Afghanistan/Tajikistan: Cross-border clashes kill two Tajik guards August 26

Event

Tajik border guards engaged unidentified gunmen in a cross-border clash across the Panj River in Parkhar district (Khatlon province, Tajikistan) on Sunday, August 26, resulting in the deaths of two guards. According to contradictory reports, the gunmen were suspected or Taliban militants. Tajik forces reportedly retaliated by launching an artillery bombardment and unidentified warplanes conducted airstrikes, killing several attackers in Darqad district (Takhar province, Afghanistan) on Monday, August 27. Additional cross-border clashes are possible along the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border in the near-term.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

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