Over 114,000 Afghan migrants returned from Iran, Pakistan in two weeks, IOM says
Returns from Iran rose sharply while arrivals from Pakistan declined, underscoring the continuing strain on Afghanistan’s humanitarian and economic systems.
Immigration
Security
Taliban send reinforcements to Badakhshan amid gold mine tensions
Local sources said a newly deployed Taliban unit entered Shukai district as they seek to contain escalating disputes over gold.
Politics
Former Taliban communications minister appointed their mayor in Herat
The appointment reflects the Taliban’s continuing practice of rotating longtime loyalists through senior administrative positions.
Security
Unexploded ordnance explosion kills two children in Helmand
Taliban police said the children died after bringing home a shell left behind from decades of war in southern Afghanistan.
Politics, Taliban Internal Rift
Gold mining halted in parts of Badakhshan amid growing tensions, sources say
Taliban mining official has warned local commanders and armed groups against unauthorized mining activities after escalating disputes.
Immigration
UN launches $529 million plan for returning migrants in Afghanistan
The UN said the program aims to support millions of migrants returning from Iran and Pakistan.
Politics
CPJ urges EU to cancel planned talks with Taliban
The CPJ said inviting Taliban representatives to Brussels risks legitimizing a government accused of dismantling press freedom in Afghanistan.
Politics
EU socialist leader denounces plans to invite Taliban members to Brussels
Iratxe García said Afghans should not “pay the price” for Taliban policies as criticism grows over plans to invite Taliban.
Security
Taliban commander arrested over gold mine dispute in Badakhshan
Local sources said tensions linked to contested gold mines in northeastern Afghanistan have escalated.
Human Rights, Women
Rights groups demand repeal of Taliban regulation they say legalizes child marriage
Over 100 rights groups and organizations in a statement called for “immediate, unconditional, and complete repeal” of a new Taliban.