13 Aug 2021 | 12:13 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Australian government advising citizens to leave the country as of Aug. 13
Australian authorities calling for citizens to leave Afghanistan as of Aug. 13. Confirm transport arrangements in advance.
Event
Australian authorities are calling on nationals to leave Afghanistan as of Aug. 13 due to ongoing fighting occurring throughout the country. Officials are also advising citizens not to travel to the country. The Australian Embassy in Kabul is no longer operational; for urgent passport or consular inquiries, citizens must call the Consular Emergency Centre. The notice follows similar calls by the governments of other countries, including France, Germany, the UK, and the US.
In light of the recent embassy warnings, increased demand for flights and other transportation is likely.
Context
The security situation in Afghanistan will likely continue to deteriorate in the coming weeks, as the Taliban continues to push government forces out of more areas amid the ongoing withdrawal of internal forces from the country. Taliban fighters have clashed with government forces in dozens of districts, especially in northern and western areas, and captured several border crossing points with Iran, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Reports also indicate that the Taliban has gained control of at least 14 provincial capitals. Militant attacks in major cities have often targeted civilians and government officials.
Advice
Confirm flight schedules in advance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Liaise regularly with trusted contacts for updates.
