Afghanistan: Officials increasing security nationwide for March 20-21 Nowruz holiday

Event

Security forces in Afghanistan are on heightened alert nationwide ahead of the upcoming Nowruz holiday (Persian New Year); the traditional observance begins at 14:00 March 20, although the government holiday takes place March 21. Militant groups may attempt to stage attacks during the holiday period. Security will be particularly tight in Kabul and other main towns and cities, including Mazar-e-Sharif, the site of a prominent Shi'a shrine and focal point for celebrations in northern Afghanistan. Additionally, security forces will establish checkpoints on major thoroughfares; traffic may be diverted with little notice.

Nowruz is a public holiday in Afghanistan. Many businesses, government offices, and diplomatic missions will be closed for the holiday period. Celebratory events and localized disruptions may persist beyond March 21, as some communities traditionally continue Nowruz festivities for several days.

Context

Taliban and Islamic State (IS) militants have issued periodic warnings against the observance of Nowruz, which some militant leaders deem "un-Islamic." IS militants killed 33 people in the Kart-e-Char area of west Kabul during Nowruz celebrations in March 2018; major attacks against Nowruz festivities also occurred in Helmand and Khost provinces in 2010.

Advice

Allow additional time for road travel during the holiday and confirm scheduled appointments. Limit exposure to potential terror targets, including Nowruz celebration venues, police and military installations, and major government buildings. Plan accordingly for detours and traffic disruptions due to increased security measures.