Afghanistan: Taliban forces maintaining checkpoints on roadways near Kabul Airport as of Aug. 18 /update 8

Event

The Taliban is maintaining heightened security in areas of Kabul, especially near Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL), as of Aug. 18. While US forces control the airport, Taliban fighters have erected checkpoints on access roads in northern areas of the city as well as on Airport Road. The Taliban has used violence to control crowds of people on nearby roads trying to enter the airport, including firing into the air. Taliban forces have also reportedly shot at people who have gotten through checkpoints without approval. Military evacuation flights are ongoing at the airport, though commercial flights at the airport reportedly remain suspended. Localized outbreaks of violence are possible in the coming days, especially near KBL, where people may stampede to try to get inside the airport. Gunfire is likely as Taliban forces attempt to prevent people from getting through checkpoints and entering the airport.

Several countries, including the UK and the US, have deployed thousands of soldiers to Kabul to assist in the evacuation efforts. The US and French embassies have relocated their operations to KBL to facilitate the evacuation of their diplomats, citizens, and entitled local nationals. Multiple embassies are closed or have reduced operations. Some remain open, including those of China, Pakistan, Russia, and Turkey.

Security
The Taliban will likely maintain a pervasive presence in major cities, especially Kabul, to maintain order and limit the number of potential security disturbances. Sporadic armed clashes cannot be ruled out in the coming days. Protests denouncing the Taliban have occurred in multiple cities, including Khost and Jalalabad, resulting in clashes between protesters and Taliban forces. Additional protests are possible in the coming days, especially in northern provinces, where the Taliban has enjoyed less support in the past. Extortion and kidnapping by Taliban fighters and opportunistic criminal groups are possible, especially along highways.

Unofficial sources indicate the Taliban ordered residents of Kabul to adhere to a curfew 20:00-06:00. It is unclear if the curfew is ongoing as of Aug. 18, though Taliban forces may enforce curfews in the coming days if significant violence breaks out. The Taliban controls nearly all provinces nationwide. The remaining officials and the Taliban have agreed to form a Taliban-led interim government.

Transport and Commercial Impacts
The Taliban has captured most international land border crossings. Pakistan authorities have reopened the Torkam and Chaman border crossings; border officials may reopen other crossings in the coming days, though ground transport disruptions may persist as the security situation remains fluid. Taliban fighters often erect blockades and illegal vehicle checkpoints, where the collection of illicit taxes and kidnapping of vehicle occupants may occur.

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, are likely throughout the country. Prices of essential commodities have risen amid shortages, especially in Kabul. Shortages could result in panic buying that could lead to further shortages of goods.

Advice

Consider deferring all travel to Afghanistan and exiting the country. Maintain close contact with your diplomatic representation. Do not depart for the airport until flight service is confirmed. Check the status of routes and airport before departure. Maintain a low public profile and dress conservatively.

Follow official directives. 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. Consider alternative shipping routes and power supply if businesses are heavily reliant on state-provided electricity.

Resources

Afghanistan Civil Aviation Authority NOTAM
Ministry of Interior Affairs
Ministry of Defence