The Latest Breaking News from Afghanistan

(Adds full name of acting minister in paragraph 2)

The Taliban’s latest edict banning women from working for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) has sparked international condemnation and domestic opposition in a country facing economic collapse. It has also revealed splits within the Taliban, with potentially high-stakes risks for Afghanistan’s rulers and its people.

No claim of responsibility for explosion that caused multiple casualties, according to the Taliban.

In 2002, Australia was on the cusp of joining the United States-led invasion of Iraq and had already committed troops to Afghanistan — but previously secret cabinet records make very few references to what would become a decades-long engagement in the Middle East.

Since the return of the Taliban, Afghanistan's coal exports have increased — and so has child labor. At a coal mine in Baghlan province, boys earn between $3 and $8 for a day's work.

The Taliban’s sweeping orders to restrict women’s rights have exacerbated divisions in the militant group to the point where rival factions are surrounding themselves with loyal troops, according to people familiar with the matter.

With their employees fearing retribution and without work, charities leaders say the latest Taliban oppression has far-reaching consequences for millions of Afghan families.

Looking back on 2022, women's rights regressed in many areas, but experts and advocates remain hopeful as a wave of feminist solidarity sweeps the globe and young people risk their lives to say, "Enough is enough."

Ismail Mashal, who founded the private Mashal University in Kabul and also lectures at the city's university, became visibly distressed with tears welling up and his voice shaking during his appearance on Afghanistan's Tolo News on Monday