-
Keir Starmer has made significant changes to his No 10 team, including appointing Dan York-Smith as principal private secretary and restructuring economic roles, aiming to strengthen control over government policy amid ongoing political and economic challenges. The move follows a turbulent first year in office.
-
A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Sunday, killing over 1,400 people and injuring thousands. Rescue efforts are hampered by landslides and blocked roads. International aid is arriving amid logistical challenges, with remote villages still inaccessible and the death toll expected to increase.
-
A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31, causing over 2,000 deaths and widespread destruction, especially in Kunar Province. Rescue efforts are hampered by rugged terrain and limited infrastructure, with remote villages hardest hit. Aid agencies warn of worsening conditions amid ongoing crises.
-
A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Afghanistan at the end of August, killing over 2,200 people and damaging hundreds of villages. Difficult terrain and aftershocks hinder rescue efforts, with the UN warning that winter weather could worsen the crisis. Aid delivery remains a major challenge as communities face ongoing hardship.
-
The Taliban has imposed a ban on Wi-Fi internet in northern Afghanistan, affecting government, private, and public sectors. Mobile internet remains operational. Officials cite moral reasons and seek alternatives for essential needs. The move marks the first such ban since Taliban's return to power in 2021.
-
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck northern Afghanistan, killing at least 26 people and injuring over 1,100. The quake caused significant damage to the Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif, a key cultural and religious site, amid ongoing national crises. No repairs have started yet, but authorities plan assessments.
-
A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31, causing over 2,200 deaths and damaging thousands of homes. Difficult terrain and ongoing aftershocks hinder relief efforts, which are urgent before winter. Aid organizations warn that aid cuts and Afghanistan's political situation complicate response efforts.
-
A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31, killing at least 2,200 people and destroying over 7,000 homes. Thousands are displaced, living in camps amid ongoing aftershocks. Relief efforts face logistical challenges, with winter approaching and aid limited due to geopolitical restrictions. The Taliban government is coordinating response efforts amid economic hardship.
-
For the first time since seizing power in 2021, the Taliban has imposed a complete ban on cable internet in Balkh province, affecting government, private, and public sectors. Mobile internet remains operational. The ban aims to prevent immorality, with no clear timeline for lifting. The move raises concerns about economic and social impacts.
-
On September 19, 2025, British nationals Peter and Barbie Reynolds were released after nearly eight months detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The couple, longtime residents and Afghan citizens, were held without charge and endured harsh conditions. Their release followed court hearings and mediation led by Qatar. They have returned to the UK and expressed hope to return to Afghanistan.
-
The Taliban opposes U.S. efforts to regain Bagram Airbase, which Trump has repeatedly sought to reoccupy due to its strategic importance near China and Pakistan. Trump’s recent statements suggest a potential shift in U.S.-Afghanistan relations, raising concerns about renewed military tensions and regional stability. As Afghan officials reject the idea, the story highlights ongoing geopolitical friction.
-
Recent discussions highlight the U.S. interest in retaking Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, with former President Trump publicly advocating for its return. Afghanistan and the Taliban oppose the move, emphasizing sovereignty and territorial integrity. The base's strategic importance near China and Pakistan fuels regional security concerns.
-
Recent weeks have seen Afghanistan's Taliban government impose a nationwide ban on fiber-optic internet, citing morality concerns. This move disrupts communication, education, and business, especially affecting women and girls who rely on online platforms for learning. Experts criticize the ban as a control tactic, raising fears of further isolation amid ongoing humanitarian challenges.
-
Pakistan reports 29 polio cases since January, despite vaccination efforts. Attacks on health workers and vaccine hesitancy persist, hindering eradication. A new campaign aims to vaccinate 45 million children, but challenges remain in reaching remote and resistant communities.
-
Since September 29, 2025, Afghanistan has faced a near-total internet and telecom blackout after the Taliban severed fiber-optic connections citing immorality concerns. The Taliban deny imposing a ban, attributing outages to decaying infrastructure. The shutdown disrupts banking, commerce, aviation, and humanitarian aid, with partial restoration beginning October 1.
-
Recent days have seen a surge in cross-border violence between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan accuses Afghan militants of attacks, including a convoy ambush and bombings, while Afghanistan blames Pakistan for strikes inside its territory. The situation remains tense with ongoing military operations and accusations of regional support for insurgents. Today is Sun, 12 Oct 2025.
-
The WTO reports a significant upward revision in merchandise trade growth for 2025 to 2.4%, driven by AI-related goods and resilient trade among developing countries. Predictions for 2026 are lowered to 0.5%. The report highlights trade dynamics amid tariffs and economic shifts, with a focus on regional impacts.
-
India has resumed diplomatic ties with Afghanistan by reopening its embassy in Kabul and hosting Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The visit, the first by a Taliban leader since 2021, aims to strengthen regional cooperation, trade, and stability, despite ongoing international sanctions and regional tensions.
-
Fayaz Khan, an Afghan migrant who entered the UK illegally, was sentenced to five years for making a threatening TikTok video targeting Nigel Farage. Khan, who responded to a Farage video with a menacing message and gun gestures, was convicted of threatening behaviour and illegal entry. The case highlights concerns over online threats and migrant security.
-
On October 8, 2025, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warned that global economic resilience is untested amid rising uncertainty. Despite 3% growth forecasts and easing tariffs, gold prices hit $4,000 an ounce as investors seek safe havens. She urged the US to address federal debt and highlighted risks from trade tensions and geopolitical instability ahead of IMF-World Bank meetings.
-
Since Saturday night, Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces have engaged in deadly clashes along their shared border, following alleged Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul. Both sides report significant casualties, with Pakistan closing border crossings and regional powers urging restraint. The conflict stems from Pakistan's accusations that Afghanistan harbors militants attacking Pakistan, a charge denied by the Taliban government.
-
China advances its climate goals with a focus on resilience and renewable energy, while the US and Europe face criticism for insufficient action. Meanwhile, global efforts to address air pollution and hunger remain underfunded, highlighting disparities in climate and development priorities amid rising inequalities.
-
Recent border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have resulted in casualties on both sides, with Pakistan claiming to have killed over 200 Taliban fighters and Afghanistan reporting the deaths of Pakistani soldiers. The ceasefire was reportedly at Afghanistan's request, but violence continues to threaten regional stability amid accusations and diplomatic tensions.
-
Recent updates to the Henley Passport Index show notable declines for the US, UK, Pakistan, and India, while China and several Asian countries have improved their rankings. The US has fallen out of the top 10 for the first time in 20 years, reflecting changing global mobility and diplomatic shifts.
-
Gaza faces severe food shortages amid limited aid access, with only half of the targeted supplies entering since a ceasefire. Meanwhile, Somalia, Sudan, and Haiti are experiencing escalating humanitarian crises driven by aid cuts, conflict, and climate shocks, threatening millions with famine and displacement.
-
A ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan was established on October 22, ending a week of intense border clashes that resulted in civilian casualties and military casualties on both sides. The ceasefire, initiated after diplomatic efforts, aims to de-escalate tensions and facilitate dialogue, with a joint mechanism scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul to ensure implementation.
-
Recent border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan have resulted in the deadliest violence since 2021, with at least 17 civilians killed on the Afghan side. A ceasefire was agreed upon after escalation, amid accusations and denials over militant harboring and cross-border strikes. Tensions remain high along the 2,611 km Durand Line.
-
A 48-hour ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan ended with renewed border violence. Pakistan launched strikes in Afghan border areas, killing civilians and cricket players, while Afghanistan responded with drone attacks. Both sides blame each other for escalating hostilities, which threaten regional stability.
-
Recent clashes and airstrikes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have heightened tensions. A bombing in Hangu and cross-border strikes in Paktika follow a fragile ceasefire, with both sides blaming each other for aggression amid ongoing peace talks. The situation remains volatile as border crossings stay closed.
-
After days of border clashes, Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed to a ceasefire in Doha, but recent airstrikes by Pakistan in Afghan territory have broken the truce. The violence, linked to militant groups and regional tensions, has resulted in civilian casualties and heightened fears of renewed conflict.
-
Morocco's U-20 team won their first-ever FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina 2-0 in Chile. The victory marks a historic achievement for Arab and African football, with Morocco also hosting a refugee women's team supported by FIFA amid ongoing restrictions in Afghanistan.
-
Recent border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have resulted in casualties and economic losses, prompting diplomatic talks in Istanbul. Despite a ceasefire brokered by Qatar and Turkey, tensions persist, with both sides blaming each other for ongoing violence. Leaders aim to de-escalate and restore stability.
-
Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to a ceasefire following recent border clashes and failed peace talks. Despite ongoing tensions, both sides are maintaining the ceasefire, though border crossings remain closed. The situation remains fragile as negotiations continue with regional mediators, with recent violence and diplomatic disputes complicating efforts for lasting peace.
-
Early Monday, a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan, at a depth of 28 km. Initial reports confirm at least seven deaths and 150 injuries in Balkh province. The quake caused widespread fear amid poor infrastructure and ongoing humanitarian crises in the region.
-
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck northern Afghanistan early Monday, with the epicenter near Khulm. At least 20 people were killed and over 500 injured. Damage includes destroyed homes and historic sites. Rescue efforts are ongoing in Balkh and Samangan provinces amid challenging conditions.
-
A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan, killing at least 27 and injuring nearly 1,000. It damaged homes, infrastructure, and the historic Blue Mosque. Aid efforts are ongoing, with Saudi Arabia providing relief. The disaster follows recent quakes and ongoing crises in the country.
-
Germany has suspended its program to relocate about 2,000 Afghans at risk under Taliban rule, citing migration concerns. Approved individuals in Pakistan face delays or offers of financial incentives to return to Afghanistan or third countries. Some approved refugees have arrived in Germany, but the scheme remains largely halted.
-
Negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Istanbul ended without a deal, amid ongoing border clashes and mutual accusations. Pakistan blames Afghanistan for harboring militants and seeks to curb cross-border violence, while Afghanistan denies sheltering militant groups and criticizes Islamabad’s approach. Tensions remain high as both sides threaten renewed hostilities.
-
Recent peace negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Istanbul ended without agreement, amid ongoing border clashes and mutual accusations. Both sides blame each other for violence and failure to uphold commitments, with border crossings remaining closed and tensions high. The talks aimed to reduce hostilities but have entered an indefinite pause.
-
On Tuesday, a suicide bomber detonated explosives outside Islamabad's District Judicial Complex, killing at least 12 and injuring over 30. The attack, claimed by a Pakistani Taliban faction, marks the first major assault on civilians in Islamabad in over a decade. Pakistani officials accuse Afghan-based militants and India-backed proxies, escalating tensions with Afghanistan amid ongoing border clashes and failed peace talks.
-
A UNDP report highlights that 2.3 million Afghan returnees this year have strained the country's fragile systems amid economic decline, climate shocks, and natural disasters. Returnees, especially women, face severe hardship, with many skipping medical care and living in degraded housing. Urgent international support is needed.
-
The UN World Food Programme warns that 318 million people will face crisis-level hunger or worse in 2026, more than double 2019 figures. Funding shortfalls threaten aid efforts, with only half of the $13 billion needed likely to be received. Conflict, climate shocks, and economic instability drive the crisis, with famine declared in Gaza and Sudan.
-
As of early December 2025, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has paused green card, citizenship, and asylum applications from nationals of 19 countries previously designated as high-risk under a 2025 travel ban. This follows a November attack in Washington by an Afghan national granted asylum. USCIS will conduct comprehensive reviews and interviews for immigrants from these countries who entered since January 2021, with no set date to lift the pause.
-
HMRC faces scrutiny after wrongly suspending child benefits for nearly 4,000 parents due to flawed Home Office travel data. Officials will be questioned over the costly mistake, which affected families including Ukrainian refugees and hospital patients. HMRC has promised to improve processes and safeguard against future errors.
-
Recent cross-border violence has intensified, with Pakistan launching air strikes in Afghan border regions following deadly militant attacks in Pakistan. Both sides blame each other for harboring militants, with ongoing clashes and failed peace talks raising regional instability. The situation remains volatile as civilian casualties mount.
-
Following a shooting in Washington, D.C., by Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan asylum seeker with a military background, debates have intensified over vetting processes for refugees. The incident raises questions about U.S. immigration policies, especially amid political calls for stricter reviews of Afghan arrivals post-withdrawal.
-
Tajikistan faces border attacks from Afghanistan, killing five Chinese workers. Tajik authorities discuss deploying Russian forces for border patrol, amid ongoing tensions with Taliban Afghanistan. China urges citizens to evacuate the border area as Tajikistan tightens security.
-
President Trump announced a new travel pause affecting 19 countries, including Afghanistan and Somalia, citing national security concerns after recent attacks. The move expands previous restrictions, halting processing of immigration applications and reviewing existing approvals amid heightened security fears.
-
Britain's MoD has ordered an investigation into allegations that UK special forces killed 54 Afghans in suspicious circumstances during 2010-2013. The inquiry follows a BBC documentary and internal reports suggesting possible war crimes and cover-ups involving elite SAS units and senior officers.
-
Tensions flared along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border today, with both sides blaming each other for renewed clashes near key crossings. Despite a fragile ceasefire, border crossings at Chaman and Torkham are now temporarily open for UN relief shipments, but remain closed for trade and travel. The conflict follows recent deadly clashes and ongoing disputes over militant activity and border security.