Afghanistan: IS claim May 17 attack on TV station in Jalalabad /update 1

Event

Islamic State (IS) have claimed responsibility for the May 17 attack against the branch of Afghanistan’s national broadcaster Radio Television Afghanistan (RTA) in Jalalabad. At least six civilians were killed – including four employees of the TV station – and 19 others wounded. Reports indicate there were four attackers; three were killed in the attack and subsequent shootout with security forces, and one was arrested.  The siege lasted approximately three to four hours.

Context

Jalalabad is the capital of Nangarhar province, located in the east of the country on the border with Pakistan, where IS fighters have established a stronghold. IS claimed responsibility for an attack on a NATO convoy in Kabul on May 3, along with a number of attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan since forming its regional branch, Khorasan Province, in 2015.

There is also a strong Taliban presence in the region. The Taliban announced the official start of their yearly spring offensive in late April, an announcement typically followed by a short surge of attacks countrywide.

Advice

As always, due to major security concerns, individuals throughout Afghanistan are urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the country due to the high threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.