Taliban Investigate Death Threats Against Dozens Afghan Women UN Staff

A recent United Nations report reveals that dozens of Afghan women working for the UN have received explicit death threats related to their roles, prompting the Taliban to investigate while denying involvement. These threats emerged amid severe restrictions on women's rights since the Taliban regained power in 2021, including bans on women working for NGOs and the UN, enforced dress codes requiring full-body chadors, and denial of access to public spaces. The Taliban's Interior Ministry has initiated a probe, though its spokesman refuted claims of any threats. The UN has implemented interim protective measures for female staff following these threats, marking the first official confirmation of such dangers. The report also highlights broader issues of repression, such as arrests for wearing only a hijab and significant barriers to education and public participation for women. Despite Taliban assurances, humanitarian agencies continue to report interference and disruptions to their operations under the current regime.