Afghanistan: Afghan airstrike kills at least 70 in Kunduz April 2

Event

The Afghan Air Force bombed a madrasa ("religious school") in Dasht-e-Archi district (Kunduz province) on Monday, April 2, killing at least 70 people, including at least 30 Taliban fighters, and wounding some 150 others. Children reportedly accounted for a significant number of the victims. The airstrike reportedly targeted Taliban commanders. The UN mission in Afghanistan has opened an investigation into the incident, reminding belligerents to spare civilians from armed conflict.

Context

The Taliban has made gains in various parts of Afghanistan since most foreign combat troops withdrew from the country at the end of 2014. The Taliban tend to target government and military buildings and personnel as they fight the US-backed Kabul government, and have been increasingly active since US President Trump announced plans in September 2017 to send an additional 3000 troops to rout terrorist networks in the country.

Advice

Due to major security concerns in the country, 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 Afghanistan 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. Travel to the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.