Afghanistan: UK and US embassies call for citizens to leave the country as of Aug. 8

Event

The UK and US embassies in Kabul have called for their respective citizens to leave the country as of Aug. 8 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. Further details are unavailable.

Increased demand for flights and other transport is possible.

Context

The security situation in Afghanistan continues to deteriorate in recent weeks. Taliban forces have clashed with government forces in dozens of districts, especially in northern and western areas, and captured several border crossing points with Iran, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Reports also indicate increasing Taliban activity in Herat, Kandahar, and Lashkar Gah cities. Additionally, media reports suggest 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 violations of their 2020 bilateral agreement with the US. The security situation is likely to deteriorate further in the coming weeks, especially as the Taliban continues to push government forces out of more areas. Militant attacks in major cities have often targeted civilians and government officials; the Taliban claimed responsibility for the complex attack targeting the Afghan Minister of Defense’s residence in central Kabul Aug. 3.

Advice

Confirm flight schedules in advance.

Resources

US Embassy Afghanistan Security Message
UK FCO Afghanistan Travel Advice