The U.S. State Department has voiced serious concerns over the enduring presence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan, highlighting that the Taliban have failed to meet their commitments to combat terrorism. Amid rising threats, a former diplomat points to overlooked sources of terrorism beyond Afghanistan. The Taliban, facing growing scrutiny, maintains they will prevent any misuse of Afghan territory for attacks.
Sunday, 11 October , 2026
Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, leader of Afghanistan’s Islamic Party, has been in Malaysia for nearly eight months, citing health issues and criticizing the political climate in Kabul. His son revealed that Hekmatyar’s departure was prompted by political pressures preventing him from engaging in public dialogue in Afghanistan. As his visa in Malaysia nears expiration, concerns grow over his future and the fragile state of political rights in Afghanistan.
Sunday, 11 October , 2026
In a significant boost for Afghanistan’s women’s economic landscape, the United Nations has committed $1.7 million to support 1,500 female entrepreneurs. This funding aims to revitalize businesses and create jobs, addressing the pressing need for financial resources and training. Many women, like Kabul’s Sadiqa, emphasize the importance of transparency and accessibility as they seek to transform their ventures amidst economic challenges.
Sunday, 11 October , 2026
A delegation from Kazakhstan, led by Yerkin Tokumbayev, has introduced the ‘West to West’ initiative in Herat, aiming to strengthen economic ties with Afghanistan. Recent trade statistics show a significant increase in exchanges, reaching $581.1 million in the first seven months of 2023. The initiative seeks to leverage Herat’s strategic position and transport infrastructure to foster greater cooperation and improve trade dynamics between the two regions.
Sunday, 11 October , 2026
Shahabuddin Delawar, head of the Taliban’s Commission for Contact with Afghan Personalities, has ruled out any possibility of political negotiations with rival factions, asserting that recognizing them would undermine the Taliban’s authority in Afghanistan. His comments echo sentiments from other high-ranking officials, emphasizing that past agreements do not support an inclusive government or acknowledge the rights of women.
Sunday, 11 October , 2026
With the onset of winter, the demand for firewood in Afghanistan has surged, leading families to source wood from their own gardens. Stricter regulations on logging and the Taliban’s newly formed ‘Green Unit’ aim to combat illegal timber cutting, while oak wood remains the most sought-after option in Kabul’s market. The country, rich in forests, is working to conserve its resources while ensuring families stay warm during the cold months.
Saturday, 10 October , 2026
During the Global Technical Summit in Tashkent, Attaullah Omari, head of the Taliban’s Agriculture Ministry, urged Uzbekistan to invest in Afghanistan’s agricultural sector. Highlighting Afghanistan’s vast agricultural potential and a youthful workforce, he outlined opportunities for trade collaboration and the establishment of agro-industrial projects, reflecting hopes for a strengthened bilateral relationship.
Saturday, 10 October , 2026
On the 25th anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan, UN Human Rights Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett highlights the urgent need for a framework to tackle war crimes and ensure accountability. His remarks come alongside the issuance of new arrest warrants for Taliban officials by the International Criminal Court, underscoring ongoing concerns about human rights abuses in the country.
Thursday, 8 October , 2026As the U.S. marks the 25th anniversary of its military actions in Afghanistan, officials emphasize the need for the Taliban to uphold commitments to prevent the nation from becoming a terrorist haven. The State Department scrutinizes the Taliban’s role in regional security, highlighting concerns over their adherence to the Doha Agreement amidst reflections on the legacy of two decades of conflict.
Thursday, 8 October , 2026
The National Resistance Front of Afghanistan has condemned the Taliban’s attempts to link ISIS activities to their adversaries, labeling it as a psychological tactic. In a recent statement, they emphasized the ideological ties between the two groups, following the assassination of a Taliban intelligence official. The Front articulated its commitment to fighting against terrorism, calling for a unified effort to restore stability in Afghanistan.
Thursday, 8 October , 2026
The latest round of talks in the ‘Moscow Format’ concluded without a final agreement, as tensions between the Taliban and Pakistani authorities persist. Despite recent clashes, the Taliban’s Foreign Minister extended an invitation for dialogue, while ongoing disputes, including accusations of airstrikes that resulted in civilian casualties, overshadow negotiations. As representatives from various countries meet, hopes for reconciliation remain fraught with challenges.
Wednesday, 7 October , 2026
During a recent meeting, Sergey Shoigu, Russia’s Security Council Secretary, urged the international community to recognize the Taliban government, highlighting the strengthening ties between Moscow and Kabul. As regional nations engage with Afghanistan, Shoigu emphasized the potential for enhanced cooperation in security and economic sectors, reinforcing Russia’s leadership role following its own recognition of the Taliban regime earlier this year.
Wednesday, 7 October , 2026
Residents across Afghanistan are increasingly concerned about the prevalence of worn-out banknotes in circulation, citing difficulties in daily transactions. Many are calling for the central bank to expedite the withdrawal of these damaged notes and enhance the infrastructure for electronic payments, which they believe could transform the current cash-dependent economy.
Wednesday, 7 October , 2026
In a bid to overcome significant barriers faced by women entrepreneurs in Afghanistan, the United Nations has rolled out a $1.7 million program aimed at supporting 1,500 women. This initiative will provide essential financial assistance, training in digital skills, and market access to help women navigate the challenging economic landscape and enhance their business prospects.
Wednesday, 7 October , 2026
During the eighth Moscow format meeting, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov firmly opposed the establishment of NATO military bases in Afghanistan, labeling it a threat to regional stability. He emphasized the need for technical cooperation with Kabul to enhance its security capabilities amid a dire humanitarian crisis affecting millions. Lavrov expressed hope for the future of Afghanistan, highlighting potential regional projects and the importance of political independence.
Tuesday, 6 October , 2026
Ameer Khan Muttaqi, Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, criticized Pakistan’s unilateral military actions during the recent ‘Moscow Format’ meeting, arguing they jeopardize regional security and Afghanistan’s sovereignty. Emphasizing the need for dialogue and regional collaboration, Muttaqi urged for a focus on economic cooperation and stability to address the challenges facing the country.
Tuesday, 6 October , 2026
The U.S. Department of State has raised alarms regarding the engagement of regional nations with the Taliban during the eighth round of the ‘Moscow Format’ consultations, urging participants to avoid any actions that could empower the group. The meeting includes representatives from various countries discussing cooperation with Kabul amidst concerns about terrorism and drug trafficking.
Tuesday, 6 October , 2026
In a recent meeting in Kabul, Amir Khan Muttaqi, Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, and UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo discussed the alarming fallout of recent Pakistani airstrikes that have resulted in civilian casualties, particularly affecting children. Both officials stressed the urgent need to prioritize human life and cooperating on humanitarian issues, as well as addressing challenges related to returning refugees and climate change.
Monday, 5 October , 2026
As the eighth consultative meeting kicks off in Moscow, senior diplomats from multiple nations gather to seek solutions to escalating diplomatic rifts between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Discussions, led by Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, will focus on regional cooperation, combating terrorism, and economic opportunities, against a backdrop of recent military tensions and confirmed casualties from airstrikes.
Monday, 5 October , 2026
In Nangarhar, the book-selling industry is grappling with severe setbacks due to government restrictions and an economic downturn. A notable decline in printed titles, coupled with the impact of educational limitations for girls, has led to a cultural crisis in Jalalabad, once the heart of Pashto literature. Publishers report a drop from over 100 monthly titles to fewer than ten, as poverty and reduced purchasing power stifle demand. The situation is exacerbated by the departure of young professionals and financial struggles among students, pushing local bookstores towards closure.
Monday, 5 October , 2026