Afghanistan: Attack leaves 27 dead in Kabul March 6 /update 2

Event

On Friday, March 6, the Afghan Ministry of the Interior confirmed the death of 27 people and an additional 29 injured in Kabul in a deadly attack during a high-profile event in the city. High-level politicians, including Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah and the head of the High Peace Council, were attending the event to mark the anniversary of the death of Abdul Ali Mazari. There are unconfirmed reports of Chairman of the Afghan High Peace Council Karim Khalili's death. The death toll may rise in the coming hours. A heightened security presence is expected to remain in place in the coming hours.

Further attacks may be launched in Kabul over the coming hours.

Context

In 2019, the Taliban was accused of targeting a commemorative ceremony with mortars. At least 11 people were killed and almost 100 others wounded in the attack.

Abdul Ali Mazari was the leader of the Hizb-e-Wadhat Party and was killed by the Taliban in 1995.

Advice

Individuals in Kabul are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the area of the attack, remain vigilant for militant activity, avoid public demonstrations, restrict non-essential movement until crowds have dispersed, and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home government.

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.