UN Security Council to Hold Session on Afghanistan

The UN Security Council is scheduled to hold a session on Afghanistan on Monday, with new members Bahrain, Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lithuania and Liberia presenting their first views since joining.

Georgette Gagnon, acting head of UNAMA, is expected to brief on political, humanitarian and human rights developments based on the latest UN secretary-general's report. Panama, representing supporters of women, peace and security, will issue a statement ahead of the meeting.

The session comes amid recent clashes along the Durand Line that have caused civilian casualties, displacement and infrastructure damage, with 185 civilians killed or wounded between February 26 and March 5, according to Ariana News. Nearly half of Afghanistan's 44 million population requires aid amid a dire humanitarian situation. Council members are expected to emphasize civilian protection, civilian infrastructure and compliance with international humanitarian law. Discussions will also focus on extending UNAMA's mandate before its March 17 expiry.

Separately, Richard Bennett, UN Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan, warned that restrictions on women and girls risk exacerbating a health crisis, leading to suffering, illness and preventable deaths, potentially amounting to femicide. Bennett said women and girls have been increasingly deprived of healthcare and education access, calling for authorities to lift limitations and allow girls to resume education, particularly in medical fields. Human rights groups note the decline in female health workers has limited women's medical access in a fragile system.

Amir Khan Muttaqi, foreign minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, accused Pakistan's military regime of brutally expelling Afghan refugees, closing trade routes, violating Afghan airspace and launching propaganda, stating Afghans will not submit to pressure.