The Week of January 13-19
Security and Conflict
Afghanistan Security Watch Report on December – The Afghanistan Security Watch documented 39 security incidents in December, of which 25 were independently verified. The Afghanistan Freedom Front was responsible for 12 attacks, followed by the National Resistance Front with six. ISIS-Khorasan carried out one attack, while six incidents were attributed to unknown actors. Most of the reported incidents occurred in Kabul, Badghis, Herat, Parwan, and Nangarhar. These groups claim to have killed 67 Taliban fighters and injured 64, emphasizing that their operations caused no civilian casualties.
Talib Killed by ISKP In Baghlan – On Saturday, ISKP claimed responsibility for killing Taliban fighter Hafiz Ahmad Javid Seerat in the Nahrin district of Baghlan province. The group reported using a machine gun in the attack and seizing his weapon. Photos of the incident circulated among media outlets as well as pro-Taliban and pro-ISKP accounts. Separately, Ahmad Javed, a Taliban member from Lakan Khel village, was shot dead in Kotl-e-Hafiz Bacha near Dash Khosht, central Baghlan.
Human Rights and Civil Liberties
Teacher Sentence to Seven Years – This week, the Taliban sentenced Suleiman Sai, a teacher from Bamiyan, to seven years in prison for allegedly running a fake Facebook account and opposing their regime. Sai was arrested 10 months ago during a forced nighttime raid and accused of posting critical content about the Taliban and local community issues. During his detention, he was reportedly subjected to severe torture, resulting in broken teeth and brief hospitalization due to deteriorating health. His arrest reportedly followed community complaints.
Former NDS arrested in Kunduz – On Sunday, the Taliban arrested Wahidullah, a former National Directorate of Security NDS soldier from Panjshir, at his home in Kunduz’s Fourth District. He was subsequently transferred to Kabul. No additional information has been made available.
Eight Arrested for Gambling – On Monday, the Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced the arrest of eight individuals in Baghlan province for alleged gambling. The arrests took place in Dara Sheshan village, Deh Salah district. The ministry stated that the action was part of its enforcement of "Islamic orders."
Internal Politics
New Minister of Refugees Assumes Post – On Saturday, Abdul Kabir officially assumed the role of Afghanistan's Minister of Refugees, ten days after his appointment. He succeeded Khalil-ur-Rahman Haqqani, who was killed in a suicide bombing by ISIS-K. At the introduction ceremony, Kabir pledged to improve conditions for refugees. His delayed assumption of office followed Haqqani’s leadership within the influential Haqqani faction of the Taliban, amid ongoing challenges related to refugees and displacement in Afghanistan. Reports indicate Kabir had resisted reassignment to this position, and his appointment was made without consultation with him or Sirajuddin Haqqani, fueling tensions within the Taliban.
Taliban Hold Summit on Water and Climate Change – On Thursday, at a Kabul climate change summit, Taliban official Abbas Stanikzai emphasized the urgent need to regulate Afghanistan’s water resources, warning of severe drinking water shortages if uncontrolled flows to neighboring countries continue. He urged the Ministry of Energy and Water to accelerate dam-building efforts, citing the country's declining water levels and environmental damage, including the destruction of 80% of its forests. The summit, organized to assess outcomes from the 29th Global Climate Change Summit, also highlighted regional tensions over Afghanistan’s water projects, with Iran and Central Asia expressing concerns.
Government Employees Barred from Holding two Official Positions – On Thursday, the Taliban’s Ministry of Justice reiterated a directive barring government employees from holding two official positions simultaneously. This comes amid reports that Abdul Kabir, newly appointed as acting Minister of Refugees, had attempted to retain his previous role as Deputy PM for Political Affairs. Delays in Kabir’s assumption of his new position reportedly stem from internal factional disputes within the Taliban, with the Kandahari and Haqqani groups vying for control over the Ministry of Refugees.
International Developments
EU an UNHCR Pledge Funds For Displaced Afghans – On Sunday, amid the increasing deportation of Afghans across several regional countries, the EU and UNHCR signed a €36 million agreement to aid displaced Afghans and host communities in Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, and Central Asia. This agreement is part of a €110 million program running from 2025 to 2027, aiming to provide protection, livelihoods, and essential services for refugees, returnees, and internally displaced persons (IDPs). The initiative will focus on self-reliance, gender empowerment, and social cohesion, offering legal aid, education, healthcare, vocational training, and economic opportunities for vulnerable populations.
Freedom of the Press
Journalist Discusses Taliban Detention and Torture – This week, Afghan-French journalist Morteza Behboudi shared the details of his seven-month imprisonment by the Taliban, describing torture that included electric shocks, forced injections, and teeth extractions during the first three months. Arrested in Kabul in January 2023 on espionage charges, he was beaten for seven days and tortured by ISIS prisoners because of his Hazara and Shia background. Released after 284 days, Behboudi continues to battle trauma. Reports indicate the use of 31 torture methods in Taliban detention centers.
Women’s Voices Banned From Radio in Badghis – On Thursday, the Taliban in Badghis announced a ban on the broadcasting of women’s voices on local radio, citing a new moral directive that deems their voices “awrah.” This follows similar bans, including a recent directive in Herat barring female news anchors. Last year, Khost province also prohibited women’s voices on radio.
Regional Developments
Crackdown on Afghan Migrants in Region – Afghan migrants in Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Iran are facing a rising wave of arrests, deportations, and extortion. In Tajikistan, police raids have resulted in the deportation of over 1,000 Afghans, often disregarding valid legal documents and demanding bribes ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 for their release. In Pakistan, refugees report daily arrests and extortion amid tightened visa regulations. Iran has intensified raids on workplaces and deportations, spurred by anti-migrant campaigns. Desperate migrants are also enduring harsh conditions to cross into Turkey, despite limited opportunities there. Persistent instability and economic struggles in Afghanistan continue to drive Afghans to seek refuge abroad.
Taliban Claim Pakistan Detains Afghan with Documents – On Thursday, the Taliban’s chargé d’affaires in Pakistan, Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb, expressed concern over the treatment of Afghan refugees during a meeting with UNHCR representative Philippa Candler. Shakeeb claimed that police raids have targeted Afghan refugees, including those holding valid documents, and reported forced evictions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Candler acknowledged the complaints, confirming that the UNHCR is engaging with Pakistani ministries to address the issue. Amid the intensified deportations, rights groups warn of growing uncertainty for Afghan refugees, who are increasingly facing harassment and displacement in Pakistan.
Pakistan Plan to Deport Afghans to Third Countries – On Saturday, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar chaired a meeting to discuss the relocation of Afghan nationals to third countries, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. While the details of the meeting were not disclosed, the move comes amid escalating crackdowns on Afghan migrants by Pakistani authorities, raising concerns about the treatment and future of Afghan refugees in Pakistan.
Taliban Supreme Court Official holds Discussion with Iran on Condemned Afghans – On Friday, Abdul Malik Haqqani, the Taliban Supreme Court deputy, led a delegation to Iran, requesting a list of Afghan death row inmates and advocating for leniency based on Islamic principles. Haqqani also urged Iran to provide Afghan migrants with rights, including access to education and employment. Iranian official Kazem Gharibabadi pledged fair treatment and announced plans to transfer 1,500 Afghan prisoners. However, concerns remain about the potential mistreatment of Taliban opponents among the detainees.
Former Pakistani PM Statement on Afghanistan – On Tuesday, Former Pakistani Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar warned that leftover NATO weapons in Afghanistan have fueled regional terrorism, with militants acquiring and trading U.S. arms. Speaking in Islamabad, Kakar emphasized the long-term fight against terrorism, rejecting justifications for militant violence. He stressed Pakistan's commitment to regional stability, even if the battle lasts for a century. His remarks were made during the unveiling of a "Comprehensive National Security Charter," which was attended by diplomats and security experts.
Miscellaneous
Bill And Melinda Gates Foundation Polio Campaign – The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, in collaboration with Qatar, announced the launch of the "Polio Legacy Challenge" in 2025, aimed at eradicating polio in Pakistan and Afghanistan. The initiative is funded through partnerships with Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund and will work closely with regional health ministries. Despite ongoing efforts, polio cases in Pakistan have risen to 71, while Afghanistan reported 25 cases last year. Continued regional cooperation remains crucial for disease eradication.
UNICEF and OIC To Support Mothers and Children In Afghanistan – On Thursday, UNICEF and the OIC signed a $1.5 million agreement to support children and mothers in Afghanistan, Chad, and Pakistan. In Afghanistan, the funds will enhance maternal and child healthcare, while in Chad and Pakistan, they will support education initiatives. The OIC emphasized promoting girls’ education and combating misconceptions. This agreement comes amid continued Taliban restrictions on Afghan women and girls, depriving them of fundamental rights such as education and work.
NEXT WEEK
Heavy snowfall has been predicted across much of Afghanistan. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about road conditions. Storms have completely blocked the Salang Tunnel as well as roads to and through Bamiyan and Daikundi.
The situation with Pakistan remains tense, and those traveling to border areas should be aware of the potential for clashes.
In Pakistan, crackdowns on Afghans, particularly in Islamabad, are ongoing. Afghans without a Certificate of No Objection are strongly urged to obtain one immediately. Authorities are conducting house-to-house searches to identify individuals violating the new rule, with reports of continued extortion. Similar search operations have been reported in areas bordering Rawalpindi. Afghans in Pakistan are advised to exercise caution and ensure that their visas and other necessary documentation are up to date.
Additionally, protests are expected in the coming weeks following the sentencing of Imran Khan. Afghans are reminded to avoid crowds and demonstrations, and to remain indoors if protests occur.
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
IRAN
IOM Report on Deportation of Afghans from Iran – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that 1.2 million undocumented Afghans returned from Iran in 2024, with 67% forcibly deported. Supported by the EU and other donors, IOM provided assistance to over 324,000 returnees. Deportations have intensified, with Iran suspending Afghan migrants' bank accounts in Kerman Province. Similarly, Pakistan has escalated forced deportations, with Afghan nationals reporting arrests even when holding valid documents. These developments highlight the increasing challenges faced by Afghan migrants in neighboring countries.
Two Supreme Court Judges Killed – On Saturday, two Supreme Court judges, Mohammad Moghiseh and Hojatoleslam Ali Razini, were assassinated in Tehran in a rare attack on senior officials. Initially identified as a judiciary staffer, the assailant was later revealed to be an outsider who infiltrated the court to target the judges known for handling national security cases. The attacker committed suicide after the shooting. Authorities have arrested several courthouse staff for investigation, and state media has linked the attack to anti-Iranian security elements.
Afghans Released from Kidnappers in Iran – Iranian authorities rescued two Afghan nationals held captive for 13 days by a kidnapping gang, arresting nine suspects, including Afghans. The ordeal began after one victim disappeared following a meeting arranged via social media. The kidnappers demanded a $20,000 ransom and sent torture videos to the victim's brother. Police tracked the gang using surveillance footage, information from a ride-hailing driver, and a bank account tied to the ransom demand. The victims were reportedly tortured throughout their captivity.
PAKISTAN
Imran Khan Sentenced – On Friday, former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was sentenced to 14 years in prison, while his wife, Bushra Bibi, received a seven-year sentence for corruption related to the Al-Qadir University Project Trust. Khan was fined 1 million rupees ($3,500) and Bibi half that amount. Convicted in Adiala Jail, where Khan has been held since August 2023, this marks his fourth major conviction. Facing dozens of additional charges, Khan claims the cases are politically motivated. Bibi was arrested at the court premises.
Deportations Continue – House-to-house searches and detentions, including arrests of children without parents, continue in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. While the exact number of detained Afghans remains unclear, sources report ongoing deportations in these cities.
Attack on Convoy in Kurram – On Thursday, a convoy transporting food and medical supplies to Parachinar was attacked in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Lower Kurram, resulting in one soldier killed and four injured. Retaliatory action left six attackers dead and ten wounded. The ambush comes amid weeks-long road blockades due to land disputes, which have caused severe shortages despite a peace agreement on January 1. Intense gunfire during the attack damaged vehicles and stranded travelers. Authorities are working to restore order as clashes persist.
Crackdown on BYA Protest Karachi – On Saturday, police detained over 25 members of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), including women, during a peaceful march in Lyari. Authorities accused them of engaging in “anti-Pakistan activity.” BYC leaders alleged excessive force, harassment, and human rights violations, while Amnesty International condemned the crackdown as a violation of the right to peaceful assembly. Nine men remain detained without charges. BYC has vowed to continue its protests, citing repeated suppression of their events, as authorities escalate pressure ahead of a January 25 rally in Dalbandin.
Pakistan Kills Alleged Afghan Spy – On Monday, Pakistani media reported the killing of a suspected "Afghan spy" by security forces near the Afghanistan border. Identified as 48-year-old Mohammad Khan Ahmad Khil, he was allegedly working for Taliban intelligence and involved in arms smuggling for attacks in areas like Qila Saifullah and Zhob. Authorities claim he attempted to flee when identified. Islamabad has repeatedly accused the Taliban of harboring Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan militants, a charge the Taliban denies, asserting that Afghan territory is not used for foreign operations.
SPOTLIGHT ANALYSIS
Human Rights Watch Report on Afghanistan
The situation in Afghanistan worsened in 2024 as the Taliban authorities intensified their crackdown on human rights, particularly against women and girls. Afghanistan remained the only country where girls and women were banned from secondary and university education, while also facing significant barriers to employment and freedom of movement, assembly, and speech. The Taliban also detained journalists and critics and imposed severe restrictions on the media. Afghanistan’s economic crisis left 23 million in need of humanitarian assistance; women and girls were disproportionally affected.
AFGHAN NEWS
Taliban Revokes Russian Scholarships for Afghan Students, Citing Ideological Concerns
Kabul Now
The Taliban’s Ministry of Higher Education has reportedly revoked around 500 scholarships awarded by the Russian government to Afghan students, citing concerns that students may adopt “infidel” and “communist” ideologies while studying in Russia.
Several Afghan students selected for the scholarships told KabulNow that the Russian Embassy in Kabul recently informed them about the cancellation. The students, who had been waiting for months to travel to Russia and pursue their higher education, now face an uncertain future.
No excuse for ban on women and girls education, says Stanekzai
Siyar Sirat
Abbas Stanekzai, the Taliban’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, has sharply criticized the Taliban ban on women and girls education, saying that there is no excuse to continue the ban and that it has no basis in Islam teachings.
Speaking at a gathering in Khost province, Stanekzai emphasized that women’s access to education was supported during the time of the Prophet Muhammad. He referenced historical examples to argue against the restrictions imposed by the Taliban.
REGIONAL NEWS
PTI Presents Charter if Demands in 3rd Round of Talks with Government
Irfan Sadozoi
The PTI finally presented its ‘charter of demands’ to the government in written form on Thursday, as the third round of negotiations between the two began.
Talks between the government and the PTI commenced in the last week of December to bring down political temperatures, but despite weeks of negotiations, the dialogue process has hardly moved forward on major issues — the formation of a judicial commission and the release of PTI prisoners.
Today’s meeting kicked off under the NA speaker’s oversight and was attended by six people, including three PTI leaders, from the opposition, while eight represented the government.
Iran, European powers hold third round of nuclear talks in Geneva
Iran International
Negotiators from Iran and the European E3 countries of France, Britain and Germany convened a third round of talks on the Islamic Republic's nuclear program in Geneva on Monday, an Iranian deputy foreign minister said.
"We discussed ideas involving certain details in the sanctions-lifting and nuclear fields that are needed for a deal," Kazem Gharibabadi said in a post on X.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS RELATING TO AFGHANISTAN
Bennett calls for Afghan refugee voices in global policy discussions
Habib Mohammadi
Richard Bennett, the United Nations special rapporteur for Afghanistan, on Wednesday called for the voices of Afghan refugees to be included in international discussions and policy decisions. Speaking during a virtual event hosted by Shahmama, Bennett emphasized the need to strengthen and improve refugee rights globally.
“Whatever the political dimension is… we must respect refugee rights,” Bennett said, urging long-term solutions for Afghan refugees.
Families of Americans held by Taliban plead with Biden to ‘do the right thing’
Arpan Rai
Families of American hostages held by the Taliban in Afghanistan have asked Joe Biden “to do the right thing” and bring the men home before he leaves office, after months of lobbying the outgoing president to broker a deal with the hardline Islamist regime.
Three US citizens – George Glezmann, Ryan Corbett and Mahmood Shah Habibi – are believed to have been in the Taliban’s custody since 2022. The Taliban has confirmed it is holding two of the men but consistently denied detaining Mr Habibi.