Afghanistan: Series of Taliban attacks kills at least 32 people January 10

Event

On Thursday, January 10, Taliban militants launched a series of attacks in Badghis, Kunduz, Baghlan, and Takhar provinces. In Badghis province, militants reportedly killed six security personnel and wounded ten others. In Kunduz province, Taliban fighters attacked several checkpoints in Qala-e-Zal district, killing at least ten Afghan soldiers and police officers. The clashes in Qala-e-Zal district reportedly left over 25 Taliban militants dead. In addition, at least 16 people were killed during clashes between Taliban fighters and pro-government militias in Baghlan and Takhar provinces. Similar Taliban attacks on security forces are possible in Afghanistan over the near term.

Context

On January 8, Taliban militants called off peace talks with US officials in Qatar, which were expected to start on January 9, due to various disagreements on key issues, including the participation of Afghan officials in the peace talks, a possible ceasefire, and prisoner exchange prospects.

Taliban militants launch attacks on government personnel, security forces, and civilians in Afghanistan on a near-daily basis. Such assaults are in part intended to undermine the perceived capacity of Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) - and the Afghan government more broadly - to adequately provide security in the wake of the withdrawal of most US-led NATO forces from the country.

Advice

Individuals in Afghanistan, particularly in the abovementioned areas, are advised to remain vigilant for militant activity and adhere to instructions and advice issued by their home governments.

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