UNSC Meeting on Afghanistan: Terrorism and Human Rights Concerns

At a United Nations Security Council session, diplomats discussed Afghanistan's persistent terrorism threats and human rights concerns. China, represented by envoy Fu Cong, pressed the Taliban to exercise control over militancy, calling for the immediate elimination of all militant groups operating from Afghan soil and urging stronger counterterrorism cooperation with neighboring and regional partners. Fu also condemned Taliban restrictions on women, arguing that limits on employment, healthcare, public services, and social participation harm women's well-being, destabilize Afghan society, and hinder economic development. UN deputy representative Georgette Gagnon highlighted ongoing terrorism threats from Afghanistan and said these dangers remain a critical concern for the international community. US envoy Mike Waltz reiterated that Washington's priority is protecting its citizens and homeland security, condemned the Taliban for hostage diplomacy, and warned that Afghanistan cannot serve as a safe haven for terrorists. Russia's envoy Vassily Nebenzia expressed serious concern over ISIL-Khorasan's continued presence, noting that militants exploit Afghanistan's instability, receive external financial support, recruit fighters, and benefit from abandoned NATO weapons, thereby worsening the security situation. Reported by Afghan Times.