The article discusses the impact of a road built by the Australian forces in Oruzgan, Afghanistan, which has improved security in the region. It covers the stories of local leaders, including the police commander Abdul Qavi and the controversial figure Matiullah Khan, who was killed in Kabul. The article also touches on the insider attack at Patrol Base Wahab, the death of Australian soldiers, and the challenges faced by the Afghan security forces post-NATO's combat mission. It highlights the mixed results of Australian aid, with some successful projects but also instances of corruption and poor construction. The piece reflects on the legacy of the Australian mission in Afghanistan, the ongoing tribal conflicts, and the uncertain future of the region following the death of Matiullah Khan.

Nimruz province in Afghanistan exemplifies the failures of the Afghan war, marked by lawlessness, drug smuggling, and a lack of government control. The region serves as a hub for Afghan migrants seeking better opportunities in Iran and Europe, despite facing significant dangers. Iran's covert support for the Taliban and the harsh treatment of Afghan migrants exacerbate tensions. The Afghan government's corruption and inability to maintain order further destabilize the area. Personal stories of migrants and local residents highlight the dire circumstances and the complex interplay of regional politics and humanitarian issues.

In Kabul, Afghanistan, a procession of Shia Muslims commemorates Ashura amidst heightened sectarian tensions fueled by recent attacks from the Islamic State. The article highlights the historical context of Shia-Sunni divisions, the recent surge in violence against Shias by ISIS, and the broader implications for Afghanistan's sectarian harmony. Despite decades of conflict, Afghanistan has largely avoided sectarian war, but the emergence of ISIS threatens to change this dynamic, with recent attacks in Kabul marking a significant escalation.

Ahmad Zia Massoud, a key political figure in Afghanistan, is leveraging public discontent and the government's perceived ineffectiveness to gain support in the north. His actions, including using government resources for his political maneuvers, have drawn criticism from both domestic and international observers. The article highlights the fragile state of the Afghan government, the resurgence of the Taliban, and the complex dynamics between various ethnic and political groups in the country.

Afghanistan has experienced a particularly violent week, with over 100 civilian casualties due to terrorism. Despite this, peace prospects have improved following a meeting between the Afghan government and Taliban leaders, the first in years. President Ashraf Ghani's efforts to engage with Pakistan, which has sway over the Taliban, have been central to this development. The Taliban, facing internal divisions and competition from Islamic State extremists, seem to have accepted that they cannot regain full control of Afghanistan and are considering politics as a means to legitimacy. China's involvement in facilitating talks is also a positive sign, given its interest in regional stability. However, the situation remains complex, with uncertainties about the Taliban's representation and intentions, and ongoing violence suggesting that a quick resolution is unlikely.

The malnutrition crisis in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, is exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, poor dietary knowledge, and inadequate healthcare facilities. Despite significant international aid, malnutrition remains rampant, with many children suffering from severe and chronic malnutrition. The article highlights the challenges faced by healthcare providers and the broader political and economic implications of the crisis.

The article discusses the recent diplomatic tensions between the United States and Iran, triggered by Iran's appointment of Hamid Aboutalebi as its new ambassador to the United Nations. The U.S. denied Aboutalebi a visa due to his involvement in the 1979 hostage crisis, leading to accusations of bullying from Iranian lawmakers. The incident highlights the deep-seated mistrust and differing historical perspectives between the two nations, complicating efforts for rapprochement. The article also explores the internal political dynamics in Iran, including the influence of hardliners and the balancing act of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.