Afghanistan: Suicide car bombing attack in Toor Pul (Helmand province) December 9

Event

At least eight Afghan soldiers were killed in a suicide car bombing attack in Toor Pul (Nad Ali district, Helmand province) on Monday, December 9. The blast targeted a military checkpoint and outpost, which were destroyed in the blast. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Similar Taliban attacks targeting security forces are to be expected in Helmand province 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 Afghanistan are advised to monitor developments to the situation, 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.