22 Jun 2021 | 02:54 PM UTC
Afghanistan, Tajikistan: Taliban in control of the Sher Khan Bandar border crossing in Kunduz Province, as of June 22
Taliban captured border crossing with Tajikistan at Sher Khan Bandar, Afghanistan, as of June 22. Transport disruptions likely.
Event
Taliban forces have captured the Sher Khan Bandar border crossing, the main border checkpoint between Afghanistan and Tajikistan, in northern Kunduz Province, as of June 22. The capture and closure of the crossing came amid ongoing fighting between Taliban and government forces in multiple areas of Kunduz.
Sher Khan Bandar is located approximately 56 km (35 miles) northwest of Kunduz city.
Heightened security measures are likely on both sides of the border in the coming days. Transport disruptions and shipping delays on both sides of the border are likely.
Context
Taliban forces have besieged the provincial capital, Kunduz city, in recent days. The Taliban has apparent control over the centers of Aliabad, Chahar Dara, Dashte Archi, Imam Sahib, Khanabad, and Qalay-i-Zal districts, as of June 22. The Taliban has taken control of dozens of districts across the country in recent weeks. Taliban successes are partially due to the ongoing withdrawal of international forces from the country, which had supported government forces in engagements. Armed clashes are likely to continue indefinitely.
Advice
Reconfirm the status of the crossing before travel or processing cargo shipments through the area. Maintain heightened levels of vigilance in the area. Avoid concentrations of security personnel.
