In Afghanistan, the Taliban have captured one more regional capital Taloqan after seizing Kunduz, Sar-e-Pul, Sheberghan and Zaranj capital cities during the last four days.

The Afghan government said its forces are fighting to retake key areas and installations.

Heavy fighting has also been reported in Herat in the west, and in the southern cities of Kandahar and Lashkar Gah.