Hibatullah Akhundzada is in the news as Taliban crack down on internet access and crack down on dissent in Afghanistan. He’s the Taliban’s supreme leader, born 1967.
The Taliban's recent decree, signed in January, introduces a penal code that criminalizes criticism of leadership, enforces corporal punishment for various offenses, and discriminates based on social class. UN officials urge Afghanistan to rescind the decree, citing violations of international legal obligations and human rights, especially affecting women and minorities.
Fighting between Afghan and Pakistani forces has intensified, with cross-border strikes and civilian casualties reported on both sides. Pakistan declared an 'open war' after Afghan retaliatory attacks, and diplomatic efforts have failed to halt the conflict. The situation remains volatile as both sides accuse each other of targeting civilians and harboring militants.