The Afghan Embassy in New Delhi has suspended operations, two years after the Taliban regained power. The move is seen to put the future of many refugees and asylum seekers at risk.

The embassy in the Indian capital has been run by staff appointed by the previous Afghan government before the Taliban seized power.

A statement posted by the embassy on social media said it will cease operations from October 1st. The statement cited lack of support from the Indian government, as well as a significant reduction in both personnel and available resources.

It also says that the embassy fails to meet the expectations and requirements necessary to serve Afghanistan and its citizens.
The Taliban took over Afghanistan in August 2021.
The Indian government has not recognized the government appointed by the Islamist group. But it allowed the embassy in New Delhi to function solely as an extension of the previous government.

Thousands of Afghans living in the country rely on the embassy's services. They include refugees, students, and businesspeople.

Afghan consulates in the Indian cities of Mumbai and Hyderabad say they will continue operations.

The New Delhi embassy says it is keen to reach an agreement with the Indian government to ensure that the interests of Afghans living in India are safeguarded.