A high-level 13-member delegation from the Taliban’s Ministry of National Defense, led by Latifullah Hakimi, has arrived in Beijing to participate in the Xiangshan International Conference. Although the specifics of their agenda remain undisclosed, this visit underscores the strengthening ties between China and the Taliban, particularly in political and economic realms.
Sunday, 13 September , 2026
In a recent interview, former U.S. envoy Zalmay Khalilzad asserted that the Taliban has honored its counter-terrorism commitments in the Doha Agreement, signaling a five-year period without attacks on U.S. soil from Afghanistan. However, he expressed grave concerns about the Taliban’s restrictive policies on women’s education, arguing that such measures undermine Afghanistan’s future and bolster its adversaries.
Sunday, 13 September , 2026
The U.S. Department of State has issued a warning to American businesses about potential risks when engaging with the Taliban, emphasizing compliance with national laws given the Taliban’s designation as a terrorist organization. This advisory comes on the heels of Delta International Energy’s recent $200 million contract with the Taliban for oil extraction, raising eyebrows due to the attendance of former U.S. diplomat Zalmay Khalilzad at the signing. Despite the Taliban’s efforts to foster relations and attract U.S. investments, Washington remains noncommittal.
Saturday, 12 September , 2026
Faisal Neaz Tarmazi, the Pakistani ambassador to Russia, revealed that Afghanistan’s full membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization is currently unfeasible due to concerns surrounding the Taliban government. In a recent interview, he emphasized that member countries are apprehensive about the Taliban’s approach to governance and security, which conflict with the organization’s collective values. Tarmazi reiterated Pakistan’s desire for a stable Afghanistan that promotes regional cooperation and inclusivity.
Saturday, 12 September , 2026
In a recent interview, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claimed that the United States exploited the Afghan conflict to further its political ambitions after the September 11 attacks. He criticized Washington for using international support and UN resolutions to enhance its influence rather than solely addressing terrorism. Lavrov also noted the declining relations between the U.S. and Russia, with Moscow seeking to clarify its earlier cooperative efforts in Afghanistan amid rising tensions.
Saturday, 12 September , 2026
The construction sector in Kabul is experiencing a notable decline in apartment sales, driven by economic hardship, security concerns, and critical water shortages. Industry insiders report significant price drops and a lack of buyer confidence, as government housing initiatives and ongoing regional tensions add further pressure to the already strained real estate market.
Friday, 11 September , 2026
The abrupt exit of the Pakistani delegation from peace negotiations in Istanbul has intensified friction between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Following the withdrawal, the Afghan Ministry of Interior issued a strong warning against potential attacks from Pakistani territory. Controversial demands from Islamabad, including the expulsion of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan members and permission for drone strikes, were dismissed by Kabul as unacceptable, suggesting a significant escalation in political and security tensions.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
An Afghan analyst based in Europe critiques U.S. interventions in South Asia, particularly focusing on India’s resistance to Trump’s recent 50% tariff on its products. The analyst argues that India’s defiance, rooted in its national interests, could inspire other nations to reclaim their autonomy from U.S. influence, especially in light of America’s long and troubled involvement in Afghanistan.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
On World Science Day for Peace and Development, former Afghan President Hamid Karzai advocated for universal education as essential for Afghanistan’s self-sufficiency. He urged the Taliban to lift the ban on girls attending secondary schools and universities, emphasizing the detrimental impact of educational deprivation on Afghan society, including rising mental health issues and early marriages for millions of girls.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
The World Food Programme has issued a grave warning about the worsening malnutrition crisis in Afghanistan, particularly with the onset of winter. An influx of families returning from neighboring countries, many of whom are already struggling with malnutrition, is exacerbating the situation. With over 2.5 million returns this year and nutritional support dwindling, the need for urgent global action is pressing as the risk of severe malnutrition escalates among vulnerable populations, especially women and children.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
Local authorities in Taliban-controlled Panjshir province have sold around 3,000 carats of emeralds for nearly two million Afghanis in a public auction. This move aims to enhance mining operations after discovering 250 new emerald mines. However, economic experts express concerns about the lack of independent oversight and transparency in the mining sector, raising alarms over potential environmental risks and unclear profit allocation for local development.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
In a recent statement, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid criticized the United States for operating drones in Afghan airspace without consent, calling it a serious infringement of national sovereignty. Mujahid also reassured that the Taliban will not allow the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to use Afghan territory for actions against neighboring countries.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
In a significant escalation of tensions, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has blamed Afghanistan for a recent wave of terrorist attacks on Pakistani soil, claiming that the assailants are crossing from Afghanistan. His comments come after a deadly attack in South Waziristan and amidst deteriorating diplomatic relations between the two neighbors. Naqvi underscored the importance of addressing the issue with the Taliban and urged them to prevent further violence.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
In a significant move, Pakistani officials have announced that border crossings with Afghanistan will remain closed until the Taliban takes concrete action against terrorist groups, particularly the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). This decision, aimed at increasing pressure on Kabul, is causing major disruptions to trade and economic activities, with thousands of trucks stranded as security concerns continue to override economic interests.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
During a symposium at Georgetown University, Pakistani Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh underscored the improvement in Pakistan-U.S. relations under President Trump, highlighting a shift in the U.S. perspective towards Pakistan. He urged the Pakistani diaspora to assist in enhancing the country’s image and fostering crucial economic and diplomatic ties as both nations have a chance to redefine their partnership.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
A new report from the UN-Habitat highlights the difficult realities faced by returning Afghans, emphasizing that access to shelter is crucial for restoring dignity. With over 2 million refugees returning from Iran and Pakistan, the organization is urging for increased global assistance to address the mounting pressures on Afghanistan’s infrastructure.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
Recent negotiations in Istanbul between Taliban representatives and Pakistani intelligence officials have faltered, primarily over disagreements related to India’s involvement in Afghanistan and the activities of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Pakistan accused India of supporting opposition groups, a claim Kabul firmly denied, exacerbating distrust and highlighting the ongoing strategic divide between the two nations.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
In a notable political shift, the National Justice Party of Afghanistan has been founded in Istanbul, aimed at creating an independent political voice for the Turkmen minority. With backing from Turkey, this initiative seeks to differentiate Turkmen interests from those of the Uzbeks, part of a broader strategy to enhance Turkey’s influence in the region and control valuable energy resources amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, has voiced serious concerns over the U.S. suspension of Afghan immigration applications and the threat of mass deportations following a recent incident involving an Afghan citizen. Emphasizing the principle of individual accountability, Bennett argues that punishing the entire Afghan community for one person’s actions is unjust and calls for a measured approach to the crisis.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026
During a recent visit to Pakistan, Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, expressed alarm over escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan. He emphasized Iran’s commitment to support diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving disputes, proposing a regional conference to foster dialogue and mitigate the crisis. This initiative comes in the wake of renewed hostilities following a Pakistani airstrike and failed mediation attempts by other nations.
Thursday, 10 September , 2026