Zalmay Khalilzad, the U.S. ex-special representative for Afghanistan, met with Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. Both officials underscored the progress in Afghanistan’s security and economic environment, expressing optimism for future relations and growth opportunities between Afghanistan and the U.S.
Monday, 7 September , 2026
U.S. Congresswoman Nancy Mace has denounced the Taliban as a ‘bandit’ organization, urging an end to efforts aimed at legitimizing their governance. She has introduced a new bill aimed at formally designating the Taliban as a state sponsor of terrorism, highlighting the ramifications of mixed messages in U.S. foreign policy.
Monday, 7 September , 2026
In a recent event in Lahore, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz remarked that the main security challenges in Punjab originate from adjacent provinces rather than foreign nations. Highlighting a decrease in law and order issues since her government took office in 2024, she expressed optimism despite ongoing concerns about organized crime and religious intolerance. The remarks sparked political criticism, emphasizing the need for cooperation across provinces to address terrorism comprehensively.
Monday, 7 September , 2026
Ongoing disputes between the Taliban government and Pakistan have led to significant trade disruptions, resulting in a $2.5 billion loss for both nations. The closure of border crossings has caused a steep decline in fresh fruit prices in Afghanistan, with many traders calling for urgent measures to restore trade and ensure security.
Sunday, 6 September , 2026
In a recent interview, former Afghan President Hamid Karzai highlighted his commitment to preventing the use of Afghan territory against Iran during his presidency. He stressed the importance of internal reconciliation and expressed concern about the detrimental effects of a potential conflict with Iran on Afghanistan’s stability. Additionally, Karzai criticized the Taliban’s restrictions on women’s education, calling for a more inclusive approach to governance.
Sunday, 6 September , 2026
In a recent interview, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid urged Western countries to reassess their wartime policies and enhance diplomatic ties with Afghanistan. He emphasized the need for positive relations, particularly with European nations, as part of a broader strategy to protect Afghanistan’s interests and foster international engagement despite ongoing challenges related to human rights.
Sunday, 6 September , 2026
Trade between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan has reached $1.2 billion in the first seven months of this year, marking Afghanistan as Uzbekistan’s fifth-largest trading partner. This growth is a result of improving economic relations, with expectations of a further 55% increase by 2025. A preferential trade agreement is also on the horizon, promising to ease trade barriers and strengthen ties between the two nations.
Sunday, 6 September , 2026
In a recent statement, Alexei Shuftsov, Deputy of the Russian Security Council, cautioned that Western nations are inflating threats from Afghanistan to justify a military buildup in Central Asia. He criticized these actions as a tactic to undermine regional stability while pursuing control over valuable resources and strategic routes.
Saturday, 5 September , 2026
The prolonged closure of the Torkham border with Afghanistan has resulted in an estimated $2.5 billion loss to Pakistan’s economy, according to Yusuf Afridi, President of the Khyber Chamber of Commerce. He urged immediate reopening to prevent further damage, highlighting significant drops in exports and imports as well as job losses affecting thousands in local communities.
Saturday, 5 September , 2026
In response to stringent Taliban restrictions on women’s work, Afghan women are increasingly engaging in online trade as a means of economic survival. Despite facing challenges such as payment hurdles and infrastructural limitations, many entrepreneurs are finding new opportunities to sell their handicrafts and traditional clothing, paving the way for independence and resilience.
Friday, 4 September , 2026
A recent meeting between the Taliban’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Noreddin Azizi, and a Russian delegation focused on enhancing trade relations between Afghanistan and Russia. Plans for a new trade center in Kabul were discussed, along with strategies to boost Afghan exports and facilitate the import of Russian technology.
Friday, 4 September , 2026
In a recent virtual meeting, India and Afghanistan’s joint working group has taken significant steps to enhance their trade relations, focusing on improving visa facilities for Afghan traders and fostering collaboration in various sectors. Despite ongoing challenges due to closed borders with Pakistan, both nations expressed commitment to expand economic ties, highlighting the importance of Afghan agricultural products to India.
Thursday, 3 September , 2026
During the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Bishkek, President Xi Jinping called on member nations to collaborate in addressing the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan. Emphasizing the need for a united front against security threats, Xi placed Afghanistan among key global challenges alongside the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, advocating for concerted efforts in areas such as counter-terrorism and drug trafficking.
Thursday, 3 September , 2026
Marking the five-year milestone since the last American troop left Afghanistan, Taliban leaders reflected on the enduring impact of the U.S. defeat. They emphasized the lack of support for foreign forces during their two-decade presence and hailed the Afghan people’s sacrifices as key to their victory. Amidst these celebrations, some individuals continue to dream of re-entering Afghanistan’s political scene, oblivious to the realities of their country’s current landscape.
Wednesday, 2 September , 2026
With unemployment now at 30%, many Afghan families are struggling to meet basic needs, forcing them into debt. Disabled father Shafiqullah and daily laborer Gul Muhammad are among those relying on loans to survive. Experts stress the need for skill development and investment to create sustainable job opportunities amid the growing economic hardships.
Tuesday, 1 September , 2026
On the fifth anniversary of the departure of American troops, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid highlighted the determination of the Afghan people in expelling foreign forces from their land. He described this moment as a significant victory, emphasizing that the presence of foreign troops was never endorsed by the Afghans. Mujahid proclaimed that the withdrawal has paved the way for freedom and reconstruction in Afghanistan, while a deputy spokesperson reiterated that the efforts of the Afghan people will ultimately lead to enduring peace.
Tuesday, 1 September , 2026
Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s spokesperson, has criticized U.S. influence over international recognition efforts for the Afghan government. He argues that Washington’s pressures have stifled engagement from other nations, blaming major powers for the ongoing lack of formal relations with Kabul. Mujahid maintains that Afghanistan’s foreign policy is centered on economic cooperation and seeks constructive ties with all countries.
Tuesday, 1 September , 2026
Abbas Haidari, a key player for the Afghanistan national futsal team, has officially joined Tehran’s Negin Tandis Qarchak club on a one-year contract. This move marks a significant milestone for Afghan athletes striving for recognition in international leagues. With recent success on the national team, Haidari’s transfer reflects the growing influence of Afghan futsal as he aims to make an impact in the Iranian Premier League.
Tuesday, 1 September , 2026
In a recent interview, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid asserted that Afghanistan has seen significant improvements since the exit of American forces, emphasizing the need for the Afghan people to focus on national rebuilding. He also highlighted the group’s desire for normalized diplomatic relations with the U.S. while expressing a commitment to Afghanistan’s religious and cultural laws.
Monday, 31 August , 2026
Recent airstrikes by Pakistan targeting Afghan territories have led to widespread condemnation from Afghan leaders, including former President Hamid Karzai, as well as international figures like Donald Trump. The escalating border tensions have revived discussions on sovereignty and foreign policy, with calls for restraint from the European Union and increased scrutiny on Pakistan’s strategic motives. Amidst the growing unrest, Afghan officials emphasize resistance and national dignity in response to perceived aggression.
Monday, 31 August , 2026