Thread by @AFP

#BREAKING Australia to close Kabul embassy as US troops withdraw: PM

#UPDATE Australia will close its embassy in Afghanistan this week, Prime Minister Morrison says, underscoring fears about the "increasingly uncertain security environment" in Kabul as foreign troops withdraw.

The embassy will re-open "once circumstances permit"

VIDEO: Afghan forces push back Taliban offensive near provincial capital.

Afghan forces clash with Taliban fighters in the capital of Laghman Province, about 120 kilometres (75 miles) from Kabul

#BREAKING Taliban pledge to provide 'safe environment' for diplomats, aid workers in Afghanistan after Australia says it will close embassy over security concerns

#UPDATE Australia says it will close its embassy in Afghanistan over the "increasingly uncertain security environment" in Kabul as foreign troops withdraw, the Taliban reacting by saying it would provide a "safe environment" to diplomats and aid workers u.afp.com/UnKC