15 Aug 2021 | 08:56 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Evacuations from Kabul ongoing after government transfers power to Taliban Aug. 15 /update 5
Evacuations from Kabul, Afghanistan, continuing Aug. 15. Security situation fluid, subject to change at short notice.
Event
A massive evacuation effort is ongoing in Kabul as of early Aug. 16 after the Afghan government agreed to hand over power to the Taliban. Large numbers of foreigners and Afghan nationals have reportedly flocked to Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL) in an effort to leave the country. All commercial flights out of KBL have been suspended, with only military aircraft continuing to operate; the civilian side of the airport has reportedly been closed. The US and French embassies have relocated their operations to KBL to facilitate the evacuation of their diplomats, citizens, and entitled local nationals. The UK embassy has closed, with British officials engaging in a similar evacuation effort; Germany has also closed its diplomatic mission in Kabul effective Aug. 15. Moreover, traffic jams have been reported in Kabul as residents leave the city.
Former President Ashraf Ghani has resigned and reportedly left the country; his ultimate destination has not been disclosed. Remaining officials and the Taliban agreed to form a Taliban-led interim government after fighters surrounded Kabul on Aug. 15. Although Taliban leaders have kept the bulk of their forces outside the city, unconfirmed reports indicate they have allowed fighters to enter some areas of Kabul; government forces have reportedly left the capital. The Taliban currently controls all provinces and provincial capitals in northern, western, and southern areas; they have also captured Jalalabad in eastern Nangarhar Province.
Security
The security situation will remain fluid and unpredictable nationwide over the coming weeks. The Taliban will likely maintain a pervasive presence in major cities, especially Kabul, in an effort to maintain order and limit the number of potential security disturbances. Nevertheless, further sporadic armed clashes cannot be ruled out in the coming days. Moreover, extortion and kidnapping by Taliban fighters and opportunistic criminal groups are possible, especially along highways.
Transport and Commercial Impacts
The Taliban have captured most international land border crossings. Ground transport and shipping disruptions are likely via captured crossings. Taliban fighters often erect blockades and illegal vehicle checkpoints, where the collection of illicit taxes and kidnapping of vehicle occupants may occur.
It remains unclear how long the suspension of commercial flights at KBL may remain in place. Even after evacuation operations are complete and the Taliban take possession of the airport, significant civil flight disruptions remain likely at the facility until the security situation stabilizes. FlyDubai has temporarily halted flights to Kabul; additional airlines may suspend flights to Afghanistan in the coming days. The status of flight operations at other airports in Taliban-held cities, such as Kandahar’s Ahmed Shah Baba International Airport (KDH), Herat International Airport (HEA), and Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport (MZR), is currently unconfirmed.
The Taliban are currently allowing foreigners to leave the country via KBL; foreigners who stay must register with Taliban authorities.
Disruptions to business operations, public transportation, aid agencies' functioning, and consulate services for foreign nationals, as well as shortages of some goods due to business closures, shipping delays, or looting, could occur throughout the country. Prices of essential commodities have risen amid shortages, especially in Kabul.
Advice
Follow official directives. Foreign nationals should strongly consider deferring all travel to Afghanistan and exiting the country immediately. Exercise caution and avoid any protests. Defer travel to sites with ongoing security operations; if operating in such an area, remain sheltered in a secure indoor location, away from windows. Confirm business appointments, transport reservations, road status, and deliveries in advance. Ensure contingency plans account for business, transport, and utility disruptions if operating in an affected area. Consider alternative shipping routes and power supply if businesses are heavily reliant on state-provided electricity. Abide by traffic, security, and evacuation advisories. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
