13 Aug 2021 | 09:23 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Taliban in control of multiple provincial capitals, including Puli Alam, as of Aug. 14 /update 1
Taliban forces have captured at least three provincial capitals in eastern Afghanistan as of Aug. 14. Further violence likely.
Event
Taliban forces are in control of several provincial capitals in eastern Afghanistan as of early Aug. 14 amid an ongoing offensive in the region. Notably, the Taliban seized Puli Alam, the capital of Logar Province, and Qalat, the capital of Zabul Province, Aug. 13. Unconfirmed reports indicate local leaders in Gardez, the capital of Paktia Province, have facilitated the city's surrender to Taliban fighters. The Taliban took control of Ghazni, the capital of Ghazni Province, Aug. 12. An unspecified number of security forces, Taliban fighters, and civilians have been killed in various clashes in recent days.
Most long-distance transport services in the impacted areas are nonoperational. Ongoing clashes are likely to continue in the region and result in further severe disruptions to travel and both commercial and government operations. The Taliban is highly likely to attack and capture additional provincial capitals over the coming days. Taliban attacks on Kabul may also occur as the group makes rapid advances.
Context
In recent months, the Taliban has made rapid territorial gains in numerous parts of Afghanistan. However, prior to Aug. 6, Taliban control had been limited to rural areas. Zaranj, in far southwestern Afghanistan, was the first provincial capital to be effectively captured by the Taliban since 2001. Since then, the Taliban has taken control of at least 17 additional provincial capitals, representing more than half of Afghanistan's total of 34 provinces. As of early Aug. 14, Puli Alam is the closest provincial capital to Kabul to have been seized by the Taliban; the city is about 58 km (36 miles) south-southwest of downtown Kabul. Afghan government forces have been unable to retake any provincial capital seized by the Taliban.
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.
