Terrorism
There's an ongoing and very high threat of terrorist attack throughout Afghanistan, including in Kabul. Serious, large-scale terrorist incidents happen frequently, including attacks using vehicle-borne, magnetic, or other improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and firearms. Rocket and mortar attacks also occur.
If you're in Afghanistan, stay alert, be aware of your surroundings, especially in large crowds. Make sure your accommodation is secure and regularly review your personal security plans. Make contingency plans to leave when it’s safe to do so.
Attacks can occur anywhere and at any time. Attacks have occurred in the vicinity of the diplomatic zone, Kabul International Airport, border crossings and other high-profile locations, resulting in casualties.
Border crossing points may be closed by authorities without notice, especially when crowds gather or where there are concerns of an increased risk of attack. Further attacks against aviation and/or airports are very likely. Terrorists frequently carry out attacks on vehicles travelling along roads in and around Kabul. Many terrorist attacks have targeted convoys. We advise against all travel to and around Afghanistan.
Aid and humanitarian workers are not safe from the threat of terrorism. Terrorists continue to target NGO and humanitarian operations across the country. The Taliban has increasingly harassed and detained international and local aid and humanitarian workers.
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Targets of an attack include:
- places with a high number of security and government personnel, government buildings and military establishments
- hotels
- residential compounds used by foreigners
- embassies and international humanitarian facilities and offices
- vehicles of humanitarian organisations
- shops, markets and restaurants
- police stations, schools and medical facilities
- places of worship and religious sites.
Terrorists have staged attacks from partly constructed buildings and high rises.
If you're in Afghanistan, don't travel at night.
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