Afghanistan: Fighting ongoing, severe disruptions likely in and around Kunduz, Taloqan, and Sar-e-Pul, Aug. 8

Event

Fighting between government and Taliban forces is ongoing in Kunduz (Kunduz Province), Taloqan (Takhar Province), and Sar-e-Pul (Sar-e-Pul Province), Aug. 8. In all three cities, Taliban forces have reportedly captured key government buildings. The Taliban has claimed to have captured Kunduz and Sar-e-Pul; however, this has not been independently verified. In Kunduz, at least 14 fatalities and 30 injuries have been confirmed. Casualty figures are likely to increase as additional information becomes available. The status of road routes and airports in the impacted areas is unclear.

The ongoing clashes are likely to result in severe disruptions to road travel, air travel, and business and government operations. Further violence is likely around all contested locations either due to ground combat or airstrikes.

Context

Taliban pressure on the three provincial capitals follows the militant's reported capture of Sheberghan (Jawzjan Province), Aug. 7, and Zaranj (Nimroz Province), Aug. 6. The capture of Zaranj has prompted the Iranian authorities to close the nearby border crossing. The group has escalated attacks in recent weeks and captured large swathes of territory. The militant group continues to battle government forces in multiple areas across the country. Further attacks on provincial capitals are highly likely in the coming weeks.

The UK and US embassies in Kabul have called for their respective citizens to leave the country due to prevailing security conditions and the limited availability of consulate support. The UK Embassy is advising UK nationals in the country to confirm their departure plans with the embassy. Additionally, the US Embassy stated that they could provide financial aid for US citizens who cannot afford a commercial air ticket to the US.

Advice

Defer travel to areas contested by or recently captured by the Taliban. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Liaise with trusted security partners for further information. Review and update contingency plans. Carry personal identification documents while traveling in Afghanistan. Heed all security personnel instructions.