LAST 24 HOURS
FOREIGNER KIDNAPPINGS, RUMORS CIRCULATE – Last week, we reported on the possible abduction of 2 foreigners that supposedly took place in Kabul. Additional information has begun to circulate which suggests the 2 foreigners may have been diplomats from Qatar who were waylaid while driving from Kabul to Paghman by unknown assailants. The information has not been verified by any official sources (Taliban or Qatari) but continues to make the rounds on social media. In addition, we have had no information regarding the original report about the abductions. Both accounts may very well prove to be false and we will continue to follow the situation if it develops.
ISIS-K MAKES RARE PUBLIC OVERTURE TO RESISTANCE GROUPS – Al-Azaim Media, an ISIS-linked media affiliate released a pamphlet on its website that appeals directly to Resistance groups operating in Afghanistan. In the pamphlet, ISIS makes an argument for cooperating together in the near term in order to bring the Taliban regime down. Long-time Afghanistan observers say this may be the first public call for cooperation that ISIS-K has made to the Resistance groups.
SOME CALLS TO PROVIDE INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT TO RESISTANCE GROUPS – While the NRF and other Resistance groups have received support from small groups in Europe, North America, and elsewhere some larger-mainstream organizations are beginning to look at ways of providing support. The intransigence of the Taliban to fulfill agreements under the Doha deal and the ever-increasing restrictions on women and minorities appear to have stiffened some backs in some NGO boardrooms. The US and Europe have dug their heels in and said repeatedly that they will not support any armed insurgents in Afghanistan and Russia/China have likewise maintained a similar stance. However, as the situation drags on, the Resistance groups may end up being the only option available. It is almost unthinkable that at least theoretical discussions along these lines have not been taking place in Washington, Paris, London, Moscow, Ottawa, et al.
COUPLE REPORTEDLY SENTENCED TO DEATH BY STONING IN BAGHLAN MAY HAVE RECEIVED A REPRIEVE – Information about a couple in Pol Khomri (Baghlan Province) who had reportedly received a sentence calling for their deaths by stoning have had their executions postponed. The initial execution was reputedly set for Friday (after prayers) but has now been postponed. A source in Kabul who could not confirm if the executions had actually been ordered did say that orders had been issued from senior Taliban leadership to minimize any potentially embarrassing incidents while the Foreign Minister was meeting with the US officials in Doha. Some online social media accounts thanked US leaders and UN officials for personally intervening in the affair. We have yet to confirm the accuracy of the information and it is not clear if the death sentences were vacated or, merely postponed.
NEXT 24 HOURS
NO THREATS REPORTED
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
IRAN
The respected Iranian actress, Shohreh Ghamar, was reportedly placed under arrest after wishing the Israeli Prime Minister well after he underwent heart surgery.
In some cities, Muharram mourners were captured on video when they refused to step on the US and Israeli flags. Senior clerics criticized the mourners and said that they were bringing ‘joy to the enemy’ by not participating in the time-honored tradition.
A sex tape has been released that purportedly shows a senior government official having sex with another man. Reza Tsaghati, an official charged with promoting Islamic values in Gilan Province has been suspended over the incident and is facing an investigation.
PAKISTAN
China’s envoy for Pakistan affairs is expected to arrive in Islamabad today to mark the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project (CPEC).
The government announced this week they were in discussions with the UAE to build a new multipurpose cargo terminal at the port in Karachi. Many are concerned the government is leveraging Pakistan’s future by selling off major infrastructure projects.
Inflation remained stubbornly high as the most recent survey found it sitting at 29%. The expiration of several subsidies for fuel and electricity appears to be the cause.
SPOTLIGHT ANALYSIS
(Re)Claiming its influence: Russia’s role in Afghanistan
By Shivam Shekhawat & Anjali Birla - ORF
The fall of Kabul in August 2021 prompted discussions about the end of Western influence in the country and an opportunity for China and Russia to dig their heels in the ‘graveyard of empires’. In the immediate aftermath, in contrast with Afghanistan’s other neighbours, Russia didn’t close its embassy in Kabul, with many Russian officials retaining a positive perception about what a Taliban rule could mean for Kabul as well as for Moscow.
AFGHAN NEWS
Afghanistan: No more taxis for women without burqas?
By Deutsche Welle
If he were to carry women who weren't wearing a full-body covering, he would be beaten up by the Taliban and have his…
United Nations facing ‘crippling funding crisis’
By AMU TV
Carl Skau, Deputy Executive Director of the World Food Program (WFP), said Friday that the organization has been forced to cut or plans to cut assistance soon in at…
EU, US Airlines to Use Afghan Airspace: Media Report
By Banafsha Binesh - TOLO News
The Economic Times reported that in the coming weeks the travel time between the East, including India, and the West will be…
REGIONAL NEWS
Muttaqi leaves Kabul for Doha to meet US officials
By Ariana News
Hafiz Zia Ahmad Takal, deputy spokesman for the ministry tweeted the Muttaqi will discuss with the American representatives about banking sanctions, removing the names of…
Pakistan’s Deepening Woes In Balochistan – Analysis
By EurAsia Review
TTP has stepped up its attacks in Balochistan since revoking a ceasefire agreement with Islamabad in late…
INTERNATIONAL NEWS RELATING TO AFGHANISTAN
By MFA Afghanistan
Welcoming the guests, FM Muttaqi held discussion on the overall situation of the country, highlighting the positive changes in terms of ensuring security and stability and…
THE DAILY WTF
Security enforced across Afghanistan, says Akhund
By Noorullah Zazai - Pajhwok Afghan News
Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund said on Saturday the peaceful commemoration of Yaum-i-Ashur proved…
Afghani to the Dollar: $1 – 89.17 AFN (as of 30 JUL 2023)