Afghanistan: UN elevates alert state in Kabul Jan. 28

Event

The United Nations (UN) has elevated their state of alert for Kabul city to ‘Grey’ from 12:00 (local time) on Sunday, January 28, in response to recent attacks in Kabul and Jalalabad and current threat reporting. Additionally, President Ashraf Ghani has announced a national day of mourning to be held on Sunday, and a nationwide holiday on Monday, January 29 to allow families of victims to hold burials and grieve. It is likely that many ministries and government offices will be closed over the coming days.

This will be an emotionally charged week for Kabul, with the funerals of those killed in the recent attacks and the possible demonstrations against the government in protest against its failure to secure the capital. This may well be exploited by anti-government elements, who may look to carry out attacks against soft or foreign targets. Government, diplomatic, international non-governmental organizations and UN locations may be operating on restricted access. Avoid areas known for public gatherings; consider essential moves only.

Context

Anti-government elements have staged a number of large attacks in Afghanistan over recent days, and cities across the country remain on high alert. On Saturday, January 27 some 95 were killed and 150 wounded when a vehicle borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated in the vicinity of Sadarat Square and Chicken Street markets; police cordons were lifted on Sunday morning.

At least 22 people were killed in the January 20-21 attack on the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul, also claimed by the Taliban. Militants launched a complex attack on the offices of Save the Children in police district three (PD3) of Jalalabad on January 24, killing at least six people and wounding 27 others. Islamic State (IS) later claimed responsibility for the attack.

Advice

Individuals in Afghanistan, particularly in Kabul and Jalalabad, are advised to remain vigilant, monitor the security situation, and obey all instructions issued by local authorities. Individuals are also advised to avoid areas known for public gatherings or to be frequented by foreigners (such as local restaurants, hotels etc). Consider essential movements only.

Due to major security concerns more generally, 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.