Noorullah Noori has reiterated that Afghanistan does not recognize the Durand Line, reaffirming Kabul’s long-standing position on the disputed boundary.

Speaking at a public gathering in Badakhshan province, the Minister of Borders, Ethnicities and Tribal Affairs accused regional intelligence agencies, including those of Pakistan and other countries, of past interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs, alleging they have contributed to divisions within the country.

Noori also dismissed claims of an internal “resistance” movement, describing it as an externally driven effort lacking genuine domestic support.

Despite the criticism, he said the current authorities seek normal relations with all countries based on mutual respect, while stressing that Afghanistan would defend its territorial integrity against any potential threats.

The European Union has announced €175,000 (more than 13 million afghanis) in humanitarian assistance to support communities affected by recent flooding across Afghanistan.

The funding is expected to assist around 12,000 people in some of the hardest-hit provinces, including Badghis, Farah, Ghor, Helmand, Herat, Kandahar, Logar and Uruzgan.

According to officials, the support will be channelled through the Afghan Red Crescent Society to deliver emergency cash assistance aimed at helping families meet their most urgent needs. The aid package will also include essential relief items such as tents, blankets and basic household supplies.

Additional assistance will focus on providing hygiene kits, access to safe drinking water and primary healthcare services to affected populations.

The funding forms part of the EU’s broader contribution to the Disaster Response Emergency Fund managed by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, which enables rapid response to emergencies.

The EU remains one of the largest humanitarian donors to Afghanistan, with more than €162 million allocated this year alone to support aid operations in the country. Earlier in 2026, the bloc also released €250,000 to assist communities displaced by ongoing conflict.

In addition to financial support, the EU has facilitated nearly 50 humanitarian airlift operations in recent years, including three flights so far this year delivering approximately 270 tonnes of nutrition supplies.

Officials said the latest funding underscores continued international efforts to address urgent humanitarian needs following natural disasters, as many Afghan communities face growing vulnerability due to recurring climate shocks and economic challenges.

The European Union and its member states are among the world’s leading providers of humanitarian assistance, supporting millions of people affected by conflicts and natural disasters each year.

Through its humanitarian operations arm, the EU delivers aid based on need, with the aim of saving lives, reducing suffering and protecting human dignity in crisis-affected regions.

The Disaster Response Emergency Fund, established in 1979 and supported by international donors, provides immediate financial assistance to national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies responding to emergencies, allowing for rapid deployment of relief efforts when disasters strike.

Indian Premier League (IPL) action on Wednesday saw Rajasthan Royals register a commanding 40-run victory over the Lucknow Super Giants in Match 32 of the 2026 season.

Batting first, Rajasthan Royals posted 159 for 6 in their 20 overs, with Ravindra Jadeja anchoring the innings with a composed unbeaten 43. The Royals recovered well after a steady middle phase, adding valuable late runs to set a competitive target.

In reply, Lucknow faltered under pressure and were bowled out for 119 in 18 overs, despite a fighting 55 from Mitchell Marsh. The Royals’ bowling attack proved decisive, led by Jofra Archer, who claimed three crucial wickets to break the back of the chase.

Jadeja’s all-round performance earned him the Player of the Match award, highlighting his impact with both bat and ball in a dominant team display.

The win strengthens Rajasthan’s position in the standings, while Lucknow continue to search for consistency as the tournament progresses.

Attention now shifts to Thursday’s blockbuster clash between the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, one of the most storied rivalries in the IPL.

The high-profile encounter is expected to draw widespread attention, with veteran star MS Dhoni once again in the spotlight as Chennai look to challenge a strong Mumbai side.

The match will be broadcast live and exclusively across Afghanistan on Ariana Television, continuing the network’s coverage of the IPL for cricket fans across the country.