Afghanistan: Heightened alert for potential Taliban attack in Kabul April 26

Event

An unconfirmed local report has indicated that anti-government militants, most likely the Taliban, may attempt to carry out an indirect fire (IDF) attack (including rockets, mortars, etc.) on the headquarters of NATO-led Operation Resolute Support in Kabul's Green Zone from 20:00 (local time) onwards on Thursday, April 26. A heightened potential for Taliban attacks is also expected in the coming days over the "Victory Day" holiday weekend; such attacks may target the Green Zone, or US, Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF), National Directorate of Security (NDS), or diplomatic personnel or interests.

Context

These threats come one day after the Taliban issued a statement announcing the launch of their annual spring offensive on April 25, which coincides every year with the arrival of warmer weather that allows militants to move more easily over Afghanistan's mountainous terrain. This year's offensive has been termed the "Al-Khandaq" campaign, named after a legendary battle fought by the Prophet Mohammed in defense of the city of Medina.

The April 25 announcement comes amid an already high level of militant activity in the country, as a series of attacks have been reported in recent weeks. The Taliban launched multiple attacks in Badghis, Farah, and Ghazni provinces on April 23 and April 24, killing at least 25 Afghan soldiers and police officers. On April 22, at least 60 people were killed when a suicide bomber detonated explosives at a voter registration center in Kabul; that attack was later claimed by the Islamic State (IS).

Advice

Individuals in Kabul are advised to consider deferring all nonessential movements in the coming days. Moreover, due to major security concerns in the country, 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.