Afghanistan

  • A mass wedding ceremony with hundreds of people in organized lines wearing white clothes and colorful flowers

    High Bride Prices Delay Afghan Marriages, Push Young People to Migrate

    In Afghanistan, exorbitant bride prices are hindering young couples from marrying, with many resorting to migration for income. Despite religious disapproval, societal pressures perpetuate this costly practice. Clerics call on the Taliban government to take action and alleviate this burden, as families struggle with both traditional expectations and financial constraints.

    Wednesday, 9 September , 2026
  • Women in blue headscarves outdoors

    UN Human Rights Chief Calls for Urgent Action to Protect Afghan Women’s Rights

    Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has condemned the Taliban’s ongoing discrimination against women in Afghanistan. Speaking at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Turk urged the Taliban to reverse policies that restrict women’s rights and participation in society. Since the Taliban’s rise to power in 2021, women have faced severe limitations on education and employment. The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, echoed these concerns, demanding an end to the ban preventing women from working in UN offices.

    Wednesday, 9 September , 2026
  • University entrance with students moving

    Pakistan Ends Enrollment of Afghan Medical Students, Sparking Outrage

    The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has officially expelled Afghan students from medical universities, citing compliance with national policy. This sudden move has put hundreds of students at risk of losing their educational opportunities, particularly affecting Afghan girls and leading to widespread condemnation from human rights advocates.

    Wednesday, 9 September , 2026
  • Afghan residents in a long line wearing masks and covered faces

    Afghan Refugees in Qatar and Rwanda Face Uncertain Futures and Lost Financial Support

    Afghans who relocated to Qatar and Rwanda in 2021 are in limbo, awaiting migration to safer nations as migration processes stagnate and financial aid is cut. Many express deep frustrations over prolonged separations from their families and call for urgent intervention to address their situation.

    Tuesday, 8 September , 2026
  • A group of students taking an exam in an open space with supervisors present

    Afghan Youth Navigate Complexities of Educational Visa Process Amid Rising Companies

    With a surge in educational visa companies in Afghanistan, many young people are grappling with the realities of securing visas to study abroad. While some celebrate successful applications, others recount frustrating experiences of financial loss and unmet expectations, especially in the wake of the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Company officials assert their effectiveness in securing visas, amidst claims of prioritizing profits over student needs.

    Tuesday, 8 September , 2026
  • Afghan currency and dollars on a table with unknown hands

    Saudi Delta Energy Partners with Taliban for $50 Billion Hydrocarbon Development in Afghanistan

    Saudi Delta Energy has inked significant agreements worth $50 billion with Afghanistan’s Taliban-led Ministry of Mines to explore and develop the nation’s extensive hydrocarbon resources. The contracts include plans for natural gas utilization in Herat and the construction of a major gas pipeline. This venture is expected to boost the energy sector and economic stability in the region, with insights from U.S. officials underlining its importance.

    Tuesday, 8 September , 2026
  • Families are settled in tents in a desert area, with their means of living.

    As Autumn Approaches, Displaced Afghan Families Struggle for Survival Amidst Economic Hardships

    With the onset of autumn, Afghan families displaced by conflict and disasters face urgent challenges. Rising fuel prices and severe unemployment hinder their ability to find warmth and stability. Local residents emphasize the need for government assistance as humanitarian conditions worsen, with millions requiring emergency support in the near future.

    Monday, 7 September , 2026
  • Kabul’s Economic Crisis Deepens: Surge in Begging Highlights Urgent Need for Solutions

    As economic hardships persist, Kabul faces a growing number of beggars, with the Taliban identifying 110,000 individuals in need during ongoing campaigns. Reports reveal that poverty and unemployment have driven many into begging, igniting concerns about safety and basic needs among residents. Experts urge the government to invest in job creation and skills training to tackle the root causes of this alarming rise.

    Monday, 7 September , 2026
  • Zalmay Khalilzad in front of the flags of Afghanistan and the United States

    Former U.S. Envoy Meets Taliban Officials to Discuss Afghanistan’s Future Stability

    During a recent visit to Kabul, Zalmay Khalilzad, former U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan, held discussions with Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, focusing on the critical importance of security and stability in Afghanistan. Both officials expressed optimism regarding the country’s current reconstruction efforts and the potential for enhanced U.S.-Afghanistan relations, highlighting Afghanistan’s improving investment climate and prospects for economic growth.

    Monday, 7 September , 2026
  • Congresswoman Nancy Mace Pushes for Taliban Insurgent Designation Amid Legitimacy Concerns

    In a bold move, Congresswoman Nancy Mace has branded the Taliban as insurgents and is introducing new legislation aimed at preventing the legitimization of their authority. Her proposed ‘Preventing the Legitimization of Insurgent Governments Act’ seeks to formally classify the Taliban as a foreign insurgent group and a ‘state sponsor of terrorism,’ emphasizing the dangers of mixed messages in U.S. foreign policy.

    Monday, 7 September , 2026
  • Punjab’s Security Threats: Chief Minister Points to Neighboring States

    In a recent statement, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz of Punjab highlighted that the province’s security challenges mainly stem from adjacent areas rather than foreign nations. During an event in Lahore, she expressed confidence in improving law and order since the new government took office in 2024, while identifying organized crime and religious intolerance as significant concerns. The comments sparked criticism from political opponents who argue that security should be a unified national priority.

    Monday, 7 September , 2026
  • migrant

    First Afghan Refugees Relocated to Guyana Under U.S. Agreement

    A group of six Afghan refugees, cleared of any criminal records, has successfully arrived in Guyana as part of a U.S. initiative to transfer migrants to third countries. This temporary arrangement, lasting for a year, aims to provide these individuals with a safe haven while their immigration statuses are decided. However, human rights groups are raising concerns over the transparency and implications of such relocations.

    Monday, 7 September , 2026
  • Trade Between Afghanistan and Pakistan Faces Severe Disruption Amid Ongoing Tensions

    Political tensions have led to closed borders between Afghanistan and Pakistan, resulting in significant trade disruptions and a drop in agricultural product prices. With losses estimated at $2.5 billion, both countries are feeling the economic impact. Traders urge immediate action to revive trade routes and ensure safety for economic activities.

    Sunday, 6 September , 2026
  • A young man sitting on the ground looking at a mobile phone

    Afghans Frustrated by Poor Internet Quality and High Costs

    Many residents in Afghanistan are voicing their dissatisfaction with internet services characterized by low speeds, frequent disconnections, and high prices. Users like Marasal from Kabul highlight how the poor quality impacts daily communication and online education, while the Ministry of Communications has yet to effectively address these ongoing issues, leaving students like Ismail from Nangarhar struggling to keep up with their studies.

    Sunday, 6 September , 2026
  • Karzai Advocates Peace and Stability, Rejects Use of Afghanistan Against Iran

    In a recent interview, former Afghan president Hamid Karzai condemned the use of Afghan territory for attacks against Iran, citing deep historical ties between the two nations. He warned that any conflict could devastate Afghanistan’s economy and disrupt regional stability. Karzai also emphasized the need for internal reconciliation within Afghanistan, urging the Taliban and its opposition to work together for peace, while expressing concern over the Taliban’s treatment of women and the importance of education for girls.

    Sunday, 6 September , 2026
  • Taliban Urges Western Nations to Rethink Afghan Policies and Enhance Diplomacy

    Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban spokesperson, has called on Western countries to revise their wartime policies and strengthen diplomatic ties with Afghanistan. In a recent interview, he emphasized the importance of positive relations, particularly with European nations, while navigating challenges related to human rights. The Taliban seeks to broaden its international engagements as it looks to foster stability and growth in the region.

    Sunday, 6 September , 2026
  • A man sitting outside a souvenir shop filled with handicrafts and flags

    Uzbekistan and Afghanistan Trade Volumes Surge to $1.2 Billion

    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
  • Taliban Engages Pakistani Authorities on Afghan Refugees’ Asset Concerns

    The Taliban embassy in Islamabad is actively addressing the auctioning of Afghan refugees’ belongings in Chakwal, Punjab. A recent delegation visited the area to assess the situation and discuss solutions with local officials, aiming to protect the assets and rights of refugees amid increasing tensions surrounding their expulsion from Pakistan.

    Sunday, 6 September , 2026
  • Pakistan Questions Taliban’s Commitment to Curb TTP Activities Amid Ongoing Tensions

    Pakistani officials have raised concerns over the Taliban’s inability to effectively manage the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), as violence continues along the Durand Line. Despite actions taken by the Taliban, including relocating TTP fighters, clashes persist and the TTP’s influence grows in regions like Peshawar and Bannu. With China’s mediation efforts underway, Pakistan is calling for more decisive measures from the Taliban to enhance security.

    Saturday, 5 September , 2026
  • Bloody Friday Prayer in Kabul (10)

    Russia Warns Against Western Military Expansion in Central Asia Amid Afghan Threat Exaggerations

    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