The UNSC is meeting next week to discuss Afghanistan, chaired by Christina Markus Lassen. A briefing by Roza Otunbayeva will focus on human rights issues. Notably, Germany’s Foreign Minister condemns restrictions on women. Meanwhile, Sirajuddin Haqqani returns to Kabul amid Daesh threats, and Pakistan’s role in apprehending an ISIS leader is acknowledged by PM Shehbaz Sharif and President Trump.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will hold a meeting on Afghanistan next week, featuring a briefing by Roza Otunbayeva, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative. The meeting will be chaired by Denmark’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Christina Markus Lassen. Lassen noted that two additional sessions regarding Afghanistan are planned for March, focusing on human rights and UNAMA’s mandate extension.
The first session on March 10 will address the human rights conditions for Afghan women and girls, inviting civil society activists to engage. Although Otunbayeva’s report details remain undisclosed, it is anticipated to emphasize the human rights status of women. Germany’s Foreign Minister has condemned ongoing restrictions on these groups, warning of potential consequences.
The UN Settlement Programme plans to observe International Women’s Day on March 8 by restating its commitment to Afghan women’s rights and empowerment. Stephanie Loos, the agency’s representative, highlighted the critical impact of accessible services such as education and healthcare on the well-being of Afghan women and girls.
On another front, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, Zabihullah Mujahid, confirmed the return of acting Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani to Kabul following medical treatment. This came after speculation about Haqqani’s whereabouts in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Mujahid addressed concerns regarding Daesh, claiming the group operates a training facility in Pakistan and stating that Islamabad utilizes the group for its own objectives. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently acknowledged President Trump’s recognition of Pakistan’s partnership in counter-terrorism efforts, especially after the arrest of an ISIS leader connected to the Kabul airport bombing in 2021.
Following Trump’s remarks to Congress, he thanked Pakistan for its assistance in apprehending the suspect, Mohammad Sharifullah, who is charged with orchestrating the bombing that resulted in numerous casualties. Trump emphasized the commitment to bring those responsible for harming Americans to justice, highlighting the implications of the situation more broadly on regional stability as indicated by the serious threat from Daesh.
In summary, the UNSC is preparing for a critical discussion on Afghanistan focusing on human rights, with particular emphasis on the plight of Afghan women and girls. Meanwhile, the dynamics within the Islamic Emirate and Pakistan’s involvement in counter-terrorism efforts, particularly regarding the Kabul airport bombing, underscore the ongoing complexities in the region. These developments highlight the urgency of addressing both humanitarian and security challenges in Afghanistan.
Original Source: www.ariananews.af
