Afghanistan: Taliban attacks in Faryab and Ghazni June 21

Event

On Thursday morning, June 21, deadly attacks targeting Afghan security forces were carried out by Taliban militants in the provinces of Faryab (north) and Ghazni (east). In Faryab, Taliban fighters reportedly killed at least 14 Afghan security personnel in attacks on checkpoints in Khawja Sabzpush district. In Ghazni, at least 20 Taliban and three Afghan security personnel were killed in a failed attempt by the Taliban to storm checkpoints in Jaghato district; ten Taliban and four Afghan security personnel were injured.

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 group has since launched multiple attacks across the country, killing security forces and civilians.

The Taliban and the Afghan government agreed to a ceasefire in observance of Eid Al-Fitr June 15-17. A resumption of large-scale Taliban attacks - especially targeting government and security personnel and installations - has been reported since June 18 in Farah, Ghazni, Helmand, Faryab, Kandahar, and Badghis provinces. The government has also relaunched normal anti-Taliban operations nationwide.

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.