8am: Over the past three years, the Taliban have repeatedly claimed to have eradicated drugs and tobacco in the country. However, findings from Herat province by Hasht-e Subh Daily reveal an increase in the buying and selling of hashish, with the market for hashish sellers thriving. This is despite a decree by Hibatullah Akhundzada banning the sale and purchase of drugs, including hashish. Following this decree, the price of hashish has surged. This comes as international organizations have also reported that, despite the Taliban’s rhetoric about fighting drugs, the trade from opium reserves continues, and drug production factories remain operational. Click here to read more (external link).