Afghanistan: Suicide bombing attack kills 26 in Khost November 23

Event

A suicide bombing attack killed 26 people and wounded 50 others in Ismail Khel district (Khost province) on Friday, November 23. The blast reportedly targeted Afghan security forces gathering to pray at a mosque at an army base. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the assault. Similar attacks on security forces are to be expected in Afghanistan over the coming weeks.

Context

Taliban and Islamic State (IS) militants launch attacks on government personnel, security forces, and civilians in Afghanistan on a near-daily basis. Such assaults are in part intended to undermine the perceived capacity of Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) - and the Afghan government more broadly - to adequately provide security in the wake of the withdrawal of most US-led NATO forces from the country and in the aftermath of parliamentary and district elections held October 20.

Advice

Individuals in Khost province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the area of the blast, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

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