As Iranian and US delegations are present in Islamabad, Iranian media report that talks between the two sides have begun.

The negotiations are being conducted indirectly, with Pakistan acting as a mediator.

According to reports, Iran had set conditions for the start of the talks, including a halt to the war in Lebanon and the release of its frozen assets.

An IRIB correspondent in Islamabad reported that the US has agreed to release Iranian assets, and that the conflict in Lebanon has been limited to the southern part of the country.

However, US officials have not yet confirmed any agreement on the release of Iran’s frozen assets.

The talks come after 40 days of conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

The death toll from a brutal armed attack in the Injil district of Herat province has increased, with local authorities confirming that at least 11 people were killed and 8 others injured.

Ahmadullah Muttaqi, Director of Information and Culture for Herat, reported that the attack occurred around 3:00 PM on Friday when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a group of families who had gathered for a picnic in the village of “Dah Mehre,” located in the Injil district.

Initial reports indicated that four people were killed and 15 others injured. However, as the severity of the injuries became clearer, seven more of the wounded tragically succumbed to their injuries overnight. The latest update puts the death toll at 11, with 8 survivors, two of whom are said to be in critical condition.

Authorities have confirmed that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the attack. Security forces are continuing to investigate the incident, with efforts underway to identify and apprehend additional perpetrators.

The attack has sent shockwaves through the region, with local authorities and communities expressing outrage and concern over the rising violence in the area.

The United Nations has raised alarm over a worsening humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, citing the combined impact of ongoing conflict and severe weather conditions, and urging the international community to step up assistance.

Speaking at a daily press briefing, UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said that recent heavy rains and flooding have led to significant casualties and widespread destruction across the country.

“Nearly 100 people have reportedly been killed, more than 180 injured, and several others remain missing. Thousands of homes have been severely damaged or completely destroyed, along with critical infrastructure and large areas of agricultural land,” Dujarric said.

He noted that Nangarhar Province in eastern Afghanistan has been among the hardest hit regions, already recovering from a devastating earthquake in September last year.

Dujarric also highlighted a 5.9-magnitude earthquake that struck the Hindu Kush region on Sunday, causing additional casualties and damage, including in Kabul and nearby areas.

“We and our humanitarian partners have so far reached more than 8,000 people with assistance, including food, cash aid, health services, emergency shelter, and other life-saving support,” he added.

The UN said assessments are ongoing to ensure aid reaches the most vulnerable populations, as Afghanistan faces mounting humanitarian challenges amid overlapping crises.