Afghanistan: Gunfire reported near the Canadian Embassy in Kabul, Aug. 19

Event

Emerging social media reports indicate shots were fired near the Embassy of Canada in Kabul the afternoon of Aug. 19. It is not clear who fired the shots, though it was likely local security personnel. The shots were fired to disperse a crowd that had gathered outside the embassy. No casualties were reported.

Authorities will likely maintain heightened security in the area. Localized transport disruptions are possible if additional crowds gather in the coming days.

Context

The gunfire occurred amid ongoing evacuations in Kabul after the Taliban took control of the country. Multiple countries are evacuating people from Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL). Large crowds of people are gathered outside the airport trying to enter. The Taliban has erected checkpoints on access roads to the airport and have fired live ammunition to disperse crowds. Unconfirmed reports indicate the Taliban most recently fired to disperse crowds at the airport the afternoon of Aug. 19, though no casualties were reported.

Advice

Avoid the area. Heed all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time in the area.