The article discusses the alleged war crimes committed by Australian SAS troops in Afghanistan, focusing on the case of Oliver Schulz, who was charged with murder. It criticizes the Australian Defence Force and media for covering up these crimes and glorifying the military. The article highlights systemic failures, including the dismissal of local complaints and the mythologizing of the SAS. It also mentions the role of whistleblowers like David McBride, who face severe consequences for exposing the truth. The article underscores the lack of accountability and the ongoing issues within the military and government.

The United Nations convened a meeting in Qatar to discuss Afghanistan, focusing on women's rights, countering terrorism, and drug trafficking. The Taliban government was not invited, but the meeting aimed to find a common understanding on engaging with the Taliban. The summit, chaired by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, followed a Security Council condemnation of the Taliban's ban on Afghan women working with the UN. A letter from Afghan civil society and private sector representatives called for a pragmatic approach to engagement with the Taliban to address the humanitarian crisis. The letter sparked debate, with some viewing it as a necessary step and others criticizing it as counterproductive. Key figures like Kochay Hassan and Sulaiman Bin Shah emphasized the need for practical solutions and economic engagement to move Afghanistan forward.

The article critiques the Iranian opposition's continued support for isolationist and pro-sanctions policies, arguing that these strategies have historically failed to bring about change in Iran. It highlights the recent China-brokered reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia as evidence of the ineffectiveness of such approaches. The piece also discusses the newly formed Alliance for Democracy and Freedom in Iran (ADFI) and its charter, which calls for the international isolation of the Islamic Republic. The author suggests that the opposition's focus on sanctions and diplomatic isolation harms ordinary Iranians and fails to address the root causes of dissent within the country.

Iranian security forces allegedly stole and secretly buried the body of 16-year-old protester Nika Shakarami, who disappeared after joining protests in Tehran. Her family found her body in a morgue, but it was later taken by authorities and buried in a different village. The incident has sparked further anti-government protests. The crackdown on protests has intensified, with reports of numerous deaths and arrests, including the detention of journalist Niloofar Hamedi. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has expressed support for the security forces' actions.

The article discusses the ongoing protests in Iran, highlighting the indigenous and organic nature of the movement led by young Iranians. It criticizes the Islamic Republic's refusal to reform and the hardliner establishment's brutal crackdowns. The protests, sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, demand significant political change, including the resignation of the supreme leader. The article argues against foreign intervention, emphasizing that the solution must come from within Iran. It also reflects on the historical context of Iranian protests and the disillusionment with the current regime.

The Vienna talks on Iran's nuclear deal are at a critical juncture, with negotiators from the US, China, Europe, and Iran working against the clock to finalize an agreement. The deal is reportedly 95% complete, but significant obstacles remain, particularly from the US Congress, which threatens to introduce legislation tightening sanctions if a deal is not reached by 24 November. Iran's internal politics also pose challenges, with hardliners pressuring President Rouhani. Diplomatic efforts continue, with key players like Russia and Oman facilitating negotiations. The outcome of these talks will have significant implications for international relations and domestic politics in both Iran and the US.