Afghanistan: Increased security likely in Herat through early December following Dec. 1 armed attack that killed at least six people, injured three

Authorities will almost certainly maintain an enhanced security posture in Herat through early December following an armed attack on Dec. 1. Emerging reports indicate unidentified assailants targeted passengers on a vehicle in the Jebrael area at approximately 14:00 on Dec. 1. Sources suggest the passengers included two religious figures. At least six people were killed and three injured during the attack. As of late Dec. 1, no group has immediately claimed responsibility for the incident, and Taliban authorities have as yet provided no details concerning the nature of the attack. Local Hazara residents have purportedly held a demonstration following the incident.

Officials will likely maintain an increased security presence in Herat over the coming days. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely. Additional related protests are possible over the coming days. Such gatherings are likely to remain small in scale. Security personnel typically use force to disperse gatherings. Additional isolated security incidents, including small-scale bombings and targeted killings, cannot be ruled out.