07 Oct 2018 | 05:27 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Taliban launch assault in Wardak province October 7
Around 150-200 Taliban fighters launch an attack on Sayad Abad (Wardak province) on October 7; fighting ongoing; Kabul-Kandahar highway closed
Event
Approximately 150-200 Taliban fighters launched an assault on Sayad Abad district (Wardak province) around 03:00 (local time) on Sunday, October 7. The assault is reportedly focused on capturing the Sayad Abad district office, approximately 75 km (46 mi) south-southwest of Kabul. Heavy fighting between Taliban and Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) is ongoing as of 08:45. The Kabul-Kandahar highway is closed between Kabul and Ghazni.
Context
Taliban forces launched a major assault on Ghazni, roughly 50 km (31 mi) to the south of Sayad Abad, in August, seizing the city and resulting in the deaths of hundreds of security forces, civilians, and militants.
Advice
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.
