In its latest assessment, the UN Secretary-General’s office said ISIS-K maintains about 2,000 fighters in Afghanistan, where it continues to.

Speaking at a ceremony marking Afghanistan’s Independence Day, Yaqoob said the Taliban do not want Afghanistan to become an arena.

The sources said the base is being developed in a remote, elevated location and is intended for strategic and security.

Mohaqiq said the gathering, scheduled for Aug. 25–26, is a political and civic event largely organized by Afghan women activists..

Some politicians say that with this move, the Taliban leader has closed the door to engagement with the world.