Afghanistan: Military operations in Nangarhar and Ghazni May 28-29

Event

Nine civilians were mistakenly killed and eight others wounded overnight May 28-29 in a military operation launched by Afghan Special Forces in Chaparhar district (Nangarhar province). An investigation has been opened into the incident.

Additionally, 16 Taliban militants were killed and 12 wounded on Monday, May 28, during an operation by Afghan forces in Gilan district (Ghazni province).

Context

Afghan civilians have repeatedly fallen victim to the ongoing conflict in the country. On April 2, the Afghan Air Force killed dozens of civilians during a bombing of a madrasa (religious school) in Dasht-e-Archi district (Kunduz province).

On April 25, the Taliban issued a statement announcing the launch of their annual spring offensive, which coincides every year with the arrival of warmer weather that allows militants to move more easily over Afghanistan's mountainous terrain. The terrorist group has since launched multiple attacks including in Badghis, Farah, and Ghazni provinces, killing dozens of individuals including both security forces and civilians.

Advice

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.