Afghan Weekly (Nov 12 – Nov 17, 2016)

The Global Terrorism Index 2016 report released by the Institute for Economics and Peace this week ranked Afghanistan number two, after Iraq, for the year 2015. As per the report, terrorism increased 29 percent to 4,502 deaths and battlefield deaths increased 34 per cent to over 15,000 in the previous year. The Taliban were responsible for 85 per cent of all deaths from terrorism, carrying out 1,094 attacks that killed 4,502 people. Police remained the main target of attacks by the Taliban and accounted for half of all attacks and deaths. Additionally, the US Department of State’s Humanitarian Information Unit also released a report this week disclosing that, on top of the existing 5 million refugee returnees since 2002, this year more than 550,000 Afghans are returning migrants and refugees from Pakistan, while another 485,000 are conflict induced internally displaced persons.

As part of Afghanistan’s fight against terrorism, during a meeting with the UNSC delegation in Kabul this week, President Ghani urged the delegation to include the names of the terrorists together with Taliban chief in the sanctions list, also insisting that international talks should be held to help curb the financial resources of the militants. On the other hand, Afghanistan’s Chief Executive Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, in a meeting with the delegates of the unofficial Pak-Afghan dialogue convened by CRSS-WPSO in Kabul, stated that he looks forward to his upcoming visit to Pakistan where he expects to have substantive discussions on bilateral relations, including on the common threat of terrorism. He also affirmed that Afghanistan wants good and positive ties with Pakistan keeping in view the good neighborhood principle. More such updates on this week’s security, internal politics, international engagements and socio-economic developments in Afghanistan are as follow.

A Security Overview

Four Americans Killed in Unprecedented Suicide Attack at U.S. Base in Afghanistan – November 12, 2016

A suicide bomber somehow managed to get inside the main U.S. military base in Afghanistan on Saturday and kill four Americans. Two U.S. service members and two civilian contractors were killed while 17 were wounded, of which 16 were Americans and one was a Polish service member. The attack took place early in the morning as people at Bagram air base were gathering for a “fun run” to mark Veterans Day, according to NBC News. The Taliban immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, which a spokesman for the group said had been planned for four months. Although rocket attacks on large bases in Iraq and Afghanistan are relatively common “a suicide bomber making it inside one is almost unheard of,” notes the Washington Post. There has never been a suicide bombing inside Bagram since it was open for U.S. troops in late 2001.[1]

Wahid Sediqqi, spokesman for the Parwan governor, on Monday said that the Bagram Airbase suicide bomber had been working on the base. The base is one of the most secure facilities in Afghanistan. The suicide attacker, named Enayatollah, lived in Bagram, and had previously been a Taliban member. He joined the peace process four years ago, said Sediqqi. Enayatollah had worked at the base for four years but had been persuaded to carry out the attack by the Taliban, said Sediqqi.[2] US Secretary of State John Kerry has denounced as abhorrent and cowardly a recent attack on America’s largest military base in Afghanistan.[3]

Hekmatyar Urges Trump to Withdraw U.S Forces from Afghanistan – November 12, 2016

Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, leader of the Hizb-e-Islami party, urged United States president-elect Donald Trump to withdraw U.S forces from Afghanistan. Hekmatyar suggested in a letter to Trump he withdraw U.S forces from Afghanistan and let the Afghans to solve their problems themselves and forge their own destiny. ‎However National Unity Government (NUG) leaders called for the continued presence of U.S troops in Afghanistan but according to Hekmatyar those who want the U.S forces are not committed to the nation and nor are they friends of the United States.

Hekmatyar said that Afghans must elect their leaders in free elections. Hekmatyar emphasized that in U.S forces’ operations in Afghanistan, terrorists are not killed but instead innocent civilians are killed. Hekmatyar referred to the recent bombing in Kunduz and said it was a good example of civilians being killed. More than 30 civilians were killed and 50 homes destroyed.[4]

U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan closes after attacks – November 13, 2016

The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan has closed following deadly insurgent attacks on a German Consulate and an American military base. In a statement late Saturday, the embassy says it will be “closed for routine services” on Sunday “as a temporary precautionary measure.”[5]

19 Daesh Insurgents Killed in Nangarhar Operations – November 13, 2016

At least 19 Daesh insurgents were killed in separate operations by Afghan and foreign troops in eastern Nangarhar province, local officials said on Sunday. In the first operation, 14 Daesh insurgents were killed after a foreign troops drone targeted the insurgents in Achin district of the province, a spokesman for the provincial governor, Attaullah Khoghyani, said. This comes after Afghan security forces launched an operation in Pacheragam district of the province in which five Daesh insurgents were killed. Recently, Afghan and foreign troops increased their operations against Daesh insurgents in eastern parts of the country – especially in Nangarhar province.[6]

Taliban Commander Arrested in Kunduz Operation – November 13, 2016

Belal, a Taliban commander, and his six fighters were arrested in an operation in northern Kunduz province, local officials said Sunday. Spokesman for provincial police Mahfuzullah Akbari said that Belal is a key Taliban commander in the province. He said no casualties were reported among civilians or security forces during the operation. However, he did not provide more details about the operation.[7]

More than a dozen Daesh rebels killed in US drone strike – November 13, 2016

Thirteen Daesh — or Islamic State (IS) — militants have been killed in a US drone strike in the Achin district of eastern Nangarhar province.[8]

Ghani wants Taliban Chief to be included in UN Security Council Sanctions List – November 14, 2016

President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani wants the United Nations Security Council to include the supreme leader of the Taliban group Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada to be included in the sanctions list. During a meeting with the UNSC delegation in Kabul, President Ghani urged the delegation to include the names of the terrorists together with Taliban chief in the sanctions list. President Ghani also insisted on international talks to help curb the financial resources of the militants which he believes are mainly guaranteed through criminal economic issues, specifically with the smuggling of drugs.

He said the second major contributor to the militants’ financial resources is the illegal extraction of mines in the country and the government of national unity has terminated several contracts in the past two years in a bid to create capacity for the better management of mining. In regards to the ongoing insurgency in the country, President Ghani said the violence in Afghanistan has regional roots and more than 30 insurgent groups are contributing to the complex Afghan war.

President Ghani also discussed regarding the provision of sanctuaries to the terrorists by certain countries, emphasizing for the declaration of clear stance against those supporting the terrorist groups as well as jointly working on various issues including the transactions of black money which reach to the terrorist groups. The UNSC sanctions committee delegation in their turn promised full support to help dry the financial resources of the terrorist groups as well as other criminal activities that fuel insurgency, including opium cultivation and smuggling and money laundering.[28]

Plot to target Friday prayers with car bomb foiled in Ghazni city– November 14, 2016

The Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) foiled a plot by the Taliban group to target the Friday prayers with a car bomb in Ghazni city in Southeast of Afghanistan. The Afghan Intelligence, National Directorate of Security (NDS), said the Taliban commander Mullah Agha was looking to detonate the Vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) in Mustafa mosque in Ghazni city.[9]

NDS claims arresting 3 Pakistani Daesh in Kunur – November 14, 2016

The National Directorate of Security (NDS) on Sunday claimed arresting a group of three Pakistani Daesh insurgents in eastern Kunur province.[10]

11 Taliban join peace process in Nangarhar – November 14, 2016

An 11-member Taliban group, including a notorious commander, has surrendered their weapons and joined the peace process in eastern Nangarhar province, the governor’s house said on Sunday.[11]

One of German consulate attackers arrested by Afghan forces – November 14, 2016

The Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) arrested one of the attackers of German consulate who was at large, the security officials said Sunday. The officials further added that the arrested suspect was among the three suicide bombers who had launched a coordinated attack on German consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif city, the provincial capital of Balkh province.[12]

Taliban asked to Respect Journalists as a Pre-Condition for Peace – November 14, 2016

Reporters Without Borders on Monday urged the Afghan government to delay peace negotiations with the Taliban unless the group ends their attacks against journalists in Afghanistan. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, members from the organization and other media supporting bodies in Kabul said journalists face many problems in Afghanistan and government should fulfill its commitments to support media workers in the country. “We urge the Afghan government to launch a campaign in order to set a pre-condition for the Taliban’s participation in the peace process. Kabul should not start peace negotiations with the Taliban until the group stops targeting journalists and accepts them as civilians,” said Reza Moeeni, media officer for the organization for Afghanistan and Iran.[13]

25 Insurgents Killed in Clearing Operations: MoI – November 14, 2016

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) said in a statement on Monday that at least 25 insurgents were killed during operations across the country in the past 24 hours. In addition, 9 other insurgents were injured. The operations were launched in Kabul, Nangarhar, Kunar, Paktia, Wardak, Paktika, Kandahar, Uruzgan, Helmand, Herat, Ghor, Sar-e-Pul, Faryab, Baghlan and Kunduz provinces to clear the insurgents, according to the statement. It said that most parts of the areas in the provinces were cleared of insurgents during the operations. However, the statement did not provide more details about the operations or the casualties among security forces.[14]

Afghan Air Force conducted 129 flights, including combat and training missions – November 14, 2016

The Afghan Air Force (AAF) released its latest operational update on Sunday stating that 129 flights were conducted in the past 24 hours, including combat and training missions. According to AAF, 15 of the flights were direct combat missions against insurgents while 8 flights were conducted for the training of the Afghan pilots. AAF further added that 106 of the flights were used to transport 666 Afghan security personnel and 15,382 kilograms of cargo. The reconstruction and equipment of the Afghan Air Force gained momentum late last year and earlier this year with the arrival of new aircraft, specifically the fixed-wing and rotary-wing equipment.[15]

US Forces May Have Tortured Prisoners in Afghanistan: ICC – November 15, 2016

International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors said that a preliminary probe indicates that members of the United States armed forces and the CIA may have committed war crimes by torturing detainees in Afghanistan. The prosecution office said in a report issued late Monday that U.S armed forces personnel “appear to have subjected at least 61 detained persons to torture” in Afghanistan, mainly in 2003-2004. The report adds that CIA operatives may have tortured at least 27 detainees in Afghanistan and elsewhere mainly in the same time period.

Prosecutors said they will decide “imminently” whether to seek authorization to open a full-scale investigation in Afghanistan. The United States is not a member of the court, but its citizens could face prosecution if they commit crimes in a country that is a member, such as Afghanistan.The U.S-led invasion into Afghanistan toppled the Taliban from power after the 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. The Taliban had harbored al-Qaeda militants in the years leading up to the attacks.[16]

ISIS in Afghanistan claims Trump’s victory to help attract more fighters – November 15, 2016

The loyalists of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorist group in Afghanistan have claimed that the victory of Donald Trump in the US Presidential election will help the group attract more fighters in the country. The loyalists of the terrorist group joined the Taliban insurgents to react towards the victory of the Republican candidate in the elections. “This guy is a complete maniac. His utter hate towards Muslims will make our job much easier because we can recruit thousands,” Abu Omar Khorasani, a top IS commander in Afghanistan, told Reuters. The remarks by ISIS commander in Afghanistan came as Trump earlier promised to defeat “radical Islamic terrorism just as we won the Cold War.”

The US forces in Afghanistan as well as the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) have stepped up counter-terrorism operations against the militant groups, including the ISIS terrorist group. The increased raids by US forces based in Afghanistan followed by Obama administration’s decision to grant broader role to counter the growing threats posed by the terrorist groups. However, Trump has offered few details on his plans to combat various radical groups, including IS, the Taliban and al Qaeda, which represent a wide spectrum of political views, according to Reuters.[17]

Govt to Ask UN To Lift Sanctions Against Hekmatyar – November 15, 2016

The Afghan government will send a letter to the United Nations (UN) to officially ask them to lift sanctions against Hizb-e-Islami leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, the National Security Council (NSC) said on Tuesday. The NSC spokesman Tawab Ghorzang said they hope the United Nations will help Kabul in this respect. “It was decided that government will send a letter to the United Nations Security Council in order to lift the sanctions. As well as, the UN has vowed to assess the demand of the Afghan government in the letter,” he said. Meanwhile, the chairman of Hizb-e-Islami’s negotiation delegation, Amin Karim, criticized what he called snail-paced progress around the implementation of the peace agreement. “The Afghan government should send a formal letter to the UN and other relevant countries in order to remove the sanctions [against Hekmatyar],” he stated.[18]

Afghanistan Ranked Number Two on Global Terror Index – November 16, 2016

Afghanistan suffered the worst year so far in its war with the Taliban, resulting in nearly 18,000 deaths from the conflict in 2015. As a result it is ranked number two in the world on the terrorism index, the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) said in its latest Global Terrorism Index (GTI). In the fourth edition of the index, IEP said “while the international community’s focus has intensified on ISIL (Daesh) and its activities in Iraq and Syria, last year recorded the deadliest year for the Taliban in Afghanistan. The increases in Afghanistan highlight the resurgence of the Taliban in a war that has now lasted 15 years, the report read.[19]

4 Killed in Kabul Suicide Bombing – November 16, 2016

A relatively heavy explosion jolted Kabul early Wednesday morning after an apparent suicide bomber detonated his explosives in Pul-e-Mahmood Khan area. According to security officials, at least four security force members were killed in the explosion. In addition 11 other people were wounded. Early reports indicate the target had been a security forces vehicle.[21]

Afghan Police Seize car bomb prepared for an attack by militants – November 16, 2016

The Afghan National Police (ANP) forces seized a Vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) prepared for an attack. The Ministry of Interior (MoI) said the car bomb was seized during an operation in central Maidan Wardak province. “Yesterday morning, Afghan National Police (Crisis Response Unit) launched a special operation in Chaghato district of Maidan Wardak province,” MoI said in a statement. The statement further added “As a result, Afghan National Police (CRU) has seized a vehicle packed with explosive.” “Discoveries like this demonstrate the ever-increasing capability of Afghan National Security Forces to protect the civilians from indiscriminate IED attacks,” MoI added.[22]

Afghan Special Forces rescue 36 from Taliban prison in Helmand – November 16, 2016

The Special Forces Unit of the Afghan National Police (ANP) rescued at least 36 civilians from a prison run by the Taliban insurgents in southern Helmand province of Afghanistan. The Ministry of Interior (MoI) said the operation was conducted late on Tuesday night in Greshk district of Helmand. MoI further added that the Taliban insurgents were torturing the civilians in the cell, including the children who were kept as captives. According to MoI, the Taliban insurgents managed to flee the area with the deployment of the Special Forces and no casualties were incurred to security personnel or civilians.[23]

Afghanistan: 12- and 14-Year-Old Boys Arrested for Islamic State Ties – November 16, 2016

Afghanistan has reportedly apprehended two boys, age 12 and 14, affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL) branch in the region known as the Khorasan Province (IS-KP/ISIL-K). Citing unnamed local officials, Khaama Press (KP) notes that the boys have been arrested in the ISIL-K stronghold of Nangarhar, an eastern province in Afghanistan that borders Pakistan, where the terrorist group is also active. Khorasan is a historical name for a region that covers Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, parts of India, and other surrounding countries.[24]

Hekmatyar Refuses to Apologize Over War Crime Allegations – November 17, 2016

The leader of Hezb-e-Islami Gulbuddin Hekmatyar has refused to apologize over war crime allegations as efforts are underway to remove his name from UNSC sanctions committee following the conclusion of a peace deal with the Afghan government. In an audio message to AFP, Hekmatyar said “Those who have committed crimes or have been charged by a reputable court should apologise. Not those upon whom war is imposed, who have resisted the invaders, defended themselves and defended the country.”

Hekmatyar is accused of serious human rights violations during the devastating civil war in Afghanistan in 1990s. His party joined the peace process following months of negotiations with the Afghan high peace council as the Afghan officials are optimistic that the reconciliation with Hezb-e-Islami will open doors for the other militant groups to join peace process and end the ongoing violence through reconciliation. A member of the party said late in September that Hezb-e-Islami has apologized to the victims of the devastating war the party was involved in 1990s.

A senior member of the party Qarib-ur-Rehman Syed told VOA’s Afghanistan service that “Hezb-e-Islami considers itself a member and party of the people. Hezb-e-Islami belongs to the people and people belongs to Hezb-e-Islami. In every and every second, we apologize from those who were hurt.” Syed further added “We have in the past tendered apologies to the people since this is our home, village and people.” He said a special tribunal should be established to try those who have been involved in war crimes, including any member of Hezb-e-Islami.[20]

ISIS claims responsibility for Kabul attack that left 4 dead, 11 wounded – November 17, 2016

The loyalists of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorist group claimed responsibility behind the attack in Kabul that left at least 4 dead. ISIS loyalists operating under the name of Khurasan province issued a statement and released the picture of the suicide bomber who carried out the attack on Wednesday morning. The suicide bomber has been identified as Talha Al-Khurasani and the loyalists of the terror group have claimed that the target of the explosion was the operatives of the Afghan intelligence.[25]

Pakistan says it strongly condemn attack on security forces in Kabul – November 17, 2016

Pakistan has condemned the attack in capital Kabul that left at least 4 people dead and 11 others wounded. A spokesman for the Foreign Office of Pakistan Nafees Zakaria said “We strongly condemn terrorist attack on Afghan security officials. We offer condolences to Afghan government and people, sympathize with bereaved families.”[26]

Airstrike kill 6 ISIS militants, leaves 2 others wounded in East of Afghanistan – November 17, 2016

At least 6 loyalists of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorist group were killed and 2 others were wounded in an airstrike in eastern Nangarhar province of Afghanistan. The Ministry of Defense (MoD) said the airstrike was carried out in Pacher Agam district of Nangarhar. No further details were given regarding the airstrike and it is yet not clear if the raid was conducted by the Afghan Air Force or the US forces based in Afghanistan. Both the Afghan and US forces conducted regular strikes against the loyalists of the terror group in this province.[27]

Update on the Afghan Refugees’ Crisis & IDPs

Gula To Be Sent to India For Treatment: Envoy – November 14, 2016

Afghan Ambassador to India Shaida Abdali tweeted that Sharbat Gula will be sent to India for medical treatment. He said this was thanks to India and that a hospital in Bangalore had offered to treat her free of charge. Gula’s family also thanked Ghani for his efforts and said that “the life of Shargat Gula represents Afghanistan’s pain and sorrow and she hopes that peace and stability comes to the country.” “She also hopes that all refugees return to the country like she did,” the family said.[29]

Afghanistan: Vulnerable People on the Move in 2016 – November 16, 2016

At least one million vulnerable people are on the move in Afghanistan this year. On top of the existing 5 million refugee returnees since 2002, this year more than 550,000 Afghans are returning migrants and refugees from Pakistan, while another 485,000 are conflict induced internally displaced persons (IDPs). Refugees receive UNHCR assistance at encashment centers, but returnees and IDPs are particularly vulnerable in Nangarhar, Kunduz,Helmand, and Kabul, where the urban poor and IDPs already strain resources.[30]

WFP Launches 9-Month Operation to Assist Returnees – November 17, 2016

The World Food Programme (WFP) has launched a nine-month operation to help Afghanistan deal with the growing number of returnees from Pakistan and internally displaced people (IDPs) by providing emergency food and funds, the UN says. On a daily basis, thousands of refugees are crossing the border at the main entry point of Torkham, some with identity documents and others without. More than a million people are expected to be on the move across the country by the end of the year. In cooperation with the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation, WFP plans establishing a digital registration platform at the border to capture the returnees’ biometric data using SCOPE — the UN agency’s beneficiary management application.

WFP and other United Nations agencies are working closely with the Afghan government to increase the capacity of humanitarian response and meet immediate shelter, sanitation and food needs, which also required an urgent appeal for $152 million. Having stepped up assistance in eastern Afghanistan, WFP is providing food and cash support for 163,000 undocumented returnees, 200,000 registered returnees, 150,000 IDPs and 35,000 refugees in Khost and Paktika provinces. Operational costs are estimated at $66.8 million, only 12 per cent of which has thus far been met.[31]

Germany may deport more than 12,000 Afghan migrants – November 17, 2016

Germany is likely to send back home country more than 12,000 Afghan migrants because large parts of Afghanistan are considered safe, a media report said on Thursday.[32]

Pakistani wives want their deported Afghan husbands back – November 17, 2016

Several Pakistani women have staged protest against the Pakistani authorities as their husbands hailing from Afghanistan were deported along with hundreds of thousands of other Afghan refugees, it has been reported. The women participated in the protest along with their children as they called the step by the authorities in Pakistan ‘a flawed approach’ to neighboring Afghanistan.

According to Gandhara/RFE/RL, the dozen protesters in Peshawar are among hundreds of Pakistani women who married Afghan men over the past four decades, when millions of Afghan refugees lived in the country. “We are in an impossible situation. My husband and some of our elder children are in Afghanistan, but I stay behind here with the younger ones in a rented house,” she told Radio Mashaal. “It is difficult to survive without a husband. It is daunting for my children, who miss their father.”[33]

International Engagements

Moscow to Host Russia-China-Pakistan Talks on Afghanistan – November 14, 2016

The next Russian-Chinese-Pakistani consultations on Afghanistan will be held in Moscow next month, with grounds to establish a wider regional partnership on the issue, the Russian Foreign Ministry’s director of the Second Asian Department said. Zamir Kabulov told RIA Novosti that it was in the regional stakeholders’ “natural” interests to protect themselves from terrorist spillover, noting that containment efforts should take the form of an “Afghan-regional” project. “We are discussing this with the Chinese, the Iranians, Indians, Pakistanis. There is work on specifics … For example, we are planning the next Russian-Chinese-Pakistani consultations in December. They will be held in Moscow,” Kabulov said. The diplomat added that he held talks with Iranian partners in Tehran.[34]

EU Distressed Over Afghan Situation, Urges NUG Leaders to Unite – November 16, 2016

The European Union’s Special Representative for Afghanistan Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin on Wednesday raised deep concerns over the ongoing turmoil in Afghanistan, urging the Afghan political leaders to settle their disputes and unite for the sake of the nation. He also reiterated EU’s longstanding cooperation to Afghanistan in the years ahead.

“I think it is very important that there is a strong united leadership, all Afghans have to work together in this time of crisis, there is a very difficult political, economic and security situation, some of that is outside the control of Afghanistan, the Afghan people, some of these are out of the control of politicians, but certainly national unity, political unity something in the hands of the Afghans themselves and political leadership and that should be the baseline, I really think that there is a strong need for to take their responsibility,” said Mellbin.

Joining the EU diplomat, some Afghan lawmakers have also said that rifts within the political leadership was not in the interests of the country. “Continuation of these disagreements does not support the interests of the nation, therefore the political leadership should sideline their disputes for the sake of the nation,” said MP Fatima Aziz. Referring to the endemic corruption in Afghanistan, Mellbin hailed the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Justice Center (ACJC) and said it was a positive move to curb the scourge.[35]

Five Nation Lapis-Lazuli Route Agreement to Be Signed Soon – November 17, 2016

Delegations from Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey held their 4th technical meeting on Wednesday where they finalized the transcript of the Lapis-Lazuli Route Agreement which is expected to be signed by high level officials from the five nations in the near future. According to MoFA, the agreement between the technical teams from the five nations has been finalized for a final signature between each country’s top officials.

“The Lapis-Lazuli Route is one of the key gains made by the national unity government and this will provide the shortest route for Afghanistan to access the Mediterranean and the Black Sea,” the statement said. “Using the Lapis-Lazuli Route will significantly curb the price and time for transactions of commercial goods between the regional countries and besides Afghanistan, this will also connect the rest of southern Asian nations with central Asian countries including Europe and Caucasus region,” the statement concluded.[36]

German Cabinet Backs Continued Military Mission in Afghanistan – November 17, 2016

Chancellor Angela Merkel’s cabinet on Wednesday approved the continuation of Germany’s deployment of up to 980 soldiers to Afghanistan through the end of 2017, a government spokesman said on Wednesday. The decision, which must still be approved by parliament, came less than a week after armed Taliban militants stormed the German consulate in the northern Afghan city of Mazar-e-Sharif and killed at least four Afghans and wounded more than 100 people. “With up to 980 soldiers, the German army will in future advise, support and train Afghan security services,” said the government in a statement. Germany, which heads the NATO-led Resolute Support mission in northern Afghanistan, has its soldiers stationed on the outskirts of Mazar-e-Sharif, and another 150 soldiers in Kabul.

The NATO mission includes a total of 13,000 foreign troops from Germany, Italy, the United States and others. The NATO forces are focussed on training the Afghan army and police, not combat operations. Germany is also slated to provide up to 1.7 billion euros in civilian aid to Afghanistan through 2020.[37]

Pak-Afghan Relations this Week

Islamabad set to host conference on Afghan peace process – November 14, 2016

A conference on the Afghan peace process will be held in Pakistan ’s capital Islamabad by a noted international organisation, a reliable source said on Sunday.[38]

Enemies out to sabotage Af-Pak relations: Sherpao – November 14, 2016

The enemies of Pakistan are at work to sabotage its relations with neighbouring Afghanistan, a senior Pakhtun political figure has alleged. Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) Chairman Aftab Ahmad Khan Sherpao underlined the need for concrete measures to counter the designs of such elements. “Pakistan and Afghanistan have deep religious, social and cultural ties that need to be further cemented,” said the QWP chief, also a former federal minister. Addressing party workers in Takhtbhai sub-district on Sunday, Sherpao argued cordial Pak-Afghan relations would ensure peace and stability in the entire region. He added friendly ties between Kabul and Islamabad would boost prospects for the development of the region, which has been in the grip of poverty and terrorism.

“Pakistan’s foes are trying to sabotage relations between the two countries and the federal government should take measures to ensure peaceful and dignified return of Afghan refugees. “We have hosted our Afghan brothers for decades and now we are at risk of turning decades of hospitality into enmity. We cannot allow foes to succeed in their designs by isolating Pakistan in the region,” he remarked.[39]

Pakistan to open visa facilities in Afghan provinces – November 15, 2016

Pakistan will open new facilities for issuing visas to Afghans in other provinces in order to address the existing problems, the Pakistani consul general in eastern Nangarhar province said on Monday.[40]

We Want Good Ties with Pakistan: Abdullah – November 17, 2016

Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah on Wednesday said Afghanistan wanted good and positive ties with Pakistan keeping in view the good neighborhood principle. A statement from the CEO office said Abdullah made the remarks during a meeting with Afghanistan and Pakistan’s parliament and civil society members. The joint group members, comprised of lawmakers and civil society activists from both the countries, said the grouping was aimed at reinforcing relations between the two countries. The group stressed improved ties between the two countries and said the joint group through visits and gatherings was trying to find solution to problems the neighbours faced.

Abdullah expressed gratitude to the joint group’s efforts and said Afghanistan and Pakistan were neighboring countries and Kabul wanted good and positive ties with Islamabad. He stressed good relations with all neighboring countries and declared his support to the bilateral joint group. Terrorists were not only a threat to Afghanistan and Pakistan but to the entire region, said Abdullah, stressing a joint and sincere effort by the two countries and the region against terrorism. Abdullah called the dialogue between representatives of the two countries as effective and said such sessions helped governments resolve problems. The joint group held its first meeting in Lahore, Pakistan and concluded its second meeting in Mazar-i-Sharif city on Tuesday.[41]

Islamabad again calls for Kabul-Taliban dialogue – November 17, 2016

Peace talks between the Afghan government and Taliban are the only way to restore durable peace in the war-torn country, Pakistan ’s ambassador to the United Nations Dr Maleeha Lodhi said on Thursday.[42]

Internal Politics & Governance

Anti-Corruption Judicial Center Assesses Two Graft Cases – November 12, 2016

The anti-corruption judicial center on Saturday held a public trial for two corruption cases – including one of a military lawyer and another from a bank employee. The first session assessed the case of Abdulhai Jurat, a military lawyer, who was accused of taking 50,000 Afs as a bribe. Another case was related to Farid Ahmad, a private bank employee, who was accused of stealing over $150,000 USD. Farid Ahmad was sentenced to more than 10 years in jail in the primary session of the court.

Meanwhile, Yama Turabi, head of the joint committee of anti-corruption and evaluation, commented on the effectiveness of such efforts, and said: “We hope that the efforts made by the center yields good results. We hope that the anti-corruption judicial center continues its activities and chases corruption cases in order to make sure that the people trust in anti-graft efforts. And people should believe that those who are violating the law will be held accountable.”[43]

Officials Fired by Ghani Last Year Behind Kunduz Crisis: Hashimi – November 12, 2016

Mohammad Masoom Hashimi Safi, head of Kunduz security department, said Saturday that security officials who were fired last year by President Ashraf Ghani are behind the Kunduz crisis. Safi added that last year, when Ghani visited Kunduz, he fired or changed the duty station of more than 200 security officials, heads of checkpoints and security forces over negligence in doing their duties. But a number of these security forces and security officials retained their original jobs based on their political and personal relations with influential figures, he said. He said these security officials again did not do their jobs properly or were not qualified and that they were the main reason for parts of the city falling to the Taliban. The council warned that if officials who do not carry out their duties as required are not punished, the city will fall to the Taliban for the third time.

“I think one of the reasons for the second crisis in Kunduz is the security officials who was fired and then returned to their jobs based on relations,” Hashimi said. Meanwhile, Kunduz provincial council criticized the reappointment of these officials and said they must be brought to justice.[44]

AG Calls on Religious Scholars To Help Anti-Corruption Efforts – November 13, 2016

The Attorney General Farid Hamidi on Sunday called on religious scholars to take serious steps towards fighting corruption and overcoming crime in the country. He said his office will recommend a week, to be called Family Week – to be designated for families to take part in efforts to reduce the crime rate and overcome the endemic corruption with the help of religious scholars. “We have the anti-corruption judicial center where we will hold public trials every week. The religious scholars should monitor the activity of government offices and I think it is the best way of monitoring,” Hamidi said. He added that most crimes can be rooted out by encouraging families to train their children and give them the motivation to lead a better life.

“Efforts for reform is a good thing and we are all standing with the Attorney General in his efforts in this regard,” said Mohammad Amin Mozafari, a religious scholar.[45]

Afghan parliament dismisses 2 more ministers – November 13, 2016

Afghanistan’s parliament dismissed two more cabinet ministers on Sunday, ignoring pleas from the president and chief executive to halt votes that threaten an already fragile Western-backed government.[46]

Govt interfering in IEC affairs against law: AGA – November 14, 2016

The Afghanistan Governors Association (AGA) on Sunday accused the selection committee’s of double standards in its work, and said the government was interfering in the Independent Election Commission (IEC)’s affairs.[47]

Parallel anti-graft bodies need to be dissolved: IWA – November 14, 2016

The Integrity Watch Afghanistan (IWA) on Monday stressed dissolution of parallel anti-corruption institutes and said institutional structure of anti-corruption efforts were in conflict with the government’s commitment and international standards. An IWA report published on Monday shows the anti-corruption structure in Afghanistan was in conflict with the government’s commitment at the London conference, the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and Jakarta principles on fighting corruption.[48]

Afghan MPs approve public health, economy, and refugees ministers – November 16, 2016

The Minister of Public Health Ferozuddin Feroz secured parliament’s vote of confidence along with Minister of Economy Abdul Satar Murad and Minister of Refugees and Repatriation Syed Alami Balkhi. The lawmakers in the Lower House of the Parliament, Wolesi Jirga, impeached three ministers today to cast votes of confidence over budgetary issues. The parliament has so far dismissed seven ministers since they started the impeachment and voting process of the ministers on Saturday.[49]

Wolesi Jirga Votes in Favor of Three Ministers – November 17, 2016

All three ministers who faced a vote of confidence in the Wolesi Jirga survived Wednesday’s impeachment session. They were Minister of Refugees and Repatriations Sayed Hussain Alimi Balkhi; Minister of Economy Abdul Sattar Murad and Minister of Public Health Ferozuddin Feroz.[50]

Economy & Development

156,000 children being given polio drops in Paktika – November 14, 2016

After six positive polio cases surfaced in southeastern Paktika province, an anti-polio drive was launched on Monday targeting children belonging to Pakistani refugee families.[51]

Contract signed to reconstruct Kunduz airport – November 17, 2016

The Afghanistan Civil Aviation Authority (ACAA) on Wednesday signed a contract with a private company for reconstruction of the airport in northern Kunduz province.[52]

USAID expands support for Afghan agricultural exports – November 17, 2016

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced a three-year extension to its 2010-2016 Commercial Horticulture and Agricultural Marketing Program (CHAMP).[53]

3,000 Pul-i-Alam families to find access to clean water – November 17, 2016

The foundation stone of a drinking water supply project worth 65 million afghanis has been laid in Pul-i-Alam, the capital of central Logar province.[54]

More Than 50 Percent of Balkh’s Children Forced To Work – November 17, 2016

Head of the Afghan Children’s Foundation in Mazar-e-Sharif, Maryam Karimi, said on Thursday that 54 percent of children in northern Balkh province are employed as child laborers. Speaking at an event to mark Universal Children’s Day, which is held on November 20 annually, she said these children range in age from five to 15 and work in brick factories, metal workshops, farms and shoemaking shops. Many also beg on the streets. She added that 20 percent of them do not have access to education. Nearly 200 children, of whom many are child laborers, attended the event at a hotel in Mazar-e-Sharif.[55]

Women in Afghanistan

At UN event, Herat police focus on eliminating violence against women – November 13, 2016

Ensuring the full implementation of the Elimination of Violence against Women (EVAW) law was the focus of a UNAMA-backed event for women police officers in the western province of Herat. Some 35 women officers from Herat city and nearby districts came together at the event, also backed by the Office of the Herat Chief of Police, to discuss women’s rights as they pertain to the EVAW law, Afghanistan’s gender policy and procedures for reporting workplace harassment.

Enacted in 2009, the EVAW law criminalizes acts of violence against women and other harmful practices, including child marriage, forced marriage, forced self-immolation, Baad (giving away a woman or girl to settle a dispute) and 18 other acts of violence against women including rape and beating. Afghanistan’s gender policy, approved by the Minister for Interior in February 2016, outlines procedures to address workplace harassment, including gender-based discrimination, sexual abuse, intimidation, physical and psychological abuse.[56]

5-Year-Old Girl Raped in Baghlan, Family Demands Justice – November 15, 2016

The family of a five-year-old girl who was allegedly raped by relatives of her sister’s fiancé on Monday appealed to government to see that justice is served. The incident happened in Baghlan-e-Markazi district of northern Baghlan province. Relatives of the older sister’s fiancé have been accused of the crime which reportedly happened after the sister broke off her engagement and ran off with another man.

“They came and asked us to give us our daughter, (they said it was) because our older daughter ran away; they came and took my small daughter with force and put her into a car. Those who came included four old men and some women. Then they returned her to us after she became ill, but wherever I go, no one listens to me,” said the victim’s mother. Meanwhile the victim’s father has called for the alleged rapists to be arrested and prosecuted.[57]

Baghlan Child Bride Seeks Justice After Being ‘Tortured’ – November 16, 2016

A 14-year-old child bride from Baghlan province on Wednesday called on the Afghan legal and judicial system to serve justice on her husband and in-laws whom she claims tortured her on a daily basis. The victim who got married a year ago said she was continually tortured, particularly by her husband and brother-in-law. She claims that she is badly scarred from these beatings.

“My husband hit me with a hot grill and burnt me. His brother also beat me and shot my leg,” said the victim. Meanwhile, the victim’s husband who is now in police custody, has reportedly confessed to the violence against his wife.[58]

This weekly is compiled by Sitwat Waqar Bokhari who is a Research Fellow at CRSS.

Sources:

[1]http://www.slate.com/blogs/the_slatest/2016/11/12/four_americans_killed_in_unprecedented_suicide_attack_at_bagram_base_in.html

[2] http://www.tolonews.com/en/afghanistan/28344-bagram-suicide-bomber-worked-at-the-base

[3] http://www.pajhwok.com/en/subscription-required?redirect_from=468973

[4] http://www.tolonews.com/en/afghanistan/28293-hekmatyar-urges-trump-to-withdraw-us-forces-from-afghanistan

[5] http://www.militarytimes.com/articles/us-embassy-in-afghanistan-closes-after-attacks

[6] http://www.tolonews.com/en/afghanistan/28311-19-daesh-insurgents-killed-in-nangarhar-operations

[7] http://www.tolonews.com/en/afghanistan/28313-taliban-commander-arrested-in-kunduz-operation

[8] http://www.pajhwok.com/en/subscription-required?redirect_from=468887

[9] http://www.khaama.com/plot-to-target-friday-prayers-with-car-bomb-foiled-in-ghazni-city-02273

[10] http://www.pajhwok.com/en/subscription-required?redirect_from=468940