Day: February 28, 2026

Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar condemns Afghan Taliban for repressive policies

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Pakistan’s Information Minister Denounces Afghan Taliban’s Domestic and Security Policies in wake of cross-border conflict

MOIB Minister Atta Tarar

Press conference on Afghanistan cross-border conflict

Islamabad, Pakistan, Feb. 28, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pakistan’s Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, issued a comprehensive statement today addressing the current security and humanitarian situation involving the Afghan Taliban administration. In a media briefing, the Minister characterized the current regime in Kabul as an “illegitimate” authority, citing its lack of a democratic mandate and its alleged role in regional instability.

Security and Counter-Terrorism Concerns

Minister Tarar addressed the escalating security challenges at the border, alleging a direct link between the Afghan Taliban and militant groups operating within Pakistan. He stated that the regime provides “safe havens and facilitation” for organizations responsible for recent domestic attacks, including the targeting of a Shiite mosque and the recent martyrdom of Lt. Col. Gulfar Ahmed.

The Minister confirmed that recent unprovoked cross-border actions were met with a decisive response from Pakistan’s armed forces, resulting in the neutralization of several threats and the capture of strategic posts.

Civil Rights and Institutionalized Discrimination

A significant portion of the address focused on the Taliban’s recently implemented criminal regulations. Minister Tarar highlighted concerns regarding the regression of civil liberties, specifically:

  • Social Stratification: The Minister noted that new laws create a tiered justice system where penalties are determined by social class—ranging from warnings for the elite to physical punishment for the “lower class.”
  • Status of Enslavement: He condemned the regime’s explicit legal recognition of individuals as “free or enslaved,” calling it a direct violation of the Cairo Declaration and modern Islamic consensus.
  • Gender-Based Restrictions: Citing the “widest gender gap in the world,” Tarar noted that 80% of Afghan women aged 18–29 are now denied education due to bans on schooling past the age of 13.

International Human Rights Citations

The Minister’s briefing referenced a February 12, 2026, United Nations Security Council report which flagged systemic hostage-taking and the abuse of women and girls. Furthermore, he noted reports regarding International Criminal Court (ICC) scrutiny of Taliban leadership—including Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada—concerning potential warrants for gender-based persecution.

“No civilized society can allow this,” stated Minister Tarar. “The Afghan Taliban’s actions and their interpretation of governance are a perversion of religious teachings and have no basis in Islam. We call upon the international community to recognize the systemic discrimination and state-sponsored activities currently defining this regime.”

About the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MOIB), Pakistan: The Ministry is responsible for the formulation and implementation of Pakistan’s media policy and the dissemination of government information both domestically and internationally.

Attachment

Address: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, 
4th Floor, Cabinet Block, Pak. Secretariat, Islamabad, Pakistan.
    Phone: 0092-51-9103557
    Email: [email protected]

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9663060

JAF Issues Statement on RJAF Aircraft Routine Sorties

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Amman: An official military source at the General Command of the Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF)- Arab Army announced that the sounds heard over several areas in the Kingdom’s skies are attributed to the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) aircraft carrying out routine sorties as part of their operational duties.

According to Jordan News Agency, the source stated that these sorties involve aerial reconnaissance and inspection operations to ensure the safety of Jordanian airspace and to prevent any infiltration or illegal activities. The operations are a standard procedure aimed at maintaining the integrity and security of the nation’s skies.

The source emphasized that the JAF is committed to its national duty of safeguarding the Kingdom’s airspace and upholding its sovereignty. Citizens are encouraged to refrain from spreading rumors and to rely on information from official sources.

Kuwaiti Defences Intercepts Drone Targeting Mohammed Al Ahmad Naval Base

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Amman: The Kuwaiti Air Defence Forces intercepted a drone targeting the Mohammed Al Ahmad Naval Base, the official spokesperson for the Kuwaiti Ministry of Defence said.

According to Jordan News Agency, in a press statement issued Saturday, the spokesperson said the operation was carried out in accordance with approved operational plans and procedures. The statement highlighted the efficiency, readiness, and capabilities of the air defence units, as well as the coordination and integration among the branches of the armed forces.

King Receives Call from Iraq PM

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Amman: His Majesty King Abdullah II on Saturday received a phone call from Iraq Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al Sudani, during which they discussed ways to reduce regional escalation.

According to Jordan News Agency, His Majesty condemned the attack on Jordanian territory, stressing that the Kingdom will continue to take all necessary steps to preserve the safety of its citizens and protect its security and sovereignty.

The King reiterated Jordan’s categorical rejection of any actions that undermine the sovereignty, security, and stability of Arab countries, stressing the need for restraint and dialogue to resolve crises and avoid escalation.

Police Monitor Accounts Spreading Misinformation

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Amman: The Public Security Directorate (PSD) announced that its Cybercrime Unit is closely monitoring social media accounts that spread misinformation aimed at misleading public opinion or undermining state institutions.

According to Jordan News Agency, the PSD’s media spokesperson confirmed that several account holders have been identified and their names circulated. The Directorate is tracking pages believed to be operating from outside the Kingdom.

The spokesperson urged the public to rely on official sources for information and to refrain from sharing videos or news without verification. He emphasised that official entities proactively provide accurate information of public interest, particularly amid the current regional military escalation.

ICRC President Urges Respect for Rules of War Amid Military Escalation in Mideast

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Amman: The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on Saturday called for upholding the rules of war as military escalation in the Middle East starts. ICRC president Mirjana Spoljaric said in a press release that military escalation in the Middle East is igniting a dangerous chain reaction across the region, with potentially devastating consequences for civilians.

According to Jordan News Agency, Spoljaric emphasized the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law during armed conflicts, specifically citing the Geneva Conventions. She highlighted the imperative to protect civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, homes, and schools, from attacks. Furthermore, Spoljaric stressed that medical personnel and first responders must be allowed to perform their duties without hindrance.

Spoljaric noted that the ICRC has teams on the ground in Iran, Israel, and throughout the region, ready to respond to humanitarian needs in collaboration with Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement partners. Despite these efforts, she acknowledged that humanitarian aid alone cannot address the scale of suffering caused by ongoing conflict. Spoljaric called for political will to achieve peace and prevent further loss of life and destruction.