URGENT: Taliban's Response to Afghan Earthquake Sparks Chaos as Women's Lives Hang in Balance

BREAKING NEWS: Taliban's Response to Afghan Earthquake Sparks Chaos as Women's Lives Hang in Balance A devastating earthquake has struck eastern Afghanistan, killing over 800 people and injuring more than 2,700, with the Taliban's response sparking chaos and contradictions. The Taliban initially asked aid agencies to send more female health workers to assist female survivors, but then briefly barred female U.N. staffers from reaching earthquake-devastated areas. This move has raised concerns about the safety of women in need of medical attention. In the aftermath of the disaster, aid groups and Taliban bureaucrats are working together to assist those injured and left homeless by the earthquake. However, the contradictory tactics have created confusion and hindered rescue efforts. The Taliban's response is particularly concerning given their strict rules on women's rights and freedoms. The move has sparked fears that women may be denied access to essential medical care and aid in the wake of this disaster. As search efforts continue, the international community is calling for greater clarity from the Taliban on their policies regarding female aid workers and survivors. This is a developing story, with updates expected as more information becomes available. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Npr.*