Afghanistan: Attack during commemorative event in Kabul March 7 /update 1

Event

Anti-Government Elements (AGE) reportedly launched an indirect fire mortars (IDF) attack targeting a commemorative gathering for Abdul Mazari, taking place in the Musala Compound and the Asif Mayal school, in the south-west of the capital Kabul on Thursday, March 7. At least three people were killed and 19 others wounded in the attack. A heightened security presence has been deployed in the area.

On a related note, events and gatherings to mark the fifth anniversary of the death of former Vice President Mohammed Fahim are anticipated on Saturday, March 9. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected in Kabul on that date. Further attacks by militant groups targeting related gatherings cannot be ruled out.

Context

A gathering was taking place in the abovementionned area to commemorate the 1995 execution of Abdul Ali Mazari. Mazari, leader of the Hezb-e-Wahdat political party during the Soviet-Afghan War, was executed by the Taliban government in 1995. Mazari argued for a federal system of governance to allow for each ethnic group to hold constitutional rights. 

Mohammed Fahim, who died in 2014 of a heart attack, served as vice president from 2002-2004 and 2009 until his death. Fahim also served as a Field Marshall in the Afghanistan National Army and is credited with the Afghan Northern Alliance's capture of Kabul following the fall of the Taliban government in 2001. 

Advice

Individuals in Kabul are advised to avoid the area, monitor developments to the situation, strictly avoid related gatherings and demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and 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.