The article explores the symbolic and practical significance of matzo during Passover, highlighting its dual representation of suffering and freedom. It delves into the broader context of bread as a symbol and necessity in various conflict zones, including Israel, Gaza, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and Sudan. The narrative underscores the dire food insecurity faced by millions due to conflict and climate change, while also showcasing stories of resilience and hope, such as community bakeries providing free bread in war-torn areas. Key figures and organizations involved in these efforts are discussed, emphasizing the humanitarian impact and ongoing struggles.

The Taliban's impending ban on beauty salons in Kabul is causing panic among Afghan women, marking another severe restriction on their public life. The United Nations has warned that the Taliban's actions could amount to gender apartheid and gender persecution. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons in Kabul, representing a significant economic impact on women since the Taliban's rise to power nearly two years ago.

The article explores the significance of matzo during Passover, symbolizing both affliction and freedom. It highlights the broader context of bread as a symbol of sustenance and hope amidst global conflicts and food insecurity. The narrative spans various regions, including Israel, Gaza, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and Sudan, detailing the struggles and resilience of people facing hunger and war. Key figures and organizations like the World Food Programme and the Norwegian Refugee Council are noted for their efforts in providing food aid. Personal stories of hardship and hope underscore the critical role of bread in sustaining life and spirit.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The United Nations and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, warning of gender apartheid. The Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justified the ban by citing economic pressures on men and religious reasons. The ban has led to protests and despair among salon workers, with some considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing a new Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which threatens to close 3,000 women-run salons and eliminate one of the few remaining places where women can work and gather. The ban, part of a series of restrictions on women's public life, has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi, who have supported their families through their businesses, are devastated by the news. The ban is justified by the Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue as a measure against the financial burden of wedding makeovers and practices they deem un-Islamic. The impending closure of salons has led to protests and fears among female workers, with some considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing a Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, a move that will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons and impact thousands of female employees. The ban, part of a series of edicts restricting women's public participation, has been criticized by U.N. officials and Western diplomats. Salon owners, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are devastated by the impending closure. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue cites the financial burden of wedding makeovers and the un-Islamic nature of certain beauty practices as reasons for the ban. The decision has sparked small protests and fears that it may extend to all beauty salons in Afghanistan. Some salon workers are considering leaving the country to escape the oppressive regime.

Afghan women are distressed as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, eliminating one of the few remaining spaces for women to work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of female workers. The U.N. and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, highlighting its severe economic and social repercussions. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban on religious grounds and economic pressures on men. The ban is seen as part of broader efforts to restrict women's public life and employment.

The Taliban's impending ban on beauty salons in Kabul, Afghanistan, is causing panic among women, as it will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons, eliminating one of the few remaining workplaces for women under Taliban rule. The United Nations has warned that the Taliban's restrictions on women could amount to gender apartheid and persecution. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi, who have supported their families through their businesses, are facing economic hardship and the loss of their livelihoods. The ban, justified by the Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue as a measure against debt and un-Islamic practices, has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats. Women in the beauty industry are considering leaving the country or protesting, as they fear for their future.

Afghan women are facing a new Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons by the end of July. This ban is part of a series of restrictions that severely limit women's participation in public life, with the U.N. warning of gender apartheid. Salon owners, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are devastated by the economic and social implications. The ban is justified by the Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue as a measure against the financial burden of wedding makeovers and practices deemed un-Islamic. The international community, including U.S. special envoy Rina Amiri, has condemned the ban. Affected women are protesting and some are considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing a Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, a move that will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons and impact thousands of female employees. The ban, which is part of a series of restrictions on women's public participation, has been criticized by U.N. officials and Western diplomats. Salon owners, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are expressing despair and considering leaving the country. The ban is justified by the Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue as a measure against economic pressure on men and adherence to conservative Islamic law. Small protests have occurred, and the fear is that the ban may extend nationwide.

Afghan women are facing a new Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons and impact thousands of jobs. The salons were one of the few places where women could work and gather socially under Taliban rule. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, and salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi express despair, with some considering leaving the country. The ban is part of a series of edicts restricting women and girls from public life, which the U.N. has warned could amount to gender apartheid and persecution.

The Taliban's impending ban on beauty salons in Kabul has caused panic among Afghan women, as it represents a significant economic and social blow. The ban will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons, eliminating one of the few remaining workplaces for women under Taliban rule. The United Nations has warned that the Taliban's restrictions could amount to gender apartheid and persecution. Salon owners, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are facing the loss of their livelihoods. The ban has been condemned by international officials, and some salon workers are considering leaving the country or protesting. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue cites the financial burden of wedding makeovers and adherence to conservative Islamic practices as reasons for the ban.

The Taliban's impending ban on beauty salons in Kabul, Afghanistan, is causing panic among Afghan women, as it represents a significant economic and social blow. The ban will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons, eliminating one of the few remaining workplaces for women under Taliban rule. The United Nations has warned that the Taliban's restrictions on women could amount to gender apartheid and persecution. The ban has been condemned by international officials, including the U.S. special envoy to Afghanistan, Rina Amiri. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi, who have supported their families through their businesses, are facing despair, with some considering leaving the country. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue cites the financial burden of wedding makeovers and adherence to conservative Islamic practices as reasons for the ban.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. has warned that the Taliban's actions may constitute gender apartheid. The Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justified the ban by citing economic pressures on men and conservative Islamic values. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, and has led to small protests by beauty workers. Some women, like salon owner Yalda Hashimi, are considering leaving Afghanistan due to the ban's severe impact on their livelihoods.

Afghan women are facing a new Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which threatens to close 3,000 women-run salons and eliminate one of the few remaining places where women can work and gather. The ban, part of a series of restrictions on women's public life, has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats. Salon owners, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are devastated by the impending closure. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue cites the pressure on men to pay for wedding makeovers and the practice of hair weaves and eyebrow plucking as reasons for the ban, which they claim is in opposition to Sharia law. The ban has sparked small protests and fears among beauty workers, with some considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing a new Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which threatens to close 3,000 women-run salons and eliminate one of the few remaining workplaces for women. The ban, part of a series of restrictions on women's public life, has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats. Salon owners, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are devastated by the impending closure. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue cites the pressure on men to pay for wedding makeovers and the practice of hair weaves and eyebrow plucking as reasons for the ban, which they claim is in opposition to Sharia law. The ban has sparked small protests and fears among beauty workers, with some considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing a Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons by the end of July, eliminating one of the few remaining workplaces for women under Taliban rule. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, and is seen as economically damaging for women who rely on these salons for their livelihoods. Salon owners and employees, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are in despair, with some considering leaving the country. The ban is part of a series of edicts curtailing women's participation in public life, and is enforced by the Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue, which cites the pressure on Afghan men to pay for wedding makeovers and the practice of hair weaves and eyebrow plucking as reasons for the ban.

Afghan women are facing a new Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons by the end of July. This ban is part of a series of restrictions that severely limit women's participation in public life, with the UN warning of gender apartheid. Salons have been a significant source of income and a rare space for women to congregate, as they are excluded from most professions and public spaces. Salon owners and workers, who are often the sole breadwinners for their families, are devastated by the ban. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban by citing the financial burden of wedding makeovers and practices they deem un-Islamic. The international community, including U.S. special envoy Rina Amiri, has condemned the ban. Some salon workers are protesting, while others, like 22-year-old owner Yalda Hashimi, are considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing a new Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which threatens to close 3,000 women-run salons and eliminate one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, part of a series of restrictions on women's public life, has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi, who support their families through their businesses, are devastated. The ban is justified by the Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue as a measure against the financial burden of wedding makeovers and practices deemed un-Islamic. The impending closure of salons has led to protests and fears among female workers, with some considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The United Nations and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, highlighting its severe impact on women's rights and livelihoods. Salon owners and workers, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, express despair and consider leaving the country. The Taliban justifies the ban based on conservative interpretations of Islamic law and societal pressures on men to finance wedding makeovers.

Afghan women are facing a new Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which will close approximately 3,000 women-run salons by the end of July. This ban is part of a series of restrictions that severely limit women's participation in public life. The United Nations has warned that the Taliban's actions could amount to gender apartheid and persecution. Salon owners, who are often the sole breadwinners for their families, are devastated by the impending closures. The ban was justified by the Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue as a measure against the financial burden of wedding makeovers and practices they deem un-Islamic. The international community, including U.S. special envoy Rina Amiri, has condemned the ban. Some salon workers are protesting, while others, like salon owner Yalda Hashimi, are considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing a new Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which threatens to close approximately 3,000 women-run salons, eliminating one of the few remaining workplaces for women under Taliban rule. The ban, which is set to take effect at the end of July, has been met with panic and dismay among salon owners and employees, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families. The United Nations has warned that the Taliban's restrictions on women could amount to gender apartheid. U.S. special envoy Rina Amiri and others have condemned the ban, which is justified by the Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue as a measure against the financial burden of wedding makeovers and practices they deem un-Islamic. Salon workers have protested the ban, fearing for their livelihoods and considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing a Taliban ban on beauty salons in Kabul, which threatens to close 3,000 women-run salons and eliminate one of the few remaining workplaces for women. The ban, part of a series of restrictions on women's public life, has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats. Salon owners, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are devastated by the impending closure. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue cites the financial burden of wedding makeovers and the un-Islamic nature of certain beauty practices as reasons for the ban. The move has sparked small protests and fears among salon workers, with some considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, a move that will shutter around 3,000 women-run businesses and eliminate one of the few remaining spaces for women to work and gather. The U.N. has warned that the Taliban's restrictions may amount to gender apartheid and crimes against humanity. The ban, justified by the Taliban as a measure to prevent economic pressure on men and uphold conservative Islamic values, has been condemned by international officials and has left many women fearing for their livelihoods and contemplating emigration.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, which is seen as part of the Taliban's broader agenda to restrict women's rights and public presence. Salon owners and workers, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, express despair and consider leaving the country. The Taliban justifies the ban on religious grounds and economic pressures on men, further isolating Afghanistan as an extreme outlier in women's rights.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. has warned that the Taliban's actions may constitute gender apartheid and gender persecution. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, highlighting the severe restrictions on women's rights under Taliban rule. Salon owners and workers, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are devastated and considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, highlighting its severe impact on women's rights and livelihoods. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi, who support their families through their businesses, express despair and consider leaving the country. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban by citing economic pressures on men and conservative Islamic values. The ban is part of a broader pattern of restrictions on women since the Taliban took power nearly two years ago.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women who rely on these businesses for their livelihood. The U.N. has warned that the Taliban's actions may constitute gender apartheid and crimes against humanity. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, highlighting the severe restrictions on women's rights under Taliban rule. Many women, including salon owners Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi, express despair and consider leaving the country as their only option.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, warning of gender apartheid. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi express despair, with some considering leaving the country. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban on religious grounds, while some Afghan officials claim most men oppose women working.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, highlighting its severe impact on women's rights and livelihoods. Salon owners and workers, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, express despair and consider leaving the country. The Taliban justifies the ban based on conservative interpretations of Islamic law and societal pressures on men to finance wedding makeovers.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, warning of gender apartheid. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justified the ban by citing economic pressures on men and religious reasons. The ban has led to protests and despair among salon workers, with some considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban by citing economic pressures on men and conservative Islamic values. The move has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, highlighting the severe restrictions on women's rights under Taliban rule. Salon owners and workers, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, express despair and consider leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and despair as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, a move that will shutter around 3,000 women-run businesses and leave many without livelihoods. The ban, effective at the end of July, is part of a series of restrictive edicts against women and girls, which the U.N. warns may constitute gender apartheid. The Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban on religious grounds, while critics argue it further marginalizes women. Salon owners and workers, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, express deep distress and consider fleeing the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justified the ban by citing economic pressures on men and religious reasons. The move has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, highlighting the severe restrictions on women's rights under Taliban rule. Salon owners and workers, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are left in despair, with some considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, a move that will shutter around 3,000 women-run salons and eliminate a vital space for women's work and socialization. The U.N. has warned that the Taliban's actions may constitute gender apartheid and crimes against humanity. The ban, justified by the Taliban's conservative interpretation of Islamic law, has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats. Salon owners and workers, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, are devastated and considering leaving the country. Protests have erupted, but the future remains uncertain for these women.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of female workers. The U.N. and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, highlighting its severe economic and social repercussions. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi express despair, with some considering leaving the country. The Taliban justifies the ban based on conservative Islamic interpretations, further restricting women's public life and employment opportunities.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban on religious grounds and economic pressures on men. The move has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, highlighting the severe restrictions on women's rights under Taliban rule. Many women, who are the sole breadwinners for their families, are now considering leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. has warned that the Taliban's actions may constitute gender apartheid and crimes against humanity. The Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justified the ban by citing economic pressures on men and conservative Islamic values. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, and has led to small protests by beauty workers fearing for their livelihoods.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban's impending ban on beauty salons in Kabul threatens to close around 3,000 women-run businesses, impacting thousands of livelihoods. The ban, set to take effect at the end of July, is part of a series of restrictive edicts curbing women's public life, with the U.N. warning of potential gender apartheid. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, highlighting the economic and social repercussions for Afghan women. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi express their distress, as their businesses provided crucial financial support for their families. The Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban by citing economic pressures on men and conservative Islamic values. Protests have erupted, with beauty workers fearing the ban's extension across Afghanistan. The article underscores the severe impact on women's rights and livelihoods under Taliban rule.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of livelihoods. The U.N. has warned that the Taliban's actions may constitute gender apartheid and crimes against humanity. The ban has been condemned by international officials, including U.S. special envoy Rina Amiri. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi, who support their families through their businesses, express despair and consider leaving the country. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban by citing economic pressures on men and conservative Islamic values. The ban is seen as part of a broader effort to restrict women's rights and participation in public life.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban based on conservative Islamic law, citing economic pressures on men and un-Islamic beauty practices. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, highlighting the severe restrictions on women's rights under Taliban rule. Salon owners and workers, many of whom are the sole breadwinners for their families, express despair and consider leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of female workers and their families. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban by citing economic pressures on men and religious reasons. The move has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, highlighting the severe restrictions on women's rights and employment under Taliban rule. Some women are considering leaving the country due to the ban's devastating impact on their livelihoods.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban imposes a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, warning it contributes to gender apartheid. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi, who support their families through their businesses, express despair and consider leaving the country. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban by citing economic pressures on men and conservative Islamic values.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, a move that will shutter around 3,000 women-run businesses and eliminate one of the few remaining spaces for women to work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, is part of a series of restrictive edicts that have severely curtailed women's public life in Afghanistan. The U.N. has warned that the Taliban's actions may constitute gender apartheid and crimes against humanity. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, highlighting the economic and social impact on women who rely on these salons for their livelihood. The Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justified the ban by citing economic pressures on men and conservative Islamic values. The article features personal stories of salon owners and workers who are now contemplating leaving the country due to the dire situation.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The U.N. has warned that the Taliban's restrictions may constitute gender apartheid. The Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justified the ban by citing economic pressures on men and religious reasons. The ban has been condemned by U.N. officials and Western diplomats, and has led to small protests by beauty workers fearing for their livelihoods and contemplating leaving the country.

Afghan women are facing panic and dismay as the Taliban enforces a ban on beauty salons in Kabul, one of the few remaining places where women could work and gather. The ban, effective at the end of July, will close around 3,000 women-run salons, impacting thousands of women economically and socially. The United Nations and Western diplomats have condemned the ban, warning of gender apartheid. Salon owners like Samia Faqiri and Yalda Hashimi express despair, as the ban threatens their livelihoods and the survival of their families. The Taliban's Ministry for the Prevention of Vice and the Promotion of Virtue justifies the ban on religious grounds and economic pressures on men. The ban is seen as part of a broader effort to restrict women's rights and participation in public life under Taliban rule.

The article profiles Mullah Ibrahim Sadar, a key figure in the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan. Sadar, a mid-level Taliban field commander in 2001, learned harsh lessons from the US invasion that year. Over the next 19 years, he utilized his experience to help transform the Taliban into a formidable guerrilla force. Despite his significant role, Sadar has maintained a low profile. The article traces his life from his early years in Helmand province, through his involvement with the mujahideen against Soviet forces, to his rise within the Taliban ranks. Sadar's loyalty to the Taliban's hardline Islamic law and his strategic military leadership have been instrumental in the Taliban's campaign against US and Afghan forces, resulting in thousands of deaths. The US is preparing to withdraw troops based on a deal with the Taliban, but the future of Afghanistan remains uncertain. Sadar's stance will be influential in determining whether the Taliban will seek peace or continue fighting post-US withdrawal.

The recent clash between Iranian and Taliban forces over water rights in the Nimruz province highlights escalating tensions driven by climate change and historical grievances. Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi's provocative remarks about the Helmand River and the Taliban's refusal to comply with a 1973 water treaty have intensified the conflict. The region's strategic significance and history of conflict further complicate the situation, with both sides using heavy weapons and causing civilian casualties. As water scarcity worsens, the potential for future conflicts over this vital resource increases.

In Pakistan, Belarusian tractors, introduced during the Soviet era, have become integral to rural farming and culture. These tractors, initially brought to Afghanistan in the 1970s, were later smuggled into Pakistan, where they are now celebrated and elaborately decorated. Farmers like Wassim Baig have prospered economically due to these tractors, enabling them to profit from lucrative crops like sugarcane. The cultural significance of these tractors is evident in local traditions, such as horse racing events, where wealthy landowners showcase their decorated tractors alongside their horses.

In Pakistan, Belarusian tractors, introduced during the Soviet era, have become integral to rural farming and culture. Farmers cherish these tractors, often giving them elaborate makeovers. The tractors, initially brought to Afghanistan by the Soviets, were later smuggled into Pakistan. They are now a symbol of prosperity for many landowners, enabling profitable farming of crops like sugarcane. The cultural significance extends to local traditions, with decorated tractors and horse races being prominent in rural communities.

Pakistani farmers cherish their Belarusian tractors, which have become integral to their agricultural success and cultural identity. These tractors, originally introduced by the Soviets in Afghanistan, were smuggled into Pakistan in the late '70s and early '80s. Farmers in Pakistan's Punjab province give these tractors elaborate makeovers, transforming them into colorful, decorated machines. The tractors have significantly contributed to the prosperity of local farmers, enabling them to profitably cultivate and transport crops like sugarcane. The economic success from these tractors has also led to cultural events such as local horse races, where wealthy landowners showcase their affluence.

In Pakistan, Belarusian tractors, originally introduced by the Soviets, have become integral to rural farming and culture. Farmers cherish these tractors, often giving them elaborate makeovers. The tractors, which were initially smuggled into Pakistan in the late '70s and early '80s, are now a symbol of prosperity for many landowners. The article highlights the cultural significance of these tractors, their economic impact, and the pride farmers take in their decorated vehicles.

In Pakistan, Belarusian tractors, introduced during the Soviet era, have become integral to farming and cultural practices. Farmers cherish these tractors, often giving them elaborate makeovers. The tractors, initially smuggled into Pakistan in the late '70s and early '80s, are now a symbol of prosperity for many landowners. The article highlights the economic and cultural significance of these tractors, showcasing how they have transformed the lives of farmers and become a part of local traditions, including horse racing events.

In Pakistan, farmers show their appreciation for Belarusian tractors by giving them elaborate makeovers, reflecting their cultural significance and the prosperity they bring to landowners. These tractors, originally introduced to Afghanistan by the Soviets, made their way to Pakistan where they have become a staple in agriculture. The customizations include vibrant art, bells, and lights, making each tractor unique. The tractors have not only transformed the agricultural landscape but also contributed to the wealth of farmers, enabling them to engage in local cultural events such as horse races.

In Pakistan, tractors, particularly those from Belarus known as 'Russian tractors,' are not only essential for farming but also a cultural icon. Farmers in rural Pakistan, where these tractors have contributed to their wealth, often give them elaborate makeovers. This tradition extends to other vehicles like trucks and tuktuks. The tractors, introduced by the Soviets in Afghanistan in the 1970s, found their way to Pakistan through smuggling. Today, they are celebrated in songs and are a staple in agricultural activities such as plowing and transporting sugarcane. The prosperity brought by these tractors is evident in local horse races, where wealthy landowners, who have benefited from the tractors, participate in tent pegging, a traditional equestrian sport.

In Pakistan, tractors, particularly those from Belarus known as 'Russian tractors,' are not only essential for farming but also hold a significant cultural value. Farmers in rural Pakistan, especially in Punjab province, often give their tractors elaborate makeovers, which include vibrant art and decorations. These tractors have been instrumental in making many landowners wealthy by enabling profitable agriculture, such as sugarcane farming. The prosperity brought by these tractors is also reflected in local cultural events like horse races, where the wealth generated from agriculture is on display. The article highlights the deep connection between the farmers and their tractors, showing how these machines are cherished and celebrated in Pakistani culture.

In rural Pakistan, Belarusian tractors, introduced during the Soviet era, have become integral to farming and local culture. Farmers cherish these tractors, often giving them elaborate makeovers. The tractors, initially brought to Afghanistan by the Soviets and later smuggled into Pakistan, have significantly boosted agricultural productivity and wealth among landowners. The article highlights the cultural significance of these tractors, their economic impact, and the vibrant local traditions that have emerged around them.

In Pakistan, Belarusian tractors, often referred to as 'Russian tractors,' have become a symbol of prosperity and cultural pride among farmers. These tractors, originally introduced to Afghanistan by the Soviets in the 1970s, were later smuggled into Pakistan and have since become integral to the country's agriculture. Farmers in Pakistan not only rely on these tractors for their farming needs but also lavishly decorate them, reflecting their cultural significance. The tractors have enabled many farmers to achieve economic success, allowing them to engage in local traditions such as horse racing. The article highlights the deep connection between these tractors and the farmers' livelihoods and cultural practices.

In Pakistan, Belarusian tractors, often referred to as 'Russian tractors,' have become a symbol of agricultural success and cultural pride. Introduced to the region during the Soviet era, these tractors are now integral to farming in rural Pakistan. Farmers not only rely on them for their robust performance but also take pride in decorating them with vibrant, intricate designs. This cultural phenomenon highlights the economic impact of these tractors, which have enabled many landowners to prosper. The article also touches on the historical journey of these tractors from the Soviet Union to Afghanistan and eventually to Pakistan, where they have become a cherished asset.

In Pakistan, Belarusian tractors, introduced during the Soviet era, have become integral to farming and cultural practices. Farmers in rural areas, particularly in Punjab province, often give these tractors elaborate makeovers, reflecting their pride and economic success. The tractors, initially brought to Afghanistan by the Soviets and later smuggled into Pakistan, are now a symbol of prosperity for many landowners. The article highlights the cultural significance of these tractors, their journey to Pakistan, and their impact on local economies and traditions.

The article provides an in-depth look at the situation in Sangin, a district in northern Helmand, Afghanistan, which has become the center of the new Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. The author reflects on the history of conflict in the area, the presence of foreign jihadists, and the impact of the U.S. military's longest war. The piece discusses the Taliban's control over Sangin, their governance, and the local opium trade, which is a significant source of income for the insurgents. The article also covers the U.S. and NATO's military efforts and casualties in the region, the strategic importance of Sangin, and the Taliban's vision for Afghanistan. The author traveled through Taliban-controlled areas, observing life under their rule and the potential for future conflict as the U.S. plans to withdraw troops by September 11, 2021. The article is a blend of reportage and analysis, providing a vivid account of the current state of affairs in a key region of Afghanistan.

The book 'Night Letters' by Chris Sands and Fazelminallah Qazizai explores the history of the Islamist group Hizb-e Islami and its leader, Gulbuddin Hekmatyar. The group aimed to counter Soviet and American influence in Afghanistan and played a significant role in global jihad, influencing events like 9/11 and the rise of ISIS. Despite Hekmatyar's failure to rule Afghanistan, his life took a surprising turn with a peace deal in 2016. The book is based on extensive interviews and offers a detailed account of the political struggles in Afghanistan over the past fifty years. It has received praise for its meticulous research and compelling storytelling, making it a critical resource for understanding modern Afghanistan and jihadist militancy.