Stories from 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.

A magnitude 4.7 earthquake occurred near the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border region on June 14, 2026, at 17:54:10 UTC. The earthquake was at a depth of 206 km. A magnitude 4.7 earthquake has been recorded near the border of Afghanistan and Tajikistan.

The Taliban have banned smartphone use for their members and government employees in Afghanistan. Reports indicate that Taliban members in several provinces have begun smashing their smartphones.

The Taliban claimed to have conducted strikes on Pakistani positions.

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.

A German politician's desire to build on past cooperation with the Taliban regarding flights was noted. The last such cooperation occurred in connection with the September 11, 2001 attacks.

A magnitude 4.0 earthquake occurred in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan. The earthquake's epicenter was located at 70.40°E 36.70°N at a depth of 222 km. The event was recorded at 00:56:56 UTC on June 3, 2026.