed
Japan to Host Intl Conference on Preserving Afghanistan’s Cultural Heritage
TOLOnews TV Network 8 Nov 2024 Meanwhile, cultural experts have remarked that the global community must support nations lacking the resources to restore their historical sites. The Japanese Ambassador, in a meeting with the Deputy Minister of Culture and Arts at the Ministry of Information and Culture, announced that Japan will soon host an international
Afghan opium cultivation bouncing back amid Taliban clampdown
Al Jazeera Published On 6 Nov 2024 Poppy planting remains far below pre-ban levels, United Nations reports, despite rise of 19 percent year on year. Afghanistan’s opium poppy cultivation grew in 2024 despite a Taliban-imposed ban, according to a United Nations report. Cultivation increased by an estimated 19 percent this year, the report published on
Afghanistan continues to rank as most dangerous country for childbirth, UNFPA reports
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 6, 2024 The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has identified Afghanistan as one of the most challenging countries for mothers, noting that every two hours, a mother dies due to preventable pregnancy and childbirth complications. On Monday, November 4, UNFPA released a report expressing deep concern over the rising
US Officials: Access to information is a universal right; Afghan journalists must be protected
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 6, 2024 Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, highlighted the importance of protecting journalists worldwide in a post on his social media platform X on Saturday. “Today, the United States reaffirms its commitment to ending impunity for crimes against journalists. We call on all governments to
UN: Opium cultivation in Afghanistan rises by 19%
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 6, 2024 Despite a formal ban on poppy cultivation in Afghanistan, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reported a 19% increase in cultivation in 2024 compared to the previous year. The Taliban has reportedly struggled to enforce the ban effectively. The report reveals that in 2023,
Afghans make up 25% of Refugees reaching Greece by Sea: UNHCR Report
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 7, 2024 The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) announced that 25% of the refugees who have arrived in Greece by sea are Afghan citizens. In a report published on Wednesday, November 6, UNHCR stated that a total of 28,352 refugees reached Greece by sea in 2024. According
Iran Claims Increase in Methamphetamine Production in Afghanistan
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 7 Nov 2024 Momeni added that closing the border with Afghanistan is part of an effort aimed at preventing illegal entry and drug trafficking. Iran’s Interior Minister, Eskandar Momeni, claimed that the production of methamphetamine in Afghanistan has increased significantly, which he considers a threat to Iran, the region, and
Afghanistan Received $6.7 Billion in Humanitarian Aid Over 3 Years: OCHA
Beheshta Arab Tolo News 05 NOVEMBER 2024 At the same time, some residents of Kabul say they are in greater need of humanitarian assistance as winter approaches. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Afghanistan has reported that Afghanistan has received $6.7 billion in humanitarian aid over the past three
Public Health Ministry Responds to OCHA Report
Sial Yousofi Correspondent Tolo News 4 Nov 2024 The spokesperson made these remarks in response to a report from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). The spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health, Sharafat Zaman Amar Khil, says that Afghanistan’s health system has largely become self-sufficient. Speaking to TOLOnews, Mr.
Draft Procedure for High Commission on Anti-Narcotics Finalized
TOLOnews TV Network 1 Nov 2024 Mawlawi Abdul Kabir stated that activities in the field of combating narcotics and alcohol are being conducted in a coordinated and purposeful manner. The Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs has announced the completion of a draft procedure for the High Commission on the Fight Against Narcotics. Mawlawi Abdul
Russian FM: Washington and allies seek to interfere in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 1, 2024 Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that the United States and its allies are attempting to interfere in the fragile situation in Afghanistan. According to Russia’s TASS news agency, Lavrov made these remarks on Thursday, October 31, at the second international “Minsk” conference on Eurasian security.
UN Rapporteur to the World: You left Afghanistan hastily, but don’t turn away now
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press November 1, 2024 The United Nations Human Rights rapporteur urges countries that committed to supporting Afghanistan but then abandoned it “hastily” not to forget Afghanistan. Richard Bennett emphasized that the international community should adopt a unified strategy and action plan regarding Afghanistan. In a recent interview with UN Radio in
OIC, Pakistan Urge Afghan Progress
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 1 Nov 2024 The OIC representative discussed constructive dialogue with Afghanistan’s interim authorities. The Special Representative of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for Afghanistan, in a meeting with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, emphasized continued cooperation between both sides for the stability and progress of Afghanistan. In separate meetings with other officials
Islamic Emirate Rejects UN Women’s Report on Afghan Women’s Rights
TOLOnews TV Network 1 Nov 2024 Zabihullah Mujahid said that such reports are based not on information from within Afghanistan, but rather on external propaganda sources. The Islamic Emirate has rejected the report from the United Nations Women’s division, calling it disconnected from reality. Mujahid said: “Our response to this report is that, unfortunately, this
Karzai calls for girls’ schools to reopen in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 31, 2024 Former President Hamid Karzai met with Roza Otunbayeva, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in Afghanistan and head of UNAMA, to stress the urgent need for reopening schools and universities for girls in Afghanistan. Karzai shared details of the meeting on Thursday, expressing gratitude to the United Nations
Education ban puts Afghan girls at risk of early marriage: UNICEF Chief
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 31, 2024 The head of UNICEF, Catherine Russell, has warned that Afghan girls deprived of education and their rights face limited prospects beyond early marriage. In a message shared on Wednesday on the social media platform X, Russell wrote that the voices of Afghan women are being
UNAMA’s Quarterly Report on Afghanistan’s Situation Published
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 31 Oct 2024 A section of the report also highlights anti-security incidents in the country. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has published its quarterly report on the situation in Afghanistan, covering incidents from July to September. This report addresses various topics, including the law of the Vice
Shakib: We Seek Good Relations with Neighbors
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 30 Oct 2024 Shakib added that trilateral cooperation among Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China connects regional countries and strengthens regional trade. Sardar Ahmad Shakib, the Islamic Emirate’s Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad, stated in a meeting at the Institute of Regional Studies in Islamabad that the Islamic Emirate does not permit any
Meeting Held to Enhance Efficiency, Accountability in NGO Operations
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 30 Oct 2024 Hanif stated that the necessary facilities have been provided to aid organizations to continue their activities. The Ministry of Economy organized a consultative meeting aimed at strengthening effectiveness and transparency in the operations of NGOs, with representatives from the United Nations and the European Union in attendance.
UN, Qatari Officials Discuss 4th Doha Meeting
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 30 Oct 2024 Both parties stressed the importance of utilizing the positive outcomes from the third Doha meeting and applying these results in the upcoming fourth meeting. Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, met with the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo,
Paris show spotlights Afghan women who ‘lost hope’
Joris FIORITI Agence France-Presse/AFP Mon, October 28, 2024 Posing in a pink hijab in front of a window, 14-year-old Muska will soon be married “in exchange for a well and some solar panels”, explains the caption on her photograph. There are dozens of images of Afghan women and girls like Muska at the Paris exhibition
UNICEF Warns Kabul’s groundwater could run dry by 2030, urges action to prevent crisis
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 29, 2024 The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned that Kabul’s groundwater could be depleted if no action is taken. UNICEF stated on Tuesday, October 29, on the social media platform X that Kabul’s groundwater might run out by 2030 due to rapid urbanization and climate change. UNICEF
Iran announces deportation of 850,000 undocumented Afghan migrants
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 29, 2024 Ahmad Reza Radan, the General Commander of Iran’s security forces, announced that 850,000 undocumented Afghan migrants have been deported from the country. On Tuesday, October 29, Tasnim News Agency reported, quoting the Iranian official, that foreign nationals without proper documentation are not allowed to work or reside
Retirees Protest in Kabul Over Unpaid Pensions
TOLOnews TV Network 29 Oct 2024 They called on the UNAMA office to act regarding the payment of retirees’ pensions. Several retirees once again held a protest gathering in front of the United Nations office in Kabul, protesting the non-payment of their pensions. They called on the UNAMA office to act regarding the payment of
Trump criticizes Afghanistan withdrawal, calls abandoning Bagram base a ‘Major Mistake’
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 27, 2024 Former U.S. President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee for the 2024 election, criticized what he described as the mishandling of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, stating that the Bagram Air Base should not have been abandoned. In his latest interview, Trump called the U.S. exit from Afghanistan
SCO support peaceful and inclusive government in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 28, 2024 The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has emphasized the importance of Afghanistan in ensuring security, peace, and stability in the region, stating that a terrorism-free Afghanistan would benefit all parties involved. Zhang Ming, the Secretary-General of the organization, stated in an interview on Monday, October 28 that peace
Bamyan Residents Urge Protection of Historic Sites
TOLOnews 28 Oct 2024 The head of Bamyan’s Department of Information and Culture has pledged efforts toward the restoration and preservation of the province’s historical sites. Several Bamyan residents expressed concern over the damage to some historical remnants in the province, noting that with the approach of winter and increased rainfall, these sites are at
Iran reports 4.5-fold increase in Afghan refugee deportations from Tehran this year
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 26, 2024 Ehsan Haidari, Director-General of Foreign Nationals and Immigrants Affairs at Tehran’s provincial government, announced the commencement of the eighth campaign to regulate and deport Afghan migrants. He stated that the deportation of undocumented migrants in Tehran during the first half of this year has increased 4.5 times
Retirees protest in Kabul over three years of unpaid pensions
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama News October 26, 2024 A group of retirees blocked the street leading to the Ministry of Finance in Kabul on Saturday, protesting the non-payment of their three-year pensions by the Taliban. The Taliban leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, has dissolved the pension system in Afghanistan and halted payments to retirees. According to the report, that during
In a Region of Majestic Beauty, Sunnis and Shiites Wage Bloody War
By Zia ur-Rehman Reporting from Parachinar, Pakistan The New York Times Oct. 25, 2024 In Kurram, near the Afghan border, Pakistan has been helpless to stop the latest outbreaks of a sectarian conflict that goes back decades. The deafening roar of rocket launchers and mortar explosions shattered the tranquillity of Kurram, a Pakistani district of
China offers Taliban duty-free trade, promising zero tariffs
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 25, 2024 The Chinese ambassador in Kabul announced that China will grant the Taliban duty-free access to its markets, particularly in construction and energy sectors. Zhao Xing stated on X that China would provide zero tariffs to Afghanistan, replacing the current 100 percent tariff lines. This move marks an effort by
Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan Urge Lifting Afghanistan From Isolation
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 25 Oct 2024 The organization includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Ethiopia. The presidents of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan highlighted the importance of bringing Afghanistan out of global isolation, during the BRICS summit. Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated that Afghanistan’s current situation should
UN Reaffirms Commitment to Support Afghanistan in Crisis
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 25 Oct 2024 The United Nations was founded on October 24, 1945, and now has 193 member countries. Roza Otunbayeva, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, emphasized during an event in Kabul marking the 79th anniversary of the United Nations that the UN is committed to supporting the people
UN Dep. Sec. Gen: We Must Strengthen Our Resolve to Support Afghan Women
TOLOnews TV Network 25 Oct 2024 Earlier, BRICS leaders also issued a resolution calling for the lifting of restrictions on women’s education in Afghanistan. Amina J. Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, stated that support for the rights of Afghan women must be expanded. Speaking at the UN Security Council meeting, she noted
What We Learned Talking to the Taliban’s Most Fearsome Leader
By Christina Goldbaum Christina Goldbaum has reported from Afghanistan for more than three years, arriving in Kabul just before the Taliban seized power in 2021. The New York Times Oct. 24, 2024 For three years, there was one powerful, elusive figure I wanted to speak with in Afghanistan: Sirajuddin Haqqani. During the U.S.-led war there, he
World Opens to the Taliban Despite Their Shredding of Women’s Rights
By Christina Goldbaum Reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan The New York Times Oct. 24, 2024 A photograph released by the United Arab Emirates Presidential Court showing President Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, right, meeting with a delegation from Afghanistan’s Taliban administration, including Sirajuddin Haqqani, in Abu Dhabi in June.Credit…United Arab Emirates Presidential Court For most of the
Is Afghanistan’s Most-Wanted Militant Now Its Best Hope for Change?
By Christina Goldbaum The New York Times 24 Oct 2024 Sirajuddin Haqqani has tried to remake himself from blood-soaked jihadist to pragmatic Taliban statesman. Western diplomats are shocked — and enticed. Christina Goldbaum interviewed Sirajuddin Haqqani and spoke with more than 70 experts, diplomats, Afghan officials, Taliban soldiers and others, and reviewed hundreds of pages
An Afghan province bans all media from showing images of living things to comply with Taliban laws
Associated Press October 24, 2024 ISLAMABAD (AP) — An Afghan province has banned all media from showing images of living things to ensure compliance with the Taliban’s morality laws. Thursday’s decision was announced by Information Ministry officials in Helmand, the latest province to crack down on broadcasting and photography of humans and animals. In August,
Khalilah Ali, wife of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, to visit Kabul to build victory stadium
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 24, 2024 Khalilah Ali, the wife of Muhammad Ali, the legendary world boxer, will arrive in Afghanistan today to build a stadium. The General Directorate of Physical Education and Sports confirmed in a statement that Khalilah Ali, the wife of Muhammad Ali, the world boxing champion, will arrive in
China and other BRICS members call for lifting ban on girls’ education in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 24, 2024 The leaders of China, Russia, and other BRICS member countries urged the Taliban on Wednesday to lift the ban on education for girls and women in Afghanistan. In the declaration of the 16th BRICS Summit, the leaders stressed the importance of securing the fundamental rights of Afghan
We Have Opened Chapter of Engagement With World: Sirajuddin Haqqani
Najibullah Lalzoy Manager, Online Tolo News 24 Oct 2024 Speaking in a special interview with the New York Times, Sirajuddin Haqqani said that they have closed the chapter of violence and war. Acting Minister of Interior Sirajuddin Haqqani in an interview said that twenty years of fighting has led to victory, and a new chapter has
Iran reports arrest of nearly 2,000 Afghan refugees in Lorestan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama News October 23, 2024 Mohammad Pir Hayati, the Deputy Head of Security and Places in Lorestan, Iran, stated that since the beginning of the current year, 1,800 Afghan refugees have been arrested in this city. According to IRIB News Agency on Tuesday, October 22, this Iranian official noted that the number
Dealy explosion in kabul’s Cinema pamir; 11 injured, including women and children
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 23, 2024 Following an explosion in the densely populated Cinema Pamir area in central Kabul, 11 people, including children and women, were injured and transferred to the Emergency Hospital. The incident, which occurred around 2:00 PM on Wednesday, was caused by a bomb planted among street vendors and resulted
Kabir: UNAMA Should Handle Afghanistan’s Issues Responsibly
Haroon Nasir Tolo News 23 Oct 2024 Fitrat said that the deputy prime minister for political affairs stressed the significance of UNAMA’s mission in the country. Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, the deputy prime minister for political affairs, has urged Roza Otunbayeva that UNAMA should adopt a responsible approach regarding some of the issues in Afghanistan. According
UNESCO: We Support Access to Information and Education in Afghanistan
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 23 Oct 2024 In this meeting in Kabul, McPhillips highlighted the important role that journalists and media play in informing the public. Patricia McPhillips, UNESCO’s Director in Afghanistan, stated during a United Nations and media meeting held to mark United Nations Day in Afghanistan that UNESCO supports the right to
Pezeshkian: Iran Supports Any Steps for Peace, Stability in Afghanistan
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 23 Oct 2024 Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate, stated that the interim government seeks good relations with all countries, including Iran. The President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, in a meeting with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, on the sidelines of the BRICS summit, stressed the need
Qatar, Italy Supports Continuation of Doha Process on Afghanistan
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 23 Oct 2024 Meanwhile, Qatar’s special representative met with members of the German parliament to discuss strengthening peace and stability in Afghanistan. Qatar and Italy, in a joint statement, announced the continuation of their cooperation in the Doha process and emphasized the importance of bilateral strategic talks regarding Afghanistan. Part of
IFRC: 3.2 million children in Afghanistan suffer from severe malnutrition
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 22, 2024 The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) states that currently, 3.2 million children under the age of five and 840,000 pregnant and lactating women in Afghanistan are suffering from severe malnutrition. In a report published on Monday, October 21, the federation expressed concern
Iran Reaffirms Clear Policy Toward Afghanistan, Says Stability is Key
By TOLOnews TV Network 22 Oct 2024 Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, characterized the relationship between Afghanistan and Iran as trustworthy. Ismail Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, addressed journalists, affirming that Iran’s policy toward Afghanistan is clear and remains consistent, regardless of any changes in leadership. He further explained that
Islamic Emirate Pledges to Uphold Women’s Rights: Hanafi
TOLOnews TV Network22 Oct 2024 Saif-ul-Islam Khyber highlighted that Hanafi reiterated during the meeting that no one is allowed to violate the rights of women in the country. The acting Minister of the Ministry of Vice and Virtue, Mohammad Khalid Hanafi, stated during a meeting in Laghman province that the Islamic Emirate is fully committed
Report Raises Alarm Over Acute Malnutrition in Afghanistan
Beheshta Arab Tolo News 22 Oct 2024 The lack of immediate intervention in this crisis will lead to a worrying increase in deaths, especially among children under the age of five. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, in a joint report, announced that 3.2 million children under five years and 840,000
In Scotland, Afghan women find another chance to pursue their dreams of becoming doctors
By — Malcolm Brabant PBS Newshour October 18, 2024 Transcript: Nineteen talented Afghan women, whose university education was cut short by the Taliban, now have a chance to fulfill their dreams in Scotland. They’re all aiming to be doctors and have been given places at Scottish medical schools through a program created in memory of a
80% of Women’s Rights Secured, Says Islamic Emirate Official
Haroon Nasir Tolo News 19 Oct 2024 The spokesperson added that they [the Islamic Emirate] are working to better ensure the remaining rights of the country’s citizens. Saif-ul-Islam Khyber, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Vice and Virtue, told TOLOnews that since the return of the Islamic Emirate to power, 80% of women’s rights in
The Taliban say they are investigating reports of Afghan casualties on the Iran border
The Washington Post By Associated Press October 17, 2024 at 7:02 a.m. EDT ISLAMABAD — The Taliban said Thursday they are investigating reports of Afghan casualties on the Iran border. It’s their first acknowledgement of the alleged killing and wounding of Afghan nationals by Iranian security forces in an attack Sunday. They previously described the
UN seeks probe into reported mass killing of Afghans migrating to Iran
By Charlotte Greenfield and Mohammad Yunus Yawar Reuters October 17, 2024 HERAT, Afghanistan, Oct 17 (Reuters) – The United Nations’ mission in Afghanistan called on Thursday for an investigation into reports that a large group of Afghan migrants had been shot and killed on the Afghanistan-Iran border. Afghan media outlets including Tolo News, citing witnesses, said more
Kabir: 2 Permanent Members of Security Council ‘Cooperating With Us’
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 17 Oct 2024 The deputy prime minister for political affairs also criticized the 20-year presence of the US in the country. Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, the deputy prime minister for political affairs, said in a program today (Thursday) that in the past, resolutions were passed against the Islamic Emirate in the
Pakistani PM: World Should Ask Afghan Authorities to Form Inclusive Gov’t
Nazir Shenwari Tolo News 16 Oct 2024 Sharif added that Pakistan wants a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Afghanistan and that Afghanistan’s territory should not be used against other countries. Shehbaz Sharif, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, has called on the international community to encourage the caretaker government in Afghanistan to establish a politically inclusive government
Afghanistan Journalists Center reports suspension of National TV broadcasts in Takhar
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 16, 2024 The Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) announced that the National Television broadcasting under Taliban control in Takhar has been halted. During a meeting with journalists and local media officials, officials from the Department of Promotion of Virtue in Takhar banned photography and the broadcast of images. The Afghanistan
Mujahid: Islamic Emirate Investigating Reported Killing of Afghan Migrants
nazar shinwar Tolo News 16 Oct 2024 Mujahid said on X that after the matter is clarified, the necessary decision will be made regarding it. Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, reacted to the shooting of Afghan migrants, stating that the interim government is investigating the incident. Mujahid said on X that after
Attack on Afghan Migrants in Saravan Reportedly Kills Dozens
Naseer Ahmad Salehi Tolo News 16 Oct 2024 These migrants, who were attempting to enter Iran illegally, encountered an ambush, and it is said that they were attacked with both light and heavy weapons. According to reports, dozens of Afghan citizens have been killed in a shooting at Kalagan, the center of Saravan in Sistan
UNAMA Calls for int’l Support in Reducing Afghanistan’s Disaster Risks
Habib Rahman Qooyash Tolo News 15 Oct 2024 Some of this year’s flood victims also say that no organization has yet provided them with any assistance. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), on the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, has called for greater international support for Afghanistan. According to a statement by
Afghanistan to Send Delegation to Iran for Migrant Crisis Resolution
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 15 Oct 2024 Qomi referred to the mistreatment of Afghan migrants as propaganda from opposing factions and emphasized that Tehran is committed to all the rights of migrants. The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation has announced that during a meeting between the acting Minister and the Iranian Ambassador and Special
Mawlawi Abdul Kabir: No Secret Deal in Doha Agreement, Relations Expanding
TOLOnews TV Network 15 Oct 2024 Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, the Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs, emphasized that no agreement contrary to Islamic principles was made in the Doha Agreement, dismissing claims of secret deals with the United States as baseless. Speaking at a gathering in Kapisa, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir further highlighted the growing international
Hundreds of Afghan soldiers to be allowed to relocate to UK after U-turn
Anna Lamche BBC News Jonathan Beale Defence correspondent BBC News 14 October 2024 Afghan special forces units known as the ‘Triples’ worked closely with the SAS in Afghanistan The government says it is allowing some “eligible” Afghan special forces soldiers who fought alongside the British military to resettle in the UK, after they were previously
Iran plans to deport two million ‘undocumented’ Afghan migrants
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 14, 2024 Iran’s chief of police, Ahmadreza Radan, announced that the country’s police are determined to deport two million “illegal” Afghan migrants by the end of this year. Radan made the statement on Sunday, October 13, during a ceremony in Mashhad, stating that arrests of “illegal” Afghan migrants in
‘If you want us to die, we need to know’: hundreds of thousands of Afghans are waiting for visas to Australia – and time is running out
Tory Shepherd The Guardian Sat 12 October 2024 Some managed to evacuate. Many left behind, including the family of Afghan Australians, live in fear of ‘beatings’ or of simply ‘disappearing’ Afghan Australian Sara* is sobbing as she speaks via video call from Iran, a bandage on her nose that she explains was caused by flying missile
Afghan arrested in France is brother of man who planned US election attack
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 13, 2024 French police secure the area after a man with a knife wounded several people at the Gare du Nord train station in Paris, France, January 11, 2023. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier AFP, citing a source close to the case, reported that a young Afghan man was arrested in the
Stanekzai Emphasizes the Need for National Unity in Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 13 Oct 2024 Stanekzai also emphasized that Afghans do not accept foreign governance and have always given a strong response to the enemies of the country. Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, the Deputy Political Minister of Foreign Affairs, stressed that national unity is a fundamental need for the country. In a meeting in
Amnesty: Human Rights Council fails to address human rights crisis in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 11, 2024 Amnesty International has stated that the United Nations Human Rights Council’s resolution on Afghanistan has failed to provide an adequate response to the escalating human rights crisis in the country. The organization asserts that the Taliban continues to suppress the rights of the Afghan people. In a
US Charge d’Affaires: Afghanistan’s future is bleak without girls’ participation
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 11, 2024 Karin Decker, the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan, stated that Afghanistan’s future is bleak without the participation of girls. She emphasized that Afghan girls deserve learning, growth, work, and advancement opportunities. On Friday, October 11, Decker wrote on the social media platform X
More airlines fly over Afghanistan in last week as Middle East tensions rise
By Joanna Plucinska and Mohammad Yunus Yawar Reuters October 9, 2024 UL, Oct 8 (Reuters) – Airlines have diverted more flights over Afghanistan over the past week to avoid Iranian airspace, data shows, adding to journey times and fuel costs in the latest disruption for routes between Asia and Europe as tensions in the Middle East escalate. Flights over
US envoy says Afghan women and girls face devastating mental health crisis
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 11, 2024 U.S. Special Envoy for Afghanistan’s Women, Girls, and Human Rights, Rina Amiri, said on Friday that Afghans, especially women and girls, are facing a devastating mental health crisis due to the Taliban’s extremist policies. “As we commemorate World Mental Health Day, I want to draw attention to
Karzai calls on Taliban to reopen schools and universities for girls
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 11, 2024 On International Day of the Girl, Hamid Karzai stated that girls, like boys, play a vital role in the advancement of society, and their exclusion from social life and education causes irreparable harm. He urged the Taliban to reopen schools and universities for girls. Karzai emphasized on
Iran Deports Over 270,000 Afghan Migrants in Six Months
TOLOnews TV Network 11 Oct 2024 Meanwhile, some migrant rights activists say that the host government must treat Afghan migrants better. Hossein Sharafati, Director General of Foreign Nationals and Migrants of Khorasan Razavi, Iran, says that over 270,000 illegal Afghan migrants have been deported from Iran in the past six months. In an interview with
Russia Emphasizes Importance of Continuing Talks with Islamic Emirate
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 11 Oct 2024 Meanwhile, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Tajikistan sees peaceful talks aimed at forming an inclusive government in Afghanistan as beneficial for the country. Grigory Karasin, the head of the International Affairs Committee of the Russian Federation Council, called the continuation of talks with Afghanistan’s interim government important.
‘The situation is very difficult for Afghan women’
Zoie O’Brien & Shivani Chaudhari BBC News, Suffolk 9 Oct 2024 Feriba Almas had to flee Afghanistan because she was receiving death threats from the Taliban An Afghan police officer who fled to the UK after she received death threats from the Taliban said that attending a community group had helped her connect with other
Turkey to Begin Restoration of Mawlana Jalaluddin Balkhi-Rumi’s Father’s Sanctuary in Balkh Soon
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press 10 October 2024 The Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture has announced that the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) will soon begin the restoration of the monastery of Mawlana Jalaluddin Balkhi-Rumi’s father. The ministry also shared that Akın Erdoğan, the head of TIKA, has promised support in equipping the National Archives,
UNAMA Chief: Taliban pledges to open prisons for UN monitoring
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 10, 2024 The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) announced that the Taliban’s prison administration has committed to opening prison doors for UNAMA observers. Rosa Otunbayeva, head of UNAMA, welcomed this “sustained commitment” for access to Afghanistan prisons. In a statement released on Thursday, October 10, Otunbayeva expressed
$1 billion gas exploration deal for Afghanistan’s Jawjzan signed with Uzbek company
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 10, 2024 The Ministry of Mines and Petroleum of Afghanistan has signed a contract with a Uzbek company to explore and extract natural gas in the Totimaidan gas field in northern Afghanistan. This ten-year contract, valued at approximately $1 billion, was signed by Afghanistan’s Deputy Prime Minister for Economic
Islamic Emirate Ambassador Presents Credentials to Uzbekistan’s FM
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 10 Oct 2024 The two parties also discussed economic progress during the meeting. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate has announced that Abdul Ghaffar Bahr, the Islamic Emirate’s ambassador to Uzbekistan, has presented his credentials to Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister. According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign
Religious education surges under Taliban as secular schooling languishes
By Homa Wahaj Voice of America October 08, 2024 6:49 PM WASHINGTON — The number of madrassas, or religious schools, has increased fourfold under the Taliban in Afghanistan as experts worry that the rise could fuel extremism in the country and limit opportunities for younger Afghans, particularly girls. “In the past year, at least 1 million
Pentagon: US takes Al-Qaeda threats from Afghanistan seriously
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 9, 2024 Sabrina Singh, the Deputy Press Secretary of the U.S. Department of Defense or Pentagon, stated that the United States takes the threat of al-Qaeda in the region and Afghanistan seriously. In a recent press briefing, she responded to a question about the resurgence of al-Qaeda activity in
OCHA urgently seeks over $600 million for Afghanistan’s winter preparedness
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 9, 2024 The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stated on Wednesday, October 9, the urgent need for approximately $603.5 million to support critical winter preparedness activities in Afghanistan. These funds will address essential needs such as shelter upgrades, warm clothing, and supply pre-positioning to
Islamic Emirate: ‘No Threats to Other Countries From Afghanistan’
Nazer Shinwari Tolo News 9 Oct 2024 Fitrat said that Daesh (ISIS) has been suppressed in the country, and the Islamic Emirate will not allow anyone to use Afghan soil against other countries. Hamdullah Fitrat, the deputy spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate, in response to recent statements from the US Departments of Defense and State,
Survivors grapple with aid cuts and the Taliban a year after massive Afghan earthquake
BY RIAZAT BUTT AND OMID HAQJOO Associated Press October 6, 2024 KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — People had just seconds to flee their homes when the terrifying sound of earth cracking open reverberated across western Afghanistan’s Herat province. Nobody knows for sure how many people died in a 6.3 magnitude earthquake on Oct. 7, 2023, or in the strong
WFP faces funding shortfall, can only aid 1 million of 12 million hungry in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 8, 2024 The World Food Program (WFP) has announced that, due to a lack of funding, it can only provide emergency food aid to 1 million of Afghanistan’s 12 million hungry people. The organization stated that it needs $617 million to maintain all its food programs through the end
SIGAR: Cash Transfers Stabilize Afghanistan’s Economy
Habib Rahman Qooyash Tolo News 6 Oct 2024 The Ministry of Economy of the Islamic Emirate has responded to the report, calling SIGAR’s assessment unrealistic. The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), in its latest report, has described the transfer of cash to Afghanistan as a lifeline for the country’s economy. In the report,
Moscow Format meeting raises global concerns over terrorists presence in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 5, 2024 Participants in the sixth Moscow Format meeting issued a joint statement on Friday, October 4th, expressing concern over the presence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan, calling it a threat to global security. The participating delegations assessed the presence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan as a regional and
Afghanistan ranked sixth most vulnerable to global climate crisis: WFP Report
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 5, 2024 The World Food Programme (WFP) has highlighted that Afghanistan is the sixth most vulnerable country to climate crises and emphasized its investment in flood prediction and food preparation for high-risk areas. On Saturday, October 5th, the WFP said that its early warning system can predict where floods
Envoy: ‘Russian leadership’ decides to delist Taliban as terrorist group
By Ayaz Gul Voice of America October 05, 2024 ISLAMABAD — Russia reported Friday that a “principal decision” had already been made to remove Afghanistan’s ruling Taliban from Moscow’s list of terrorist organizations. Zamir Kabulov, the Russian presidential envoy for the South Asian nation, was quoted by state-run TASS news agency as saying that the
240,000 Afghan Migrants Return from Iran in One Month
By TOLOnews TV Network 5 Oct 2024 The report notes that this is the highest number of returnees from Iran to Afghanistan in a single month this year. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that nearly 240,000 Afghan migrants returned to their country from Iran in the past month. According to the report, around
Russia to Remove Islamic Emirate from Terrorist List: Kabulov
By TOLOnews TV Network 5 Oct 2024 The sixth meeting of the Moscow Format was held yesterday (Friday) in Russia, with the participation of representatives from over ten countries. Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, stated in a press conference that Russia will soon remove the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan from its list of
Gender, nationality ‘sufficient’ to grant Afghan women asylum: Top EU court
Al Jazeera Published On 4 Oct 2024 The ruling follows Austria’s refusal to recognise the refugee status of two Afghan women. The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled that gender and nationality alone are “sufficient” for a country to grant asylum to Afghan women. The ECJ ruled on Friday that discriminatory measures adopted by the
UN Donor’s Conference on Afghanistan kicks off in Dubai
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 4, 2024 The donors’ conference for Afghanistan began on Thursday, October 3rd, hosted by the United Nations in Dubai. At this conference, both domestic and international organizations, along with political representatives from various countries, are discussing aid to Afghanistan, which is currently under Taliban control and facing a severe
No Consensus yet on Taliban’s participation in BRICS Summit: Russia
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 4, 2024 MOSCOW, RUSSIA – MARCH 25, 2022: Russia’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrei Rudenko is seen during a meeting between Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Lavrov and Abkhazia’s President Bzhania at the Reception House of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko
Mawlawi Abdul Kabir: Islamic Emirate Will Not Bow to Foreign Demands
By Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 4 Oct 2024 Hanafi said that some foreign countries, by deceiving the youth abroad, are trying to stir up regional and ethnic divisions. Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, the Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs, emphasized national unity in a meeting with local officials and elders of Panjshir. Kabir also said that
Top US General Milley calls Afghanistan withdrawal a ‘Strategic Failure’
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 3, 2024 The former Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army acknowledged the mistakes made during the withdrawal from Afghanistan, admitting that political and strategic failures marked it. Mark Milley stated that the 20 years spent by the U.S. and its allies in Afghanistan were a valuable opportunity, but
Sixth Moscow Format Consultative Meeting to Begin Friday
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 3 Oct 2024 The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the main part of the meeting will be held behind closed doors. The sixth Moscow Format consultative meeting will take place tomorrow (Friday, October 3) in Moscow with the participation of representatives from ten neighboring and regional countries, including
Thomas West steps down as US envoy for Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 2, 2024 Thomas West, announcing his resignation as Washington’s special envoy for Afghanistan, stated that the U.S. remains committed to supporting Afghanistan and its people. West mentioned that the “resilience and courage” of Afghans have given him hope for the country’s future. A few hours earlier, U.S. Secretary of
Washington states Afghanistan remains US Foreign Policy priority
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press October 2, 2024 The U.S. State Department spokesperson has stated that Afghanistan remains a priority in U.S. foreign policy. Matthew Miller mentioned that Afghanistan-related matters are being handled by the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires for Afghanistan, the U.S. Special Envoy for Women in Afghanistan, and the U.S. State Department. On Tuesday,
Taliban asserts new gains against Afghan-based IS offshoot amid skepticism
By Ayaz Gul Voice of America September 30, 2024 ISLAMABAD — The Taliban said Monday that their security forces had killed and captured several “key members” of a regional Islamic State affiliate for plotting recent terrorist attacks in Afghanistan, alleging that the suspects had crossed over from Pakistan. Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban spokesperson, listed the claims
A child bride won the right to divorce – now the Taliban say it doesn’t count
Mamoon Durrani BBC Afghan Service Kawoon Khamoosh BBC World Service 28 Sept 2024 BBC Nazdana fled from Afghanistan with her divorce documents There is a young woman sheltering under a tree between two busy roads clutching a pile of documents to her chest. These pieces of paper are more important to Bibi Nazdana than anything
Iran Can No Longer Accept Afghan Refugees
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 2 Oct 2024 Meanwhile, some Afghan refugees in Iran have criticized what they describe as increasing restrictions imposed by the Iranian government on Afghan citizens. Eskandar Momeni, Iran’s Minister of Interior, told reporters that his country can no longer accept Afghan citizens and that the deportation of illegal migrants is
Quadrilateral Meeting Stresses Cooperation with Islamic Emirate
TOLOnews TV Network 28 Sept 2024 The Islamic Emirate welcomed the stance of these four countries regarding dialogue with Afghanistan’s interim government. A quadrilateral meeting of Russia, Iran, China, and Pakistan was held on the sidelines of the 79th UN General Assembly session to discuss the situation in Afghanistan. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced in
Kabul’s Response to Sharif: Terrorist Groups Not in Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 29 September 2024 Sharif also emphasized the need for an inclusive government and respect for women’s rights in Afghanistan. The Islamic Emirate has rejected the statements made by the Prime Minister of Pakistan at the UN General Assembly, who claimed the presence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan. The Islamic Emirate once again
Foreign, Domestic Companies Considering Investments Totaling $5 Billion
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 27 Sept 2024 USAID supported major projects in Afghanistan, including CASA-1000, but halted its operations after the Islamic Emirate’s return to power. The Economic Affairs Office of the Prime Minister has announced that dozens of domestic and foreign companies are interested in investing over $5 billion in Afghanistan. According to
New GOP-backed bill would ban aid to Afghanistan to avoid giving US dollars to the Taliban
By Morgan Phillips Fox News Published September 23, 2024 Taliban flaunting US failures in Afghanistan three years after botched withdrawal: ‘Slapping us in the face’ A group of Republican lawmakers is introducing a new bill that would cease all aid dollars to Afghanistan over concerns of interception by the Taliban. “The Biden-Harris administration’s disastrous withdrawal has plunged
Taliban to be taken to international court over gender discrimination
Patrick Wintour in New York The Guardian Wed 25 Sep 2024 The Taliban are to be taken to the international court of justice for gender discrimination by Canada, Australia, Germany and the Netherlands in a groundbreaking move. The move announced at the UN general assembly is the first time the ICJ, based in The Hague, has been
House Condemns Biden and Harris Over Afghanistan Withdrawal
By Karoun Demirjian Reporting from Capitol Hill The New York Times Sept. 25, 2024 Ten Democrats joined the G.O.P.-led effort to rebuke 15 senior members of the Biden administration for the failures of the Afghanistan withdrawal in a symbolic vote. A bipartisan House majority passed a resolution on Wednesday condemning President Biden, Vice President Kamala
House Panel Recommends Holding Blinken in Contempt
By Karoun Demirjian Reporting from Washington The New York Times Sept. 24, 2024 Democrats accused Republicans of trying to damage the Biden administration at the height of a campaign season. Republicans on the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday recommended holding Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken in contempt of Congress for failing to testify
Allied Countries Accuse Taliban of ‘Gross’ Violations of Women’s Rights
By Marlise Simons The New York Times Sept. 25, 2024 Four countries on Wednesday accused the Taliban of “gross and systematic” violations of the U.N. treaty on women’s rights in Afghanistan, saying they would take the group to the world’s highest court because of its harsh, widely criticized restrictions on women. The plan was described
Russia: Removing Taliban from banned groups list will be a slow process
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 26, 2024 Andrey Rudenko, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, announced that removing the Taliban from Russia’s list of terrorist groups “will not be a quick process.” He explained that it requires changes in Russian law. In an interview with the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti, Rudenko emphasized that this
McCaul names 15 senior US officials responsible for ‘Disastrous’ Afghanistan withdrawal
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 26, 2024 The chairman of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, Michael McCaul, has named 15 senior U.S. officials responsible for the country’s “disastrous” withdrawal from Afghanistan. McCaul’s list includes President Biden, Vice President Harris, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, Deputy Advisor Jonathan Finer, and other top officials, holding
Islamic Emirate Responds to European Accusations on Human Rights Violations
By Hadia Ziae Tolo News 26 Sept 2024 According to Fitrat, human rights are ensured in the country, and there is no gender discrimination. The Islamic Emirate, in response to the joint statement of four European countries regarding human rights violations in Afghanistan, said that the rights of all citizens of the country are ensured. Hamdullah
Islamic Emirate Denies U.S. Aid Interference, Urges Continued Assistance
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 25 SEPTEMBER 2024 The Deputy Minister emphasized that global aid is reaching those in need within Afghanistan and asserted that such aid should continue. Abdul Latif Nazari, the Professional Deputy Minister of Economy, has once again denied any interference or misuse of U.S. aid to Afghanistan, stating that the Islamic
As Taliban starts restricting men, too, some regret not speaking up sooner
By Rick Noack The Washington Post September 22, 2024 at 2:00 a.m. EDT As the Taliban starts enforcing draconian new rules on women in Afghanistan, it has also begun to target a group that didn’t see tight restrictions on them coming: Afghan men. Women have faced an onslaught of increasingly severe limits on their personal
War, deforestation, flooding: in Afghanistan they are all linked
By Mariam Amini The Guardian Sat 14 Sep 2024 Always prone to natural disasters, the country’s plight has worsened, and not only because of the climate crisis On 10 May 2024, Haroon Nafas was in his family’s guesthouse in Baghlan, north Afghanistan, spending time with friends who had come to stay. It had been raining lightly
The Taliban’s Misogyny Finally Needs a U.S. Response
By Anchal Vohra, a columnist at Foreign Policy. Foreign Policy September 18, 2024 In its latest assault on basic freedoms, Afghanistan has banned women and girls from speaking in public. It marks a new low in the Taliban-led government’s enforced gender apartheid. Promises that girls and women would be allowed to study and work were broken
Ruling Uncharted Territory: Islamic Emirate governance in northeastern Afghanistan
Fabrizio Foschini Afghanistan Analysts Network 22 Sep 2024 The relationship between central government and political actors at the periphery has long been studied in Afghanistan in order to understand representation, legitimacy, patronage and conflict. In the years of the insurgency and since the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), the Taleban movement has
Human Rights Watch: Ban on girls’s educaiton in Afghanistan enters 4th year
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 20, 2024 Human Rights Watch reports that the ban on education for Afghan girls has entered its fourth year, yet the international community has not taken meaningful action to lift this restriction. On Thursday, September 19, Human Rights Watch noted in a post on X/Twitter that the ban has
US Envoy to UN: Normalization of Taliban relations depends on its actions
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 21, 2024 US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, stated on Friday that any steps toward normalizing relations with the Taliban government will depend on its actions, especially regarding the treatment of women and girls. She expressed on social media platform X that the Taliban’s restrictions on women
UNAMA Chief: Only 30% of Afghanistan Aid Budget Secured
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 21 Sept 2024 Otunbayeva also said that the freezing of Afghanistan’s central bank assets has limited the country’s private sector. Roza Otunbayeva, the head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), said in a UN Security Council meeting that out of the three billion dollars requested for Afghanistan
Baghlan Sees Surge in Tourist Visits Amid Improved Security
By Naweed Samadi Tolo News 21 Sept 2024 Haqqani told TOLOnews that among these visitors, over one hundred were foreign tourists, and the rest were domestic. Izzat Mir Haqqani, the acting head of Baghlan’s Department of Information and Culture, reported that in the first four months of this solar year, more than 40,000 domestic and foreign
Afghanistan risks polio outbreak as Taliban restricts women from delivering vaccines
Ruchi Kumar The Guardian Tue 17 Sep 2024 Afghanistan is at risk of a polio outbreak, health officials have warned, after the Taliban suspended the vaccination campaign over security fears and restrictions on women. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed 18 new cases of polio infection in the country so far this year, a significant increase
Uzbekistan opens free economic zone on Afghan border
By Navbahor Imamova Voice of America September 18, 2024 9:41 PM The entrance to the Airitom Free Zone from Termez, Uzbekistan, Sept 5, 2024. TERMEZ, UZBEKISTAN — Afghans longing for closer connections with the outside world are finding an outlet in the border city of Termez, where neighboring Uzbekistan invites them to visit a new international
State Department accuses House GOP of calling Blinken to testify about Afghanistan when he’s away
BY MATTHEW LEE AND FARNOUSH AMIRI Associated Press September 19, 2024 WASHINGTON (AP) — The State Department lashed out Thursday at House Republicans over a subpoena for testimony about the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, accusing them of repeatedly calling for hearings on days they knew Secretary of State Antony Blinken was unavailable to appear. Rep. Michael McCaul, the
US Congress summons Blinken over Afghanistan withdrawal
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 19, 2024 The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee has once again summoned Secretary of State Antony Blinken to explain the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan next week. The committee issued a statement requesting Blinken to explain by September 24 about the 2021 U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Previously, Michael McCaul, Chairman
Haqqani: World Should Participate in Development of Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 19 Sept 2024 Haqqani also mentioned that the conditions are now in place for the international community to participate in the reconstruction and progress of Afghanistan. Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani, the acting Minister of Interior, said during a meeting in Said Karam district of Paktia that the international community has now accepted that
Muttaqi: High-Level Delegation Will Attend Moscow Format Consultations
Mohammad Bashir Soltani Tolo News 19 Sept 2024 Muttaqi said during the program that the Islamic Emirate has been officially invited to the Moscow Format Consultations. Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting Foreign Minister, announced today (Thursday) during a program outlining the ministry’s annual achievements that the Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan will be held within
Withdrawal symptoms: Afghan farmers struggle after poppy ban
Agence France-Presse/AFP Issued on: 18/09/2024 Sangin (Afghanistan) (AFP) – Asadullah was a prosperous poppy farmer in southern Afghanistan for 20 years until Taliban authorities abruptly began enforcing a long-standing ban on the crop. ADVERTISING From four acres (1.6 hectares) in Helmand — long the heartland of poppy production — the 65-year-old earned between 250,000 to 500,000 Afghani
Taliban begins enforcing new draconian laws, and Afghan women despair
By Rick Noack The Washington Post September 16, 2024 Afghan religious police wield new power to enforce a ban on women raising their voices in public and looking at men other than their husbands or relatives. As the Taliban begins enforcing new draconian laws, Afghan women say that whatever hopes they once harbored for an
Taliban’s curbs on women add to risk of polio outbreak, health officials warn
Ruchi Kumar The Guardian 17 Sep 2024 Regime suspends polio campaign across Afghanistan over security concerns and women’s role in vaccination drive Afghanistan is at risk of a polio outbreak, health officials have warned, after the Taliban suspended the vaccination campaign over security fears and restrictions on women. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed 18
The Taliban have suspended polio vaccination campaigns in Afghanistan, the UN says
BY RIAZAT BUTT Associated Press September 16, 2024 DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The Taliban have suspended polio vaccination campaigns in Afghanistan, the U.N. said Monday. It’s a devastating setback for polio eradication, since the virus is one of the world’s most infectious and any unvaccinated groups of children where the virus is spreading
45,000 Afghans applied for Asylum in Europe in 2024: EUAA
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 17, 2024 The European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) reported on Monday that 45,000 Afghans sought asylum in European countries during the first half of 2024. The report, published on Monday, September 16, stated that by the end of July, a total of 513,000 people had applied for asylum
Operations Resume at Afghan Embassy in Oman Now Under Islamic Emirate
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 17 Sept 2024 Some analysts believe that establishing relations with Islamic countries could positively impact the engagement between the Islamic Emirate and other nations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that diplomats representing the Islamic Emirate began their work at the Afghan Embassy in Oman this past Sunday. Hafiz Zia
WFP reports many children in Afghanistan attend school hungry
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 16, 2024 The World Food Programme (WFP), which addresses hunger and food security, reported that many children in Afghanistan attend school hungry. In a report released on Monday, September 16, the WFP emphasized that school meals are crucial for learning. WFP stated, “In #Afghanistan, many children go to school hungry.”
Pakistan Media: Durrani Removed Over Afghan Policy Differences
TOLOnews TV Network 16 Sept 2024 Asif Ali Durrani was appointed as Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan by the Pakistani government in May 2023. Pakistani media outlets have cited differences in Pakistan’s policy towards Afghanistan as the reason for the removal of Asif Ali Durrani from his position as the country’s special representative for Afghanistan.
China and the Taliban Team Up on Copper
By Christina Lu Foreign Policy SEPTEMBER 10, 2024 After 16 years of delays, a joint project to mine copper sees new momentum. But significant challenges remain. Afghan workers use shovels to clear a mountain slope at Mes Aynak. Three years after seizing power in Afghanistan, the cash-strapped Taliban are desperate to finally unlock the country’s
War, deforestation, flooding: in Afghanistan they are all linked
By Mariam Amini The Guardian Sat 14 Sep 2024 Always prone to natural disasters, the country’s plight has worsened, and not only because of the climate crisis On 10 May 2024, Haroon Nafas was in his family’s guesthouse in Baghlan, north Afghanistan, spending time with friends who had come to stay. It had been raining lightly
IS militants kill 14 in a Shiite area of Afghanistan in one of the deadliest attacks this year
Associated Press September 13, 2024 ISLAMABAD (AP) — Islamic State militants killed 14 people in a Shiite-majority area in central Afghanistan in one of the deadliest attacks in the country this year. The militant group claimed responsibility for the shooting, which took place on Thursday and targeted a group of minority Hazaras traveling between the
UN Chief denouces horrific attack on Hazaras in Daykundi, Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 14, 2024 Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, condemned the shooting of Hazaras in Daykundi, calling it “atrocious.” Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, stated in a press briefing that Antonio Guterres emphasized the protection of civilians in Afghanistan. During the press conference on Friday,
Hamza, son of Osama bin Laden, alive and preparing attacks on the West
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 14, 2024 According to new intelligence reports, Osama bin Laden’s son, who was reported to have been killed in 2019, is alive and is allegedly taking control of al-Qaeda while planning attacks against Western targets. The Daily Mail, citing defense experts, reported that Hamza bin Laden is alive and secretly
Human Rights Watch urges protection for Hazara community in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 14, 2024 Human Rights Watch emphasized the need to protect at-risk communities in Afghanistan, including the Hazaras. The organization noted that since the Taliban took power in August 2021, ISIS has claimed responsibility for at least 17 attacks against Hazaras, resulting in over 700 deaths and injuries. Human Rights
Stanekzai: Education Key to Afghanistan’s Progress
Liluma Qadiry Tolo News 14 Sept 2024 Stanekzai also called on all Afghans, both inside and outside the country, to unite under one flag and work for the prosperity of Afghanistan. Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, the Deputy Foreign Minister, stated today (Saturday) at an event in Kabul that the wars of the past four decades,
Poppy Ban: Economic Impact and Calls for Alternatives
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 12 Sept 2024 According to this organization, this issue has affected the livelihoods of 7 million people, including women and low-income workers. The International Crisis Group has reported that following the decree of the Islamic Emirate’s leader, poppy cultivation in Afghanistan has decreased by 95%. According to this organization, this issue
UN appeals for $603 million in winter aid for Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 11, 2024 The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has called for $603 million to support critical winter preparations in Afghanistan. The funds are needed to address urgent needs as winter approaches. OCHA has highlighted 171 districts as high-priority and 277 as medium-priority areas for
WHO: 2.9 million children in Afghanistan suffering from malnurition
AdvertisementBy Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 12, 2024 The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that food insecurity has turned into an escalating crisis in Afghanistan, with 2.9 million children under the age of five facing severe malnutrition. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO Director-General, stated in a message posted on X/Twitter on Thursday, September 12,
OIC urges action on education restrictions for girls in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 12, 2024 The Advisory Council on Women of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly criticized the current government’s severe restrictions on women and girls in Afghanistan, labeling the denial of education for Afghan girls as a serious challenge for Islamic countries. Amina Al-Hajri, Director General of the
Australian military officers to be stripped of honours after alleged war crimes under their command
Daniel Hurst Foreign affairs and defence correspondent The Guardian Thu 12 Sep 2024 00.50 EDT The Australian government has decided to cancel the awards and honours of a small group of former military officers who held command positions at the time that others under their command were accused of war crimes. The defence minister, Richard Marles,
TAPI: A Step Towards Afghanistan’s Self-Sufficiency in Gas
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 12 Sept 2024 Meanwhile, some citizens of the country have praised the launch of the TAPI project and other initiatives in Afghanistan. After the commencement of the TAPI project in Afghanistan, it is expected that upon its completion, the country’s gas needs will be met, and Afghanistan’s revenues will increase
‘Do not laugh. Do not wear this. Do not speak aloud’: life under the Taliban
Anonymous The Guardian Wed 11 Sep 2024 06.00 EDT Society is controlled by constant surveillance with police and cameras enforcing strict rules through fear and punishment Islamic fascism, a harsh form of tyranny, is marked by oppressive rule, intolerance and violence. Its most extreme form today is seen here in Afghanistan, where freedom is crushed
Afghanistan, Turkmenistan begin work on long-delayed gas pipeline
By Ayaz Gul Voice of America September 11, 2024 ISLAMABAD — Taliban-ruled Afghanistan and neighboring Turkmenistan on Wednesday marked the resumption of work on a long-delayed gas pipeline designed to run through the two countries, Pakistan and India. The estimated $10 billion Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India, or TAPI, project is designed to annually transport up to 33 billion cubic
US State Dept Reaffirms Decision to Withdraw from Afghanistan
TOLOnews TV Network 11 September 2024 Vedant Patel, Deputy Spokesperson for the US State Department, defended President Biden’s decision to withdraw from Afghanistan during a press briefing. The US Department of State, in response to a report by the House Foreign Affairs Committee regarding the withdrawal from Afghanistan, stated that although ending America’s longest war
Afghanistan After 9/11: Two Decades of Intervention and Aftermath
TOLOnews TV Network 11 Sept 2024 The twenty-year presence of the United States in Afghanistan was also costly for Washington. September 11 was a significant global event that had extensive economic, political, and security repercussions for Afghanistan. After the attacks of September 11, 2001, the United States and NATO member countries sent their military and
Afghan women meet in Albania in ‘act of defiance’ against Taliban crackdown
Annie Kelly in Tirana The Guardian Wed 11 Sep 2024 08.28 EDT More than 130 Afghan women have gathered in Albania at an All Afghan Women summit, in an attempt to develop a united voice representing the women and girls of Afghanistan in the fight against the ongoing assault on human rights by the Taliban.
Republicans work to put Afghanistan at center of election cycle
By ROBBIE GRAMER POLITICO 09/09/2024 05:35 PM EDT Meanwhile, the Harris campaign releases a new ad questioning Trump’s national security chops. Three years after the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Democrats and Republicans are launching a fresh wave of attacks and counterattacks on who is to blame for the debacle, all with an eye toward
GOP probe of Afghanistan exit rips Biden, labors to implicate Harris
By Abigail Hauslohner and Dan Lamothe The Washington Post September 8, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. EDT The report, following two years of investigation, was criticized as “nakedly partisan” by Democrats who were unmoved by its lack of new insights. The Republican leadership of the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Sunday released a sprawling report on the
Taliban Leader Meets Key Commanders in First Northern Visit Since 2021
ARSHAD MEHMOOD MIDAST DAILY NEWS 09/10/2024 Akhundzada’s meetings with top jihadist figures, including Abdul Haq Turkistani, signal potential shifts in Taliban power dynamics (Islamabad) The Taliban’s supreme leader, Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, has spent the last week visiting several northern Afghan cities on his first trip to the region in three years since the group regained
Work on TAPI Project in Afghanistan to Begin on Wednesday
Bibi Amina Hakimi TOLOnews’ Reporter 10 Sept 2024 ACCI also views the implementation of the TAPI project as crucial for enhancing Afghanistan’s political and economic relations with regional countries. The Ministry of Mines and Petroleum has announced that work on the TAPI (Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India) project is set to begin in Afghanistan tomorrow (Wednesday), with senior officials
White House Says G.O.P.’s Afghanistan Report Offers ‘Little or Nothing New’
By Peter Baker Reporting from the White House The New York Times Sept. 9, 2024 President Biden’s spokesman denounced the House Republican investigation of the chaotic 2021 withdrawal as partisan and one-sided. The White House dismissed on Monday a new House Republican investigative report castigating President Biden’s administration for the chaotic 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, saying that
G.O.P. Report to Denounce Biden Administration Over Afghanistan Withdrawal
By Karoun Demirjian Reporting from Washington The New York Times Sept. 9, 2024 In an election-season document, Republicans are set to offer few new revelations but instead heap blame on the “Biden-Harris administration” while absolving former President Donald J. Trump. House Republicans are preparing to release an investigative report blaming the Biden administration for what
Islamic Emirate Calls UN Human Rights Session ‘One-Sided’
TOLOnews TV Network 10 Sept 2024 Volker Turk, expressed concern at the session about the human rights situation, particularly women’s rights in Afghanistan. The Islamic Emirate, responding to criticism of Afghanistan’s human rights situation during the 57th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council, claimed that the meeting and its discussions were one-sided. Hamdullah Fitrat,
Afghan Embassy in Norway to Close at Host Country’s Request
TOLOnews TV Network 10 Sept 2024 This comes as the Afghan Embassy in the United Kingdom also announced it would cease its activities on September 27. The Embassy of Afghanistan in Norway has announced that it will close on September 12th at the request of the host country. According to the statement, the embassy’s assets
Fierce border clashes erupt between Pakistan and Afghanistan
By Ayaz Gul Voice of America September 07, 2024, 6:56 PM ISLAMABAD — Border security forces of Pakistan and Afghanistan were engaged in intense clashes Saturday, reportedly resulting in several casualties on both sides. The war zone is located between the southeastern Afghan border province of Khost and the adjoining Pakistani district of Kurram, as
Afghanistan Embassy in London set to close
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 8, 2024 According to the report, the Afghanistan embassy in London will close. The British Foreign Office officially informed Zalmay Rasul, the former ambassador to London, of this decision. Reports indicate that Mr. Rasul was summoned to the British Foreign Office on Friday, September 6, and was asked to
Global Cooperation Emphasized in First Meeting of Anti-Narcotics Commission
Nazir Shinwari Tolo News 8 Sept 2024 Sirajuddin Haqqani emphasized that the international community should also assist in the release of Afghanistan’s frozen assets. The Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs stated today (Saturday) at the first meeting of the High Commission for Combating Narcotics that the international community must fulfill its commitments to combat
Clashes Between Islamic Emirate-Pakistani Forces Leave 2 Dead, 11 Injured
By TOLOnews TV Network 8 Sept 2024 According to them, a large number of families along the Durand Line have migrated to nearby areas. As a result of clashes between the forces of the Islamic Emirate and the Pakistani military, two people, including a woman, have been killed, and eleven others injured. Local residents reported
UNSC Expresses Concern Over Human Rights Situation in Afghanistan
By TOLOnews TV Network 7 Sept 2024 Mohammad Khalid Hanafi, the Acting Minister of Virtue and Vice, emphasized the implementation of this new law during his provincial visits. Twelve members of the United Nations Security Council have expressed concern in a statement regarding the human rights situation and the newly enacted law of the Ministry
UN to Host Talks on Afghan Drug Alternatives
TOLOnews TV Network 6 Sept 20024 Meanwhile, a number of farmers say that to boost the country’s economic growth, support for farmers is essential. The head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), in a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs, said that UNAMA is working to organize a meeting
US voices impatience with Taliban over morality law targeting Afghan women
By Ayaz Gul Voice of America September 4, 2024 Rina Amiri (left) with U.N. Undersecretary General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo. (Courtesy Amiri’s X). ISLAMABAD — An American diplomat has condemned the Taliban’s new morality law in Afghanistan, warning that it “aims to complete the erasure of women from public life.” Rina Amiri, the
US: 80% of girls in Afghanistan are deprived of education
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama News September 5, 2024 The U.S. Embassy for Afghanistan has implicitly criticized the ban on girls’ education in the country, stating that 2.5 million Afghan girls have been deprived of education. On social media platform X, the embassy supported the “Let Girls Learn” campaign and emphasized that no one should
Kabir: Our Diplomats Will Soon Be Accepted in Several Countries
TOLOnews TV Network 5 Sept 2024 Noor Jalal Jalali, the acting Minister of Public Health, also highlighted the improvement of healthcare services in the country. Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, the Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs, said today (Thursday) during the graduation ceremony of 300 specialists from the Ministry of Public Health’s Specialization Enhancement Department that
With New Taliban Manifesto, Afghan Women Fear the Worst
By Christina Goldbaum and Najim Rahim The New York Times Sept. 4, 2024Updated 12:37 p.m. ET Three years into its rule, the movement has codified its harsh Islamic decrees into law that now includes a ban on women’s voices in public. No education beyond the sixth grade. No employment in most workplaces and no access to public spaces
UN Security Council divided on approach to Afghanistan issue
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 3, 2024 The recent report of the United Nations Security Council highlights internal divisions among its members regarding the approach to the situation in Afghanistan. The September 2024 Monthly Forecast revealed a lack of consensus on how best to support the country and address its complex issues. While there
US House of Representatives summons Blinken to testify on Afghanistan withdrawal
By Fidel Rahmati Khaama Press September 4, 2024 The House Foreign Affairs Committee has summoned Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, to testify regarding the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Michael McCaul, the committee chairman, has warned Blinken that if he does not appear before the committee on September 19, he could face charges of
Georgette Gagnon Appointed Political Deputy of UNAMA
Hadia Ziaei Tolo News 4 Sept 2024 Georgette Gagnon also has prior experience working in Afghanistan. From 2010 to 2015, she was the Director of Human Rights at UNAMA in Kabul. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Canadian Georgette Gagnon as the Deputy Special Representative (Political) for Afghanistan in the United Nations Assistance
Afghanistan Among Top Ten Countries Most Vulnerable to Climate Change
Ebadullah Ebadi Journalist Tolo News 4 September 2024 IOM added that since 2022, climate change has been recognized as the main driver of internal displacement in Afghanistan. The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in its latest report, has named Afghanistan as one of the ten countries most vulnerable to climate change. According to this organization,
Exclusive: Airlines fly over Afghanistan as Middle East becomes the greater risk
By Joanna Plucinska and Lisa Barrington Reuters August 23, 2024 LONDON/SEOUL, Aug 23 (Reuters) – Singapore Airlines, British Airways (ICAG.L), opens new tab and Lufthansa (LHAG.DE), opens new tab have increased their flights over Afghanistan after years of largely avoiding it now the Middle East conflict has made it seem a relatively safe option. The carriers mostly stopped transiting Afghanistan, which lies on
Afghanistan Slides Into ‘Ever More Hellish Conditions’ After New Morality Law Enacted
By Abubakar Siddique RFE/RL’s Radio Azadi August 29, 2024 05:03 GMT The Taliban has attempted to police the public appearances and behavior of millions of Afghans, especially women, since seizing power in 2021. But the enforcement of the extremist group’s rules governing morality, including its strict Islamic dress code and gender segregation in society, was sporadic
They fled Afghanistan. In the US, they have freedom – but fear a return
Justo Robles in Sacramento The Guardian Sat 31 Aug 2024 08.00 EDT After the fall of the Taliban, more than 21,000 Afghan evacuees submitted asylum applications; 3,100 were able to extend their temporary protected status through May 2025 Almost three years after Esmatullah Sultani rushed to Kabul’s international airport, at the time besieged by Taliban forces who
Afghanistan 3 years later: Many remain in limbo, feeling let down
BY REBECCA BEITSCH Politico 09/01/24 06:00 AM ET Three years after the deadly and chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, many evacuees and allies remain in limbo. Thousands airlifted out of the country are stuck in an immigration backlog that leaves them without a permanent way to remain in the U.S. Those who worked with the U.S.
ISIL claims responsibility for deadly Kabul attack
Al Jazeera Published On 3 Sep 2024 The group said the blast targeted the Taliban’s prosecution service to ‘avenge Muslims’ held in its prisons. The ISIS (ISIL) group has claimed responsibility for a deadly suicide bombing in Kabul that killed at least six people. In a Telegram post on Tuesday, ISIL said one of its
Afghan women sing in defiance of Taliban laws silencing their voices
Ashifa Kassam and agencies The Guardian Sun 1 Sep 2024 10.52 EDT Women push back at law stating they must not sing or read aloud in public by posting videos of themselves singing Afghan women, both inside and outside the country, have posted videos of themselves singing in protest against the Taliban’s laws banning women’s voices
Taliban: Suicide bomb blast in Kabul kills 6 Afghan civilians
By Ayaz Gul Voice of America September 02, 2024 ISLAMABAD — Taliban authorities in Afghanistan reported Monday that a suicide bomb blast in Kabul killed at least six people, including a woman, and wounded 13 others. Police confirmed the deadly attack in the Afghan capital, saying it occurred in the city’s southwestern Qala Bakhtiar area when
As a young Afghan interpreter, he helped a US officer. Then he needed help getting out
Chris Kenning USA TODAY August 30, 2024 One day in April, Ahmadullah Karimi nervously packed his family’s meager belongings into a handful of suitcases, knowing the next few hours would decide his fate. Karimi, 31, was in Pakistan. He’d been holed up there with his wife and two kids for more than 2½ years, waiting.
‘I feel peace’: 3 Afghan refugees reflect on their escape to America
By Claudia Kolker The Washington Post August 30, 2024 Claudia Kolker, a former member of the Houston Chronicle editorial board, is the author of “The Immigrant Advantage: What We Can Learn From Newcomers to America About Health, Happiness, and Hope.” Three years after the collapse of their government, more than 76,000 Afghans live in the United States
Afghan girls, women suffer three years after US withdrawal
By Anita Powell Voice of America August 29, 2024 WASHINGTON — The hardships and heartbreak of three years of Taliban rule are reflected in the shining brown eyes of schoolgirl Parwana Malik. And on the anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, advocates say Washington should take a harder look at the plight of countless
Afghanistan is a US election issue. Will its refugees’ voices be heard?
By Joseph Stepansky Al Jazeera Published On 30 Aug 2024 On the third anniversary of the US troop withdrawal, advocates push US political candidates for legal pathways for Afghan refugees. Washington, DC – Nasrin will not be able to vote in the United States elections in November. Still, the 27-year-old has a message for the presidential candidates, on
When the US left Kabul, these Americans tried to help Afghans left behind. It still haunts them
Associated Press August 30, 2024 The United States’ longest war is over. But not for everyone. Outside of San Francisco, surgeon Doug Chin has helped provide medical assistance to people in Afghanistan via video calls. He has helped Afghan families with their day-to-day living expenses. Yet he remains haunted by the people he could not
Vice and Virtue Ministry Responds to UNAMA Concerns
TOLOnews TV Network 30 Aug 2024 The Ministry announced that it will no longer cooperate with UNAMA due to what it describes as misleading propaganda by the organization. The Ministry of Vice and Virtue has issued a statement dismissing the concerns of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) regarding the ministry’s new law,
OIC Envoy Urges Islamic Emirate to Reconsider Policies on Women
TOLOnews TV Network 30 Aug 2024 The acting Foreign Minister arrived late Tuesday in the capital of Cameroon to participate in the 50th meeting of the OIC. Tarig Ali Bakhit, the Special Envoy of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for Afghanistan, in a meeting with Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs,
Afghanistan withdrawal politics miss the point of everything
ADAM WEINSTEIN Responsible Statecraft The Quincy Institute AUG 30, 2024 Fixating on final moments is preferable to facing the absolute failure of the war On the three-year anniversary of the last U.S. soldier leaving Afghanistan, and with a presidential election looming, Afghanistan has briefly resurfaced in American discourse. With a narrow focus on one month
Pakistan to Begin Second Phase of Afghan Refugee Expulsion Soon
TOLOnews TV Network 29 August 2024 He also stated that no one would be allowed to remain in Pakistan without a visa or legal documents. Mohsin Naqvi, Pakistan’s Interior Minister, told the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Afghanistan that the second phase of expelling Afghan refugees from Pakistan will begin soon. He also stated that no
‘Gender apartheid’ takes hold in Afghanistan 3 years after US withdrawal
BY SARAKSHI RAI The Hill 08/28/24 A new Taliban edict banning women in Afghanistan from baring their faces and speaking in public places is spotlighting the betrayal felt by Afghan women and their allies three years after America’s withdrawal from the country. After seeing major progress in women’s rights during the U.S. war in Afghanistan, Afghan
The Taliban publish vice laws that ban women’s voices and bare faces in public
Associated Press August 23, 2024 ISLAMABAD (AP) — Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers have issued a ban on women’s voices and bare faces in public under new laws approved by the supreme leader in efforts to combat vice and promote virtue. The laws were issued Wednesday after they were approved by supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, a government spokesman said.
Why Afghans are being slowly poisoned by their evening meal
Arthur Scott-Geddes DEPUTY EDITOR OF GLOBAL HEALTH SECURITY and Akhtar Makoii The Telegraph (UK) 24 August 2024 Afghanistan has one of the world’s highest rates of lead exposure and a mounting body of evidence suggests cookware could be to blame The process starts with lumps of scrap metal – mostly car parts like gearbox casings, radiators, wheels and
Taliban vice and virtue laws provide ‘distressing vision’ for Afghanistan, UN envoy warns
By ASSOCIATED PRESS 08/25/2024 The laws include a requirement for a woman to conceal her face, body and voice outside the home. ISLAMABAD — The Taliban’s new vice and virtue laws that include a ban on women’s voices and bare faces in public provide a “distressing vision” for Afghanistan’s future, a top U.N. official warned
Nadim: Conditions for Reopening Schools for Girls ‘Not Yet Met’
TOLOnews TV Network 25 AUGUST 2024 Ziaullah Hashimi also mentioned the recruitment of eleven foreign instructors for the Afghanistan International Islamic University. Neda Mohammad Nadim, the acting Minister of Higher Education, said that the conditions for reopening schools and universities for girls in the country have not yet been met. During a program outlining the
Taliban reject UN concerns over laws banning women’s voices and bare faces in public
By Associated Press August 26, 2024 The Taliban is rejecting concerns and criticism raised by the United Nations over new vice and virtue laws that include a ban on women’s voices and bare faces in public. ISLAMABAD — The Taliban on Monday rejected concerns and criticism raised by the United Nations over new vice and virtue