07 Aug 2021 | 02:53 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Fighting ongoing, severe disruptions likely in and around Sheberghan after Taliban seize city Aug. 7
Severe disruptions likely in and around Sheberghan, Jawzjan Province, Afghanistan, after Taliban seize city Aug. 7; fighting ongoing,
Event
Fighting is ongoing in Sheberghan, provincial capital of Jawzjan Province, after Taliban forces reportedly captured the city Aug. 7; government officials report that they have taken refuge at Sheberghan Airport (OASG) 30 km (17 miles) to the northeast of the city. Business and transport are highly likely to remain severely disrupted in and around Sheberghan over the medium term.
Sheberghan is located approximately 135 km (85 miles) west of Mazar-e-Sharif.
Context
Sheberghan would be the second provincial capital to be captured by the Taliban after Zaranj in southwestern Afghanistan's Nimroz Province fell on the previous day. In recent months, the Taliban has made rapid territorial gains in numerous parts of Afghanistan. However, Taliban control has until now been primarily limited to rural areas. Media reports indicate that Taliban commanders are increasingly attempting to seize control of provincial capitals in retaliation for recent US airstrikes on the group. Taliban leaders have condemned such airstrikes as effective violations of their 2020 bilateral agreement with the US. As of Aug. 7, Taliban fighters are actively contesting effective government control in multiple provincial capitals, including Herat and Kandahar. Further attacks on provincial capitals are highly likely in the coming weeks.
Advice
Defer travel to Sheberghan and nearby areas. Carry personal identification documents while traveling in Afghanistan. Heed all security personnel instructions.
