Conflict

Lost Youth of Afghan Child Soldiers

Afghanistan: Grim Secrets in Dasht-i Laili Desert

Taleban Killings in Mazar-e Sharif Recalled

Uzbek Islamic Leader Targeted by Hitman

Iraq Stunned by Bombing Wave

Serious questions raised about security forces’ effectiveness in wake of American troop withdrawal.

Afghanistan: Khost Residents Armed to the Teeth

Most households have at least one unlicensed weapon, despite government efforts to call them in and curb deadly feuds.

Ethnic Brawls Near Uzbek Capital

Emboldened Syrian Regime Steps Up Violence

Fears that President Assad now believes he has a free hand to crush rebellion by military force.

Fears of Divisive Conflict Grow in Syria

Talk of sectarian and ethnic schisms isn’t just regime propaganda, observers say.

Taleban Fighters Divided on Peace Talks

In eastern province, some insurgents are ready to stop fighting.