UN: Malnutrition plagues Afghanistan

The United Nations says one third of the population of Afghanistan is experiencing malnutrition with at least 18 million people in need of humanitarian assistance.

Ramiz Alakbarov, the UN's humanitarian coordinator for Afghanistan, says the increase comes as American forces withdraw from the country and Taliban forces continuing its gradual military takeover.

In recent weeks, the Taliban have gained control of key border posts with neighbors Iran, Pakistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

In many instances, Afghanistan's security forces and military have put up little to no resistance, after often being left without resupplies or reinforcements.

Two weeks ago, more than 1,000 Afghan military men fled across the border into Tajikistan.

Alakbarov said the country is also seeing an influx of people who previously fled to neighboring countries such as Iran and Pakistan. He says they are now being deported.

He also reiterated the call to increase humanitarian funding, which is only funded at 37% for the year.