Afghanistan: Taliban militants kill 65 security forces in Sangin March 22-23

Event

Taliban militants killed some 65 security forces and wounded dozens of others in an attack on multiple security positions in Sangin district (Helmand province) late (local time) on Friday, March 22, into Saturday morning, March 23. Similar Taliban attacks targeting security forces are to be expected in Helmand province over the near term.

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.

The Taliban concluded its last round of peace negotiations with US diplomats on March 12. The US stated that progress was made but no agreement was reached. A fresh round of negotiations is expected to begin in Qatar in late March.

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. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.