30 Dec 2019 | 10:47 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Taliban militants kill 14 Afghan soldiers in Jowzjan province December 30
Taliban militants kill 14 Afghan soldiers in checkpoint attack in Jowzjan province December 30; similar attacks likely over the near term
Event
At least 14 Afghan soldiers have reportedly been killed in a Taliban attack targeting a security checkpoint in Jowzjan province on Monday, December 30. According to local media sources, seven Taliban militants were killed and three others injured in the clashes that followed the attack.
Similar attacks are possible in 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.
Advice
Individuals in Jowzjan province are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the affected area, liaise with their security partner, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
