Latest News from Afghanistan (as of October 7, 2025)

Taliban Firmly Rejects U.S. Bid to Reclaim Bagram Air Base
The Taliban has categorically denied U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed calls to “take back” the strategic Bagram Air Base, stating that Afghans will never allow foreign military presence on their soil again. This comes amid escalating tensions over U.S. interests in the region.

Internet Services Restored After Taliban-Imposed Blackout
Mobile and internet access has been fully restored across Afghanistan following a sudden 48-hour nationwide shutdown ordered by the Taliban, which grounded all flights and disrupted daily life. Afghans expressed relief as services returned, though the blackout’s motives remain unclear.

Surging Malnutrition Crisis Hits Women and Children Hard
Malnutrition rates are at record highs, with 4.7 million women and children requiring urgent treatment this year alone. Hospitals are overwhelmed with cases of starving infants, exacerbated by economic woes and aid restrictions under Taliban rule.

Floods Devastate Northern Provinces, Displacing Hundreds
Heavy rains have triggered severe flooding in three northern Afghan provinces, affecting over 700 families and causing widespread damage to homes and farmland. Rescue efforts are ongoing amid fears of further casualties.

Acting Foreign Minister Heads to Moscow Format Talks
Taliban Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has departed for Russia to participate in the Moscow Format consultations on Afghanistan, with Pakistan confirming its attendance for the first time. Discussions are expected to focus on regional stability and economic cooperation.

Earthquake Strikes Jalalabad, Prompting Rescue Operations
A powerful earthquake hit Jalalabad, injuring several residents and damaging infrastructure. Rescue teams are scrambling to aid the wounded and assess the full extent of destruction in the eastern province.

Amnesty International Hails New Accountability Mechanism
The establishment of an international accountability body for crimes committed in Afghanistan over the past four decades marks a “landmark moment” in pursuing justice for human rights violations, according to Amnesty International.

Other Notable Developments

• A British couple detained for months in Afghanistan on unspecified charges has been released and returned home.
• The Afghan cricket team prepares for a match against Bangladesh in the UAE as part of the 2025 schedule.
• Concerns rise over a data breach exposing Afghan refugees’ information, putting families at risk.