On 16 September the Security Council, under France’s presidency, took up Afghanistan: terrorism, neighbours, rights, the economy, and reintegration. UNAMA: groups on Afghan soil still threaten the country, the region, and international peace. Bonnafont had already listed Afghanistan and terrorism for September; a 9/11 anniversary CT session named Daesh, al-Qaeda, and affiliates. On the 16th France cited ISKP, al-Qaeda, and TTP.

The Monitoring Team’s latest report: Afghanistan remains a “permissive environment,” especially for TTP; al-Qaeda keeps ties; TTP is among the largest listed groups there. ISKP has been hit by Taliban and regional operations but UN reporting still credits it with capability. Members split on sanctions, aid, recognition, and women; terrorism concern cuts across that. UK: act against groups in and outside Afghanistan, plus dialogue and civilian protection. Mujahid denies hosting foreign terrorists and points to ISKP operations—hence independent checks.

Resolution 2593: Afghan territory must not be used to attack other states or to harbour, plan, or train terrorists. Author: no military-only fix; UN CT strategy plus rights-law limits. Asks: UN verification of presence, finance, and cross-border movement; intel-sharing with Pakistan, the region, and UN bodies; civilian protection and humanitarian access; measurable compliance as a condition of engagement.

Afghanistan has returned to the centre of international security debate at a particularly consequential moment. The 16 September Security Council meeting brought the issues of terrorism, relations with neighbouring states, human rights, economic pressures, and Afghanistan’s reintegration with the international community to the Council’s agenda. UNAMA has explained to members that the continued existence of terrorist groups poses a threat to Afghanistan, the region and international peace and security. Its assessment is important because the debate is not simply bilateral between Kabul and its neighbours, but takes on a new........

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