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12 Jun 2018 | 03:07 PM UTC

Afghanistan: Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) June 14-16

Muslims in Aghanistan to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan on June 14-16

Warning

Event

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which began on May 16, is expected to come to an end in Afghanistan at sundown on Thursday, June 14. Eid al-Fitr celebrations, marking the end of Ramadan, will likely take place from Thursday evening through June 17. During this time, operations in Afghanistan may come to a virtual standstill as Muslims gather to pray and celebrate with family and friends. Celebrations will likely have a major impact on many businesses, stock exchanges, and public services, which may be unavailable or operating on a reduced schedule. As this period is typically marked by increased travel, heavy road traffic after sundown along with other transportation disruptions is to be anticipated.

Generally speaking, the Ramadan period is historically marred by a significant increase in the terrorist risk. While the Taliban has announced it will adhere to a ceasefire during Eid festivities, acts of terrorism cannot be ruled out, notably attacks carried out by the Islamic State (IS), also highly active in the country.

Context

Eid al-Fitr celebrates the conclusion of 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting and remains one of the most important dates on the Muslim calendar. Afghanistan's official state religion is Islam, which is practiced by nearly 99 percent of the population. The majority of the population supports some form of sharia law, a legal code based on the Quran and other Islamic scripture, as the official law of the land in their country.

Advice

Individuals in Afghanistan are advised to allow for additional travel time, to remain vigilant, and to avoid large public gatherings.

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