Afghanistan

Women Angry Over Shrine Ban

Balkh women say ban on popular women-only day at holy site is latest in series of repressive measures.

Marja Residents Flee Unrest

Caught between government and Taleban forces, locals say their only choice is to seek refuge elsewhere.

Afghan Execution Protests Anger Iran

Neighbours at odds about reports Afghan refugees have been executed in Iran for trafficking narcotics.

The Drug Courier Children of Herat

Badghis Pistachio Forests Face Destruction

Poverty and a lack of fuel leading people to chop down valuable nut trees.

Helmand Poppy Growth Surges

After a two-year slump in opium prices, farmers and officials say production and revenues in Helmand are rising again.

Afghan Dam Story Makes Headlines

Taleban Defiant Following Marja Operation

Insurgents vow to hit back hard after offensive by international forces. By Hewad in Kabul

Military Swoop Disappoints Marja People

Operation to tackle rebels goes on but locals wait for promised reconstruction. By Mohammad Ilyas Dayee in Helmand

New Lease of Life for Liberated Herat District

Insurgent commander’s demise ends reign of oppression in Gozara, western Afghanistan. By Mustafa Saber in Herat