The Week of January 19-25
Security and Conflict
ISKP Attack in Kabul – On Monday at approximately 3:00 p.m., ISKP carried out a suicide bombing at a Chinese-owned restaurant in Kabul’s Shahr-e-Naw district, killing seven people (one Chinese national and six Afghans) and injuring approximately 20 others. The blast struck the Chinese Noodle restaurant, operated by a Chinese Muslim from Xinjiang and his Afghan business partner. ISKP claimed responsibility, stating that the attack deliberately targeted Chinese nationals in response to Beijing’s treatment of Uyghur Muslims. Initial Taliban statements attributed the explosion to a gas cylinder, but this was later contradicted by ISKP’s claim and the nature of the blast. Following the attack, the Chinese embassy warned its citizens against travel to Afghanistan and urged those already in the country to avoid crowded places.
Cross Border Fighting – Also on Monday, clashes were reported between Taliban forces and Pakistani border guards along the Durand Line, between Maruf district in Kandahar province and Qilla Saifullah in Balochistan. The confrontation reportedly began when Pakistani troops attempted to extend barbed-wire fencing in the disputed area. Taliban fighters responded with gunfire, leading to a brief exchange involving both light and heavy weapons in the Apan and Gari villages. Afghan sources reported no casualties on their side, and the fighting has since ceased.
Human Rights and Civil Liberties
Ismaili Families Targeted in Badakshan – Reports from Badakhshan indicate increasing pressure on the Ismaili community following the implementation of new Taliban policies encouraging religious conversion. Under recently issued guidelines, Ismailis are reportedly being urged to convert to Sunni Islam through promises of security guarantees, financial assistance, government employment, and access to religious education. The measures also include plans to deploy Sunni religious teachers to Ismaili areas, expand or reopen mosques, and reorganize local religious institutions. Residents describe an atmosphere of intimidation, including religious coercion in schools and mosques and heightened scrutiny by local authorities.
Sufis Detained in Panjshir – On Monday, Taliban intelligence forces reportedly detained 10 residents of Malima village in Panjshir’s Darah district. The individuals, followers of the Faizaniyya Sufi order, were arrested while studying religious texts. Taliban officials have not commented on the detentions.
Women Barred from Entering Shrine in Kabul – On Monday, Kabul residents reported that Taliban authorities barred women from entering the Sakhi Shrine, a prominent religious and recreational site in western Kabul. The shrine holds particular significance for Shia Muslims.
Floggings – On Monday, two men and one woman were flogged in Faryab province. On Tuesday, 17 men and two women were flogged in Nangarhar and Balkh provinces.
Internal Politics
MoPVPV Statement on Morality Police – In a recent audio message, Taliban Acting Minister for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, Khalid Hanafi, reinforced the group’s strict interpretation of Sharia, stating that ministry officials are “enforcers, not preachers.” He emphasized that men must keep beards and avoid neckties and trousers, while women must observe full hijab. These rules, he said, are mandatory under Sharia and must be enforced, not treated as optional or advisory.
Haqqani Speech in Paktika – On Thursday, Taliban Acting Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani called for stability in Pakistan and urged both countries to avoid creating problems for one another amid heightened bilateral tensions. Speaking in Paktika’s Barmal district near the border, Haqqani described Afghanistan as a nation of dialogue and referred to Pakistan as a “brotherly neighbour.” His remarks followed renewed Pakistani accusations that the Taliban allow militant groups, including the TTP, to operate from Afghan territory.
Governors Meeting In Kandahar – On Wednesday, Taliban provincial governors from seven zones met in Kandahar to discuss political, security, and economic issues. Topics included security developments, counter-narcotics efforts, returning migrants, and trade facilitation. The governors stressed the need for uniform implementation of decrees issued by Mullah Hibatullah.
Taliban Shuffle Officials – On Tuesday, the Taliban announced six senior appointments and reshuffles across key civil and military positions. Mawlawi Nooruddin, formerly a brigade commander, was appointed Deputy Minister for Finance and Administration at the Ministry of Agriculture, filling a vacancy left by his predecessor’s death. Additional changes included police leadership swaps between Badakhshan and Sar-e Pul provinces, both of which have experienced instability. Mawlawi Hamidullah Irshad was named Deputy Governor of Takhar, while Mullah Mohammad Nader Haqjo, previously Takhar’s deputy governor, was appointed commander of a brigade in the 209th Al-Fath Corps. Mawlawi Abdullah Rahmani, a former internal security official, was appointed head of education in Faryab.
International Developments
UN Undersecretary in Kabul – On Saturday, UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo met with Taliban Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul to discuss the UN-led Doha process, according to a Taliban Foreign Ministry statement. Talks focused on coordination with the UN, counter-narcotics efforts, private sector support, and migrant returns. Muttaqi called for UN assistance in lifting banking sanctions and releasing Afghan central bank assets. DiCarlo emphasized continued engagement through Doha working groups and expressed hope for strengthened cooperation under the ongoing process.
Economic Cooperation Organization Meeting Held in Pakistan Without Taliban Representative – OOn Wednesday, the 10th ministerial meeting of the ECO opened in Islamabad, focusing on regional disaster risk reduction, with Afghanistan’s seat notably vacant. Despite receiving an invitation, the Taliban declined to attend, stating that participation was not considered beneficial. The absence contrasts with previous engagement, as a Taliban delegation attended the last ECO summit in Azerbaijan.
UK Special Representative Meets with Taliban Ambassador – On Wednesday, the UK Special Representative for Afghanistan, Richard Lindsay, met with the Taliban’s ambassador to Pakistan, Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb, to discuss regional security and Taliban restrictions on women and girls. While no further details were released, the meeting reflects ongoing international concern and engagement.
Taliban attend DIMDEX in Qatar – On Monday, Taliban Chief of Staff Mohammad Fasihuddin Fitrat met with Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Doha International Defense Exhibition (DIMDEX), underscoring continued diplomatic engagement between the Taliban and Qatari leadership.
Regional Developments
Taliban Call with Iranian Foreign Minister – On Wednesday, Taliban Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi spoke by phone with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, to discuss Iran’s domestic situation and bilateral relations. Muttaqi welcomed Iran’s handling of protests to prevent instability and emphasized the importance of diplomacy and dialogue. Araghchi praised growing cooperation, particularly in trade. This marked their first direct contact since protests began in Iran, following a period in which the Taliban leadership remained publicly silent while its media echoed Tehran’s official narratives.
US Visa Processing Information/US Legal Information (Current as of 1/24/26)
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.
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.
New Restrictions On SIV Entry – A new U.S. travel ban took effect on January 1, 2026, expanding restrictions to nationals of 39 countries. For Afghanistan, the policy ends the blanket exemption previously granted to SIV holders. Under the new framework, any exceptions for Afghan SIV recipients must be individually approved by the U.S. Attorney General, Secretary of State, or Secretary of Homeland Security. This high-level, case-by-case review is expected to significantly limit, or effectively halt, the entry of Afghan SIV applicants while the ban remains in place. The ban also imposes broad restrictions on both immigrant and nonimmigrant travel from affected countries. It will remain in effect for six months, after which it may be renewed or lifted.
SIV Processing – As of November 27, the U.S. State Department has paused the issuance of all visas for Afghan passport holders. This includes SIVs, follow-to-join applications, and family-based petitions. On December 2, the U.S. government also announced a pause on COM decisions for SIV applicants. Both actions are described as temporary pauses, not terminations of the SIV program. It remains unclear how long these measures will be in effect. More detailed information can be found Here
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.
Miscellaneous
Heavy Snowfall in Numerous Provinces – Severe winter weather across Afghanistan in recent days has resulted in at least 61 deaths and 110 injuries, according to Taliban-controlled media. Heavy snowfall and rain have affected more than 15 provinces, including Baghlan, Parwan, Panjshir, Bamyan, Daykundi, Maidan Wardak, Ghazni, Herat, Ghor, Badghis, Faryab, Sar-e Pol, Balkh, Samangan, and Nuristan. In one incident, an avalanche struck a roadside hotel along the Salang Pass, killing two people and injuring 12 others. The harsh weather has also triggered landslides, road closures, and widespread damage, including the partial destruction of 568 homes, the deaths of hundreds of livestock, and disruptions to key routes such as the Salang Highway.
NEXT WEEK
In Afghanistan, pressure by the Taliban is expected to continue over the next week. Women and minorities, both ethnic and religious, remain most at risk. The release of the Taliban’s legal code, along with related internal and international criticism, is likely to be met with increased pressure on local populations. Speaking out against the law, particularly online, may result in detention. Enforcement actions related to alleged moral crimes are expected to continue, including detentions for wearing Western-style clothing or what authorities deem “improper hijab.”
Heavy snowfall in several provinces has led to the closure of the Salang Tunnel. Travel, particularly through northern and central Afghanistan, is expected to remain difficult in the coming week. Those who must travel are urged to exercise caution and closely monitor road conditions.
In Iran, internet access remains severely restricted, making it difficult to verify information about the internal situation. Conditions remain tense and unpredictable, and further internet outages are likely. Afghans in Iran are strongly advised to avoid any protests.
The border with Pakistan remains closed, with land crossings for Afghans blocked. No major changes are expected over the next week. Detentions and deportations are likely to continue. Afghans in Pakistan, including those holding valid visas, may face detention, extortion, or deportation. All Afghans are advised to ensure their visas remain valid, as Pakistan is currently not extending visas for Afghan nationals.
The United States has halted all visa processing for Afghan cases. Afghan SIV and other visa interviews are likely to result in denials under Section 212(f), which are permanent and cannot be appealed. IRAP and legal service providers nationwide are advising Afghans to consider postponing interviews at this time to avoid a 212(f) denial.
The new travel ban, which took effect on January 1, bars all Afghans from entering the United States unless they hold a valid visa issued prior to the ban. No new visas are currently being issued to Afghans. The ban will remain in effect for at least six months and may be extended. Afghans who are preparing for visa medical exams should note that medical results expire after six months and may wish to consider postponing both medicals and interviews.
Across the United States, continued pressure on the Afghan community is expected, and ICE detentions are likely to increase nationwide. Afghans in removal proceedings or those with criminal records are at highest risk, though others may also be affected. It is critically important that all Afghans understand their rights. Individuals are encouraged to review the ICE raid section of the U.S. processing guidance and consult the know your rights guide. Afghans are encouraged to avoid any ICE related protests and are reminded to be cautious with their online presence
SPOTLIGHT ANALYSIS
Rawadari Rawadari has recently obtained a copy of the “Criminal Procedure Code for Courts” (De Mahakumu Jazaai Osulnama) signed by the Taliban leader, Habatullah Akhundzada, and circulated to the courts at the provincial level across Afghanistan for implementation. The Criminal Procedure Code, issued on 4 January 2026, has been compiled in three sections, 10 chapters, and 119 articles.
The contents of this document are deeply concerning and stand in clear contradiction to international human rights standards and the fundamental principles of fair trial. The document legalizes and formalizes discrimination against religious minorities and the suppression of individuals’ basic freedoms, including violations of human dignity, restrictions on freedom of expression and thought, and arbitrary arrest and punishment.
This document is incompatible with even the most basic standards of fair trial, including the principle of equality before the law, the principle of legality and personal criminal responsibility, the presumption of innocence, the prohibition of torture, freedom from arbitrary detention, the right to remain silent, and the right to effective defence. Nowhere in this Criminal Procedure Code are the right of access to a defence lawyer, the right to remain silent and the right to compensation recognised, nor are other minimum requirements of a fair trial guaranteed.
Furthermore, the Code has not specified minimum and maximum penalties, and by eliminating the process of independent investigation in proving criminal acts and instead has instituted “confession” and “testimony” as the primary means of proving guilt. This significantly heightens the risk of torture, serious abuse and widespread violations of the rights of the accused.
Increased Risk of Discrimination and Suppression of Religious Freedoms
Clause eight of Article 2 of the Criminal Procedure Code describes followers of the Hanafi school of thought [Hanafi jurisprudence] as Muslims, whilst characterising followers of other sects and beliefs that differ from or oppose the “Ahle-Sunnah wal-Jama’ah” as “mubtadeh” or “heretics”. This discriminatory classification in a country where numerous religious minorities including Jafari Shias, Ismailis, and followers of other Islamic orientations such as Ahl-e-Hadith, as well as non-Muslims such as Sikhs, and Hindus live, directly violates the principle of non-discrimination on the basis of religion and belief. The application of the label of “badaat/bid’ah” and the granting of unlimited powers to the Taliban’s judicial institutions, creates the conditions for widespread repression, deprivation of legal protection, and the imposition of arbitrary punishment against religious minorities.
Moreover, Article 14 of the Criminal Procedure Code has stipulated that in order to server “public interest”, the killing of offenders, including individuals who “defend false beliefs contrary to Islam” or those who invite others to such beliefs” described as maabtadin and corrupters is deemed permissible with the permission of the “Imam”. Likewise, clause two of Article 17, through a general ruling, has deemed “mockery” and “ridicule” of Islamic rulings punishable, and has prescribed a penalty of two years’ imprisonment for perpetrators. This article introduces no criteria for identifying “mockery” or “ridicule”, and grants judges’ broad and arbitrary discretion to punish individuals merely for expressing different and critical viewpoints.
Article 26 of this document states that, followers of the Hanafi school of thought [Hanafi jurisprudence] are not permitted to abandon their belief, and should this matter be proven before a judge, they will be sentenced to two years’ imprisonment. This ruling, which constitutes a clear violation of freedom of religion and belief, specifically places Salafis and Ahl-e-Hadithat risk of arbitrary arrest, trial, and punishment a danger that, given the Taliban’s treatment of these individuals over the past four years, is serious and alarming.
These provisions intensify the narrowing of civic space, widespread suppression of freedom of religion and belief and can lead to an increase in arbitrary arrest, torture, and particularly pressure on religious minorities.
AFGHAN NEWS
From Insurgency to Government: How the Islamic Emirate polices Afghanistan
Antonio Giustozzi
Much has been written about Afghanistan’s police force during the Islamic Republic, but so far almost nothing about policing under the Islamic Emirate. In August 2021, when the Taliban took over the Ministry of Interior and more than 500 police stations spread across the country, the Emirate’s ability to police the country became a key test for its survival. In this report, AAN guest author Antonio Giustozzi draws on interviews with police officers, intelligence officials, Ministry of Interior staff, drug smugglers and poppy farmers to provide a ground-level picture of policing across Afghanistan’s districts and cities. It traces both continuity and change from earlier periods, examining how the Emirate’s police operate in practice, how effective they are in curbing crime and where they struggle the most.
The police of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan were known for inefficiency and corruption, weaknesses that contributed to the Republic’s collapse. Yet, despite the change in regime and the Emirate’s assertion that it now polices according to sharia, much is familiar. The techniques for controlling population and territory have changed little since the pre-1978 era; they include a reliance on community elders to handle disputes as a means of reducing police workload. However, the author, who visited police stations in the early years of the Republic when police were also largely civil war veterans, finds that compared to then, the Emirate’s chiefs of police and senior officers are at least all literate and some record-keeping is in place. Compared to the Republic’s police, the IEA’s are also more proactive and more determined to assert control.
Taliban Raid Guesthouse Housing Afghans Promised Admission to Germany
Nazanin Mohseni
Taliban security forces have raided a guesthouse in Kabul where Afghan nationals holding admission promises from Germany were staying after being deported from Pakistan, German media have reported.
According to Germany’s public broadcaster ARD, the raid took place on Sunday night (January 18), when Taliban forces entered the guesthouse and confined residents to their rooms while subjecting them to hours of interrogation.
The report said that Taliban officials confiscated the residents’ smartphones and recorded the interrogations on video. Those questioned were reportedly asked why they had sought to migrate to Germany.
REGIONAL NEWS
Iran’s Internet Blackout Continues Amid Reports Of Rising Death Toll
Radio Free Europe
Iran’s Internet blackout continues, despite a temporary resurgence, says a digital rights watchdog, as a state-aligned news agency claims the country’s access to the Internet will be restored by tonight.
“Iran’s Internet blackout continues into its third week, despite a brief momentary restoration,” Netblocks, a digital rights watchdog and connectivity monitoring organization, said in a post on X on January 24.
“Online platforms are occasionally whitelisted, and some users have been able to tunnel out [using VPNs or other circumvention tools] over the last couple of days,” it added.
Suicide bomber targets wedding ceremony in northwest Pakistan, killing 7 people, wounding 25
Associated Press
A suicide bomber detonated an explosive vest among guests at a wedding ceremony in northwest Pakistan on Friday, killing at least seven people and wounding 25 others, police said.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Failed Afghan asylum seekers need to go back home, Sweden’s migration minister urges
Menelaos Hadjicostis
Sweden’s migration minister on Thursday urged the European Union to come up with a common procedure to issue ID and travel documents to Afghan nationals whose asylum applications have either been rejected or who have committed crimes in their host countries.
Minister Johan Forssell said it’s “more or less impossible” to deport Afghan nationals who don’t fulfill asylum criteria now because they don’t have either ID or travel documents.