Afghanistan Humanitarian & Rights: The UN Security Council unanimously extended UNAMA’s mandate for another year, until June 17, 2027, urging more international assistance as Afghanistan’s humanitarian and economic crisis deepens and calling out ongoing restrictions on women and girls. Women Under Taliban Crackdown: Reports from Herat describe women-led protests met with gunfire, detentions, and tighter security after arrests tied to enforced dress rules, underscoring how surveillance is reshaping public life. Climate & Water Security: A new analysis warns Afghanistan’s hydro-political “trap” is worsening as downstream dependence blocks unilateral water projects while domestic funding and technical gaps raise risks of inefficient systems and long-term ecological damage. Agriculture & Water Use: In Herat, about 2,500 hectares of pistachio orchards have been established, with experts saying the crop suits local climate and can help farmers earn more while using relatively less water. Regional Cooperation: China urged SCO members to back Afghanistan’s reconstruction and development, framing it as part of broader sustainable security and cooperation. Development Aid: Japan says it will fund $35m in Afghanistan development projects this year, including climate-change mitigation via check dams and improved water management. Environment Leadership: The Maldives will host a World Cleanup Day Leaders Academy Asia 2026 with participation listed from Afghanistan and other countries, focusing on waste reduction and community action.