Taliban seize parts of Kunduz city
The Taliban have been operating boldly in Kunduz province, though not the city. But they have seized parts of the city, hoisting their flags in the city center. It’s unlikely they will be able to hold it. The pattern over the last few years has been for the Taliban to seize a base or district only to have ANA troops oust them in a short time. Retaking Kunduz might entail considerable damage to the city. Kunduz province is important for three reasons: the province has a large Pashtun population, oil wealth, and key logistical lines to the north.
ISIL strikes in eastern Afghanistan
Several hundred fighters aligned with ISIL have struck in Paktika province. It is unclear if these fighters come from the ranks of former Taliban or from the motley groups of Islamist fighters that live along the Af-Pak line.
Clashes continue on Temple Mount
Israeli security forces fought with Palestinians who feel the Israeli Right is trying to change the rules governing prayer on the Temple Mount – known as the Noble Sanctuary in the Islamic world. In Islamic apocalyptic thought, infidels will try to desecrate the site and this will lead to a decisive war between good and evil.
Hungary sends trade delegation to Iran
With the easing of sanctions following the P5+1 agreement, many countries are eager to trade with Iran, which has a large urban population whose disposable income will rising in coming years. The US will likely remain on the sidelines in the big game.