
Saleh claims militants aiming to target civil activists
In a social media post, Saleh said reports by the National Directorate of Security suggest the Taliban have decided to target civil society in Afghanistan’s major cities.

In a social media post, Saleh said reports by the National Directorate of Security suggest the Taliban have decided to target civil society in Afghanistan’s major cities.

Security analysts believe the Taliban aim to exert pressure on the US with such comments.

The provincial council chairman added that the aerial bombing followed the ground engagement leaving five civilians and six Taliban killed.

At least 22 people were killed and about 40 others were injured in an ISIS-claimed attack on Kabul University last Monday by three assailants. But, Saleh blamed the Taliban for the attack.

Despite the Taliban and Afghan government engaging in talks, violence on the ground has only surged, with the Taliban stepping up daily attacks targeting Afghan security forces.

According to a well-placed source, the insurgents staged deal assaults on security check posts in the Pul-e-Khishti and Ostamunega areas of the district.

The spokesman for the Kandahar governor said more than 100 landmines have been defused last night alone.

“The #AfghanistanPeaceProcess is fragile but it is the best chance for peace. I urge all parties to seize this historic opportunity & do their best to move the talks forward”, he tweeted.

On Wednesday, the Wolesi Jirga (lower house) asked top security leadership to brief the house over circumstances surrounding the brazen terrorist attack on the Kabul University.

Kunduz is one of the most insecure provinces in the northeast of the country, and Taliban fighters are active in most of its districts.

Marina Ahmadyar, a Salam Watandar reporter said that the university atmosphere was cold and silent on the first day, and the security officials were more vigilant than normal.

Salam Watandar correspondent Hakeem Hasas said many dead and wounded were brought to the public hospital, but the security forces were not letting anyone enter and speak to the victims.