Afghanistan: Taliban fighters assault checkpoint in Logar province April 16

Event

A military position was assaulted by suspected Taliban militants overnight (local time) on Wednesday, April 15, into Thursday, April 16, in Logar province. At least nine soldiers were killed at a checkpoint in Charkh district. According to provincial officials, the Taliban fighters also suffered "heavy casualties." As of Thursday, the Taliban did not immediately claim responsibility for the attack.

Further armed clashes are to be expected between Afghan security forces and Taliban militants across Afghanistan 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.

Advice

Individuals in Logar province are advised to monitor developments, remain vigilant for militant activity, 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.