The Week of January 26- February 1
Security and Conflict
Smugglers killed at Tajik Border – On Thursday night, a clash at a border post in Tajikistan’s Khatlon province, along the border with Afghanistan’s Takhar province, left three Afghan nationals dead. According to Tajikistan’s State Committee for National Security, five armed smugglers illegally crossed from Afghanistan and opened fire when confronted by border guards. Two suspects escaped under cover of darkness. Authorities seized rifles, ammunition, and 73 packages of narcotics. No Tajik personnel were injured.
Youth Killed in Parwan – A 19-year-old man named Fardin, a resident of Chinki village in Sayd Khel district of Parwan province, died after reportedly being tortured for a week in Taliban custody. He was arrested last week on accusations of opposing the regime. On Monday, his body was returned to his family.
Human Rights and Civil Liberties
Restrictions on Women’s Movement in Balkh – On Monday, the Taliban MoPVPV in Sholgara district, Balkh province, issued new restrictions targeting women’s movement and appearance. The directive mandates that women must wear full hijab and prohibits them from leaving home without a male guardian. Authorities warned of punishment for violations and urged citizens to report any non-compliance.
Ismaili Place of Worship Closed in Badakshan – On Tuesday, Taliban forces in Ishkashim district of Badakhshan closed an Ismaili Jamaatkhana in Sayad village, preventing religious gatherings. Residents said the Taliban claimed the site was formerly a mosque and therefore should be shut down. More than 80 Ismaili families with centuries-old roots live in the area. Similar closures in Zebak and Nusai districts in recent weeks have raised concerns among locals and religious freedom advocates over growing restrictions on minority religious practices.
Claims of Taliban Abuse of Child Laborors – Several child laborers in Kabul have accused Taliban authorities of sexual abuse and harsh treatment during detention in prisons and shelters. One boy said he was assaulted in Badam Bagh prison, while others reported being taken from the streets under false promises of assistance. Detainees described religious indoctrination focused on jihad and pressure to join future combat. Human rights activists allege the Taliban are using children for religious and military training. Taliban officials have yet to respond to the claims.
Uzbek Activist Arrested – On Wednesday, the Taliban detained Mohammadmir Rasa, an Uzbek cultural activist and employee of Turkey’s TİKA agency, in Herat and transferred him to Kabul. He is reportedly being held at the Ministry of Interior. The reason for his arrest remains unknown.
Restriction on Women’s “Hard Labor” in Nuristan – On Tuesday, Taliban authorities announced a ban on women performing physically demanding labor in Nuristan province, citing the Supreme Leader’s 17th decree. The move is framed as part of efforts to eliminate harmful traditional practices. Women in the region have long participated in farming, firewood collection, and livestock care. The decree itself does not directly address labor, instead focusing on women’s marriage rights under Sharia law.
Floggings – On Monday, 36 people were flogged in Khost and one man in Herat. On Wednesday, one person was flogged in Badakhshan, two in Paktika, and two in Ghor. On Thursday, 18 people were flogged in Kabul.
Internal Politics
Backlash Against Penal Code and Taliban Response – Afghan civil society organizations have condemned the Taliban’s newly published penal code, calling it a form of institutionalized gender apartheid and a clear violation of international human rights norms. They cited the systematic exclusion of women from public life and legal discrimination based on social class, urging the international community to impose sanctions and establish a UN-led accountability mechanism.
The Taliban’s Ministry of Justice defended the code as fully compliant with Sharia law and warned that criticism would be treated as opposition to Islam, punishable by law. The United Nations has also called on the Taliban to repeal discriminatory laws and adhere to international standards.
The criminal procedure code itself enshrines serious human rights violations, including religious discrimination, suppression of free expression, denial of fair trial rights, arbitrary detention, corporal punishment, and legalized killings. It further legitimizes slavery, social stratification, and increases the risk of violence against women and children. The full Rawadari report on the new law can be accessed Here
Order Seizing Assets of Certain Individuals – On Thursday, Mullah Hibatullah issued an order to confiscate movable and immovable assets belonging to absent individuals and those accused of corruption. The Taliban’s House Inspection Department has been dissolved, with its duties transferred to military courts. These courts will now assess, manage, and, in cases involving corruption, retain such properties. Additional judicial staff will be appointed in Kabul and the provinces. The order formalizes Taliban control over assets left behind by former government officials and exiles, many of which are already under Taliban administration.
Officials Reshuffled – On Sunday, the Taliban announced a major reshuffle of senior officials across Afghanistan, affecting provincial, security, judicial, and administrative sectors. Key appointments include new governors for Parwan and Daikundi, police chiefs in Kapisa and Paktika, and several deputy ministers. Notably, Mawlawi Abdul Razzaq Shakir, a military figure, was appointed as chancellor of Faryab University, reflecting the Taliban’s continued placement of loyalists in academic leadership roles. The reshuffle, directed by Mullah Hibatullah, signals an internal rotation strategy aimed at consolidating control and enhancing institutional coordination nationwide.
International Developments
UN Requests Afghanistan and Pakistan to Cooperate on Humanitarian Aid – During her visit to Kabul, which concluded on January 24, UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo urged Taliban authorities to reopen Afghanistan’s border crossings with Pakistan to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid. While Pakistan has approved phased UN aid deliveries, Taliban authorities have reportedly delayed access, demanding written guarantees that political disputes will not lead to future closures. DiCarlo stressed the urgency of unhindered aid delivery, noting that nearly 22 million Afghans are projected to require humanitarian assistance in 2026.
Australia to Suspend Afghan Embassy Operations – On Friday, Australia announced it will suspend operations at the Afghan Embassy effective June 30, 2026. While reaffirming its support for the Afghan people and human rights, the government said it will not accept diplomats or representatives appointed by the Islamic Emirate, signaling continued non-recognition of the Taliban-led administration.
Afghan Embassy in Japan Closes – On Saturday, the Afghan Embassy in Japan officially ceased operations. Former ambassador Shaida Mohammad Abdali announced his departure from Tokyo, expressing deep sorrow. The embassy had served as Afghanistan’s diplomatic mission and provided consular services to Afghans residing in Japan.
EU Deal With Taliban To Identify Alleged Criminals – Belgian state media reported that officials from Belgium and 20 other European countries, during a visit to Kabul, agreed with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to cooperate on identifying Afghan migrants in Europe accused of criminal offenses. The agreement aims to strengthen migrant identity verification and support legal and judicial processes across European states.
Gates Foundation Donation to UNICEF For Afghanistan – On Wednesday, UNICEF announced that the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation donated $600,000 to support children and families affected by the August 2025 earthquake in eastern Afghanistan. The funding will provide emergency winter assistance, including cash support and service tents.
Freedom of the Press
Taliban Cancel Licenses for Media Support Organizations – On Monday, Afghanistan’s Ministry of Information and Culture announced it would revoke the licenses of numerous media support organizations deemed inactive or unprofessional. Following a review prompted by public and internal complaints, the ministry said many organizations had failed to effectively support journalists and media outlets, instead creating additional challenges. Only three organizations will have their licenses renewed. The names of those organizations have not been disclosed.
Taliban Ban Broadcast of Living Images in Kapisa – On Thursday, the Taliban officially banned the broadcast of images of living beings in Kapisa province, making it the 25th province to impose such restrictions. Enforced by the Vice and Virtue Department, the ban has effectively turned Kapisa’s state television station into a radio outlet and severely restricted private media operations.
Regional Developments
25 Afghan Migrants Die Enroute to Turkey – At least 25 Afghan migrants have reportedly died from freezing temperatures in the Baghlacha area along the Iran–Turkey border. The victims, mostly young men, were attempting to cross irregularly from Iran into Turkey en route to Europe. They were allegedly forced back and left exposed to harsh winter conditions, leading to their deaths. One of the recovered bodies is believed to belong to the group’s guide.
CSTO To Supply Tajikistan Border Additional Security – Following Thursday’s border clash and rising instability along the Afghanistan–Tajikistan frontier, the Collective Security Treaty Organization has agreed to supply Tajikistan with advanced weapons and equipment to reinforce its border forces. Tajik officials report a sharp deterioration in security, citing a deadly November attack that killed five Chinese workers and prompted China to suspend major infrastructure and mining projects in the region.
Call on TAPI With Turkmenistan – On Wednesday, Taliban Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi held a video call with Turkmenistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Muradov. The two discussed bilateral relations, regional cooperation, and upcoming projects. Muttaqi cited progress on the TAPI gas pipeline, railway, and TAP initiatives, while Muradov emphasized advancing joint economic ventures and strengthening bilateral ties, according to Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
US Visa Processing Information/US Legal Information (Current as of 2/1/26)
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. 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.
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. No new visas are being issued, and the ban will remain in effect for at least six months, with the possibility of extension.
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.
NEXT WEEK
In Afghanistan, the situation remains largely static. Opposition forces have been less active in recent weeks, likely due in part to weather-related travel constraints. The Taliban continue to introduce and enforce restrictive measures, with particular emphasis on women’s clothing, freedom of movement, and the rights of ethnic and religious minorities. Taliban leadership continues efforts to project unity amid increasingly unstable conditions in neighboring Pakistan and Iran.
Heavy snowfall is expected to persist over the coming week, with travel remaining difficult across large parts of the country. Road closures and hazardous conditions are likely, particularly in mountainous areas. Those who must travel are urged to exercise caution and closely monitor local road and weather conditions.
In Iran, conditions remain tense and unpredictable. Trials linked to the nationwide protests have begun, marking a more punitive phase of the state’s response. Internet restrictions are expected to continue, further limiting access to information and communication. Additional arrests and security operations remain likely, particularly as tensions between the United States and Iran remain elevated.
The border with Pakistan remains closed, with land crossings for Afghans blocked. Border incidents are possible in the coming week following the major BLA attack on Saturday and ongoing instability in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Pakistani authorities continue to attribute insecurity to Afghanistan-based militant groups, raising the risk of border flare-ups. Detentions and deportations of Afghans are expected to continue. All Afghans are advised to ensure their documentation remains valid, noting that 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 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. No new visas are being issued, and the ban will remain in effect for at least six months, with the possibility of extension.
Across the United States, continued pressure on the Afghan community is expected, with ICE detentions likely to increase nationwide. Afghans in removal proceedings or those with criminal records face the highest risk, though others may also be affected. 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. Afghans are encouraged to avoid any ICE related protests and are reminded to be cautious with their online presence
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
IRAN
Trials for Protestors Begin – On Tuesday the Iran’s judiciary held what appears to be the first public trial linked to the nationwide protests that began in late December 2025. Multiple defendants, including Mohammad Abbasi, were charged in connection with the death of a law enforcement officer. The court presented graphic evidence and accused Abbasi of stabbing the officer, while defense lawyers disputed the extent of his responsibility. Human rights groups have criticized the proceedings for failing to meet fair trial standards, amid a broader crackdown that has seen thousands arrested and continued efforts to suppress dissent nationwide.
Explosions Reported in Several Cities – On Saturday, explosions were reported in multiple cities across Iran, including a deadly blast in an eight-story residential building on Moallem Boulevard in Bandar Abbas. The explosion killed a four-year-old girl and injured 14 others, causing significant damage to the building’s lower floors. A separate explosion in Ahvaz killed four members of a family and injured two others. While speculation continues regarding the cause, authorities have attributed the incidents to gas leaks. Investigations are ongoing amid rising regional tensions and recent threats from the United States.
PAKISTAN
Deportations Continue – More than 12,000 Afghans were expelled from Pakistan over the past week, according to the Taliban-run refugee commission, as Islamabad continues its crackdown on undocumented migrants. Returnees entered Afghanistan through major border crossings, including Torkham, Spin Boldak, and Bahramcha. Although lower than the previous week’s figure of more than 16,000, the number remains high, reflecting Pakistan’s sustained deportation campaign.
Major Coordinated Attack by BLA – On Friday night, coordinated attacks were reported at 12 locations across Pakistan’s Balochistan province, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 security personnel, 18 civilians, and approximately 100 individuals identified by authorities as militants. The incidents occurred in areas including Mach, Kolpur, Sibi, and Bolan. Pakistani officials attributed the attacks to the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). Security forces responded to the assaults and launched clearance operations. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti said police and border forces were involved in countering the attacks. Operations in the affected areas remain ongoing.
Pakistani Military Claims 41 Insurgents Killed in Balochistan – On Friday morning, Pakistan’s military reported that 41 fighters were killed in separate operations in Balochistan’s Harnai and Panjgur districts. The army said the fighters were linked to the TTP and the BLA, adding that weapons and stolen cash were recovered. Clearing operations are continuing in the region.
Offensive Against TTP In Khyber – Amid growing fears of a military offensive against the TTP, more than 70,000 residents have fled the Tirah region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The displacement began after mosque announcements in December warned of an impending operation, despite government denials. Pakistan’s defense minister has insisted that no full-scale offensive is planned, attributing the displacement to harsh winter conditions. However, residents report mortar fire and worsening insecurity. The military says it is conducting targeted operations against TTP militants, whom it claims have crossed from Afghanistan and are using civilians as shields.
ISKP Claims Attack on Senior JuD Member – On Wednesday, ISKP claimed responsibility for an explosion in Mamund tehsil of Bajaur district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The blast reportedly killed Najibullah, a senior member of Lashkar-e-Taiba—also known as Jamaat-ud-Dawah—and a local candidate for its political wing, the Milli Muslim League. Authorities have not yet released further details or confirmed additional casualties.
SPOTLIGHT ANALYSIS
World Bank
Afghanistan’s economy faces mounting pressures from migrant returns and prolonged border closures with Pakistan. Modest economic growth is supported by low inflation and stronger revenues, but weak investment limits productivity. Per capita GDP is projected to fall by 4 percent in FY2025, leaving poverty widespread.
In November 2025, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 1.2 percent month-on-month (MoM), reflecting broad-based price increases across food and non-food categories. Food inflation accelerated to 1.6 percent MoM, driven primarily by sharp increases in the prices of fresh and dried fruits (6.6 percent) and bread and cereals (2.2 percent). Prices of oils and fats increased by 1.6 percent, while meat, dairy products, vegetables, sugar, and non-alcoholic beverages recorded moderate increases of up to 1 percent. These increases were partially offset by a notable decline in spice prices (-4.8 percent).
Non-food inflation increased to 0.8 percent MoM, leading to higher health and housing costs. Health-related prices increased by 4.1 percent, reflecting elevated medicine procurement costs following the rerouting of imports away from Pakistan after the border closure. Housing inflation rose to 3.1 percent supported by strong rental demand associated with the continued return of migrants. In contrast, transportation costs fell by 3.1 percent following the decrease in global fuel prices, while prices for clothing (- 1.6 percent), household goods (-1.1 percent), and tobacco (-2.5 percent) also declined.
On a year-on-year (YoY) basis, headline inflation rose to 4.7 percent in November, up from 3 percent in October, driven by both food (3.2 percent) and non-food (6 percent) categories. Food inflation was driven primarily by fresh and dried fruits (19.3 percent), reflecting earlier supply disruptions and subsequent trade rerouting. Housing (13 percent), transportation (8.6 percent), and health (5.3 percent) were the main contributors to non-food inflation. As a result, core inflation increased to 5.8 percent.
AFGHAN NEWS
World Bank says Taliban spend $1.4b on security in FY2025
Sharif Amiry
Taliban have spent nearly half of public expenditure on security in the first nine months of the 2025 fiscal year, while the economy faced mounting pressures from falling incomes, migrant returns and trade disruptions, the World Bank said in its latest assessment.
In its December 2025 Afghanistan Economic Monitor, the World Bank said security-related expenditure reached 96.9 billion Afghanis ($1.4 billion), accounting for 47.8% of total spending during the period, while development spending remained limited at 15.7 billion Afghanis despite a year-on-year increase.
Women Prisoners In Afghanistan Rise 435 Percent Under Taliban Rule
Afghanistan international
The number of women prisoners in Afghanistan has risen by 435 percent to 1,825, with women now held in 34 prisons, according to figures released by the Taliban’s Interior Ministry.
Of the total, 469 women are held in Kabul, the largest concentration in a single location, followed by Herat and Balkh. The data show the number of women detainees has increased 18.7 percent compared with last year.
UNICEF: Afghanistan’s Education System Faces Serious Barriers but Can Be Rebuilt
Nazanin Mohseni
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) says Afghanistan’s education system is facing serious challenges, but stresses that rebuilding it remains possible.
In a statement posted on X on Wednesday, 28 January, UNICEF said lifting the ban on secondary and higher education for girls would allow them to gain skills, enter critical professions such as healthcare, and strengthen families, communities and the country’s future.
Girls above grade six in Afghanistan have been barred from attending schools and universities for nearly four years, following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021.
REGIONAL NEWS
Radio Free Europe Iran Liveblog
Radio Free Europe
Iran Protest Death Toll Could Top 30,000, According to Local Health Officials
Kay Armin Serjoie, Roxana Saberi, and Fatemeh Jamalpour
As many as 30,000 people could have been killed in the streets of Iran on Jan. 8 and 9 alone, two senior officials of the country’s Ministry of Health told TIME—indicating a dramatic surge in the death toll. So many people were slaughtered by Iranian security services on that Thursday and Friday, it overwhelmed the state’s capacity to dispose of the dead. Stocks of body bags were exhausted, the officials said, and eighteen-wheel semi-trailers replaced ambulances.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Risch Passes No Tax Dollars for Terrorists Act Through Committee
U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the statement below on the No Tax Dollars for Terrorists Act’s passage through the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
“Today, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee passed one of the most commonsense bills we’ve considered in years—the No Tax Dollars for Terrorists Act. The name says it all. This bill will help to prevent even one American dollar from going to terrorist organizations in Afghanistan like the Taliban. American military personnel spent years fighting the Taliban. Over 2,000 Americans were killed in Afghanistan, and more than 20,000 were wounded. It would be a slap in the face to these veterans and their families for any of our taxpayer dollars to flow to this murderous regime.
Taliban Says Talks with U.S. on Prisoner Exchanges Ongoing, No Deal Yet
Kabul Now
The Taliban confirmed that negotiations with the United States over a potential prisoner exchange, including the release of American citizen Dennis Coyle, are ongoing but have not yet resulted in a final agreement.
Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s chief spokesperson, told CBS News that discussions are continuing and expressed hope they would produce “concrete results” leading to the release of prisoners on both sides.
Afghani to US Dollar: $1 – 65.96 AFN (As of February 1)