Afghanistan: Martyrs’ Day demonstrations in Kabul on September 9

Event

Martyrs’ Day will be celebrated in Afghanistan on Saturday, September 9. Large gatherings are expected to take place in Kabul near Massoud Circle and Wazir Akbar Khan starting in the early morning. Expect increased security measures and transportation disruptions throughout the city.

Context

This relatively recent national holiday was established in May 2012 and is celebrated annually on September 9. It honors Ahmad Shah Massoud, a key leader of the resistance against the Soviet Invasion and the Taliban, as well as those who fought alongside him. He was killed in a suicide attack on September 9, 2001. This holiday is also referred to as Haftai Shahid or Massoud Day.

Advice

Due to major security concerns, individuals throughout Afghanistan are urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to Afghanistan due to the high threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Travel to the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.