8am: The Taliban act with rigid ideology in many areas, blending their tribal and ethnic preferences with selective Quranic verses and prophetic traditions, making life increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens. Yet, when Western interests are at stake, they proceed with far greater caution and restraint. The Taliban know full well that for Donald Trump, the
Afghanistan International: Retirees in Kabul staged another protest on Saturday, demanding payment of pensions they say have been withheld for four years. The group gathered outside the General Directorate of the Pension Fund, accusing the Taliban of ignoring their repeated demonstrations and failing to address their claims. Click here to read more (external link).
Amu: Mohammad Mohaqiq, a senior member of the National Resistance Council for the Salvation of Afghanistan, defended an upcoming meeting in Pakistan and dismissed criticism from former US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad. Mohaqiq said the gathering, scheduled for Aug. 25–26, is a political and civic event largely organized by Afghan women activists. He argued that Khalilzad
Khaama: Pakistan is preparing to host a two-day meeting of Afghan opposition figures, including young leaders, political activists, party representatives, and women, in Islamabad on August 25–26. According to reports, this is the first open gathering of Afghanistan’s diverse political groups since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Click here to read more (external
Afghanistan International: In a statement released to mark the fourth anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power, the group said its operations targeted Taliban bases, checkpoints and gatherings across Kabul, Parwan, Balkh, Badghis, Herat, Kunduz, Takhar, Baghlan, Kapisa, Faryab, Panjshir, Sar-e Pul and Laghman provinces. The front also said Taliban “morality police” from the Ministry
Afghanistan International: Nearly 25,000 security incidents have been recorded in Afghanistan during the four years since the Taliban returned to power, according to United Nations figures, with hundreds claimed by the Daesh’s local affiliate. The Taliban have repeatedly claimed they have established nationwide security, but independent sources and local observers say the violence persists. Click
8am: The question is this: Was Ghani’s flight from the country and his surrender of power to the Taliban and the Haqqani Network not an act of national treason? Without question, it was. Click here to read more (external link).
By Kian Sharifi and Omid Marzban Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty August 16, 2025 The Taliban’s four-year quest for legitimacy received a major boost last month when Russia became the first country to formally recognize the group’s rule in Afghanistan. While the Kremlin’s decision is largely symbolic, it could still yield strategic benefits for Moscow. Recognition