Afghanistan: Government declares unilateral ceasefire vis-à-vis the Taliban June 12-20

Event

On Thursday, June 7, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced that Afghan security forces would adhere to a unilateral ceasefire with the Taliban from Tuesday, June 12, to Wednesday, June 20, which coincides with Eid al-Fitr (end of Muslim holy month of Ramadan). As such, military operations targeting the group should cease during this nine-day period. However, attacks by the Taliban could continue. Furthermore, government operations targeting other militant groups, such as the Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-KP), will continue.

The decision to declare a ceasefire was made following a proposition by the country's Islamic clerics (Loya Jirga).

Context

On April 25, the Taliban issued a statement announcing the launch of their annual spring offensive, which coincides every year with the arrival of warmer weather that allows militants to move more easily over Afghanistan's mountainous terrain. The terrorist group has since launched multiple attacks in Kabul, Badghis, Farah, and Ghazni provinces, killing dozens of security forces and civilians.

Advice

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel