Afghanistan: Taliban launches annual spring offensive April 25

Event

The Taliban announced the official launch of their yearly spring offensive on Wednesday, April 25. In their statement, the group also dismissed Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's offer of peace talks, claiming the proposed negotiations were part of a larger conspiracy. The announcement is expected to be accompanied by a surge in attacks in the coming weeks, especially targeting American troops, intelligence services, and allies, as well as Afghan government installations and personnel. Although not yet claimed by any group, a grenade attack targeting a security checkpoint in Kabul occurred shortly after the spring offensive was announced on April 25; three people, including a member of the security forces, were wounded in the attack.

Context

Every year, the Taliban issues a statement announcing the beginning of a spring offensive as warmer weather 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.

Wednesday's 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 Monday, April 23, and Tuesday, 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

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.