The Taliban have banned all Afghan women UN workers, who are “essential” to the distribution of humanitarian aid, from working across the country, the UN spokesman said today, denouncing an “unacceptable and frankly unthinkable” decision.

The United Nations mission in the country (UNAMA) announced earlier today that Afghan UN workers, who until now have been exempt from such restrictions, have been prevented from working in Nangarhar province in eastern Afghanistan.

“UNAMA has heard talk of an order by the de facto authorities banning Afghan UN workers from working” and “we have been told through different channels that the ban is being implemented across the country,” Stephane Dujarric, its spokesman, told reporters. UN Secretary General.

Noting that no written order has been received by the UN at this time, the spokesman clarified that UN officials are expected to meet with government officials in Kabul tomorrow Wednesday in an effort to get a “clear” explanation.

“For the secretary-general (António Guterres) such a ban would be unacceptable and frankly unthinkable,” he added, denouncing the will to “undermine the ability of humanitarian organizations to help those most in need.”