Afghanistan: Fighting intensity on the rise

Event

As of Wednesday, February 13, increased Taliban activities have been reported across the country over the past 24 hours, notably in Badghis (Balamurghab district), Farah (outside Farah city), Takhar, and Balkh (Chamtal district). Clashes with the regular forces resulted in numerous casualties among civilians and security forces. Further such militant activities are likely to persist in the near term throughout the country.

Context

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 and to gain leverage amid ongoing peace negotiations.

Advice

Individuals in Afghanistan are advised to monitor developments to the situation, 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.