Stories from Kabul · Afghanistan

Taliban authorities are warning residents in Afghanistan to stop using their phones outside of their homes. Individuals are advised to only use their devices in private and unobserved locations. The Taliban has issued a warning to Afghan citizens, advising them against using mobile phones outside their homes. The Taliban's warning regarding mobile phone usage outside homes is being enforced in several regions of Afghanistan. The reasons behind the warning have not been fully elaborated.

An Afghan film director is discussing their career, influences, and upcoming projects. The conversation touches upon their experiences in filmmaking and their artistic vision. Specific films or influences were not named.

The Taliban claims to have carried out strikes on Pakistani positions, with reports indicating attacks on infrastructure supporting terrorism. Details regarding casualties or the specific locations of the strikes have not been independently verified. Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of harboring militants, a claim Afghanistan denies. The Taliban spokesperson described the action as humanitarian. This escalation follows recent cross-border tensions. The strikes reportedly killed at least 13 people. The Taliban claimed to have carried out airstrikes in three Pakistani provinces, killing thirteen people and injuring fourteen. The group has previously made similar claims. Details on the extent of the strikes were not immediately clear. The group's operations are based in Kabul. Afghan President Hassan Akhund demonstrated engagement in strengthening an ambitious plan for action.

Taliban rulers have reportedly enforced a strict dress code requiring women to be completely covered in public. Residents in Herat reported that women were detained for allegedly not complying with the dress code. Sources indicate that two people have been killed in connection with the enforcement. This comes after the Taliban seized power in 2021. This measure is part of their ongoing efforts to implement their interpretation of Sharia law. These detentions have led to concerns from the UN mission. The decree mandates full face coverings and prohibits women from leaving their homes without a male guardian. This directive mandates specific attire and veiling for women in public spaces. This measure is part of their broader policy on women's rights and public behavior. Further details on the enforcement and its impact are emerging.

Following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, a disaster catastrophe was set to be addressed. The verdict on the former leader was set for August. International aid organizations are involved in the efforts.

The Pakistan-aligned SideCopy group has deployed a sophisticated spear-phishing campaign codenamed Operation XENOFISCAL. The campaign specifically targeted Afghanistan's Ministry of Finance. The attackers used advanced techniques in their operation.

The United Nations has warned that a funding shortfall threatens life-saving aid for millions of people in Afghanistan. This comes amid ongoing challenges in the region.

Taliban diplomats are being expelled from embassies, with reports indicating they are being driven out or replaced. This action follows concerns about the Taliban's control and their diplomatic presence. The specific country expelling the diplomats is not mentioned. Taliban diplomats have been expelled from a European country due to concerns regarding Afghanistan.

Taliban leaders are reportedly seeking pragmatic ways to manage governance and secure international funds. However, other leaders are seen as more pragmatic in their approach. Taliban leaders are reportedly discussing a more pragmatic approach to governance in Afghanistan. This discussion comes amid ongoing challenges in the country. These discussions may focus on economic stability and international relations. The discussions come as the country faces extreme poverty and a lack of education, particularly for women and girls who are barred from attending school or university.

The Taliban government has justified its ban on women's rights, stating it is in accordance with Islamic law. This decision impacts countless female students seeking to advance their studies and careers. The Taliban has prohibited women from pursuing higher education, citing Islamic law as justification. An activist is expected to provide further commentary. A young woman speaking to a South Asia correspondent described the challenges of seeking higher education. The ban was reported by Rob Young. Access to education for women and girls is severely restricted. This action comes five years after the group's return to power and is framed as being under Islamic law. While opportunities in various sectors were mentioned, the specific impact on female education remains a critical concern. This policy affects women and girls at all levels of education.