Press Freedom Violations In Afghanistan Surge by 56 Percent, Says Rights Group

In a statement issued on Thursday, the EU reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and reiterated its commitment to supporting their well-being. It highlighted efforts to meet basic needs, improve livelihoods, and contribute to a resilient and sustainable future for all Afghans.

The EU outlined its collaboration with partners to deliver essential health services across the country, including reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, mental health, nutrition, clean water and sanitation, and disease prevention.

The statement also pointed to the EU’s support for education and vocational training through initiatives such as the rehabilitation of schools and the provision of daily meals for students.

In addition, the EU Delegation noted its assistance to internally displaced persons and returning migrants, focusing on education, protection, economic resilience, job creation, and other vital services.

Investing in livelihoods and local economies is key to Afghanistan’s future, the EU said, stressing the need to support farmers and rural communities, particularly in light of worsening drought and the impacts of climate change.

In a statement to Afghanistan International on Thursday, a spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said the UK stands with the people of Afghanistan and strongly opposes the Taliban’s treatment of women and girls.

The UK does not recognise the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan and has repeatedly denounced the group’s policies as oppressive and discriminatory, particularly toward women and girls.

While maintaining limited and pragmatic dialogue with the Taliban when aligned with national interests, the UK reaffirmed its commitment to supporting international investigations and efforts to ensure accountability for crimes committed in Afghanistan.

The spokesperson also confirmed that the UK backs efforts to refer the Taliban to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over violations of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

Additionally, the UK welcomed the ICC’s continued focus on the plight of Afghan women and girls, underscoring the need for justice and international attention to their ongoing persecution.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Akhund warned that such treatment could foster “hatred and resentment between the two nations.” He acknowledged Iran’s long-standing role in hosting millions of Afghan refugees but criticised Tehran’s recent decision to deport undocumented migrants, describing it as a unilateral move.

The Taliban called on Iranian officials to allow deported migrants to take their personal belongings with them and facilitate the transfer of their assets, including movable property, real estate, and funds in bank accounts.

The statement also urged Iran to ensure that detention centres for migrants are equipped with adequate facilities, particularly amid extreme summer heat, to prevent further hardship and suffering.

The Taliban warned that the mistreatment of Afghan nationals during deportation processes risks inflaming tensions between the Afghan and Iranian peoples.

Iranian officials, including foreign minister Abbas Araghchi, have previously pledged that the repatriation of Afghan migrants would be carried out gradually and with respect for their dignity.

In a statement posted on Thursday, 11 July, on X (formerly Twitter), McCaul wrote: “Since their brutal takeover of Afghanistan, the Taliban have created a devastating humanitarian crisis — destroying advances in women’s rights, taking American hostages for political gain, and publicly executing individuals.”

He condemned Russia’s move as “a transparent attempt by the unholy alliance to legitimize its allies,” adding, “I join leaders across the free world in decrying this dangerous move, which puts a rubber stamp on the Taliban’s brutal rule.”

Earlier this month, Russia became the first permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, and the first country globally, to formally recognise the Taliban as Afghanistan’s ruling government.

The Kremlin’s decision has drawn sharp criticism from Washington. While China has yet to extend formal recognition, it publicly welcomed Moscow’s move. Other nations have so far remained silent on the issue.

In a statement issued by the commission, officials said a total of 28593 migrants returned to Afghanistan, with 21881 entering via the Islam Qala border crossing and another 6712 through the Pul-e Abrisham checkpoint.

The commission also reported that 324 Afghan migrants returned from Pakistan through the Spin Boldak border, while 465 others crossed back into Afghanistan via the Torkham border.

The surge in deportations comes amid ongoing concerns from humanitarian organisations about the conditions faced by returnees and the capacity of Afghan authorities and aid agencies to respond to the increasing influx.