AFGHAN security forces’ numbers have suffered a sharp decrease in the past 12 months due to desertions and casualties, according to a new report.

Research from the US government’s Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (Sigar) showed a 10 per cent drop to just 300,000 personnel as violence across the country continues to escalate.

The watchdog’s report emerged a day after two suicide blasts rocked Kabul, killing dozens, including 11 journalists and a number of children.

The US promised last year it would send an extra 3,000 troops to help deal with the deteriorating security situation in the country, which is still suffering the devastating effects caused by the invasion and occupation of the country in the wake of the 2001 September 11 terrorist attacks in the US.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said in February the government was willing to hold peace talks with the Taliban if they would promise to end acts of terror and accept the country’s constitution.

The Taliban, however, did not respond to Mr Ghani’s offer of reconciliation and increased attacks on civilians with increased casualties as they targeted urban areas and government offices.

Isis too has increased activities with a number of attacks in Kabul, including the recent bombing of a voter registration centre in a largely Shia-populated district of the city.

Sigar spokesman John Sopko said: “Building up the Afghan forces is a top priority for the US and our international allies, so it is worrisome to see Afghan force strength decreasing.”