Afghanistan: Suicide attack near Kabul’s diplomatic Green Zone March 2

Event

A vehicle-borne suicide attack took place in Kabul at around 08:45 (local time) on Friday, March 2. The attack targeted a convoy on Jalalabad Road near the Kabul Customs Office and the capital’s diplomatic Green Zone. At least one person was killed and half a dozen others wounded. Afghan security forces have cordoned off the area; traffic conditions are expected to return to normal by 15:30.

Context

Kabul has been experiencing a wave of deadly terrorist attacks in recent weeks, which are likely to continue in the short-term. On February 7, official sources announced a "credible and imminent" terrorist threat in Kabul, particularly in the diplomatic Green Zone area; the capital remains on high alert as of early March. Security officials have put increased security measures in place, including erecting dozens of checkpoints in central areas of the city.

Advice

Due to the heightened security threat, individuals present in Kabul and elsewhere in Afghanistan are advised to remain vigilant, closely monitor the security situation, and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.

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.