The Week of February 23- March 1
Security and Conflict
Cross Border Fighting Tuesday – On Tuesday afternoon, clashes were reported along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border in Nangarhar province, particularly in the Shakot area of Nazyan district near the Durand Line. Fighting spread to Achin and Dor Baba districts, as well as across the border into Khyber district’s Zakhakhel and surrounding areas. Sources said mortar and rocket fire was exchanged, with heavy weapons used by both sides. No official casualty figures were released.
Cross Border Fighting Wednesday – Clashes broke out Wednesday evening between Taliban forces and Pakistani troops in the Maqbal area of Dand-e-Patan district, Paktia province, along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border, according to local sources. Fighting was also reported across parts of Pakistan’s Khyber and Kurram districts, with heavy gunfire exchanged in multiple locations. Both sides reportedly used heavy weapons. There were no immediate reports of casualties, and officials from either side had not issued statements.
Cross Border Fighting Thursday – Fighting erupted late Thursday along multiple sections of the Afghanistan–Pakistan border, including in Nangarhar, Kunar, Khost, Paktia, and Nuristan provinces. The Taliban said they launched large-scale operations in response to recent Pakistani airstrikes, claiming to have captured up to 15 military posts and taken some personnel captive, though these claims cannot be independently verified.
The Taliban Ministry of Defense claimed 55 Pakistani soldiers were killed, with eight Taliban killed, 11 Taliban wounded, and 13 civilians injured, though the figures are unverified. Pakistani authorities said Afghan forces opened unprovoked fire in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and that their troops responded immediately, reporting significant Taliban casualties, a claim that also remains unverified.
Pakistan Air Strikes Overnight Thursday – Overnight Thursday into early Friday, Pakistani forces carried out airstrikes across multiple Afghan provinces following reported Taliban attacks on Pakistani border posts. In Kabul, explosions were reported in Wazir Akbar Khan, Makroyan, Chehel Sutoon, Arzan Qemat, Darul Aman, Khushal Khan, and areas near the airport. No confirmed casualty figures were released.
In Kandahar, strikes hit parts of the city, including Kandahar Airport and Spin Boldak district near the border. A reported target included the former home of Mullah Omar, described as a base for the Taliban’s suicide unit and located about one kilometer from a residence of Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. One source said approximately 15 Taliban members were killed in Kandahar.
Additional strikes were reported in Gardez (Paktia), Hisarak (Nangarhar), Marawara and Shultan (Kunar), and parts of Khost province.
Pakistan said operations continued until 3:45 a.m., targeting command centers and depots. It claimed 133 Taliban fighters were killed, more than 200 wounded, 27 posts destroyed, and nine captured. The Taliban denied suffering casualties and said 55 Pakistani soldiers were killed in border clashes. Pakistan, in turn, reported 12 soldiers killed and 27 wounded.
Second Wave of Strikes Friday – On Friday, Pakistani airstrikes were reported in several eastern Afghan provinces, including Laghman, Paktika, Paktia, Nangarhar, and Kunar. In Laghman, fighter jets allegedly targeted the Taliban’s 201st Khalid bin Walid Corps in the Gambiri area around midday, though no confirmed casualty figures were released.
In Paktika, strikes hit parts of Shakin district early Friday, including a residential house. Casualties were reported but not confirmed. Argun district was also reportedly targeted, with claims that Taliban border units were struck.
In Paktia, warplanes reportedly hit a Taliban border brigade facility in Gardez around noon, with residents describing jets overhead and smoke rising from a building. Additional explosions were reported in Goshta district of Nangarhar and areas linked to Nari district in Kunar, though casualty details were not confirmed. Taliban officials said Pakistani aircraft remained active in Afghan airspace.
Taliban Claim Strikes In Pakistan – On Friday, Taliban officials said their forces carried out retaliatory strikes on Pakistani military targets late Friday, describing the attacks as a response to earlier Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan, including in Kabul and Kandahar. According to statements by Zabihullah Mujahid and the Taliban Ministry of Defense, targets included a military camp near Faizabad in Islamabad, the army cantonment in Nowshera, the Jamrud military colony and a military facility in Abbottabad. One account said the strikes occurred around 11:00 p.m.
Pakistan denied that Afghan Taliban forces were responsible for drone incidents in Islamabad and Abbottabad, attributing them instead to TTP. Pakistani officials said anti-drone systems intercepted and destroyed the drones and reported no casualties. Authorities also placed Karachi on full alert, increasing security at airports, railway stations and other sensitive locations.
Cross border Fighting Friday – Renewed cross-border fighting was reported in several areas along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border. Clashes took place in Zazi Maidan, Alisher, and Tere Zayi districts of Khost province, as well as in Dand-e-Patan district of Paktia province. The attacks reportedly targeted Pakistani military posts and border outposts along the disputed frontier. Some sources also indicated fighting in Nangarhar province.
Additional fighting occurred at approximately 10:30 p.m., when Pakistani military shells reportedly struck residential homes in the Dandono area of Asadabad, the capital of Kunar province. Further details on casualties or damage were not immediately available.
Cross Border Fighting Saturday – On Saturday evening, clashes between Pakistani and Afghan forces began around 7:58 p.m. at the Maqbal border area in Kurram district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan. The fighting intensified by 9:35 p.m. and spread to at least four additional points along the frontier. Casualties were reported on both sides but remain unverified.
Separate reports indicated renewed Taliban attacks on Pakistani positions along the Durand Line, including in Torkham, Paktia, and Khost, with heavy weapons reportedly used. Taliban officials claimed that 32 Pakistani soldiers were killed, a claim denied by Pakistani authorities.
Pakistan Airstrikes Sunday – Parwan police authorities said Pakistani aircraft carried out airstrikes on Bagram Air Base, adding that air defense systems responded and that the situation was under control. Taliban officials also reported strikes in Nangarhar and Paktia provinces that they said killed three civilians.
Further strikes were reported late Sunday in Kabul. Pakistani authorities have not publicly commented on these claims.
Taliban Claim Capture of Downed Pilot – On Saturday, Taliban officials in Nangarhar claimed they had shot down a Pakistani aircraft and captured its pilot. Subsequent investigations suggested the individual was a paraglider who had landed in the area and was mistaken for a pilot. Locals said children alerted Taliban forces after seeing him descend. Videos circulating online show Taliban members arresting and beating the man in a market.
Bombing Casualties – On Saturday, Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, said that since February 22, Pakistani military air and ground attacks had killed 52 civilians and injured 66 others, including many women and children. He reported eight homes destroyed and 14 damaged in Paktika, Nangarhar, Kunar, Khost, and Kandahar. Casualty figures vary by source and remain difficult to independently confirm.
Taliban Clash With Locals in Takhar – On Thursday, clashes broke out around noon near Gorgan village in Darqad district of Takhar province over a dispute involving approximately 2,000 jeribs of land (about 1,000 acres). The confrontation reportedly involved Taliban members and local residents. Several people were injured after Taliban forces opened fire, with at least six said to be in critical condition. The Taliban have not commented on the incident.
Human Rights and Civil Liberties
Floggings – On Wednesday, one person was flogged in Baghlan province. On Thursday, one person was flogged in Paktika province.
Internal Politics
Translation of Taliban Penal Code Released – On Thursday, the Afghan Analyst Network released an unofficial translation of the Taliban’s widely criticized penal code. The translation can be accessed Here
MoPVPV to Require Marriage Process Formalization – On Thursday, Saif-ul-Islam Khyber, spokesperson for the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, announced that nikah ceremonies will transition from traditional village settings to a formal legal framework, requiring them to be conducted and registered in courts. He stated that the policy aims to prevent forced marriages, curb excessive bride prices, and address other harmful practices associated with informal marriage arrangements.
International Developments
International Reaction to Cross Border Fighting – On Friday, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar discussed efforts to ease rising tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, emphasizing dialogue and regional stability. Qatar offered to mediate and contacted Taliban representatives regarding de-escalation efforts. The United States advised its citizens to leave Afghanistan and avoid border areas. Russia, China, and the United Kingdom each called for restraint and dialogue, with Moscow expressing readiness to mediate and Beijing urging a ceasefire.
UN Human Rights Council Discusses Afghanistan – On Thursday, the UN Human Rights Council held a session on Afghanistan, during which officials and rights groups warned of worsening conditions under Taliban rule. Speakers said restrictions on women and girls, limits on civil liberties, and a new Taliban courts law have intensified repression and discrimination. UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett said abuses risk becoming normalized, while High Commissioner Volker Türk urged greater international pressure. Several countries criticized Taliban policies as violations of international human rights obligations.
February OCHA Report Released – The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs launched the 2026 Afghanistan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, projecting that 21.9 million people will require assistance next year. The $1.71 billion plan targets 17.5 million people, prioritizing areas facing acute conditions, including drought and large-scale returns. Food insecurity remains severe, with 17.4 million people expected to face crisis-level hunger. OCHA also highlighted mounting pressures from nearly five million returnees and funding shortfalls limiting aid delivery. The full report can be accessed Here
Russian Statement on Foreign Militants in Afghanistan – On Monday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry stated that between 20,000 and 23,000 militants linked to international groups are operating in Afghanistan, with more than half described as foreign nationals. It estimated that ISKP has approximately 3,000 fighters, the TTP between 5,000 and 7,000, and al-Qaeda between 400 and 1,500, alongside smaller factions. The ministry said ISKP remains openly hostile to Afghanistan’s authorities but lacks the capacity to control territory. Taliban officials rejected the claims.
Germany Deports 20 Afghans – On Thursday, Germany’s Interior Ministry announced that 20 Afghan nationals were deported from Leipzig to Kabul on a charter flight under a new agreement enabling direct returns. Authorities said the men had committed criminal offenses in Germany. Officials described the move as part of broader migration control policy. Germany is reportedly in talks with the Taliban regarding deportations, despite having no formal diplomatic relations with them.
Afghanistan Mission Files Complaint with UN on Pakistan Strike – On Monday, Afghanistan’s permanent mission to the United Nations filed a complaint with the UN Security Council over Pakistani airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan on Saturday, calling them violations of the UN Charter and international law. Chargé d’affaires Naseer Ahmad Faiq said the strikes killed civilians and urged an investigation and a halt to further attacks.
Denmark Coordinating With Taliban on Deportations – On Monday, Denmark announced that it is coordinating with the Taliban-run Afghan embassy in Oslo to facilitate the deportation of 57 Afghan nationals whose asylum claims were rejected and who have criminal convictions. Danish authorities said the contact is limited to technical and consular matters and does not constitute formal recognition. Norwegian officials said they played no role in the arrangement and emphasized adherence to non-refoulement principles.
Freedom of Press
Restrictions on Media Coverage of Pakistan Fighting – Taliban intelligence has reportedly instructed domestic media outlets not to cover areas targeted in recent Pakistani airstrikes, according to sources on Sunday. Journalists were warned against defying the order, and intelligence personnel in some cases monitored newsrooms to ensure compliance. The restrictions follow Pakistani airstrikes since Thursday night, including reported strikes in parts of Kabul. The Taliban have not publicly commented on the alleged directive.
Mohaqiq’s Media Station Suspended – On Saturday, a Taliban spokesman for the Ministry of Information and Culture announced the suspension of Kabul-based private broadcaster Rah-e-Farda TV and the confiscation of assets belonging to its owner, Mohammad Mohaqiq. Authorities said the action was taken after Mohaqiq allegedly supported Pakistani military strikes in Afghanistan and criticized Taliban retaliation, accusing him of making statements deemed harmful to national unity.
Regional Developments
Sharp Decline in Afghanistan-Pakistan Trade – Pakistan’s exports to Afghanistan fell by more than 50 percent during the first seven months of the current fiscal year, according to State Bank of Pakistan data. Export revenues declined from over $550 million to approximately $230 million between July and January, largely due to suspended bilateral trade since early October. Imports from Afghanistan also decreased, falling from more than $15 million to just over $6 million, reflecting reduced cross-border trade.
Meeting Regarding Islam Qala Border – On Wednesday, a delegation led by Noorulrahman Nusrat, Head of Operations at Afghanistan’s Ministry of National Defense, met Iranian officials at the Islam Qala Commission to discuss plans to modernize border markers between the two countries. Afghan authorities said the initiative aims to protect mutual interests and prevent misunderstandings along the border.
Uzbek PM Meets with Taliban Officials – On Wednesday, Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev said he discussed plans to increase bilateral trade to $5 billion during an online meeting with Noorudin Azizi, the Islamic Emirate’s Minister of Industry and Commerce. The talks focused on expanding economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan.
US Visa Processing Information/US Legal Information (No changes this week)
New Policy Announced to Detain Refugees – On Wednesday, the administration announced a policy requiring the arrest and re-interview of refugees who have lived in the United States for at least one year without applying for lawful permanent residency. A Department of Homeland Security memo states that such refugees must return to custody for renewed inspection, including a reassessment of their original eligibility. Those who have filed Form I-485 and attend scheduled interviews may reduce their risk of detention. All Afghans in this category are strongly encouraged to consult an immigration attorney immediately and to file Form I-485 if eligible.
IRAP SIV Court Ruling – On Friday, a federal court ordered the Trump administration to resume processing COM applications under the SIV program in the class action case Afghan & Iraqi Allies v. Rubio. The judge ruled that the administration must comply with a previously ordered plan to adjudicate applications in a timely manner, despite the expanded travel ban blocking Afghan nationals from entering the United States. A status conference is scheduled for February 24 to review compliance. It remains unclear whether the administration will fully comply with the court order. It is important to note that even if processing resumes, the expanded travel ban continues to prevent Afghan nationals from receiving visas or traveling to the United States at this time. More information can be found here. More information can be found Here.
Update for Afghan SIVs awaiting Interview – Starting January 1, 2026, the expanded U.S. travel ban will block Afghan SIV applicants from receiving visas or entering the United States, though those with issued visas may still enter. Even if an application has already been approved, a U.S. embassy may deny the visa under Section 212(f) of U.S. immigration law. This type of denial is final, not temporary. The denial cannot be appealed.
If a visa is denied under 212(f), the applicant may need to apply again if the travel ban is lifted in the future. However, this denial should not cancel the underlying approval of the case (COM Approval remains valid). IRAP is currently recommending that Afghans with visa appointments consider postponing their interview dates. SIVs should seek legal advice prior to making a decision on attending a visa interview at this time.
Travel Ban and Benefit Review – The U.S. has introduced stricter immigration rules for nationals of 39 countries, including Afghanistan. Immigration applications are now paused, and pending cases, such as Green Cards and citizenship, are on hold. Individuals who entered the U.S. on or after January 20, 2021, may have their previously approved immigration benefits reviewed again. The administration has agreed to hand over a list of cases that will be reviewed within the next 90 days. Additional security checks will also apply. Issues with identity documents or perceived risks linked to one’s country may now negatively affect cases. The full guidance is available in Dari or Pashto
Refugee Review – The U.S. government will re-examine refugee approvals for individuals admitted between January 20, 2021, and February 20, 2025, even for those who already hold Green Cards. USCIS may review both the initial refugee determination and the Form I-485 application. Green Card applications for refugees from this period are currently paused. Refugees from travel-ban countries will also be subject to the stricter review and enhanced security checks noted above. More information is available in Dari or Pashto
Asylum Cases Paused for Afghans – USCIS has paused decisions on all new and pending affirmative asylum applications. No approvals or denials will be issued during this period. However, this pause does not affect asylum cases in immigration court, which will continue moving forward. New asylum applications may still be filed, but no decisions will be made until the pause is lifted. No end date has been announced.
Work Permit Changes – Most new Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) will no longer be valid for five years. Under a new rule, many applicants will now receive EADs valid for 18 months, while others may receive permits valid for one year or less. These changes apply to applications submitted or pending on or after December 5, 2025 (for 18-month permits) and July 22, 2025 (for one-year permits). Existing EADs remain valid until their printed expiration dates.
NEXT WEEK
With the global focus on Iran, third country mediation between Afghanistan and Pakistan is not likely; Cross-border attacks and airstrikes are likely to continue in the coming week. Border areas, military positions, and government buildings in Kabul and Kandahar are the most likely targets. Afghans living near these areas are urged to exercise caution, as the risk of civilian casualties remains high. Afghans in Pakistan may face arrest, detention, and deportation during this period, regardless of visa status. Afghans in Pakistan should avoid crowded areas and protests.
In Afghanistan, government attention will remain focused on fighting with Pakistan. Any open opposition to the conflict is likely to be silenced, including criticism expressed through media or personal online statements. While the Taliban may have mixed internal reactions to the killing of Iran’s Khamenei, public protests or mourning by Shia communities in Afghanistan are likely to face resistance from Taliban forces. The Taliban leadership will likely seek to concentrate public support on its confrontation with Pakistan.
In Iran, the coming week is likely to bring significant turmoil following the death of Khamenei. It remains unclear whether the death of the Supreme Leader will result in meaningful changes to the political system. Afghans in Iran are urged to exercise restraint in public settings and in online statements and should avoid public gatherings or protests. Continued retaliatory strikes by Iran are possible in the coming days, and additional strikes by the United States or Israel cannot be ruled out. The situation remains tense and unpredictable.
The United States has halted all visa processing for Afghan cases, though a court ruling has ordered the resumption of COM review for SIV cases. Afghan SIV and other visa interviews are likely to result in denials under Section 212(f), which are permanent and non-appealable. IRAP and other legal service providers are advising Afghans to consider postponing interviews to avoid a 212(f) denial. All Afghans are currently barred from entering the United States unless they hold a valid visa issued prior to the ban.
Across the United States, ICE detentions continue to increase nationwide. It is critically important that Afghans understand their legal rights. Individuals are encouraged to review the ICE raid section of the U.S. processing guidance and consult the know your rights guide.
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
IRAN
Khamenei Killed in US/Israel Airstrikes – On Saturday, 2026, the United States and Israel launched a large-scale coordinated military offensive against Iran, striking strategic military sites, leadership facilities and infrastructure across Tehran and other major cities. The operation, backed by U.S. and Israeli forces, involved hundreds of aircraft and long-range weapons. Iranian state media and international reports confirmed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a targeted strike on his compound, along with senior regime figures and family members, leading Iran to declare a 40-day mourning period.
The offensive also included actions in the vicinity of U.S. regional bases, such as Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, where explosions and missile traffic were reported; this base hosts evacuees from Afghanistan affected by U.S. refugee processing pauses and travel restrictions.
In immediate retaliation, Iran’s armed forces launched missiles and drones against Israeli territory and U.S. military installations in the Gulf, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE. Explosions and air-defense engagements were reported across multiple Gulf capitals, prompting airspace closures and heightened alerts. Regional governments denounced the escalation and activated emergency defenses as tensions continued to rise.
Injured By Iranian Border Guards – On Thursday, Haalvsh, a human rights organization, reported that two Afghan nationals were killed and about 20 others injured on Tuesday when Iranian border forces allegedly opened fire on a vehicle carrying migrants in the Saravan border area of Sistan and Baluchestan province. The group said the vehicle overturned and caught fire after being shot at, and at least six of the injured are in critical condition. Authorities have not commented.
Former Afghan MP Shot in Iran – On Tuesday, Karimuddin Rezazada, a former member of parliament from Ghor province, was seriously wounded in a shooting in Karaj, Iran. Unidentified gunmen reportedly opened fire while he was on a motorcycle and fled the scene. He was struck by two bullets and remains hospitalized. Iranian authorities have not commented. The Taliban also have not issued a statement regarding the attack.
PAKISTAN
Coordinated Detention Efforts Underway in Islamabad and Rawalpindi – On Saturday, Afghan migrants reported that police in Islamabad and Rawalpindi resumed arrests the previous evening, detaining dozens in areas including Faisal Town. Pakistani media said security forces have launched large-scale inspections of Afghan migrant homes during Ramadan, with more than 2,000 personnel deployed in Islamabad and surrounding areas.
Pro-Iran Protests in Pakistan – On Sunday, protests erupted across Pakistan following the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In Peshawar, hundreds marched toward the U.S. Consulate, while demonstrations in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad led to clashes with security forces. At least nine people were reported killed nationwide. Authorities sealed sensitive areas and increased security, as unrest spread to other cities, including Skardu and Umerkot.
Officials Detain Afghan Medical Students – On Tuesday, Afghan students in Pakistan said Punjab police entered dormitories and detained several students, including those at Quaid-e-Azam Medical College in Bahawalpur. The detentions reportedly occurred ahead of scheduled exams, raising concerns about academic delays. Some students said their visas are pending renewal.
Attack Near Afghan Border – On Tuesday, seven people, including six police officers and one civilian, were killed in an attack on a police patrol vehicle in Kohat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa near the Afghan border, according to Pakistani media reports. Three officers were killed at the scene, while two others and a civilian died after being taken to hospital. Police said the attack occurred in a remote area and that the assailants set the vehicle on fire. Four others were wounded.
SPOTLIGHT ANALYSIS
Pakistan-Afghanistan live: Deadly cross-border fighting intensifies
Edna Mohamed and Nils Adler
Live Updates to Afghanistan-Pakistan Fighting
Lyse Doucet: This is an extraordinary moment Iran has been preparing for
This is a defining moment for the Islamic Republic of Iran.
There had been a swirl of reports about the fate of the supreme leader ever since Saturday morning, when it was clear that his residence had been targeted in the first wave of strikes.
Satellite images showed significant damage to his compound.
The first response from Iran was that he had been taken to a safe place.
Then came news that the 86-year-old cleric was to speak on state television, but nothing materialised.
By early evening, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a televised address, announced that “there are many signs” that the Supreme leader “is no longer”.
AFGHAN NEWS
Inside Accounts from Detention: Women’s Access to Justice Denied In Taliban-Ruled Afghanistan
Kabul Now
Executive Summary
This report explores the systematic rollback of women’s rights in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, specifically highlighting their exclusion from justice and the widespread violations of fundamental human rights. Through qualitative interviews with Afghan women who have survived detention, as well as interviews with subject matter experts, the report uncovers the Taliban’s intentional strategy to silence dissent, institutionalized oppression, and target women and marginalized ethnic groups. This is achieved through a combination of judicial manipulation, systemic abuse, and discriminatory practices.
25,000 children in Kunar still live in tents six months after earthquake
Siyar Sirat
About 25,000 children in Afghanistan’s eastern Kunar province are still living in tents six months after a deadly earthquake destroyed homes and schools, Save the Children said Thursday, warning that reconstruction has yet to begin in many of the hardest-hit areas.
The earthquake, which struck eastern Afghanistan on Aug. 31 last year, was one of the deadliest in the country’s history, killing more than 2,000 people and damaging or destroying over 8,000 homes, according to the aid group. Entire communities were flattened, forcing thousands of families into temporary camps.
REGIONAL NEWS
At least 9 killed in Pakistan as protesters try to storm US Consulate over Khamenei’s death
Adil Jawad and Munir Ahmed
Violent clashes between protesters and security forces in Pakistan’s port city of Karachi on Sunday left at least nine people dead and more than 50 others wounded as pro-Iran demonstrators attempted to storm the U.S. Consulate, authorities said.
Spike in Terror Attacks Across KP During First Week of Ramadan Claims Over 20 Security Personnel
Kyber Chronicles
A significant escalation in terrorist activity has been reported across multiple districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during the first week of Ramadan, resulting in the deaths of more than 20 security personnel and injuring several others. The attacks have targeted police, Frontier Corps (FC), and other security forces, highlighting a coordinated attempt by militants to destabilize the region during the holy month.
In southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, continuous assaults have led to the deaths of 13 police officers and injuries to 10 others. In Kohat, a violent incident claimed the lives of seven police personnel, while four others sustained injuries. In the Bhakar area adjoining Dera Ismail Khan, a suicide attacker detonated at a police checkpoint, killing four officers and wounding four more.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Afghanistan - Flow Monitoring Update
IOM
The International Organization for Migration’s (IOM) Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) Afghanistan’s Flow Monitoring is designed to provide insights into the mobility patterns at Afghanistan’s border points with the Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan. This activity involves two interlinked exercises: Flow Monitoring Counting (FMC), which monitors the number of movements across the border, and Flow Monitoring Surveys (FMS), which collect data on the profiles of Afghan nationals crossing the border including reasons for travel and intentions. The FMS leverages FMC data to determine statistically valid, gender-disaggregated target samples on a daily basis, enabling statistically representative FMS data. It is important to note that DTM collects information on total movements at a given border point, not the number of unique individuals entering or leaving the country. Movements can include returnees, deportees, and circular travellers, including those visiting family or students, for example. DTM FM is operational at four main crossing points (connected to Afghanistan’s National Highway) as well as five other crossing points with the Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan. This Flow Monitoring Update combines information from the FM activity and other IOM sources related to cross-border movement to Afghanistan. For a detailed explanation of the methodology used in gathering various inflow data, the report directs readers to the section titled “IOM INFLOW DATA” on page 8. Outflow data is collected exclusively through DTM’s FM activity.
UN General Assembly President Highlights ‘Gender Apartheid’ In Afghanistan
Afghanistan International
Annalena Baerbock, president of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, opened her address to the United Nations Human Rights Council by focusing on the situation of women in Afghanistan, describing it as what some call gender apartheid.
Speaking at the council’s 61st session, the former German foreign minister described the condition of women under Taliban rule as the worst form of structural human rights violation. She said the term “gender apartheid” is increasingly used to characterise the treatment of Afghan women and girls.
Afghani to US Dollar: $1 – 62.50 AFN (As of March 1)