Conflict

A US Navy medic assists Afghan civilians injured by an improvised explosive device that hit the bus they were traveling on in Delaram, southwest Afghanistan. The Taleban are now trying to downplay their own role in civilian casualties and shift the blame to the Afghan government and its western allies. (Photo: Corporal Matthew Troyer/US. Marine Corps)

Taleban Challenge UN on Casualty Figures

Insurgents reject report blaming them for three-quarters of civilian victims, and demand new investigation.

15 Sep 10

Mystery School Poisonings in Afghanistan

As attacks continue, some families say they have no choice but to take their daughters out of school.

10 Sep 10

Many men in Kapisa will have an easier time trying to get married following a Taleban order limiting the amount they have to pay the bride’s family. (Photo: US Army/John Gay)

Taleban Try Hearts-and-Minds Tactics

Ban on excessive marriage costs proves popular among young men in impoverished district.

8 Sep 10

A vehicle owned by an Afghan security company after it was stopped by US forces, who had received reports of shots being fired at civilian homes in Wardak province this February. (Photo: US Army/Sgt Russell Gilchrest)

Fears Over Afghan Security Firm Ban

Karzai’s decree to close down private security sector pleases Afghans, despite concerns that army and police are not ready to take over.

3 Sep 10

The Azeri village of Tapqaraqoyunlu, less than a kilometre from the ceasefire line and Armenian positions. (Photo: Saadet Akifqizi)

Grim Night Life of Azeri Villagers

For Azeris living near Karabakh frontline, the working day begins at dusk.

31 Aug 10

Iraq Attacks Highlight Fragile Security

Violence expected to continue as US troops withdraw and as long as political stalemate remains unresolved.

28 Aug 10

Civilians in Wardak province report that the Taleban are more in evidence than local government officials. (Photo: US Army)

Taleban Noose Around Wardak Tightens

Insurgents reportedly in control outside urban centres.

26 Aug 10

Iraqi Sunni Militia Fighters "Neglected"

Baghdad denies government-backed Awakening Council members are going unpaid and likely to defect to al-Qaeda.

26 Aug 10

US soldiers advance on a civilian compound while responding to a Taleban attack in Helmand. When civilian casualties occur during the fighting, local resentment focuses on the foreign troops rather than the insurgents. (Photo: Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez/US military)

Helmand Bomb Deaths Could Boost Taleban

Reported air attack that killed 52 people may prove powerful recruiting tool for insurgents, despite NATO denials of responsibility.

19 Aug 10

Karabakh's Rare Summer of Culture

Music festival brings European artists, but there’s a long way to go before Stepanakert can enjoy the rich cultural life of Soviet times.

13 Aug 10

Support local journalists

DONATE