CNN: Imperfect though these religious institutions are, they are the only option for most Afghan girls over the age of 12 who want any education. Afghanistan remains the only country in the world that prohibits girls and women from getting general education at secondary and higher levels. Click here to read more (external link).
Taliban fighters (file photo)
8am: Sources state that the Taliban, to suppress opposition, restrict access to information, and create an atmosphere of fear among citizens, have expanded their espionage activities in Kabul. According to these sources, the group has exploited the dire economic situation to establish a network of spies aimed at detaining, tracking, and psychologically tormenting citizens, particularly in Kabul. Some journalists and residents of Kabul, especially former military personnel, express deep concern and fear over this situation. Click here to read more (external link).
8am: The United States Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) in its latest report stated that terrorist groups such as ISIS, al-Qaeda, and Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operate freely in Afghanistan, widespread corruption and mismanagement have squandered billions of dollars in foreign aid, and the rights of women and children in the country are systematically violated in full view of the international community. According to SIGAR, the cessation of U.S. aid has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, further darkening the already uncertain future of Afghanistan’s reconstruction. SIGAR described ISIS-Khorasan as the “most serious threat” to ethnic and religious minorities, UN personnel, foreign citizens, and diplomats in Afghanistan. Click here to read more (external link).
Amu: Amu TV found that the Taliban Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, the Taliban Ministry of Justice, the Taliban Ministry of Higher Education, the Taliban Ministry of Finance, and the Taliban Ministry of Urban Development and Housing no longer share photos or videos of their officials. Instead, they post pictures of empty chairs, flags or meeting halls. Critics argue that withholding officials’ images undermines transparency and erodes public trust in governance. Click here to read more (externa link).
Khaama: Tajikistan authorities have reported ten armed confrontations with drug traffickers along the Afghanistan border during the first half of this year, marking a significant increase compared to the same period last year. Authorities in Tajikistan have consistently expressed concern about the presence of terrorist groups and drug trafficking networks operating from Afghanistan territory. These ongoing confrontations highlight the deepening security risks along the border. Click here to read more (external link).
Khaama: The UK is considering a law to punish those who promote illegal migration routes online, including on social media, with up to five years in prison and fines. The British Parliament is reviewing a proposed law that would criminalize the promotion of “illegal” migration routes for asylum seekers entering the country. If approved, the law would significantly intensify the UK’s immigration crackdown, raising concerns among human rights groups about its implications for free speech and humanitarian advocacy. Click here to read more (external link).
Amu: Taliban publicly flogged a man in Kapisa province after accusing him of spreading “propaganda” against their rule, according to a statement from the Taliban-run Supreme Court. Rights advocates say the punishments are part of a wider pattern of repression. “The Taliban are using religion and Sharia as tools to silence dissent,” said one analyst. Click here to read more (external link).
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WP: Two former Afghan interpreters for U.S. forces face deportation despite following immigration processes, according to attorneys for the men. Click here to read more (external link).