A devastating explosion in western Kabul has left 42 children injured, prompting calls from Amnesty International and UNAMA for an independent inquiry. The blast, linked to a hand grenade, occurred as schoolchildren participated in a cultural program. While investigations are ongoing, concerns rise over the safety of educational facilities amid continued threats in the region.
Thursday, 20 August , 2026
As the Taliban marks five years of control in Afghanistan, women who once held government jobs reflect on their lost opportunities and the harsh reality of life under stringent social restrictions. Many now face dire economic hardships and a profound impact on their mental health, as global calls for attention to their plight grow louder.
Thursday, 20 August , 2026
During Afghanistan’s Independence Day celebrations, Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban’s Foreign Minister, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding national interests against foreign agendas. He emphasized the interlinked security of Afghanistan with neighboring countries and urged regional cooperation, highlighting positive outcomes for nations engaging with the Taliban.
Thursday, 20 August , 2026India’s Ministry of External Affairs announced a plan to deepen its relationship with the Taliban, prioritizing humanitarian assistance. By 2025, India aims to elevate its diplomatic presence in Kabul, moving from a technical mission to full embassy status. This increased interaction comes amid tensions in the region, particularly between Afghanistan and Pakistan, but officials emphasized that it does not signify a formal upgrade in relations.
Thursday, 20 August , 2026
Since the Taliban took control in 2021, women’s employment in Afghanistan has dropped dramatically to just 5%. The International Labour Organization highlights how severe restrictions on women’s work have exacerbated economic hardship for families, as many women lose their jobs and cannot support their households. With nearly 11 million women and girls in need of urgent assistance, the human rights situation remains dire, underscoring the necessity of their involvement in the workforce for the nation’s recovery.
Thursday, 20 August , 2026
The U.S. Department of State has criticized the Taliban for failing to establish stability in Afghanistan and for not fulfilling its counter-terrorism obligations. Strong concerns were raised regarding the oppressive policies affecting women and girls, while the Taliban insisted on the importance of respecting Afghanistan’s sovereignty as they marked their fifth anniversary in power.
Wednesday, 19 August , 2026
Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, highlighted the crucial role of the private sector in fostering economic growth in Afghanistan. During a recent ceremony in Kabul, Baradar urged for the removal of barriers to investment, emphasizing collaborative efforts between the government and private enterprises as essential for the nation’s development and prosperity.
Wednesday, 19 August , 2026
In a tragic incident at the Shama HIDAYAT school in western Kabul, approximately 50 students were injured following an explosion attributed to the Taliban. The blast occurred on August 26, when two grenades were reportedly thrown into the school compound by unidentified motorcyclists. Mohammad Mohqiq, leader of the Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan, has called on the Taliban to uphold their duty to protect civilians, highlighting the ongoing insecurity that plagues the region.
Wednesday, 19 August , 2026
As Afghanistan marks five years under Taliban rule, 2.4 million girls remain barred from education, igniting concerns among families and advocates alike. Parents like Najia from Kabul express their heartbreak over the educational restrictions imposed on their daughters, while calls for action continue to grow. With no clear response from Taliban officials, the future of these girls hangs in the balance.
Tuesday, 18 August , 2026
On the fifth anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated it will not recognize the group until it meets its human rights obligations, particularly concerning the rights of women and girls. France is calling for an international inquiry into human rights violations in Afghanistan, emphasizing the pressing need for accountability as the Taliban seeks to improve its global relations.
Tuesday, 18 August , 2026
A new polio vaccination campaign has commenced in five provinces of Afghanistan, targeting over 2.5 million children as part of efforts to combat the rising polio cases in the country. Health authorities emphasize the need for community support and improved public health conditions to ensure the success of this initiative.
Tuesday, 18 August , 2026
During a recent gathering in Kandahar, Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada reiterated the Taliban’s stance against ‘illegitimate requests,’ responding to ongoing criticisms from human rights advocates. As the fifth anniversary of their rule approaches, the UN highlights a troubling reality: 2.4 million girls in Afghanistan are deprived of education, marking a significant setback in women’s rights in the country.
Tuesday, 18 August , 2026
As the anniversary of the fall of Kabul approaches, stories of Afghan refugees evoke a mix of hope and sorrow. The chaotic evacuation efforts at Kabul Airport, where many faced life-threatening situations, remain vivid memories for those like Heli, who escaped with her children but now faces uncertainty in Pakistan. The ongoing challenges for Afghan refugees illustrate the long-lasting impact of their harrowing experiences.
Tuesday, 18 August , 2026
In a recent ceremony celebrating five years since the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul, Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani asserted that Afghanistan’s true victory hinges on the liberation of Jerusalem and the plight of the Palestinian people. Haqqani called for global Muslim solidarity with Gaza, highlighting that until the Palestinian struggle is recognized, joy for Afghans will remain unattainable. He urged a deeper commitment from the international community to address the ongoing suffering in Gaza.
Tuesday, 18 August , 2026
In a recent address, the deputy of the Taliban’s 201st Corps, Khalid ibn Walid, threatened military action against Pakistan if its territory is used for operations against Afghanistan. During a ceremony marking the Taliban’s fifth anniversary of regaining power, he called on residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to prevent their region from being exploited for opposition activities, warning that any aggression from Pakistan would be met with decisive military retaliation.
Monday, 17 August , 2026
In a recent statement, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid has called on Pakistan to refrain from meddling in Afghanistan’s internal matters and focus on its own domestic challenges. His comments come amidst escalating tensions between the two nations, amid allegations of security issues and claims of ISIS training camps within Pakistan.
Monday, 17 August , 2026
On the fifth anniversary of the Taliban’s resurgence, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed expressed grave concerns over the continuing violations of rights faced by women and girls in Afghanistan. She emphasized the need for global action to support these individuals as they strive for a better future, urging the international community to prioritize their plight and contribute to building a more equitable society.
Monday, 17 August , 2026
A year has passed since the catastrophic earthquake in Kunar, yet survivors continue to face dire conditions, living in tents without adequate shelter, clean water, or healthcare. With only 36 homes provided by authorities, many are left waiting as promises of reconstruction go unfulfilled.
Monday, 17 August , 2026
The Taliban’s recent suspension of seven private universities and revocation of licenses for two educational institutions has left students in Afghanistan anxious about their academic futures. The Ministry of Higher Education cited administrative violations as the reason for these actions, while students are calling for clarity and solutions to safeguard their education amidst rising challenges in the sector.
Monday, 17 August , 2026
During the Surkhandarya-China Business Conference, Taliban’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Nuruddin Azizi, emphasized Afghanistan’s commitment to attracting investments from China and Uzbekistan, focusing on key sectors like mining and agriculture. Azizi highlighted the establishment of favorable conditions for foreign investment and the potential for new trade corridors to enhance regional economic ties.
Sunday, 16 August , 2026