17 Dec 2019 | 02:32 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Roadside bomb kills ten civilians in Khost province December 17
At least ten civilians killed in roadside blast in Khost province December 17; similar attacks possible over the near term
Event
At least ten civilians were killed when their vehicle struck a roadside bomb in Alishir district (Khost province), on Tuesday, December 17. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the blast.
Similar attacks are possible over the near term.
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.
Advice
Individuals in Khost province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the affected area, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.
The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
