The Tactics Institute for Security and Counterterrorism condemns in the strongest terms the brutal attack on innocent civilians in Afghanistan’s Daikundi and Ghur provinces. It claimed the lives of 14 people and wounded six others. This violent assault was claimed by the so-called Islamic State (IS).
The Tactics Institute is deeply concerned that this attack took place in one of Afghanistan’s historically safer regions. It signals that no area in the country is immune to escalating violence. The attack targeted Shia Muslims who were peacefully gathering to welcome pilgrims returning from Karbala, an event meant to celebrate the religious festival of Arbain. This senseless massacre not only deepens the sectarian divide but poses a significant threat to the peace and stability of an already volatile region.
The continued insurgency by Islamic State-Khurasan, a local affiliate of the Middle East-based Islamic State, undermines the Taliban’s promises of greater security since their takeover in 2021. Despite claims of having crushed the extremist group, IS has continued to carry out frequent and deadly attacks. It targets minority communities, which violates Afghanistan’s obligations to protect its citizens under international law.
The Tactics Institute demands immediate and effective action by the Taliban regime to put an end to these acts of violence. As the de facto government, the Taliban must take responsibility for ensuring the safety of all Afghan citizens, including minority groups. The targeting of Shia Muslims, which IS considers “apostates” under their extremist interpretation of Islam, is an alarming violation of fundamental human rights. It is a severe violation of the right to life and freedom of religion.
The Tactics Institute urgently calls for the immediate cessation of all sectarian violence in Afghanistan. The actions of Islamic State-Khurasan must be met with unified condemnation. Concerted action to restore peace and security in the region is needed. Failure to do so risks plunging Afghanistan deeper into chaos and threatening regional stability
