Afghanistan: Fighting ongoing, severe disruptions likely in and around multiple southern areas as of Aug. 10

Event

Fighting between government and Taliban forces is continuing in multiple areas of southern Afghanistan. Taliban fighters captured Farah, the capital of Farah Province, on Aug. 10. Fighting is also ongoing in parts of Kandahar and Lashkar Gah. An unspecified number of security forces, Taliban fighters, and civilians have died in various clashes. Most long-distance transport services in the impacted areas are nonoperational.

The ongoing clashes are likely to result in further severe disruptions to travel and both commercial and government operations. Additional violence is likely around all contested locations.

Context

Taliban forces captured Zaranj in southwestern Afghanistan by early Aug. 6. It was the first provincial capital captured by the group since 2001. Taliban militants subsequently advanced further in multiple areas and have captured large swathes of territory, including at least six provincial capitals, mostly in the north of the country. The militant group continues to battle government forces across the country. Further attacks on provincial capitals are highly likely in the coming weeks.

Several embassies in Kabul have called for their respective citizens to leave the country due to prevailing security conditions and the limited availability of consulate support.

Advice

Defer travel to areas contested by or recently captured by the Taliban. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Liaise with trusted security partners for further information. Review and update contingency plans. Carry personal identification documents while traveling in Afghanistan. Heed all security personnel instructions.