Afghanistan: Protests underway in Kabul, Jan. 27

Event

Several thousand protesters are reportedly protesting in several locations nationwide, including in Kabul, Jan. 27. The gatherings aim to denounce the burning of the Quran by far-right activists in Sweden. Precise demonstration locations are unclear but are likely to include city centers and mosques. In Kabul, unconfirmed reports suggest a gathering is ongoing outside the Eidgah (Great) Mosque in Police District 1 (PD1).

Security personnel are likely to deploy to monitor the protests; there have been no confirmed reports of violence. However, given the nature of the protest, anti-Western sentiment is almost certainly elevated, and any violence that occurs could be directed toward Western nationals. Localized disruptions to business operations and ground transport are likely.

Context

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Heed the instructions of security personnel. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Western nationals should consider avoiding nonessential movement where practically possible in the coming days.