AGP Executive Report

Security & Border Stability: Pakistan’s ISPR says security forces killed 21 India-backed militants affiliated with Fitna al-Khawarij across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including 25 killed in North Waziristan during Aug 31–Sept 1 and further clashes in Kohat and Dera Ismail Khan, with officials again blaming the Afghan Taliban for weak border controls and failure to stop cross-border attacks. Humanitarian & Social Conditions: Reports from Ghazni warn historic sites are deteriorating due to disasters, conflict, and poor preservation, while Nimroz farmers describe worsening drought impacts that are drying orchards and pushing families into losses. Governance & Rights: UN-backed efforts mark progress on child marriage prevention, with Afghanistan listed among co-sponsoring countries for a UNGA resolution to observe Nov 27 as an international day to eliminate child marriage. Diplomacy & Regional Politics: Coverage around the SCO Bishkek summit highlights renewed regional security and connectivity priorities, with Afghanistan repeatedly referenced in the broader counterterrorism and regional engagement context. Afghanistan-Related Mobility: Pakistan-Afghanistan trade route reopening is being urged by economic activists after reports of major losses tied to suspended crossings.

Human Rights & Rule of Law: EU envoy in Geneva warned the Taliban may have committed crimes against humanity over treatment of Afghan women and girls, citing education bans and gender persecution. Taliban Governance & Institutions: Tamadon TV says Taliban forces detained 12 seminary instructors in Kabul amid a property dispute, with electricity cut and armed personnel reportedly deployed. Humanitarian Crisis: MSF reports Kandahar child malnutrition up 30% year-on-year, as UNICEF and WFP warn acute needs are worsening amid funding gaps. Afghan Politics & Society: Former President Hamid Karzai urged girls’ education and women’s return to work, saying “we need a country for everyone,” while also praising Taliban security provision. Migration Politics: Guyana became another “third country” taking a limited number of vetted Afghan deportees from the U.S. under a temporary program, with IOM handling implementation. Public Health Funding: Afghanistan’s health ministry urged donors to boost health-sector funding and move toward a more self-reliant system. Regional Diplomacy: Muttaqi met Russia’s ambassador in Kabul as Afghanistan seeks expanded ties with major partners.

Taliban Mining Pitch: The Taliban’s new offer to the U.S. to open Afghanistan’s mineral wealth to American investment is being met with U.S. pushback, with Washington saying it has no plans to work with the Taliban on critical minerals—raising the key political question of who would actually control and profit from any future mining money. Humanitarian & Rights Pressure: UN reporting continues to warn that Afghanistan’s war victims remain without justice and that humanitarian needs are being overlooked, while fresh restrictions and aid disruptions keep hitting vulnerable groups. Security & Cross-Border Threats: Pakistan and Afghanistan-linked militant activity remains a focus, including Pakistan security operations targeting infiltrators along the Afghan border and continued regional concern over terrorism spillover. Counter-Narcotics: Pakistan’s Anti-Narcotics Force says it disrupted an Afghanistan-based drug trafficking network, seizing 671kg of methamphetamine across Karachi and Colombo. Regional Diplomacy: At the SCO summit in Bishkek, leaders renewed calls for inclusive governance in Afghanistan and condemned attacks on Iran, while also emphasizing regional stability and water as a non-political issue.

Pakistan-Afghanistan Dialogue Push: A Peshawar symposium urged moving beyond conflict and reopening trade routes, arguing closures are hurting livelihoods on both sides and calling for dialogue, connectivity, and dignified returns of Afghan migrants. EU Diplomatic Outreach: Islamic Emirate spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Afghanistan wants expanded diplomatic ties with Europe, urging countries that fought in Afghanistan to shift wartime policies toward engagement. Humanitarian Access Under Strain: The UN reported Taliban restrictions temporarily suspended 18 aid programs in July, with interference and gender-related barriers still disrupting assistance delivery. Women’s Education Restrictions: In Ghazni, girls barred from school turned to painting as an outlet, while stressing it cannot replace formal education. Kabul Business Innovation: A Kabul entrepreneur is booking bus tickets online and delivering them to customers, aiming to expand jobs—especially for women—in provinces. Regional Security Tensions: Pakistan’s military said it killed 48 militants in Balochistan raids and linked violence to Indian-backed groups, while also citing prior cross-border attacks from Afghanistan. SCO Diplomacy Context: Coverage around SCO’s Bishkek summit highlights renewed regional diplomacy and calls for inclusive governance in Afghanistan.

US-Iran Strike Fallout: Reuters reports weapons experts believe a US munition directly hit a wedding in southern Iran, killing at least five and wounding nearly 70; VP JD Vance says Washington is investigating as domestic pressure grows to end the war. Taliban Rule & Girls’ Education: The New York Times highlights secret schools keeping Afghan girls learning despite the Taliban’s ban on education beyond sixth grade, with nearly 2.5 million locked out of secondary school. Afghanistan–Pakistan Security Tensions: Pakistan’s ISPR says 15 militants were killed in a 36-hour foiled infiltration attempt from Afghanistan into North Waziristan, with Pakistan blaming “Indian-sponsored” groups and accusing Kabul of failing border control. Pakistan–Kabul Diplomacy: Pakistan’s ambassador to Kabul was called for consultations as Islamabad reviews the “evolving security situation” and rising anti-Taliban armed activity. Afghanistan’s Diplomatic Outreach: A report says Afghanistan’s diplomatic relations expanded over the past year, with Taliban officials seeking normalization. Humanitarian Squeeze: Save the Children warns Trump’s Iran war is driving an oil-price shock that forces aid groups to spend more to reach fewer children, including in Afghanistan.

Deportation Diplomacy: Germany says it is stepping up deportations of Afghans and is inviting the Taliban to help run return procedures, despite earlier refusals to reopen an embassy—raising fresh questions about recognition and responsibility. Domestic Industry Push: In Kabul, Deputy PM Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar launched rehabilitation for the Sana-e-Sabz Industrial Park, linking it to jobs, domestic production, and a planned Islamic printing and publishing center to cut import dependence. Justice After War: A UNAMA report finds decades of conflict have left most Afghan victims with lasting psychological harm and many without effective compensation or redress, citing fear, bureaucracy, and barriers to accountability. Security and Borders: Pakistan’s ISPR says 15 militants were killed in a long infiltration attempt near the Afghan border, while Afghanistan’s side rejects claims and points to border management costs and countermeasures. Governance by Decree: Afghanistan’s Islamic Emirate issued a decree ordering arrests of highway traffic-accident suspects and prioritizing court handling for victims’ heirs. Regional Bloc Signals: SCO leaders’ messaging in Bishkek continues to frame expanded cooperation and security coordination, with Afghanistan set to be discussed again at the UN Security Council.

Protest Crackdown: In Kabul, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid defended a nationwide ban on public protests under the Police Law, saying demonstrations have no place in their reading of Islamic law and are needed for security and stability. Diplomatic Outreach: Afghanistan reported issuing 203,693 visas to foreign nationals over the past year, alongside claims of expanded consular services and deeper ties with regional powers, including Russia’s recognition in 2025. Regional Security Pressure: Pakistan’s Foreign Office said any progress with Kabul hinges on “concrete and verifiable” Taliban action against TTP and other militant groups operating from Afghan soil, while Pakistan also reiterated it retains options on cross-border security. Trade Realignment: A new report says Afghanistan is shifting its economic map away from Pakistan after border closures and restrictions, with trade rising steadily toward Central Asia and Iran. SCO Diplomacy: At the SCO summit in Bishkek, leaders adopted the Bishkek Declaration stressing the bloc is not a military alliance, while addressing terrorism, Iran, and Afghanistan alongside cooperation on transport and connectivity. Humanitarian/Justice Watch: UN reporting highlighted Afghanistan’s war victims still face lasting harm and limited access to justice, as humanitarian needs remain severe.

Taliban Governance: Afghanistan’s Taliban government defended a nationwide ban on public protests, with spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid saying demonstrations “don’t exist in Islamic law” and that the rule is meant to prevent “chaos and lawlessness,” drawing renewed condemnation from rights groups. Urban Development: Kabul’s “Sulh” Housing Project moved forward as work began on B4 residential complexes in the Fifth Macroryan area, with officials linking the push to easing a growing housing shortage and completing delayed projects from the previous administration. Justice & International Law: The U.S. push to dismantle the International Criminal Court (ICC) stayed in focus, with debate intensifying over whether international justice can survive when major powers challenge the court’s authority. Regional Security Context: Pakistan’s military power consolidation drew attention again, with a report describing how constitutional and legal changes have entrenched Field Marshal Asim Munir’s dominance—an issue that directly shapes the security environment around Afghanistan. Afghan Economy/State Capacity: Afghanistan’s visa and mobility posture remained a theme, including reporting that Kabul issued over 200,000 visas to foreign nationals in 2025.

Humanitarian Access & Justice: UN and Red Cross reporting says Afghanistan is being overlooked despite severe needs, while UNAMA warns war victims still lack access to justice and lasting harm continues. Women’s Rights & Public Life: Coverage highlights Taliban restrictions that keep women and girls out of education and work, alongside new reporting on how repression is reshaping daily governance. US-Taliban Diplomacy Push: The Taliban is urging Washington to reopen engagement through diplomats and investment, including mineral and infrastructure offers, as the US keeps the embassy closed and maintains strict travel advisories. Regional Security & Terrorism: China’s envoy reportedly explores a new round of the Urumqi process with Pakistan, focusing on threats from groups operating from Afghanistan, including TTP and ETIM. Afghan Economy & Infrastructure: EU funding is reported for climate resilience and food systems, while separate reporting points to Kabul efforts to cut air cargo fees to boost exports. Security Incidents: Reports also note ongoing opposition activity against the Taliban-led government and continued localized friction over control.

Afghanistan Banking & Economy: Afghanistan Banks Association says public deposits have climbed to nearly $3 billion, citing rising confidence, while Da Afghanistan Bank says it’s improving services and urges citizens to use the formal system. Justice & Human Rights: UNAMA reports that victims of Afghanistan’s 2001-2021 conflict still face severe physical, psychological, and economic harm, with most lacking access to justice and support. Regional Diplomacy (SCO): At the Bishkek SCO summit, leaders signed the Bishkek Declaration, calling for diplomacy over force, rejecting “double standards” on terrorism, and stressing an “independent, neutral, peaceful” Afghanistan; India’s Modi pushed a 10-point plan including dismantling terrorism ecosystems. Water & Indus Waters Treaty: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif told SCO water must never be weaponised, linking the issue to treaty obligations after the PCA ruling kept the Indus Waters Treaty in force. Afghan- Pakistan Security Talks: Afghan ambassador Sardar Ahmad Shakib urged Islamabad and Kabul to deepen direct engagement, arguing Afghan soil must not be used against Pakistan while demanding specific, verifiable claims before any action.

Afghan-US Accountability Push: Families in Kandahar and Paktia are again demanding prosecution and compensation over alleged civilian killings during past foreign military operations, calling for international rights groups to act. Taliban Security Shake-Up: A resistance group claims it killed a senior Taliban intelligence deputy in Kandahar, signaling pressure on the regime’s coercive apparatus. Cross-Border Returns Under Strain: Reports from Pakistan’s Torkham “Zero Point” describe deportees—some undocumented, others reportedly even with registration proof—being forced to restart in Afghanistan as crackdowns intensify. Humanitarian Disaster Watch: Flash floods in Nuristan killed three and injured one, with officials warning damage assessments are still underway. Regional Diplomacy: As the SCO summit convenes in Bishkek, leaders including Russia, China, Iran, India and Central Asia set the tone for Eurasian security and trade talks—an arena Afghanistan’s neighbors watch closely. Taliban-US Minerals Pitch: Kabul is offering the US access to mineral wealth in exchange for sanctions relief and investment, aiming to shift the relationship toward economics. EU Aid Signal: The EU announced €15m to support livelihoods and climate resilience in Afghanistan.

Humanitarian Pressure in Afghanistan: The ICRC warns Afghanistan is slipping from global attention as funding cuts force clinic closures; it says 1 million children face life-threatening malnutrition and 3.7 million suffer acute malnutrition, urging the world “not to abandon Afghan communities.” US-Afghan Deal Fallout: A former Afghan Red Crescent official says the U.S. committed 3,000 violations after the Doha Agreement and argues the occupation’s end should have ended the need for intra-Afghan talks, calling for diplomatic, trade and humanitarian engagement instead. Taliban Outreach to Washington: Five years after U.S. withdrawal, the Islamic Emirate calls for U.S. investment in mining, infrastructure, agriculture and trade, while rejecting any U.S. military return and criticizing sanctions. Regional Diplomacy at SCO: At the Bishkek SCO summit’s 25th anniversary, leaders push multipolar cooperation; Afghanistan is listed as an observer as the bloc highlights connectivity, security and counterterrorism, with Afghanistan framed as a priority for cross-border threats. Afghan Deportations: Reports say the U.S. expanded “third-country” deportations, including Afghans sent to African countries, raising legal and rights concerns.

Afghanistan-US Relations & Minerals: Taliban officials are inviting the Trump administration to invest in Afghanistan’s lithium and rare earth deposits (over $1 trillion), while also urging embassy reopenings and normalized ties—framing the shift as “the chapter of war has come to an end.” Regional Security Messaging: Afghan authorities, via Zabihullah Mujahid, rejected claims that Afghanistan threatens neighbors, saying borders are controlled and concerns stem from misinformation; the CSTO had discussed strengthening the Tajik-Afghan border with weapons deliveries. International Law & Accountability: The ICC faces fresh US sanctions tied to concerns about possible jurisdiction over US actions in Afghanistan, as critics argue the court is being targeted for its effectiveness. Humanitarian Governance: UN reporting highlights major service closures in Afghanistan, including over 100 child malnutrition clinics shut, raising pressure on the Taliban’s ability to sustain health delivery. Afghan Deportations & Legal Pressure: Multiple reports describe Afghans being deported to third countries despite legal challenges and court protection, underscoring ongoing friction between US policy, courts, and Taliban concerns.

Security & Rights in Panjshir: Taliban forces detained about 30 residents during evening prayers in Abdara, Anaba district, Panjshir, after an explosion and gunfire; locals allege a mine was detonated by Taliban units and detainees reportedly remain in custody. Diplomacy with Washington: Islamic Emirate FM Amir Khan Muttaqi says Kabul wants to normalize relations with the United States on “mutual respect,” while “recognition” is framed as the next stage. Education Policy Update: Zabihullah Mujahid says the government is working to resolve the girls’ education gap beyond grade six, citing construction/renovation of schools and claiming millions are in education, but without a clear reopening timeline. Regional Coordination on Afghanistan: Ahead of the SCO summit in Bishkek, India says it has set up a joint working group with Central Asian states to review political, security, and humanitarian developments in Afghanistan. Trade & Economy: Afghanistan and Uzbekistan traders signed 20 agreements worth $267m, with calls to simplify trade and transit procedures. Health Access: WHO says it is supporting expansion of primary healthcare in Afghanistan’s remote regions with assistance from Italy.

Energy & Local Governance: Afghanistan’s Paktia province inaugurated a 41 million afghani power supply network in Gardez, connecting about 1,050 households and aiming to expand access to more families. Economic Governance & Trade: In Zabul, dried fruit traders warned that export bottlenecks are hurting livelihoods after shipments were reportedly turned back from China and fines piled up, while officials said they’re trying to open new regional markets. Human Rights & International Law: UN experts urged ICC member states to defend the court as the US escalates sanctions against ICC officials, arguing the move threatens international criminal accountability. US Immigration Policy: The Trump administration deported an Afghan man to the Central African Republic despite a US judge’s protection order over fears of Taliban persecution, with advocates calling it a legal loophole. Diplomacy & Regional Security: The SCO plans to discuss Afghanistan at its Bishkek summit, focusing on counterterrorism, border security, and drug trafficking, with Afghanistan still holding observer status. Taliban Administration & Jobs: Bamyan’s Taliban-run municipality shortlisted 121 applicants for a “night watchman” post, highlighting how educated Afghans are being pushed into low-skilled service work amid deep unemployment.

Deportations & Consular Ties: Germany is bringing Taliban-linked technical teams into the country to set up document procedures for more Afghan deportations, with Berlin confirming short-term support visits and reporting that 228 people have been deported since March 2025, including a recent flight of 23 from Leipzig. Media Freedom: Kabul’s Afghanistan Journalists Center urged the Taliban to reopen the Lapis Media Office after Taliban intelligence shut it down, confiscating equipment and threatening staff with arrest. Rights & Representation: During Prophet’s Birthday events in Kabul, Shia scholars and community figures renewed calls for Taliban government inclusion and recognition of Shia personal status laws. International Policy Signals: Taliban acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said the group is seeking to normalize relations with the U.S., while avoiding any clear timeline on reopening education for girls beyond middle school. Security Claims: Afghanistan’s Interior and Defense ministries rejected claims that Afghan soil threatens neighbors, saying no substantiated proof has been provided and border forces are deployed. Humanitarian/Abuse Claims: Rights groups say at least 20 Afghans have been executed in Iran since 2026, raising concerns about due process and access to lawyers. Diaspora/Access to Study: An Afghan activist blocked from taking up an Oxford place after winning a visa case, citing the UK’s “emergency brake” on Afghan nationals. Regional Diplomacy: Uzbekistan reiterated a “constructive approach” toward Afghanistan, tying engagement to economic diplomacy and hopes for peace and stability.