Afghanistan: Explosion leaves at least 26 wounded in Kandahar province July 30

Event

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated in Spin Boladak district (Kandahar province) on Tuesday, July 30, wounding at least 26 people. While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the blast, Taliban fighters are highly suspected.

Similar attacks are possible in Kandahar province and elsewhere in Afghanistan over the near term.

Context

Taliban and Islamic State (IS) 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 Kandahar province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the affected area, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.