Khalilzad
Ariana: Former U.S. special envoy for Afghan peace talks, Zalmay Khalilzad, has issued a stark warning about China’s accelerating efforts to dominate Central Asia’s vast mineral wealth. He urged Washington—specifically the Trump administration—to act swiftly before Beijing consolidates its hold over the region’s critical resources. Khalilzad emphasized that countries including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan remain open to deeper mineral cooperation with the United States, but cautioned that time is running out. Click here to read more (external link).
Ariana: Following Russia’s recent decision to formally recognize the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), Pakistani officials have stated that Islamabad will not act hastily and will make a final decision based on its national interests. According to The Express Tribune, quoting government sources, Pakistan may take a more pragmatic approach if other regional countries follow Russia’s lead. 
Afghanistan International: The Iranian Writers’ Association has issued a strong condemnation of what it described as “racist” treatment of Afghan migrants in Iran, calling for an immediate halt to forced deportations. In a statement released on Sunday, 6 July, the association warned that hostility toward Afghan nationals has reached “alarming” and “horrific” levels, particularly in the aftermath of the recent ceasefire between Iran and Israel. 
8am: Local sources in Panjshir province report that the Taliban executed two former military personnel accused of membership in the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRF). The incident occurred last week, with the detentions taking place in the mountainous area of Abdullah-Khel village in Dara district, according to sources cited by the Hasht-e Subh Daily on Sunday, 6 July 2025. 
Amu: Taliban have imposed new restrictions on Shiite religious practices in Herat Province during Muharram, the Islamic month of mourning, dismantling mourning tents and removing flags from Shiite neighborhoods, according to local sources and residents. Witnesses in districts such as Jebrael, Kore Milli and Khatem al-Anbia said Taliban forces tore down black banners and processional tents used to commemorate Muharram rituals. In several cases, mourners were reportedly harassed, assaulted or detained. 