Thousands of Afghans are returning from Iran as job losses, unpaid wages, rising living costs and economic pressures make it harder to remain there. Some leave voluntarily, while others face deportation or pressure to return without enough resources to rebuild their lives. Read More
Saudi Arabia is redirecting some crude shipments through Oman after attacks disrupted part of its East-West pipeline to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. The alternative route is intended to maintain supplies to Asian refineries and reduce reliance on affected infrastructure. The Read More
Thousands of Afghans are returning from Iran as currency depreciation, rising food prices, reduced wages and fewer job opportunities make it harder for migrant families to meet daily expenses. Many returnees arrive with limited savings and face difficulties finding housing, employment and Read More
A UN assessment submitted to the Security Council on September 9, 2026, says Afghanistan faces interconnected humanitarian, economic, human rights and security pressures. More than 21 million people need assistance, funding is insufficient, and returns from neighboring countries are straining communities and Read More
Rising fertilizer prices are threatening Afghanistan’s 2027 wheat harvest as farmers prepare for winter planting. The FAO is seeking $38.3 million to help up to 600,000 farming households purchase fertilizer and certified wheat seed before the planting window closes. The crisis is Read More
The General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) is the Taliban authorities’ primary intelligence and security agency. Since 2021, it has gathered information on security threats and investigated opposition, while also becoming central to monitoring criticism and controlling independent media. Human Rights Watch has Read More
The United States uses reward programs to seek information leading to the arrest of fugitives, suspected terrorists, organized-crime figures and people accused of serious crimes. The FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives program offers rewards of up to $1 million, while the State Read More
Since 2021, Afghan girls have been barred from secondary education, while women have been excluded from universities since 2022. Restrictions also limit women’s movement, employment, public participation and access to public spaces, leaving many girls dependent on informal or hidden educational opportunities. Read More
The passenger ferry Virgo Transport 8 overturned in the Java Sea while traveling from Surabaya to Banjarmasin, carrying 243 people. Authorities reported 107 survivors, six deaths and approximately 130 missing people as search-and-rescue teams continued operations in rough seas. The disaster highlights Read More
ISIS-K remains a significant security threat in Afghanistan despite sustained pressure from security operations. The group continues to target civilians and religious communities, maintain operational networks, and use online propaganda to spread its ideology and recruit supporters. International monitoring organizations remain concerned Read More
