Security

  • Women shopping from the glass displays of a cosmetics and jewelry store in Balkh

    Merchants in Mazar-i-Sharif Protest Restrictions on Commercial Renovations

    Widespread protests have erupted among merchants and traders in Mazar-i-Sharif due to increasing obstacles to renovating commercial properties. Local authorities’ demands for partnership involvement during renovation permit applications are causing significant economic frustrations, threatening capital investment and market activity in the region.

    Monday, 9 November , 2026
  • A composite image of a woman's face wearing a burqa and medical attire alongside economic and crisis texts

    Afghan Women Face Dire Economic Struggles Under Taliban Rule

    Under Taliban control, Afghan women confront harsh economic realities as they are barred from employment and education. With millions affected, the United Nations warns that the ongoing restrictions could lead to staggering economic losses, dramatically impacting household stability and national GDP.

    Saturday, 7 November , 2026
  • masked man behind a laptop with the ISIS logo and a background of digital codes

    Security Conference Highlights Social Media’s Role in ISIS Operations

    At the ‘SCO Plus’ conference in Samarkand, Abdulhaq Watiq, head of the caretaker government’s intelligence agency, underscored the significant role of social media in facilitating ISIS activities. He raised concerns about the influence of platforms like Telegram and TikTok in the group’s extremist communications and fundraising efforts, while also calling attention to the lack of cooperation from major tech companies in addressing these challenges.

    Saturday, 7 November , 2026
  • U.S. Diplomatic Shift Towards Iran Needed: Lessons from Afghanistan

    In a recent analysis, Miladulhaq Ahmadzai of Taleam Systems argues that the U.S. must learn from its two-decade involvement in Afghanistan and pursue diplomatic engagement with Iran. He advocates for Congressional support for civilian-centered negotiations, emphasizing that sustainable peace is essential for both regional stability and global security. Ahmadzai highlights the detrimental effects of war and calls for a comprehensive approach that involves all relevant stakeholders in the peace process.

    Saturday, 7 November , 2026
  • Flag of the United Arab Emirates and a view of the city with tall buildings

    UAE and Balkh Intelligence Officials Discuss Economic and Security Collaboration

    An informal meeting held at Mazar-i-Sharif Airport between UAE representatives and Balkh intelligence officials highlighted efforts to bolster economic ties and security cooperation, particularly in the gold mining sector. The discussions, facilitated by a clandestine Emirati delegation, reflect Abu Dhabi’s ongoing strategy to enhance its influence in northern Afghanistan.

    Saturday, 7 November , 2026
  • Freed Afghan residents inside a tent

    Pakistan Evaluates Afghan Refugee Relocation from the U.S.

    Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is assessing the potential relocation of Afghan refugees from the United States, a process hindered by legal challenges and the absence of diplomatic ties. The initiative, part of a broader repatriation plan from the Trump administration, aims to facilitate Afghan citizens’ return home via Pakistan. The spokesperson affirmed the country’s commitment to cooperating with international partners as they navigate this complex situation.

    Saturday, 7 November , 2026
  • two men with a camera and tripod on the road

    Increase in Threats and Censorship Push Afghan Journalists to the Brink

    In Afghanistan, journalists are increasingly alarmed by rising pressures, censorship, and threats that undermine media freedom. Many are losing the will to continue in their profession, with media watchdogs expressing deep concern over the detention of numerous reporters. As international organizations raise red flags about the safety of journalists, including the alarming decline of female media professionals, the interim government denies any wrongdoing, asserting that its actions are lawful.

    Saturday, 7 November , 2026
  • Panjshir Women Demand Global Action Against Taliban Atrocities

    In a powerful rally in Panjshir province, women activists have urgently called on international organizations to address the systemic genocide perpetrated by the Taliban. Highlighting the dire living conditions, psychological pressures, and violent oppression faced by women, they demand recognition of their plight under the 1948 UN Convention on Genocide and seek immediate global intervention to restore their rights and protect vulnerable communities.

    Thursday, 5 November , 2026
  • Child with a prosthetic arm in a hospital helped by two elderly men

    UN Reports Progress in Afghanistan Land Clearance Amid Unexploded Ordnance Threat

    The United Nations Trust Fund has successfully cleared over 72,000 square meters of land in Kunduz and Baghlan as part of its ongoing efforts to address the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance. Despite this progress, the fund warns that a significant portion of Afghanistan remains contaminated, hindering the safety and economic recovery of affected communities.

    Thursday, 5 November , 2026
  • US Shifts Security Focus to Drug-Trafficking Regimes in New Foreign Policy Approach

    The United States is revamping its security strategy, prioritizing interventions against regimes linked to drug trafficking, as illustrated by recent operations in Venezuela. This shift signals a departure from traditional counter-terrorism efforts, with analysts predicting that such actions may soon extend beyond Latin America to other regions where drug economies flourish, such as Afghanistan.

    Wednesday, 4 November , 2026
  • Rising Tensions: Targeted Arrests and Legal Struggles for Shia Community in Herat, Afghanistan

    In Herat province, security forces have intensified their scrutiny of the Shia population, leading to increased summons and arrests. This surge in activity, compounded by the legal system’s dismissal of Ja’fari jurisprudence, has sparked significant social tensions and legal challenges for residents, raising concerns about civil rights and future stability in the region.

    Tuesday, 3 November , 2026
  • The sign and entrance gate of the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice in Kabul

    Taliban Reinforces Controversial Virtue Law Amidst Global Scrutiny

    In a recent conference in Kabul, Taliban officials reaffirmed their commitment to the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice law, calling for enhanced coordination among military and security agencies. This initiative comes in response to increasing international criticism over the law’s impact on civil liberties, particularly for women.

    Tuesday, 3 November , 2026
  • Pakistan’s Military Issues Stern Warning to Taliban Amid Rising Tensions

    In a bold declaration, the Pakistani military has announced its readiness to counter any threats from the Taliban, warning that Kabul cannot withstand Islamabad’s potential retaliatory actions. Military spokesperson Ahmad Sharif Choudhry highlighted concerns over cross-border security and accused the Taliban of enabling armed insurgents, while urging them to take action against groups posing a threat to Pakistan. As tensions grow over issues like the Durand Line and militant movements, the Taliban has yet to respond officially.

    Monday, 2 November , 2026
  • Woman with gray hair and glasses next to the flags of the United Nations and Bangladesh

    UN Envoy Calls for Urgent Protection of Journalists in Afghanistan

    On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, UN Special Envoy Rabab Fatima underscored the urgent need for increased safety measures for journalists in Afghanistan. Highlighting the pivotal role of a free press in promoting peace and governance, she addressed the alarming rise of censorship and violence faced by media professionals since August 2021, urging national and international responses to safeguard their rights and security.

    Monday, 2 November , 2026
  • Map of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border with a warning headline from the Pakistani Foreign Ministry about controlling terrorism.

    Escalating Border Conflicts: Taliban and Pakistan Exchange Accusations Amidst Violence in Angoor Ada

    Tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan have surged in the Angoor Ada region, leading to fierce military confrontations. Both sides accuse each other of initiating hostilities, with casualties reported on both ends. As airstrikes and ground attacks escalate, Pakistani forces remain on high alert amidst ongoing allegations from Islamabad regarding support for militant groups from Kabul.

    Thursday, 29 October , 2026
  • Broad-leaf opium cultivation with red flowers and dark capsules.

    Rising Opium Poppy Cultivation in Pakistan and Iran Sparks Global Concerns

    Growing opium poppy farming along the Pakistan-Iran border has raised alarms over a potential surge in heroin supply worldwide. Despite Taliban bans in Afghanistan, production has shifted to Balochistan and Sistan and Baluchestan, with experts warning that this trend could bolster financial resources for militant groups amidst escalating insecurity in the tri-border region.

    Tuesday, 27 October , 2026
  • Sirajuddin Haqqani

    Afghan Interior Minister Reports Decline in Security Incidents Amid UNAMA’s Contradictory Findings

    At a recent conference in Khost, Afghanistan’s acting Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani claimed that security incidents are nearing zero, citing a significant decline in hostilities since last year. However, the UN reports a concerning 27.8% rise in security events, highlighting the complex challenges facing the nation. Haqqani emphasized the vital role of community cooperation in maintaining security and warned against misinformation from malicious groups.

    Monday, 26 October , 2026
  • Fooling ISIS sniper with Iraqi soldier

    Rising Violence in Afghanistan: Taliban Official Assassinated and Security Post Attacked

    Recent events in Afghanistan raise alarm as a Taliban official was assassinated in Paktia and a Taliban security post was attacked in Parwan. The killing of Rahmatullah, a member of the Taliban’s Department of Borders, Tribes, and Communities, highlights the escalating security challenges in the region. These incidents reflect the growing instability and violence that pose threats to local communities.

    Thursday, 22 October , 2026
  • Trucks transporting coal from a mountainous area

    Afghan Republic Front Launches Attack on Taliban Convoy in Balkhab

    In a reported guerrilla attack, the Afghan Republic Front struck a Taliban military convoy in the Balkhab district of Sar-e Pol province, leading to one confirmed death and several injuries among Taliban fighters. This incident, which took place on October 28th, is part of the Front’s broader campaign against illegal mining activities in the region, highlighting ongoing tensions between the two groups. However, independent verification of the reported casualties remains pending.

    Wednesday, 21 October , 2026
  • Afghan women and children standing with a scarf and mask, holding a plastic bag and a bottle of water

    Two Years On, Afghan War Victims Await Compensation Amidst Criticism

    Despite the establishment of a compensation framework for Afghan war victims two years ago, no payments have been made. A recent report highlights that 105 claims have been filed, yet 45 were rejected. Critics argue that the current system is flawed and unjust, leaving many victims without support.

    Wednesday, 21 October , 2026