Afghanistan: Suicide bombing in Jalalabad June 16 /update 1

Event

A suicide bomber attacked an Eid Al-Fitr gathering in Jalalabad (Nangarhar province) on Saturday, June 16. The bombing reportedly took place at approximately 17:30 (local time), targeting both Taliban members and government security forces. At least 26 people died in the attack. The Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the bombing.

Context

Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-KP) is active in Nangarhar province and has recently carried out deadly attacks in the area. Notably, on May 13, suspected IS-KP militants killed at least 15 people and wounded some 42 others in a coordinated attack on the Jalalabad Customs Finance Department building. More recently on June 8, an armed attack in the home of a lawmaker in Jalalabad killed four people and wounded five others.

The Taliban and the Afghan government are observing a ceasefire in observance of Eid Al-Fitr. The government announced the ceasefire will run June 12-20; the Taliban said they will adhere to a ceasefire from June 15 to 17.

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.