US calls for 'renewed, meaningful' engagement amid surge in Afghan violence

The United States on Wednesday called for a renewed, deliberate, and meaningful engagement at the negotiation table to reach a political settlement in Afghanistan as the Taliban make huge advances across the war-torn country.

The insurgent group are capitalising on the final withdrawal of foreign troops — capturing districts, seizing key border crossings and encircling provincial capitals.

Earlier today, the insurgent group claimed to have gained control over an important trade route linking Pakistan with southern Afghanistan, hours after Afghan forces surrendered the critical transit point to the Taliban fighters.

"The Mujahideen have captured an important border town called Wesh in Kandahar, " said Zabihullah Mujahid, a Taliban spokesperson in a statement.

Read more: Taliban claim to control key Afghan border crossing opposite Chaman

"With this, the important road between (Spin) Boldak and Chaman and Kandahar customs have come under Mujahideen control," he said.

"The world is watching. Afghans deserve to live in dignity and at peace. We urge a renewed, deliberate, and meaningful engagement at the negotiation table to reach a political settlement & to end these years of conflict," said Ross Wilson, Chargé d'Affaires to Afghanistan.

The United Nations has also expressed concern over the number of reported serious human rights abuses and violations alleged in communities most affected by the ongoing military offensive across Afghanistan.

"The reports of killing, ill-treatment, persecution and discrimination are widespread and disturbing, creating fear and insecurity. Those who carry out any such acts must be held accountable," United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a statement.

Also read: Restrictions on women return as Taliban gain control of key Afghan territories

"The UN reiterates that parties are obliged to respect the human rights and dignity of all Afghans, especially those of women and girls who have in the past been subjected to particularly acute forms of discrimination."

The statement said that the best way to end harm to civilians is for peace talks to be re-invigorated in order for a negotiated settlement to be reached.

"Those genuinely interested in the future of Afghanistan and its people, should prioritise negotiating a peace and committing to measures, including safeguarding the country’s infrastructure, that will show a real concern for the welfare of all Afghans," it added.

The UN urged all parties to announce an Eid ceasefire that can give Afghans a respite from the conflict and that may contribute to sustained and meaningful peace negotiations.