Statement on Eid by Chargé d’Affaires Ian McCary
I wish Afghans and all Muslims a very happy Eid Mubarak. At the end of the month of Ramadan, a period of reflection and good works, I wish for a peaceful year ahead for all Afghans. Read More»
Health Alert – Afghanistan
Event: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Measles in Afghanistan . The Department of State’s January 18 Travel Advisory advising U.S. citizens not to travel to Afghanistan due to security conditions remains in place. Location: Country wide, with the highest rates occurring in Paktia, Balkh, Kunduz, Zabul, Kandahar, and Logar Provinces. ... Read More»
Message to U.S. Citizens
Location: Afghanistan You are receiving this message because you are enrolled in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updated safety and security information for Afghanistan. If you are currently in Afghanistan, please contact AfghanistanACS@state.gov and confirm if you would like assistance in departing. GENERAL INFORMATION As stated in our Travel Advisory for Afghanistan, travel to all ... Read More»
Security Alert: Threats at the Serena Hotel
Security Alert:Threats at the Serena Hotel (October 10, 2021) Event: Because of security threats at the Serena Hotel, we advise U.S. citizens to avoid traveling to the hotel and the surrounding vicinity. U.S. citizens who are at or near the Serena Hotel should leave immediately. Actions to take: Be aware of your surroundings at all times, ... Read More»
Security Message: Suspension of Operations (August 31, 2021)
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul suspended operations on August 31, 2021. While the U.S. government has withdrawn its personnel from Kabul, we will continue to assist U.S. citizens and their families in Afghanistan. U.S. citizens seeking assistance should contact the Consular Affairs Afghanistan Call Center at 833-741-2777 or 606-260-4379 or email AfghanistanACS@state.gov The Embassy will continue to provide information via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , the Embassy web page ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (August 28, 2021)
Event: Due to a specific, credible threat, all U.S. citizens in the vicinity of Kabul airport (HKIA), including the South (Airport Circle) gate, the new Ministry of the Interior, and the gate near the Panjshir Petrol station on the northwest side of the airport, should leave the airport area immediately. U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to ... Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul (August 27, 2021)
Event: Because of security threats at the Kabul airport, we continue to advise U.S. citizens to avoid traveling to the airport and to avoid airport gates. U.S. citizens who are at the Abbey gate, East gate, North gate or the New Ministry of Interior gate now should leave immediately. Actions to take: Be aware of your ... Read More»
Afghanistan Luggage
There are efforts underway to develop a system that will enable travelers from Hamid Karzai International Airport to recover baggage that was lost in transit. Once that system is in place, information about how to locate lost luggage will be posted on this page. Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul (August 26, 2021)
Event: EXPLOSION AT THE ABBEY GATE OF KABUL AIRPORT, REPORTS OF GUNFIRE There has been a large explosion at the airport, and there are reports of gunfire. U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to the airport and avoid airport gates at this time. U.S. citizens who are at the Abbey Gate, East Gate, or North Gate ... Read More»
Security Alert – Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (August 25, 2021)
Event: Because of security threats outside the gates of Kabul airport, we are advising U.S. citizens to avoid traveling to the airport and to avoid airport gates at this time unless you receive individual instructions from a U.S. government representative to do so. U.S. citizens who are at the Abbey Gate, East Gate, or North Gate ... Read More»
Security Alert – Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (August 21, 2021)
Event: Because of potential security threats outside the gates at the Kabul airport, we are advising U.S. citizens to avoid traveling to the airport and to avoid airport gates at this time unless you receive individual instructions from a U.S. government representative to do so. U.S. citizens requesting assistance in departing the country who ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul (August 19, 2021)
U.S. government-provided flights are departing Kabul and will continue until the evacuation operation is complete. U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPRs), and their spouses and unmarried children (under age 21) should consider travelling to Hamid Karzai International Airport when you judge it is safe to do so. The U.S. government cannot ensure safe passage to the airport. We are processing people ... Read More»
Afghanistan Inquiries
We continue to closely monitor events and carefully assess conditions in Afghanistan. The safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas remain a top priority. U.S. Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents: U.S. citizens seeking assistance to depart Afghanistan should utilize this link: Repatriation Assistance Request or in an emergency, call 1-888-407-4747 (U.S. Canada) or +1-202-501-4444 (overseas). Legal permanent residents (LPRs) and ... Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul (August 18, 2021)
Location: Kabul U.S. government-provided flights are departing. U.S. citizens, LPRs, and their spouses and unmarried children (under age 21) should consider travelling to Hamid Karzai International Airport. You should plan to enter the airport at Camp Sullivan. From the HKIA Airport South Traffic Circle, head east for 1km and turn right on to Camp Sullivan. Please note that gates may change ... Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul (August 16, 2021)
Location: Kabul Event: The security situation in Kabul continues to change quickly, including at the airport. U.S. citizens should continue to shelter in place. U.S. citizens wanting assistance to depart the country should register for any option that might be identified to return to the United States. To receive assistance from the Embassy, U.S. citizens ... Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul
Location: Kabul Event: The security situation in Kabul continues to change quickly, including at the airport. U.S. citizens should continue to shelter in place. U.S. citizens seeking assistance to depart the country should complete this Repatriation Assistance Request for each traveler in their group. Spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens in Afghanistan who are awaiting immigrant visas ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
August 15, 2021: Event: The security situation in Kabul continues to change quickly, including at the airport. U.S. citizens should continue to shelter in place. U.S. citizens wanting assistance to depart the country should register for any option that might be identified to return to the United States. Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul (August 15, 2021) Location: Kabul Event: The security situation in Kabul is changing quickly including at the airport. There are reports of the airport taking fire; therefore we are instructing U.S. citizens to shelter in place. U.S. citizens wanting assistance in departing the country should register for any option that might be ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul Event: The security situation in Kabul is changing quickly including at the airport. There are reports of the airport taking fire; therefore we are instructing U.S. citizens to shelter in place. U.S. citizens wanting assistance in departing the country should register for any option that might be identified to return to the United States, and must ... Read More»
Security Alert: Repatriation Assistance for U.S. Citizens – August 14, 2021
Security Alert: Repatriation Assistance for U.S. Citizens – August 14, 2021 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan has received reports that international commercial flights are still operating from Kabul, but seats may not be available. The U.S. Embassy is exploring options for U.S. citizens who want to depart and who have not been able to find a ... Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan – August 12, 2021
Location: Throughout Afghanistan The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to leave Afghanistan immediately using available commercial flight options. If you cannot afford to purchase an airline ticket at this time, please contact the U.S. Embassy at KabulACS@state.gov for information regarding a repatriation loan. If you are a U.S. citizen and delaying your departure while you await an ... Read More»
U.S.-Afghanistan Education Collaboration Continues
Over the last 20 years, the United States has worked closely with the Afghan government on a multitude of initiatives to provide quality primary, secondary, and higher education to millions of citizens throughout Afghanistan. These programs have bolstered school enrollment for 9.6 million young minds and strengthened educational institutions, safeguarding the opportunity to learn for ... Read More»
The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan Condemns the Taliban Seizure of Cities
We condemn the Taliban’s violent new offensive against Afghan cities. This includes the unlawful seizure of Zaranj, the capital of Afghanistan’s Nimroz province, the attack on Sheberghan, capital of Jowzjan province yesterday and today, and continuing efforts to take over Lashkar Gah in Helmand and provincial capitals elsewhere. These Taliban actions to forcibly impose its ... Read More»
Security Alert U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (August 7, 2021)
Location: Throughout Afghanistan The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to leave Afghanistan immediately using available commercial flight options. Given the security conditions and reduced staffing, the Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens in Afghanistan is extremely limited even within Kabul. The U.S. Embassy can provide a repatriation loan for U.S. citizens who cannot afford at ... Read More»
Statement by Diplomatic Missions Condemning the Attack on the United Nations Compound in Herat
The diplomatic missions to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan of Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the EU Delegation, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, the Office of the NATO Senior Civilian Representative, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States condemn Friday’s deplorable attack on the United Nations Compound in Herat that resulted ... Read More»
U.S. Refugee Admissions Program Priority 2 Designation for Afghan Nationals
Today, the Department of State is announcing a Priority 2 (P-2) designation granting U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) access for certain Afghan nationals and their eligible family members. The U.S. objective remains a peaceful, secure Afghanistan. However, in light of increased levels of Taliban violence, the U.S. government is working to provide certain Afghans, including ... Read More»
Remarks to the Press Charge’ d’Affaires Ambassador Ross Wilson U.S. Embassy Kabul
Good afternoon. Welcome to the American Embassy. I am pleased to report that the first flight of Operation Allies Refuge that departed Kabul yesterday landed in the United States nearly three hours ago. Our Afghan partners and their families on that flight will arrive this morning, East Coast time, at Fort Lee, Virginia. This White ... Read More»
Statement of President Joe Biden on the Arrival of the First Flight of Operation Allies Refuge
JULY 30, 2021 Today is an important milestone as we continue to fulfill our promise to the thousands of Afghan nationals who served shoulder-to-shoulder with American troops and diplomats over the last 20 years in Afghanistan. This morning, the first flight of Operation Allies Refuge has arrived in the United States, carrying Afghans who are ... Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (July 20, 2021)
Location: Kabul Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports of multiple rocket attacks in downtown Kabul at approximately 8:05 a.m. this morning. U.S. citizens should exercise caution and seek shelter in the event of additional rocket attacks. As a reminder, in accordance with the Travel Advisory for Afghanistan , the Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel ... Read More»
Joint Statement of Diplomatic Missions to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – July 18, 2021
The diplomatic missions to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan of Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the EU Delegation, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, the Office of the NATO Senior Civilian Representative, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States call for an urgent end to the Taliban’s ongoing military offensive, ... Read More»
Operation Allies Refuge
At President Biden’s direction, the United States is launching Operation Allies Refuge to support relocation flights for Afghan nationals and their families eligible for U.S. Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs). Flights for those already in the SIV application process will begin in the last week of July. To maintain operational security, we cannot share details on ... Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (July 15, 2021)
Location: Throughout Afghanistan Event: Historically violence has increased in Afghanistan around the Eid-ul-Qurban holiday, which this year will fall during the third week of July. Therefore, U.S. citizens are reminded to exercise caution in places where people are known to congregate, including public celebrations, markets, places of worship, and banks. In light of heightened insecurity in ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Resumption of Immigrant Visa Interviews
U.S. Embassy Kabul has resumed immigrant visa interviews. The initial phase will involve rescheduling applicants who had their interviews postponed to mitigate elevated COVID risk. Once this phase is complete, the Consular Section, in coordination with the National Visa Center, will resume scheduling new immigrant visa appointments for applications that are documentarily complete. The Consular Section will ... Read More»
The United States Provides 1.48 Million Doses of Johnson & Johnson Vaccines to the People of Afghanistan
The United States is proud to share 1,484,900 doses of the Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccines with Afghanistan through COVAX, the international platform for delivering safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines equitably around the world. On June 3, the Biden-Harris Administration announced its framework for delivering at least 80 million doses worldwide and set out its plan to ... Read More»
U.S. Collaboration in Infrastructure Continues and Expands
As the U.S. military withdraws from Afghanistan, the United States is increasing diplomatic, economic, political, and humanitarian engagement with the government and people of Afghanistan, expanding the partnership and gains of the past 20 years. The United States has worked closely with the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on a variety of infrastructure projects that provide ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on the Taliban’s Offensive in Afghanistan
As we see media reporting and firsthand accounts of Taliban offensives and attacks on civilian populations and infrastructure in Afghanistan, we continue to call for an end to the ongoing violence, which is largely driven by the Taliban. As U.S. State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said, “The world will not accept the imposition … by ... Read More»
FACT SHEET: Continued U.S. Support for a Peaceful, Stable Afghanistan
The United States continues to use its full diplomatic, economic, and assistance toolkit to support a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. Today, President Biden welcomed Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani and Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation Dr. Abdullah Abdullah to the White House to discuss enduring United States support, including through security assistance to ... Read More»
Remarks by President Biden and President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Before Bilateral Meeting
PRESIDENT BIDEN: Well, it’s good to see two old friends. We met many, many times in Afghanistan for long hours. And they’re welcome here. They’ve had a chance to meet with the — all the major players of the administration — from the Secretary of Defense, to the CIA — across the board. And it’s ... Read More»
Remarks by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III with President of Afghanistan Mohammad Ashraf Ghani and Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, Chairman of HCNR
SECRETARY OF DEFENSE LLOYD J. AUSTIN III: Good morning, President Ghani, it’s an honor to welcome you to the Pentagon. I am truly grateful for the warm hospitality that you showed me in Kabul a few months ago, and I’m very glad to — to greet you here in Washington. So thanks to you and ... Read More»
Correction – World Refugee Day Remarks by Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Ross Wilson Kabul, Afghanistan June 20, 2021
On this day, the United States stands with Afghan refugees, the displaced, those who have returned and with those who remain outside of their country. Since 2002, more than 6.5 million Afghan refugees have come home, most with the assistance of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees in the largest voluntary repatriation in UNHCR ... Read More»
COVID-19 Information
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul suspended operations on August 31, 2021. While the U.S. government has withdrawn its personnel from Kabul, we will continue to assist U.S. citizens and their families in Afghanistan from Doha, Qatar. We will also continue our efforts to help Lawful Permanent Residents, as well as the many Afghans who have ... Read More»
Statement on U.S. Assistance to Afghanistan on COVID-19 and the Suspension of Visa Operations
Afghanistan is experiencing an intense third wave of COVID-19 cases throughout the country. The United States stands in solidarity with the Afghan government and the Ministry of Public Health as they work to take action to contain the spread and care for those who fall ill. We are saddened to hear of the deaths of ... Read More»
Administrator Samantha Power’s Call with President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani
The below is attributable to Acting Spokesperson Pooja Jhunjhunwala: Yesterday, U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Samantha Power spoke with President Ashraf Ghani of Afghanistan to discuss USAID’s enduring partnership with the government and people of Afghanistan, especially Afghan women and girls. Administrator Power and President Ghani discussed how USAID’s focus areas align with the ... Read More»
Without Infrastructure, No One Wins By Dr. Tina Dooley-Jones, Mission Director at USAID/Afghanistan, June 2021
Infrastructure is the lifeblood of families, communities, districts, and provinces. From rural areas to urban centers, it is quite literally a system that touches all of us. Water infrastructure, like water treatment centers and pipes, carries clean drinking water to our homes and businesses. Dams and irrigation canals are a necessity for farmers to feed ... Read More»
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad Travels to Afghanistan, Qatar, and the Region
U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad and an U.S. inter-agency delegation, including the National Security Council, Department of Defense, and USAID departed on June 4 for travel to Kabul, Doha, and the region. In Kabul, the delegation will meet with the Afghanistan government, other political leaders, and civil society representatives, including women’s ... Read More»
United States Increases Humanitarian Assistance to Afghanistan, Reaffirms Enduring Partnership
The United States is fortunate to enjoy an enduring partnership with the people of Afghanistan. Even as U.S. troops depart, the United States is stepping up its political, economic, and diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan, strengthening our relationship for years to come. We are delighted to share U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent announcement of ... Read More»
FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Unveils Strategy for Global Vaccine Sharing, Announcing Allocation Plan for the First 25 Million Doses
As we continue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic at home and work to end the pandemic worldwide, President Biden has promised that the United States will be an arsenal of vaccines for the world. To do that, the Administration will pursue several additional measures beyond our robust funding for COVAX: Donating from the U.S. vaccine ... Read More»
STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN: Continued U.S. Support for a Peaceful, Stable Afghanistan Through New Humanitarian Assistance
As part of our commitment to the people of Afghanistan, the United States is providing more than $266 million in new humanitarian assistance, bringing total U.S. humanitarian aid for Afghanistan to nearly $3.9 billion since 2002. This assistance from the American people will help our international humanitarian partners provide support to some of the estimated ... Read More»
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (June 3, 2021)
Location: Throughout Afghanistan Event: New cases and deaths from COVID-19 have risen sharply throughout Afghanistan. Hospitals are reporting shortages of supplies, oxygen, and beds for both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 related patients. U.S. citizens have reported being denied admittance to hospitals due to lack of space. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Prioritizes Special Immigrant Visas
The United States remains deeply committed to Afghanistan and will use its full diplomatic, economic, and assistance toolkit to support the peaceful, stable future the Afghan people want and deserve. We also have a commitment to Afghans who have worked for the U.S. government at great personal risk to themselves and their families. This is ... Read More»
Message to U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (May 27, 2021)
Location: Afghanistan Event: Announcement by the Department of State on May 24, 2021 that U.S. citizens may directly return to the United States with certain expired U.S. passports. If you are overseas and your passport expired on or after January 1, 2020, you may be able to use your expired passport to return directly to ... Read More»
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad Opening Statement for Afghanistan Briefing – As Delivered
Thank you, Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member, and distinguished members of the Committee. I welcome the opportunity to talk to you today about America’s strategy in Afghanistan and to update you on my recent discussions with partners in Kabul, the Taliban in Doha, and regional and international stakeholders. As you know, President Biden made the decision to withdraw the remaining U.S. ... Read More»
Security Alert – May 15, 2021
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (May 15, 2021) Location: Throughout Afghanistan Event: Historically violence has increased in Afghanistan following the Eid holiday. Therefore, U.S. citizens are reminded to exercise caution in places where people are known to congregate, including public celebrations, markets, places of worship, and banks. The U.S. government remains concerned that insurgents ... Read More»
Statement on Eid by Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Ross Wilson
For Immediate Release MEDIA NOTE May 12, 2021 Statement on Eid by Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Ross Wilson Eid Mubarak to all our Afghan friends and partners! I hope this holy month has been rewarding to you and your loved ones. From our embassy community, we have shared messages of faith, charity, peace, and kindness throughout Ramadan. I pray that ... Read More»
U.S.-Europe Communiqué on the Afghan Peace Process
Office of the Spokesperson The following is the text of a communiqué issued by the United States of America, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, NATO, Norway, and the United Kingdom on the Afghan Peace Process. Begin Text: Special Envoys and Special Representatives of the United States of America, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, NATO, Norway, ... Read More»
Announcement of Funding Opportunities
We are not currently accepting proposals and there are no open Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) for fiscal year 2022. Due to the security situation in Afghanistan and the closure of Embassy Kabul, all NOFOs remain on hold while we address significant safety, logistical, and programmatic constraints. The safety and welfare of our applicants and ... Read More»
Statement of Support for Afghan Journalists and Media
Today we join Afghanistan in celebrating World Press Freedom Day. Afghanistan’s vibrant media sector is one of the country’s greatest success stories of the last two decades. A free and independent media and a strong media sector is an essential part of an inclusive and representative Afghanistan. Free, safe and independent journalists and media organisations ... Read More»
Joint Statement on the Extended “Troika” on Peaceful Settlement in Afghanistan
Office of the Spokesperson, Department of State The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, the Russian Federation, the People’s Republic of China, and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on the occasion of the Extended “Troika” on Peaceful Settlement in Afghanistan. Begin Text: On April 30, ... Read More»
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad Opening Statement for Afghanistan Briefing Senate Foreign Relations Committee
Tuesday, April 27, 2021 Thank you, Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member, and distinguished members of the Committee. I am grateful to be here today to discuss America’s strategy in Afghanistan. As you know, President Biden has announced his decision to begin the withdrawal of remaining U.S. forces from Afghanistan by May 1 and to conclude before September 11. This decision was reached after an extensive review ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
(April 27,2021) Location: Afghanistan Event: On April 27, 2021, the Department of State ordered the departure from U.S. Embassy Kabul of U.S. government employees whose functions can be performed elsewhere due to increasing violence and threat reports in Kabul. The Consular Section in U.S. Embassy Kabul will remain open for limited consular services to U.S. citizens and for ... Read More»
Afghanistan Travel Advisory – Level 4: Do Not Travel
Do not travel to Afghanistan due to COVID-19, crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. U.S. citizens wishing to depart Afghanistan should leave as soon as possible on available commercial flights. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Afghanistan due ... Read More»
STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN
Additional Civilian Assistance to Afghanistan President Biden was clear that while the United States will withdraw military forces from Afghanistan, our support for the country will continue. As part of our commitment to invest in and support the Afghan people, we are working with Congress to provide nearly $300 million in additional civilian assistance for ... Read More»
Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Afghanistan High Commission for National Reconciliation Chair Abdullah Abdullah
The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Afghanistan High Commission for National Reconciliation Chair Abdullah Abdullah today in Kabul. Secretary Blinken and Dr. Abdullah discussed the importance of continuing to work toward a negotiated political settlement and permanent and comprehensive ceasefire. Secretary Blinken reiterated the U.S. commitment to the peace process and that we will use our full diplomatic, ... Read More»
Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani
The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani today in Kabul to affirm the United States’ continued commitment to Afghanistan. Secretary Blinken made clear that the United States stands with Afghanistan and its people in support of a peaceful and prosperous future. Secretary Blinken and President Ghani discussed our shared investment in Afghanistan and the importance of ... Read More»
Statement on the Visit of Special Representative Khalilzad to Kabul
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad completed a productive four-day visit to Kabul. He met with government and political leaders, civil society activists, and the diplomatic community to discuss preparations for the upcoming Istanbul conference. In each engagement, Ambassador Khalilzad underscored why it was important both sides accelerate the peace process. He also re-affirmed the United States’ enduring partnership with ... Read More»
On the Anniversary of the April 6, 2013, Attack
Today, we honor the memory of six lives taken eight years ago in Qalat, Zabul province. Foreign Service officer Anne Smedinghoff, 25; Staff Sgt Christopher Ward, 24; Specialist Wilbel Robles, 25; Specialist Delfin Santos, 24; an Afghan-American interpreter and an Afghan doctor whose respective families requested their names be kept private. The team was on ... Read More»
Protect the Gains Made to Empower Women in Afghanistan
By Ambassador Ross Wilson, Charge d’Affaires, U.S. Embassy Kabul and Dr. Tina Dooley-Jones, Mission Director, U.S. Agency for International Development Afghanistan had its share of historic firsts for women in 2020. A long-overdue breakthrough to put more women in positions of authority saw 21 women appointed deputy provincial governors following a July 2020 Presidential decree ... Read More»
USAID and the Afghanistan Ministry of Public Health Sign Partnership Statement to Prevent and Reduce Tuberculosis over Next Five Years
Kabul, Afghanistan – On Wednesday, March 24, the Afghanistan Ministry of Public Health and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) celebrated World Tuberculosis (TB) Day by virtually signing a joint statement to prevent and reduce TB over the next five years in Afghanistan. Dr. Wahid Majrooh Acting Minister of Public Health, U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan ... Read More»
Statement on Nowruz by Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Ross Wilson
Wishing a Happy Nowruz to all Afghans celebrating this ancient tradition that marks the arrival of Spring and a New Year. Nowruz brings family and friends together to celebrate the future. It is a time for connecting with loved ones both near and far. As Afghans celebrate Nowruz this year, let us be optimistic and ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (March 18, 2021)
Location: Throughout Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul alerts U.S. citizens that extremist organizations have historically planned disruptive activities and attacks targeting celebrations and large gatherings during the annual Nowruz holiday. U.S. citizens may notice heightened security measures, including traffic disruptions and road closures in Kabul. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed Sunday, ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Throughout Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul alerts U.S. citizens that extremist organizations have historically planned disruptive activities and attacks targeting celebrations and large gatherings during the annual Nowruz holiday. U.S. citizens may notice heightened security measures, including traffic disruptions and road closures in Kabul. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed Sunday, ... Read More»
Visit of Special Representative Khalilzad to Kabul
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad and his team completed a two-day visit to Kabul as part of continuing efforts to try to accelerate the peace process and make progress toward a political settlement and a permanent ceasefire. Ambassador Khalilzad met with President Ghani, HCNR Chair Abdullah, and a wide range of other ... Read More»
The United States Congratulates Afghanistan on the Arrival of COVID Vaccine
Kabul, Afghanistan – The United States congratulates Afghanistan on the successful arrival of 468,000 doses of the COVISHIELD vaccine, from the AstraZeneca Serum Institute, on March 8, 2021. This shipment was made possible through the COVAX Advance Market Commitment, a global initiative to support equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines. The United States recently announced the provision ... Read More»
Department of State Offers Reward Increase for Information to Bring Transnational Criminal to Justice
Ned Price, Department Spokesperson Today the U.S. Department of State announces a reward increase of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Kamchybek Kolbaev and/or for information leading to the disruption of financial mechanisms of Kolbaev’s criminal organization. In 2000, Kolbaev was convicted for the attempted murder of his ... Read More»
Friends of Afghan Women Ambassadors’ Group Statement on International Women’s Day Kabul, Afghanistan, 8 March 2021
On International Women’s Day each year, we celebrate the strength, resilience and perseverance of Afghan women. This year, the stakes are higher than ever as Afghans work to end the violent conflict and establish a sustainable peace. As international friends of Afghan women, today we commend the commitment shown by them at all levels – ... Read More»
Statement on the Visit of Special Representative Khalilzad to Kabul
The Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad and his team just concluded a productive three days of consultations in Kabul with government officials, civil society leaders, and other Afghan political figures. In his meetings, Ambassador Khalilzad outlined our focus on Afghanistan, diplomacy, and garnering wider international support in order to help Afghans make ... Read More»
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad Travel to Afghanistan and Qatar
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Khalilzad and his team will travel to Kabul, Doha, and additional regional capitals. He will resume discussions on the way ahead with the Islamic Republic and Afghan leaders, Taliban representatives, and regional countries whose interests are best served by the achievement of a just and durable political settlement and permanent ... Read More»
Secretary Blinken’s Call with Afghan President Ghani
The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke yesterday with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani to discuss the United States’ ongoing review of its strategy in Afghanistan. The Secretary reiterated America’s commitment to support the peace process, aiming for a just and durable political settlement and permanent and comprehensive ... Read More»
Statement on Continuation of Assassinations, Kidnappings, and Destruction of Vital Infrastructure
The EU Delegation and the diplomatic missions of Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the NATO Senior Civilian Representative in Afghanistan, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States strongly condemn the continuation of assassinations, kidnappings, and destruction of vital infrastructure – all which directly harm the Afghan people. ... Read More»
New U.S. Funding to UNODC’s Container Control Program Helps Afghanistan Secure its Borders
The United States is pleased to announce a $3.4 million contribution to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to assist the government of Afghanistan in combating the trafficking of illicit drugs and goods. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and Bureau of International Security ... Read More»
Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s Call with National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke this morning with Afghan National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib regarding the U.S. commitment to the U.S.-Afghan partnership and to peace for all the people of Afghanistan. Mr. Sullivan underscored that the U.S. will support the peace process with a robust and regional diplomatic effort, which will aim to help the ... Read More»
Security Alert – January 17, 2021
Location: Throughout Afghanistan Event: In recent weeks, increased terrorist attacks, kidnappings, criminal violence, and civil unrest have occurred throughout Afghanistan. Hotels, residential compounds, international organizations, embassies, and other locations frequented by foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, are known to be under enduring threat. The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that the Travel Advisory for Afghanistan is Level 4-Do Not Travel due to crime, terrorism, ... Read More»
Health Alert – Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs (January 15, 2021)
Location: Worldwide – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director has signed an order requiring all airline passengers traveling to the United States, including U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs), to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 viral test or recovery from COVID-19. Event: Effective January 26, all airline passengers to the United States ages two years and older must provide either a negative COVID-19 viral test taken within three calendar days of travel or provide a positive test result and ... Read More»
Ambassador Wilson’s Statement on the Violent Assault on the U.S. Capitol
Last week’s violent assault on the U.S. Capitol as Congress met to certify the results of our presidential election and the victory of President-elect Biden captured public attention around the world. Our elected representatives demonstrated anew the importance of the U.S. Constitution and laws for safeguarding our republic and our freedoms. The United States, its ... Read More»
Special Representative Khalilzad Travels to Afghanistan, Pakistan, Qatar and Turkmenistan
U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad departed for travel to South and Central Asia as well as the Middle East on January 3. In Doha he will meet with the two Afghan teams, encourage them, and offer U.S. support to accelerate the peace process — an immediate, significant reduction in violence and ... Read More»
Working to End GBV in Afghanistan
By Ambassador Ross Wilson and Dr. Tina Dooley-Jones, Mission Director, U.S. Agency for International Development, U.S. Embassy Kabul Last week concluded the 2020 Global 16 Days of Activism, the global call to action to end gender-based violence (GBV). As we reflect on this campaign, we are startled to see that GBV continues around the world, ... Read More»
Executive Order on Ensuring Access to United States Government COVID-19 Vaccines
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows: Section 1. Purpose. Through unprecedented collaboration across the United States Government, industry, and international partners, the United States expects to soon have safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines available for ... Read More»
Statement on targeted attacks on media representatives, civil society and civilians
The EU Delegation, diplomatic missions of the EU Member States Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Sweden, Australia, Canada, the NATO Mission to Afghanistan, Norway, the United Kingdom and the U.S. Mission based in Kabul strongly condemn the recent targeted and unlawful attacks on representatives of the media, religious leaders and ... Read More»
U.S. Welcomes First Meeting of the Afghanistan High Council for National Reconciliation Leadership Committee
Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The United States welcomes the formation and the first Leadership Committee meeting of the Afghanistan High Council for National Reconciliation today. This inclusive body is chaired by Dr. Abdullah Abdullah. Afghan leaders across the political spectrum have unified to make decisions and mobilize support for a just and lasting ... Read More»
The United States Welcomes Major Milestone in Afghanistan Peace Negotiations
MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE DECEMBER, 2, 2020 The United States welcomes the Agreement announced today by the negotiating teams from the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Taliban. This Agreement is a major milestone in the Afghanistan Peace Negotiations that have been underway since September 12, 2020. The Agreement codifies the rules and ... Read More»
Communiqué on the 2020 Conference on Afghanistan
The following is the text of a joint communiqué issued by the 66 countries and 32 international organizations participating in the 2020 Afghanistan Conference. Begin text: The 2020 Afghanistan Conference took place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva with participants from 66 countries and 32 international organizations. The Conference was held in a virtual ... Read More»
U.S. Reinforces Commitment to Secure, Stable, Democratic, and Self-Reliant Afghanistan at 2020 Conference
U.S. Reinforces Commitment to Secure, Stable, Democratic, and Self-Reliant Afghanistan at 2020 Conference. The United States participated in the 2020 Afghanistan Conference on November 23-24, the sixth quadrennial gathering to coordinate international development support for Afghanistan. The conference was hosted virtually by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, the Government of Finland, and ... Read More»
U.S. Remarks at 2020 Afghanistan Conference
Under Secretary for Political Affairs David Hale: Let me begin by thanking the Government of Finland and Special Envoy Taalas; the government of Afghanistan and President Ghani; and the UN, including Special Representative Lyons, for organizing this conference, especially with the constraints posed by COVID-19. We continue to support a negotiated settlement in Doha that ... Read More»
U.S. Participation in the Afghanistan 2020 Conference
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale will lead the United States delegation to the Afghanistan 2020 Conference, held virtually November 23-24. This event is the sixth quadrennial gathering of approximately 70 countries and international organizations coming together to coordinate international development support for Afghanistan. The conference is being hosted by the Government ... Read More»
Security Alert – Kabul – November 21, 2020
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports of two bomb attacks earlier this morning in Kabul City. Additionally, media is reporting that 10 rockets were launched around 8:50 am in Kabul City this morning. There are reports that the rockets landed in the heart of Kabul City in PD1 causing casualties and damage. As a reminder, in accordance ... Read More»
STATEMENT: Condemning the Assassination of Abdul Wase Ghafari
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release STATEMENT BY SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO November 06, 2020 Condemning the Assassination of Abdul Wase Ghafari The United States condemns the assassination of Abdul Wase Ghafari, the father of Mayor Zarifa Ghafari, in Kabul. Since I awarded Mayor Ghafari the International Women of Courage Award ... Read More»
Security Alert
Location: Kabul University Event: There are reports of gunfire at Kabul University. Early reports indicate that multiple people may have been wounded. The local Afghan National Security Defense Forces have responded to the scene. Actions to Take: · Avoid the area of Kabul University · Notify friends and family of your safety · Monitor local media for updates · Be aware ... Read More»
MEDIA NOTE
Joint Statement on Afghanistan – Turkmenistan – United States of America Trilateral Meeting The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, and Turkmenistan on the occasion of the inaugural Afghanistan – Turkmenistan – United States of America Trilateral Meeting. Begin Text: ... Read More»
STATEMENT BY SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO
Condemning the Attempt on the Life of International Woman of Courage Mayor Zarifa Ghafari The United States unreservedly condemns the latest attempted assassination of the mayor of Maidan Shar, in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, Mayor Zarifa Ghafari. She is a recipient of the 2020 International Women of Courage award, and this is the sixth assassination attempt ... Read More»
Special Representative Khalilzad Travels to Qatar
U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad departed for Doha, Qatar and the region on September 29. While in the region, Ambassador Khalilzad will meet with partners to discuss Afghan-owned, Afghan-led peace negotiations and prospects for increased regional connectivity, trade, and development following a peace settlement. Ambassador Khalilzad will also meet with the negotiating ... Read More»
Testimony of Zalmay M. Khalilzad U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation
Good morning Chairman Lynch, Ranking Member Grothman, and distinguished members of the Committee. I regret that circumstances did not allow me to appear before this Committee sooner during the last several months. I regard making myself available to Congress as one of my most important responsibilities, and I welcome the opportunity today and am honored ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Throughout Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul warns U.S. citizens that extremist organizations continue to plan attacks against a variety of targets in Afghanistan, including a heightened risk of attacks targeting female government and civilian workers, including teachers, human rights activists, office workers, and government employees. Actions to Take: Review your personal security plans and carry a communication device. ... Read More»
Rewards for Justice – Increased Reward Offer for Information on ISIS Leader Amir Muhammad Sa’id Abdal-Rahman al-Mawla
The U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice Program is increasing its reward – now up to $10 million — for information leading to the identification or location of ISIS’s new leader Amir Muhammad Sa’id Abdal-Rahma al-Mawla. This represents a doubling of the previous reward offer of up to $5 million announced in August 2019. ... Read More»
International Day of Democracy
Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State In recognition of the International Day of Democracy on September 15, we reaffirm the right of every citizen to take part in the processes of democratic self-governance. Democracies are accountable to their citizens. They respect the Rule of Law, protect lives and property, and respect the freedoms, dignity, and ... Read More»
Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper Statement on the Commencement of Afghanistan Peace Negotiations
The start of Afghanistan peace negotiations marks an historic moment in the Afghan peace process and is an important step in advancing the President’s South Asia Strategy. It is crucial for both sides to take advantage of this opportunity to make a truly Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process a success. On this day, we remember ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with the Taliban
Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Cale Brown: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met today with Taliban Political Deputy and Head of the Political Office Mullah Beradar and members of the Taliban negotiating team in Doha, Qatar, on the historic occasion of the start of peace negotiations. Secretary Pompeo ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Dr. Abdullah Abdullah and Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Atmar
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Dr. Abdullah Abdullah and Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Atmar The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Cale Brown: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met today with Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, Chairman of Afghanistan’s High Council for National Reconciliation, and acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammed Hanif Atmar, and members of the inclusive national ... Read More»
REMARKS BY SECRETARY OF STATE MICHAEL POMPEO AT THE INAUGURATION OF AFGHANISTAN PEACE NEGOTIATIONS, Doha, Qatar
Good afternoon. I’m honored to join you today. I offer my thanks to His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Qatar, and my friend, Shaykh Mohamed, for Qatar’s longstanding support for this effort. Today is a truly momentous occasion. Afghans have at long last chosen to sit together and chart a new ... Read More»
Welcoming the Launch of Afghanistan Peace Negotiations
Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The United States welcomes the announcement that Afghanistan peace negotiations will begin on September 12th. The start of these talks marks a historic opportunity for Afghanistan to bring an end to four decades of war and bloodshed. The people of Afghanistan have carried the burden of war for too ... Read More»
President Donald J. Trump Announces Intent to Nominate the Following Individual to a Key Administration Post
Today, President Donald J. Trump announced his intent to nominate the following individual to a key position in his Administration: William Ruger, of Virginia, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. William Ruger serves as Vice President for Research and Policy at the Charles ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Travel to Doha, Qatar
Morgan Ortagus, Department Spokesperson Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will travel to Qatar to attend the opening ceremony of Afghanistan peace negotiations on September 12. The start of these negotiations follows intense diplomatic efforts, including the U.S.-Taliban Agreement and the U.S.-Afghanistan Joint Declaration, which were agreed to in February. Read More»
Special Representative Khalilzad Travels to Qatar
U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad departed for Doha, Qatar on September 4. He will be traveling in the region to advance ongoing U.S. efforts to promote the immediate start of intra-Afghan negotiations (IAN). The Afghan people are ready for a sustainable reduction in violence and a political settlement that will end the ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Throughout Afghanistan Event: Massoud Day will occur on September 8, 2020. An increase in Afghan Security Forces in Kabul and other major cities is expected. Large celebratory crowds may gather at Massoud Circle, adjacent to the U.S. Embassy, on Massoud Day. Celebratory gunfire is likely in major cities. Historically, groups of vehicles travel across Kabul City discharging small arms fire ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Throughout Afghanistan Event: The Ashura religious holiday will occur on August 29, 2020. Expect celebrations and rituals to begin on the afternoon of August 29, 2019 and last throughout August 30. Attacks directed against the Shia community, primarily at mosques, religious shrines, and large gatherings have occurred in the past. Actions to Take: Avoid crowds. Avoid demonstrations ... Read More»
UPDATE: The United States Continues to Lead the Global Response to COVID-19
The United States is leading the global response to COVID-19 with foreign assistance funding. The U.S. Government (USG) has allocated $20.5 billion for the development of vaccines and therapeutics, preparedness efforts, and other foreign assistance. Our global efforts build upon decades of U.S. investment in life-saving health and humanitarian assistance, and we continue to ensure ... Read More»
Statement By Secretary Pompeo Regarding Afghanistan’s Independence Day
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America and the American people, I extend my best wishes and warm greetings to the people of Afghanistan as you celebrate the 101st anniversary of your country’s independence. We honor the resilience and self-determination of the Afghan people, who have embarked on a new phase in their ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Resumption of Limited Emergency Passport Services
While additional overseas passport options now exist, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to operate at emergency staffing levels, and the current medical and security isolation protocols in place prevent visitors from entering the Embassy compound. Consular services remain limited to emergency passport applications only. If your current U.S. passport has sufficient validity to depart ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Loya Jirga in Afghanistan
The United States commends the participants of the Loya Jirga to be convened on August 7 to consolidate national support for peace. We understand that they will decide on the expeditious release of the remaining Taliban prisoners from their list, the last obstacle to the start of intra-Afghan negotiations. Following the timely release of these prisoners, ... Read More»
Statement on July 29, 2020 Visit to Afghanistan by Ambassador Khalilzad
(KABUL, Afghanistan) – U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad visited Kabul on July 29. He met with President Ashraf Ghani, Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, former President Hamid Karzai and other officials. On behalf of the United States, Ambassador Khalilzad wished all Afghans a Happy Eid. He ... Read More»
U.S. Provides More Than $36.7 Million for COVID-19 Response in Afghanistan
(KABUL, Afghanistan) – The United States government, through the U.S. State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has allocated more than $36.7 million to help the people of Afghanistan address the COVID-19 pandemic, and expedited $90 million in continued development assistance through the World Bank to support Afghanistan’s national health and education sectors ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Limited Resumption of Domestic Passport Services
The Department of State has announced that some domestic passport offices in the U.S. will re-open to the public at reduced capacity, effective June 11. Domestic printing of passports for shipment to overseas posts will also re-start at reduced capacity. While additional overseas passport options now exist, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to operate ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Updated Information on Qatar Airways June and July Flights
Qatar Airways has announced additional seats available for purchase on their June 20 and June 27 flights from Kabul, and two additional flights scheduled for July 4 and 7. One-stop connections to Chicago (ORD) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) are available on Qatar, and additional connections to U.S. cities may be possible on the same ticket ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Updated Qatar Airways Information for May and June Flights
Qatar Airways has informed us that their May 23 flight from Kabul has sold out. Qatar has added additional commercial flights from Kabul (KBL) on May 30, June 6 and June 13, all with connections to Chicago O’Hare (ORD) through Doha. We encourage all U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents (LPR/“green card” holders) who wish ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Additional Qatar Airways Flight from Kabul to Chicago on May 23, 2020
Qatar Airways has scheduled additional ad-hoc commercial flights from Kabul (KBL), connecting through Doha to Chicago O’Hare (ORD). The next flight is scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2020. Please go to https://www.qatarairways.com/en/offers/we-will-get-you-home.html (Discount Code: TRAVELHOME) to purchase your ticket. This is a commercial flight offered by Qatar Airways. It is not a U.S. government charter flight. ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Qatar Airways Flight from Kabul on May 16, 2020
The U.S. Embassy has been informed that Qatar Airways is offering an unscheduled commercial flight from Kabul to Doha, Qatar on Saturday, May 16, 2020, with connecting flights available to Chicago (ORD). This flight is offered directly by the airline. It is not a U.S. government charter flight. Tickets are first come-first served, and you ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Current Status of Passport Applications for Overseas Posts
Because of public health measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, effective March 20, 2020, the U.S. Department of State began limiting its passport operations. Effective April 2, we have further limited our ability to offer routine passport and citizenship services overseas. For U.S. citizens in the United States, we are only able to offer in-person ... Read More»
Possible USG-Arranged Flight from Kabul to the United States
The U.S. Mission in Afghanistan is exploring the possibility of arranging a flight to the United States for U.S. citizens who are unable to remain in Afghanistan for the next 30-90 days. This notice is to solicit information from U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States. We do not have a confirmed ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Travel Update (March 29, 2020)
Turkey has suspended all international flights and strictly limited domestic travel. As a result, KAM Air has stopped flights to Istanbul. There are currently no commercial options for travelers leaving Kabul. Information about current travel restrictions world-wide can be found on the International Air Transport Association website . Additional Information: https://af.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html Actions to take: Review CDC guidance on self-quarantine and personal ... Read More»
The United States Is Leading the Humanitarian and Health Assistance Response to COVID-19
The U.S. Government is leading the world’s humanitarian and health assistance response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are mobilizing all necessary resources to respond rapidly, both at home and abroad. As part of this comprehensive and generous U.S. response, the State Department and USAID are providing an initial investment of nearly $274 million in emergency ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Movement Restrictions in Kabul (March 27, 2020)
The Afghan Ministries of Public Health and Interior jointly announced that effective midnight Saturday, March 28, the city of Kabul would be placed on lockdown for 21 days due to spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. Afghan authorities indicated residents may only move outside their homes to obtain essential food and medicine; and provide caregiving. Residents ... Read More»
U.S. Disappointed in Afghan Leaders
The United States is proud of our partnership with the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Afghan people, and admires what Afghanistan has achieved since 2001. We have forged a deep bond, especially with Afghan security forces, through shared sacrifice in responding to threats to international peace and security since 2001. Underscoring the national priority ... Read More»
Message to U.S. Citizens: Reduced Commercial Flights (March 24, 2020)
There are very few commercial flight options remaining in Afghanistan. We urge all U.S. citizens to utilize the existing commercial flights and depart Afghanistan immediately. Flight information is changing hourly; please contact the airlines or your travel agent directly for the most current information. Information about current travel restrictions world-wide can be found on the International Air Transport Association website ... Read More»
Global Level 4 Health Advisory – Do Not Travel
The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the United States should arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period. ... Read More»
Message to U.S. Citizens – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (March 19, 2020)
The U.S. Embassy cannot provide medical care or medical evacuation for U.S. citizens. The window to leave Afghanistan on commercial airlines is closing. We urge all U.S. citizens to consider taking advantage of existing commercial flights and depart Afghanistan immediately. Additional updates will be sent through the Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). If you have ... Read More»
Security Alert: Emergency Travel Guidance
All routine consular services, including visas and American Citizens Services (ACS) such as passport renewals and notaries, are suspended at Embassy Kabul as of March 15. This suspension of routine services will continue until further notice. If you have concerns about your health or safety in Afghanistan, now is the time to leave. Commercial transportation ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Section Closure March 15-28
March 12, 2020 The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy will be closed for all routine services from March 15-28, 2020. U.S. citizens who held passport, notary or other appointments during this time will be contacted separately to reschedule. For emergency assistance for U.S. citizens, please call the Embassy at 0700-114-000 or 700-108-000 (after hours). Additional ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (March 4, 2020)
The U.S. Embassy reminds you that the risk of terrorist attacks, kidnapping, criminal violence, and civil unrest remains high in Kabul, Afghanistan’s provinces, and the roadways connecting them. Hotels, residential compounds, international organizations, embassies, and other locations frequented by foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, are known to be under enduring threat. Avoid becoming a target of opportunity. Carefully ... Read More»
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad Concludes Visit to Kabul
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad and an interagency team concluded a productive visit to Afghanistan on February 2. Ambassador Khalilzad continued his ongoing consultations with Government of National Unity leaders President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah on U.S. efforts to facilitate a political settlement to end the war. They also discussed ... Read More»
Chargé d’Affaires Ross Wilson’s Welcome Message
Salaam Alaikum. Khosh Amadin. I am Ross Wilson, the new Chargé at the American Embassy in Kabul. I recently arrived in this country, I’ve started meeting leaders, and I am honored to introduce myself to you. Many challenges lie ahead for this country. My American colleagues and I will continue to partner with you as Afghanistan ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
As the year-end holidays approach, the Embassy warns U.S. citizens that the risk of terrorist attacks remains high. Terrorist groups continue to seek western targets, including places where foreign nationals live, work, gather, and the routes connecting those places. We encourage you to carefully consider all travel and limit trips only to those necessary. The ... Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador Bass Marking International Anti-Corruption Day
President Ghani, Vice President Danesh, Chief Justice Halim, Speakers of Parliament, Ministers, Colleagues: I am pleased to speak on behalf of the United States government at this important event to mark International Anti-Corruption Day and Afghanistan’s efforts to tackle corruption. I have been the U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan for just over 2 years now. During that ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul and DEA Honor DEA-Trained Afghanistan Officers Killed in Terrorist Attacks
KABUL, Afghanistan – U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass and DEA Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon presented the DEA Purple Heart Award to the families of nine DEA-trained Afghan officers killed in the line of duty, and six officers wounded. Eight of the officers died and five were wounded in a terrorist attack on August 6, 2019 ... Read More»
Ambassadors’ Op-Ed: Fight Corruption, Increase Rule of Law
International Anti-Corruption Day is observed every year on December 9th. This began with the adoption of the United Nations Convention against Corruption in 2003, which Afghanistan ratified in 2008. We, the Ambassadorial Anti-Corruption Group*, call on the Government of Afghanistan and its people to join forces to combat and prevent corruption. Afghanistan remains among the ... Read More»
Statement from the Group of Friends of Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC) regarding allegations of sexual abuse of boys in Logar province
Statement from the Group of Friends of Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC) regarding allegations of sexual abuse of boys in Logar province and subsequent actions against human rights defenders We, the Group of Friends of Children and Armed Conflict in Afghanistan, are extremely concerned about the allegations of sexual abuse of a large number of ... Read More»
Orange the World: End Gender-Based Violence By John R. Bass, U.S. Ambassador
I would like to extend an invitation. It is open to each and every person in Afghanistan; every man and woman; young and old; those living from Nimroz to Badakhshan, from Paktika to Herat, and everyone in between; Pashtun, Hazara and Tajik, and yes, even Taliban. Join me in ending gender-based violence (GBV) in Afghanistan. ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on Celebrating the Release of American and Australian Hostages
Today, the United States welcomes the release of Professors Kevin King and Timothy Weeks. Both men were successfully recovered this morning, are in the care of the U.S. military, and will soon be reunited with their loved ones. Professors King and Weeks went to Afghanistan to teach at the American University of Afghanistan, inspired by ... Read More»
Statement from the Press Secretary Regarding the Release of Two Hostages from the Taliban
Today, the United States welcomes the release of Professors Kevin King and Timothy Weeks. King, an American, and Weeks, an Australian, were professors at the American University of Afghanistan when they were kidnapped at gunpoint in August 2016. Both men were successfully recovered today and are currently receiving medical care and other support from the ... Read More»
U.S. Treasury Designates Supreme Leader of Iran’s Inner Circle Responsible for Advancing Regime’s Domestic and Foreign Oppression
Action coincides with 40th anniversary of the Iran hostage crisis WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) took action today against Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff and nine individuals who are appointees of, or have acted for or on behalf of, Ali Khamenei, the Iranian regime’s unelected Supreme Leader ... Read More»
Statement on Ambassador Khalilzad’s Visit to Afghanistan
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad visited Kabul from October 26 to October 28 and from October 29 to November 1. The Special Representative met with President Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah, and other government officials. The Special Representative briefed the government on his recent consultations with allies, partners, and other countries in the ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The Embassy has learned that terrorist groups and individuals are seeking to increase attacks on Americans and others living or working in Kabul’s International Zone. We encourage you to consider carefully all potential travel and limit trips only to those necessary. We expect terrorists will continue to target political rallies, speeches, and ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Massoud Day and the Ashura religious holiday will occur on September 9, 2019. An increase in Afghan Security Forces in Kabul and other major cities is expected. Large celebratory crowds may gather at Massoud Circle, adjacent to the U.S. Embassy, on Massoud Day. Celebratory gunfire is likely in major cities. Historically, ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Hotels, residential compounds, international organizations, embassies, and other locations frequented by foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, are known to be under enduring threat. These sites have been attacked repeatedly and without warning. You should be vigilant and exercise caution when visiting places where foreigners in Afghanistan gather or reside. You should avoid crowds, ... Read More»
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad Travels to Qatar and Afghanistan
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad will depart on travel to Qatar and Afghanistan on August 20. In Doha, Ambassador Khalilzad will resume talks with the Taliban as part of an overall effort to facilitate a peace process that ends the conflict in Afghanistan. In Kabul, he will consult with the leadership of ... Read More»
U.S. Announces Additional Humanitarian Assistance for Afghans
The United States announces an additional amount of nearly $125 million in humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of vulnerable Afghans inside Afghanistan, including internally displaced persons, conflict and flood-affected communities, and Afghan returnees. This brings the total U.S. funding in this fiscal year to the Afghan humanitarian response to nearly $190 million, including for ... Read More»
Afghanistan Independence Day Statement from Secretary Pompeo
On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I would like to extend my best wishes to the people of Afghanistan as you celebrate the 100th anniversary of your independence on August 19. You have much to be proud of as you celebrate a century of resilience and cultural diversity. ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Continuing threats exist against hotels, residential compounds, international organizations, embassies, and other locations frequented by foreign nationals including U.S. citizens in Kabul. These sites have been attacked repeatedly, without warning, and you should be vigilant and exercise caution when visiting places where foreigners in Afghanistan gather or reside. Actions to Take: Consult ... Read More»
Joint Statement on the Call between President Ghani and Secretary Pompeo
Secretary Pompeo and President Ghani spoke by phone on July 24 and agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in Afghanistan. Secretary Pompeo assured President Ghani that there has been no change to President Trump’s South Asia strategy, including U.S. commitment to a conditions-based drawdown. ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
July 18, 2019 Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Continuing threats exist against hotels, residential compounds, international organizations, embassies, and other locations frequented by foreign nationals including U.S. citizens in Kabul. These sites have been attacked repeatedly, without warning, and you should be vigilant and exercise caution when visiting places where foreigners in Afghanistan gather or reside. Actions ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (July 3, 2019)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: As of June 2019, militants plan to use vehicle borne improvised explosive devices to attack private U.S. contractors located at Afghan police, military, or other government buildings in Ghazni Province, Afghanistan. Private U.S. citizens may also be targeted. Actions to Take: Review your personal security plans and carry a fully charged communication device. ... Read More»
Statement from the Press Secretary Regarding Attack in Kabul
The United States condemns in the strongest terms today’s heinous terrorist attack, claimed by the Taliban, in which Afghan civilians and security personnel were killed and severely wounded. The attack involved a vehicle bombing and gun assault on an Afghan defense facility, also damaging nearby civic and cultural centers and a primary school, injuring dozens ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on Terrorist Attack in Kabul
STATEMENT BY SECRETARY POMPEO July 1, 2019 Condemning Today’s Appalling Attack In Kabul The United States strongly condemns the horrific attack in Kabul today that killed an unconfirmed number of people and wounded more than 100 others, including as many as 50 children. We offer our sympathies and condolences to the bereaved families, and our wishes ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (June 29, 2019) Location: Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan Event: As of early June 2019, militants plan to kidnap and murder United States citizens in Mazar-e-Sharif, Balkh Province, Afghanistan. The militants intend to kidnap the United States citizens from their homes in Mazar-e-Sharif. Actions to Take: Consider departing Afghanistan Keep ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Political protesters have started gathering at the Ghazi Stadium, just east and south of the International Zone. The Embassy expects thousands of protesters to attend, resulting in traffic disruptions and increased security in the area. Terrorists and extremist organizations frequently exploit the presence of crowds to attack civilians, often striking without ... Read More»
Joint Press Release from the U.S. Embassy in Kabul and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on the Occasion of World Refugee Day
Today on World Refugee Day, the U.S. Embassy and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), held a joint reception to mark the 40th year of Afghan displacement, and urged the international community to increase efforts to create an environment conducive to the voluntary return of Afghan refugees and their sustainable reintegration in Afghanistan. ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (June 19, 2019)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul advises U.S. citizens that insurgent and terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue to target U.S. citizens and foreigners for kidnapping and hostage taking, including Western diplomats, doctors and other medical professionals, engineers, teachers, aid and development workers, government employees, journalists, and visitors. In addition, these groups may ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (June 10, 2019)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy has received ongoing reports that terrorists continue to plan attacks against non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other entities in Kabul, Afghanistan that are suspected to have an affiliation with the U.S. government, USAID, or other foreign governments. As highlighted in previous messages, terrorists conduct attacks using vehicle-borne, magnetic, or other ... Read More»
Visit of Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad
For Immediate Release June 9, 2019 U.S Embassy in Kabul Statement Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad arrived in Kabul today for consultations with leaders of the National Unity Government, political leaders, civil society, and women to discuss progress in U.S. efforts to facilitate an inclusive peace process. His arrival in Kabul follows ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (June 5, 2019)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy has received reports that terrorists continue to plan attacks of varying complexity against targets in Afghanistan where foreign citizens and diplomats may gather or stay, including hotels, housing compounds, and Afghan, U.S., other foreign government, and Non-Governmental Organization offices and facilities. Actions to Take: Consult with security providers at ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: During the upcoming period, U.S. citizens are reminded to exercise caution in places where people are known to congregate, including public celebrations, markets, places of worship, and banks. Terrorist and other groups continue to target foreigners for kidnapping and attacks at locations such as hotels, residential compounds, security checkpoints, government facilities, and ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (May 22, 2019)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Due to political developments, increased security restrictions may cause traffic disruptions over the next several days. There may also be an increased likelihood of protests during the upcoming period. In addition, the U.S. Embassy has received reports that militants continue to plan attacks of varying complexity against targets in Kabul where foreign ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: As of mid-May 2019, the U.S. Embassy has received reports that militants continue to plan attacks of varying complexity against targets in Kabul where foreign citizens, foreign diplomats, and Afghan government officials may gather or stay, including hotels, housing compounds, and Afghan, U.S., and other foreign government offices and facilities. Actions to ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Statement on Afghan Elections
We welcome the finalization of the Kabul parliamentary election results. The completion of this election and the seating of the full parliament is an important achievement for the new IEC and the ECC, and of Afghanistan’s democratic process. We also note the decision of the IEC on May 10 to focus on voting methods that ... Read More»
Arrival of Alice Wells, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs
May 12, 2019 U.S. State Department Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Alice Wells arrived today in Kabul to participate in the opening of the U.S.-Afghan Civilian Assistance Review. The Review will strengthen Afghan institutions and promote Afghan self-reliance, and is an element of the investment the U.S. makes in ... Read More»
Condemning the Attack on U.S. NGO in Kabul
Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC May 9, 2019 The United States strongly condemns the Taliban attack against Counterpart International, a U.S. nonprofit organization and USAID implementing partner in Kabul. The organization targeted yesterday runs programs that encourage dialogue on peace, increase youth participation, and improve opportunities for women. Its Afghan ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Despite the increased police presence, U.S. citizens should continue to exercise caution while traveling in Kabul and throughout Afghanistan. Public buildings, government buildings, airports, schools, hospitals, hotels, and public gatherings all have been targets of terrorist attacks in the past year. Attacks can occur at any time without warning. Remain vigilant and ... Read More»
President Donald J. Trump’s Message on Ramadan 2019
The White House Office of the Press Secretary May 5, 2019 Presidential Message on Ramadan, 2019 I send my warmest greetings to all Muslims observing the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan commemorates when the sacred Quran was revealed to Muhammad. At the spotting of the crescent moon, Muslim families and communities will honor this revelation ... Read More»
Joint Statement on Trilateral Meeting on Afghan Peace Process
The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Russia, and China on the occasion of the Trilateral Meeting on the Afghan Peace Process. Begin Text: Representatives of the United States, China, and Russia met in Moscow on April 25, 2019, and exchanged views on the current ... Read More»
Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Section Closure April 28-May 2, 2019
U.S. Embassy Kabul Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Section Closure April 28-May 2, 2019 April 25, 2019 Due to the local holidays declared for April 28 through May 2, 2019, the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy will be closed for routine services during this time. All U.S. citizens who held passport or other appointments ... Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (April 23, 2019)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Events: U.S. Embassy personnel in Kabul are restricted to essential travel only from April 28 to May 2. Afghan national holidays and public events at the end of April and beginning of May are expected to increase the number of visitors to Kabul. An increased police and security presence, large numbers of vehicles ... Read More»
Special Representative Khalilzad’s Visit to Kabul
Statement on the Visit by Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul Ambassador Khalilzad departed Kabul this evening following productive talks with President Ghani on accelerating a settlement process, reducing violence across Afghanistan, and supporting Afghan security forces if violence continues. He also discussed these topics with former President Karzai, leaders of ... Read More»
Ambassador Bass Visits Mazar-e-Sharif
Ambassador John R. Bass visited Mazar-e-Sharif today. He met with women from the area and discussed the United States’ support for peace in Afghanistan and the importance of an inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue. Ambassador Bass joined NATO Resolute Support Mission Commander General Austin Scott Miller in a meeting with regional and national security officials to discuss ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Occasion of Nowruz
Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC March 25, 2019 I would like to wish a Happy Nowruz to the people of Iran, and to everyone who celebrates this ancient tradition that marks the arrival of spring and a New Year, including people in Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, China, Georgia, India, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, ... Read More»
Ambassador Bass Announces Humanitarian Assistance in Herat
Ambassador John R. Bass visited Herat today where he met with Herat Provincial Governor Abdul Qaiyoum Rahimi, Badghis Provincial Governor Abdul Ghafoor Malakzai, local civil society activists, UN agencies, NGOs, and displaced Afghans based in Herat. They discussed the needs of internally displaced persons in Herat and Badghis provinces, as well as the United States’ ... Read More»
State Department Media Note: Consultations With the European Union on the Afghan Peace Process
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad and EU Special Envoy for Afghanistan Ambassador Roland Kobia met in Washington, D.C., for consultations on the Afghan peace process, on March 21-22, 2019. They agreed that bringing an end to Afghanistan’s war and ... Read More»
State Department Media Note: Consultations With China and Russia on the Afghan Peace Process
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 22, 2019 Representatives of the United States, China, and Russia met in Washington, D.C., March 21-22, 2019. The parties exchanged views on the current status of the Afghan peace process and discussed common efforts to bring peace, prosperity, and security to Afghanistan. They underscored their ... Read More»
Nowruz Message from U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan John R. Bass
On behalf of the staff and family of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, I wish everyone in Afghanistan, and Afghans all across the world, a Happy New Year. As an old Afghan proverb says, “a better year is revealed through its Spring.” Every year Nowruz brings with it the promise of a better future and ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador Bass Discusses Peace Efforts with Civil Society and Political Stakeholders
U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan John R. Bass met with civil society representatives at the U.S. Embassy this week. During their meeting, Ambassador Bass provided an update on U.S. efforts to promote an intra-Afghan dialogue and peace in Afghanistan. The Ambassador emphasized that the agreement in draft will only be finalized when all parties come to ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (March 18, 2019)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: As of mid-March 2019, the U.S. Embassy has received increased reports regarding possible attacks coinciding with the Afghan New Year holiday that will be observed on March 21. Militants continue to plan attacks against a variety of targets in Kabul, including Afghan, U.S., and other foreign government offices and facilities. Additionally, insurgents ... Read More»
Comments by U.S. Department of State Spokesperson
The following is attributable to U.S. Department of State Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino: Under Secretary for Political Affairs David Hale summoned Afghan National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib March 14 to reject the public comments attributed to National Security Advisor Mohib criticizing the U.S. approach to reconciliation. Under Secretary Hale underscored the longstanding U.S. assistance and ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on Abdul Ali Mazari Commemoration Gathering Attack
The United States strongly condemns the attack at a gathering commemorating the life of Afghan leader Abdul Ali Mazari in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighborhood of Kabul today. We send our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims. This shameless act of terrorism reveals the cowardice and cruelty of those who perpetuate violence in ... Read More»
United States Assistance to Flood Affected Afghans
In response to severe flooding affecting nine provinces in Afghanistan, the United States through USAID is working with partners to provide life-saving aid to people affected by the flooding. This critical assistance will provide emergency shelter, hygiene kits, food, and high energy biscuits that serve as temporary meal replacements. The United States is the largest ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (March 4, 2019)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Kidnapping Threats against U.S. Citizens As of March 2019, there is credible evidence that U.S. citizens continue to be priority kidnapping targets for violent extremist organizations and criminal kidnap for ransom gangs. In particular, American citizens in the western police districts of Kabul City may be specifically targeted. This includes American citizens working ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Due to restrictions on air travel in the region, flights to and from Kabul may be delayed or canceled. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul recommends that travelers check with their airlines to confirm the status of their flights. This situation may last several days or longer. As a reminder, in accordance ... Read More»
Statement from U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass on the Passing of Former Interim President Sibghatullah Mojaddedi
On behalf of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, I extend our sincere condolences to the Afghan people and to the family of former interim President Sibghatullah Mojaddedi. Through his long career in public service and education, President Mojaddedi was a staunch advocate for Afghanistan. From serving as chairman of the Loya Jirga in 2003 and ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: As of late January 2019, militants continue to plan attacks against airports throughout Afghanistan, including Jalalabad Airfield. Over the past five years, insurgents have targeted a variety of places, including educational institutions, private housing compounds, commercial lodging establishments, commercial retail establishments, foreign government facilities, and host government facilities. Actions to Take: Consult ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: As of late January 2019, militants continue to plan attacks against a variety of targets in Kabul, including universities and Afghan, U.S., and other government offices and facilities. Additionally, over the past five years, insurgents have targeted places including the American University of Afghanistan, multiple schools, the Green Village, multiple hotels, and ... Read More»
Jan 23, 2019 Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstration Alert
U.S. Embassy Kabul Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstration Alert January 23, 2019 Location: Approximately one mile south of Pul-e-Mahmood Khan Circle in Kabul City. Event: An ongoing demonstration is taking place in Kabul City approximately one mile south of Pul-e Mahmood Khan Circle. The protestors are demonstrating against rent increases. Afghan National Security Forces are providing ... Read More»
United States Condemns Maidan Wardak Attack
The United States strongly condemns the attack on an NDS training facility in Maidan Wardak. This attack was an attack against Afghanistan’s defenders. In the face of such cowardly acts, the United States stands with the people of Afghanistan, who seek a peaceful future and an end to violence. We honor the sacrifices of the ... Read More»
Visit by Special Representative Khalilzad to Kabul, January 15, 2019
Statement of the United States Embassy in Kabul on the Visit of Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad – January 15, 2019 Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad arrived in Kabul today for meetings with President Ghani, CEO Abdullah, and political leaders to discuss the next steps in U.S. efforts to support ... Read More»
United States Condemns Kabul Attack
The United States strongly condemns the attack on a residential compound in PD9 last night that killed and injured innocent Afghan and international civilians, including children. In the face of these cowardly acts, the United States stands with the people of Afghanistan who seek a peaceful future and an end to conflict and violence. We ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Comment on Elections Reform
The decision to delay presidential elections was made by the IEC in order to address administrative and technical deficiencies that were apparent in the parliamentary elections in the fall. We join with the many Afghans and others in the international community who believe that serious elections reform is necessary. It is up to the Afghans ... Read More»
Condemnation of the Attack in Kabul
The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the December 24 attack on a government building in PD16. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the victims and honor the brave first responders who risked their own lives to help the injured. The United States stands with the government ... Read More»
Arrival of Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul
Arrival of Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul, December 19, 2018 Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad arrived today in Kabul to update President Ghani and CEO Abdullah on is engagements with regional partners and other interested parties to reach a negotiated settelemnt to the conflict in Afghanistan. Special Representative Khalilzad arrives ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Threats to U.S. Citizens in Afghanistan
As of early December 2018, there are reports that militants plan to conduct attacks using suicide bombings and a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) against hotels, compounds, international organizations, universities, airports, and other locations frequented by U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals. There are also current, credible kidnapping and assassination plans by criminal and insurgent ... Read More»
Special Representative Khalilzad Visits Kabul December 6
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad visited Kabul on December 6 and met with President Ghani and Chief Executive Abdullah. The discussion centered on his regional engagement and Afghan preparations for negotiations to reach a political settlement to the conflict. Following the meeting, Special Representative Khalilzad departed Afghanistan for Moscow for discussions on ... Read More»
Condemnation of the Bombing in Kabul
STATEMENT BY HEATHER NAUERT, SPOKESPERSON November 20, 2018 Condemnation of the Bombing in Kabul The United States strongly condemns the attack in Kabul today at a religious gathering that killed at least 40 and wounded over 60 civilians. We send our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims. This shameless act comes as ... Read More»
Special Representative Khalilzad Visits Kabul
The Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad, returned to Kabul November 17-19 to brief President Ghani and other officials on his recent meetings with stakeholders for building peace in Afghanistan. During his visit, Special Representative Khalilzad also met with men and women active in Afghan civil society and peace efforts, members of the ... Read More»
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Visits Kabul
Statement from the U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan The Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad, visited Kabul November 10-12. During the visit, Special Representative Khalilzad met with a number of stakeholders in Afghanistan, both in and outside of government. He met with President Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah, and other government officials, as well as ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: As of early November 2018, there are reports that militants plan to conduct attacks using suicide attackers and/or vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs) against hotels, compounds, and lodging camps which house foreign workers in Kabul. The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that over the past five years, Park Star, Green Village, the Baron Hotel, ... Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador John R. Bass on International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists
Ambassador John R. Bass International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists October 29, 2018 Thank you very much for joining us this evening as we gather to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. It’s a pretty long title for what is a very simple concept which is ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul reminds U.S. citizens that the security environment in Afghanistan is unsafe. The Travel Advisory for Afghanistan< https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/afghanistan-advisory.html > lists many different types of threats, but that list is not exhaustive. U.S. citizens should be aware that extremists and terrorists have used other types of attacks, including insurgents ... Read More»
Remarks by U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan John Bass at a Roundtable with Afghan Media
On-the-Record Remarks by U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan John Bass at a Roundtable with Afghan Media October 17, 2018 Ambassador Bass: Colleagues, Salaam Alaikum! Sha Raaghlast, Khosh Aamadin! I’m very pleased to have a chance to sit down and interact with you this morning, and I apologize for being a bit late myself. I’m really pleased to ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (October 11, 2018) Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Afghanistan is scheduled to conduct Parliamentary elections on October 20. While the government is making preparations to provide security at polling places and in major urban centers during the elections, on election day and in the period before and after, large demonstrations or gatherings ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Condemns Terrorist Attack in Nangarhar Province
The United States strongly condemns the series of attacks today in Nangarhar province which took the lives of many Afghans, including children. These attacks, several of which took place near girls’ schools, are shocking in their disregard for innocent life. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and classmates of all the victims. We ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Condemns Terrorist Attack at Sports Center in Kabul
The United States strongly condemns yesterday’s terrible attack at a sports center in Kabul which took the lives of many young people. We honor the brave first responders and journalists killed or wounded in response to the attack. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of all the victims. We stand with the ... Read More»
Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Section Closure in Observance of Eid al Qurban
U.S. Embassy Kabul Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Section Closure in Observance of Eid al Qurban August 20, 2018 The Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed from Tuesday, August 21, 2018 through Thursday, August 23, 2018, in observance of the Afghan holiday Eid al Qurban. The Consular Section ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on Afghan Government’s Ceasefire Announcement
STATEMENT BY SECRETARY POMPEO On Afghan Government’s Ceasefire Announcement August 19, 2018 The United States welcomes the announcement by the Afghan government of a ceasefire conditioned on Taliban participation. This plan responds to the clear and continued call of the Afghan people for peace. The last ceasefire in Afghanistan revealed the deep desire of the ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Bass on Afghanistan’s Independence Day
Statement by Ambassador Bass on Afghanistan’s Independence Day On behalf of everyone at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, I want to wish Afghanistan a Happy Independence Day. It has been a great honor for me to work in Afghanistan, and I celebrate with you today as you commemorate 99 years of independence. As Secretary Pompeo ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on Afghanistan’s Independence Day
Statement by Secretary POMPEO Afghanistan Independence Day On behalf of President Trump and the American people, I warmly congratulate the Afghan people as they celebrate their 99th anniversary of independence on August 19. We commend the people of Afghanistan’s resolve and determination in continuing to strive for a future of peace and prosperity. The United ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Condemns Jalalabad Attack
The United States strongly condemns yesterday’s vicious attack in Jalalabad on the provincial Refugee Department, and the attacks that Jalalabad has experienced recently. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of all the victims. We remember and salute those dedicated and brave individuals who are working for Afghanistan’s most vulnerable citizens. ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan John R. Bass Visits Mazar-e-Sharif
Ambassador John R. Bass returned from his first visit to Mazar-e-Sharif yesterday after a day of meetings with local officials, civil society members, and NATO military leaders based there. His wife, Holly Holzer, accompanied him on the trip. Ambassador Bass said “I greatly appreciate the hospitality I received from everyone I met with in Mazar-e-Sharif. ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (July 13, 2018) Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul advises U.S. citizens that insurgent groups and criminal organizations continue to target U.S. citizens and foreigners for kidnapping and hostage taking, including doctors and other medical professionals, engineers, teachers, aid and development workers, government employees, ... Read More»
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Alice Wells Visits Kabul
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Alice Wells visited Kabul June 30-July 1 to meet with Afghan and international partners. Throughout the visit, she underscored continued U.S. support for an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process and an honorable and dignified path to ending the conflict, as President Ashraf Ghani has ... Read More»
Readout of the Vice President’s Call with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani
Vice President Mike Pence spoke with President Ashraf Ghani of Afghanistan by phone today. The two leaders discussed the security situation in Afghanistan, including the recent ceasefires initiated by the Afghan Government and the Taliban. The Vice President reinforced the U.S. and international commitment to partner with and support the Afghan government and security forces. ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo Statement On President Ghani’s Offer to Extend the Ceasefire
Press Statement Mike Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC June 16, 2018 The United States extends its best wishes to the people of Afghanistan in celebration of Eid al-Fitr. We welcome the ceasefire during the period of Eid. The Afghan people this year are spending the Eid holidays with their families with renewed hope of ... Read More»
Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: In light of the upcoming Eid holiday, U.S. citizens are reminded to exercise caution in places where people are known to congregate, including public celebrations, markets, places of worship, and banks. The U.S. government remains concerned that insurgents are intent on targeting foreigners via kidnapping schemes and attacks at locations such ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo Statement On President Ghani’s Ceasefire Offer
Press Statement Mike Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC June 7, 2018 The United States welcomes President Ghani’s offer of a temporary ceasefire between the Government of Afghanistan and the Taliban to allow the Afghan people to celebrate Eid al-Fitr without fear of violence. This ceasefire further demonstrates the Afghan government’s commitment to explore ways ... Read More»
Presidential Message on Ramadan
With the rising of tonight’s moon, I send my greetings and best wishes to all Muslims observing Ramadan in the United States and around the world. During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Quran to the prophet Muhammad through fellowship and prayer. Many observe this holy time by fasting, performing ... Read More»
Ambassador Bass Welcomes the Start of Ramadan
On behalf of all of my colleagues here at the U.S. Embassy, I want to wish all our Afghan friends and partners a blessed Ramadan. This month is a time for reflection, prayer, and generosity. Fasting during this month teaches patience and reorients one’s focus to the world beyond our individual, immediate needs. As families ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (May 2, 2018)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: Extremist groups continue to consider attacks against hotels in Kabul, particularly locations where foreigners are known to reside such as the Kabul Serena Hotel. These groups may also be targeting places where civilians are known to congregate, including banks, markets, and public gatherings. Actions to Take: Keep a low profile Be aware ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on Terrorist Attack in Kabul
The United States strongly condemns today’s senseless and barbaric attack in Kabul that killed 29 people and wounded dozens more, including several brave journalists and media professionals. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who were injured and killed, and we mourn all those who lost their lives. The ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Condemns Kabul Bombings
The United States strongly condemns today’s savage bombings in Kabul. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of all the victims, including a number of brave journalists among the dead and injured. Where media are in danger, all other human rights are under greater threat. We stand with the people and ... Read More»
On Taliban Announcement of Spring Offensive
STATEMENT BY ACTING SECRETARY SULLIVAN April 25, 2018 On Taliban Announcement of Spring Offensive We have seen the Taliban’s announcement of their spring offensive. The announcement affirms the Taliban’s responsibility for the insecurity that destroys the lives of thousands of Afghans each year. President Ghani recently extended an historic invitation for the Taliban to join ... Read More»
Attack on Voter Registration Center in Kabul
Press Statement John J. Sullivan Acting Secretary of State Washington, DC April 22, 2018 On behalf of the U.S. government, I strongly condemn today’s suicide attack on a voter registration center in Kabul that killed approximately 60 people and wounded over 100 others. I extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims who ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (April 10, 2018)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul reminds U.S. citizens that extremist organizations continue to plan attacks against a variety of targets in Kabul, including the Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA) and its surrounding areas. Actions to Take: Review your personal security plans and carry a communication device. Notify a trusted person of ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (March 28, 2018)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul reminds U.S. citizens that extremist organizations continue to plan attacks against hotels, guesthouses, and residential compounds housing foreigners. These groups may also target public gatherings, demonstrations, and other locations where foreigners are known to congregate. Actions to Take: Review your personal security plans and carry a communication device. ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul alerts U.S. citizens that extremist organizations continue to plan attacks against a variety of civilian targets, including Afghan government facilities, government ceremonies and events, and transportation carrying government employees. Civilians in the vicinity of such targets are vulnerable to harm. Kidnapping or targeting of foreigners remains ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass Welcoming the Leadership Transition in Balkh Province
I commend today’s announcement of the transition in leadership in Balkh province, from Atta Mohammad Noor to Governor Ishaq Rahguzar. The health of Afghanistan’s democracy depends on further strengthening institutions, resolving disputes peacefully and renewing public confidence in leaders through elections. My government and I applaud the Afghan government and ex-Governor Atta for putting the ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass on the Attack Near Kabul University
Statement by U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass on the Attack Near Kabul University I was deeply saddened by the shameful attack near Kabul University today, at the start of the new year. The violence marred what should have been a day of celebration for many Afghans. My thoughts are with the families and friends of the ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul alerts U.S. citizens that extremist organizations have historically planned disruptive activities and attacks targeting celebrations and large gatherings during the annual Nowruz holiday. U.S. citizens may notice heightened security measures, including traffic disruptions and road closures in Kabul. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan John R. Bass Visits Kandahar
Ambassador John R. Bass returned from his first visit to Kandahar today following two days of meetings with local officials and NATO and U.S. Forces-Afghanistan military leaders based there. “The representatives of Kandahar with whom I met showed me great hospitality, and I appreciated the opportunity to meet with our partners to discuss our joint ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (February 26, 2018)
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul advises U.S. citizens of possible heightened security measures, traffic disruptions, and road closures in Kabul from Tuesday, February 27 through Thursday, March 1 due to the Kabul Process Conference. This may include roads leading to the airport and the International Zone. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: President’s Day Holiday Closure
The Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed on Sunday, February 18, 2018, in honor of the U.S. President’s Day national holiday. The Consular Section will reopen for normal operations on Monday, February 19, 2018. In accordance with the Travel Advisory for Afghanistan , the Department of State continues to warn U.S. ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kabul advises U.S. citizens that insurgent groups and criminal organizations continue to target foreigners for kidnapping and hostage taking, including doctors and other medical professionals, teachers, aid workers, journalists, and visitors. Actions to Take: Avoid areas where Westerners are known to congregate Keep a low profile Be ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (February 1, 2018)
Location: We received reports of possible demonstrations in various parts of Kabul. Announced gathering points include, but are not limited to, the following areas: Shar-e-Naw Park to Saraye-Shamali Circle Shar-e-Naw Park to Baraki Circle Shar-e-Naw Park to Kote-Sangi Circle Shar-e-Naw Park to Shirpoor Circle Event: Demonstrations are expected to take place on February 1, ... Read More»
Deputy Secretary John J. Sullivan Visits Afghanistan
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan held meetings in Kabul on January 30 to reaffirm the United States’ strong support for Afghanistan at this difficult time, and discuss joint efforts to achieve the objectives of the U.S. South Asia strategy and set the conditions for a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict. The ... Read More»
Statement from President Trump on the Attack in Kabul
I condemn the despicable car bombing attack in Kabul today that has left scores of innocent civilians dead and hundreds injured. This murderous attack renews our resolve and that of our Afghan partners. The Taliban’s cruelty will not prevail. The United States is committed to a secure Afghanistan that is free from terrorists who would ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass Condemning Kabul Attack
I condemn today’s senseless and cowardly bombing in Kabul and those who perpetrated it. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. My government and I stand with the brave people of Afghanistan. Their work to create a peaceful, prosperous future for all the citizens of this country is the best response to terrorists ... Read More»
Secretary Rex W. Tillerson’s Statement on Attack in Kabul
The United States strongly condemns today’s horrific attack in Kabul. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims who were injured and killed, and we mourn all those who lost their lives in this senseless attack. The Taliban’s use of an ambulance as a weapon to target civilians represents inhumane disregard for the people ... Read More»
Secretary Tillerson’s Statement on Attack at Kabul Intercontinental Hotel
The United States strongly condemns yesterday’s attack at the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul. We mourn all those who lost their lives in the attack, whether Afghans or citizens of other countries. We offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who were killed and wish for the speedy recovery of those wounded. ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass on the Intercontinental Hotel Attack
I condemn in the strongest terms last night’s heinous attack on the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul. Such violence has no place here or anywhere in the world. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims. I also commend the bravery and quick response of the Afghan National Defense and Security ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan (January 20, 2018) Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: At 9:00 pm, a series of explosions occurred at the Intercontinental Hotel in the PD-4 neighborhood of Kabul. The attack is reported to be ongoing at this time. Afghan authorities have announced they are reacting to the incident and a ... Read More»
Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan
Location: Kabul, Afghanistan Event: We are aware of reports that extremist groups may be planning an attack against hotels in Kabul, such as the Hotel Baron near Hamid Karzai International Airport. These groups may also be targeting public gatherings/demonstrations, government facilities, transportation, markets, and places where foreigners are known to congregate. Actions to Take: · ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley traveled to Afghanistan
U.S. Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley was among UN Security Council members who traveled to Afghanistan this week. Ambassador Haley has consistently supported efforts to bolster international support and cooperation for peace and security in Afghanistan and the region. She and her UNSC counterparts met with Afghan officials to underscore their commitment to cooperation ... Read More»
Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: Martin Luther King Holiday Closure
The Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed on Sunday, January 14, 2018, in honor of the U.S. Martin Luther King national holiday. The Consular Section will reopen for normal operations on Monday, January 15, 2018. In accordance with the Travel Advisory for Afghanistan , the Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against ... Read More»
Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: Improvements to Safety and Security Information
January 4, 2018 On Wednesday, January 10, 2018, the Department of State will make changes to our safety and security information to make it easier to find, understand, and use. Travel Advisories will replace Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts. Every country will have a Travel Advisory, which will provide one of four standard levels of ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass on Suicide Attack in Kabul
I strongly condemn today’s horrific and indiscriminate attack on civilians at a cultural and social center in Kabul. On behalf of all my colleagues, I extend sincere and heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims. This incident once again demonstrates the depravity of those who seek to undermine peace and stability in ... Read More»
Vice President Mike Pence Meets with Senior Afghan Officials in Kabul
Vice President Mike Pence met with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah, and other senior Afghan leaders at the Presidential Palace in Kabul on December 21. Vice President Pence and President Ghani were accompanied by U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan John R. Bass and Resolute Support and U.S. Forces-Afghanistan Commander General John W. ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstration in Kabul
The U.S. Embassy has received information that on Friday, December 15, 2017, a demonstration may occur in Kabul beginning in the Bagrami area of Police District 12 and moving towards the Id Gah mosque in Police District 1. U.S. citizens should also be alert to the possibility of future demonstrations in Kabul and other cities ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan John R. Bass Presents his Credentials to President Ashraf Ghani
United States Ambassador John R. Bass presented his credentials to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani during an official ceremony at the Arg Palace today. “It was an honor to present my credentials to President Ghani today,” said Ambassador Bass. He went on to say, “I look forward to working with the Afghan government, as well as ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstrations in Kabul
U.S. Embassy Kabul Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstrations in Kabul December 8, 2017 The U.S. Embassy has received information that on Friday, December 8, 2017, marches and demonstrations may take place around Kabul and could move in the direction of the International Zone. Crowds may begin mobilizing after morning prayers and these gatherings could ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens: Enhanced Security Awareness
The recent announcement that the United States recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and plans to relocate the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem may spark protests, some of which have the potential to become violent. The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens of the need for caution and awareness of personal security. Review your ... Read More»
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Ambassador Alice Wells Meets Afghan and International Partners in Kabul
During a three-day visit to Kabul, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Ambassador Alice Wells met with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, National Security Advisor Mohammad Hanif Atmar, National Directorate of Security Chief Mohammad Masoom Stanekzai, Secretary General of the High Peace Council Akram Khapalwak, Foreign Minister ... Read More»
U.S. Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens Condemns Attack on Shamshad Network
I strongly condemn today’s cowardly attack against the Shamshad Television Network. Violent extremists seeking to harm Afghanistan’s courageous journalists will not succeed in stifling the freedom of the press. Read More»
U.S., Afghan Governments Launch Program to Give Students Access to Learning Materials
KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – Today, U.S. Embassy Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens and Chief Executive of Afghanistan, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, launched the Second Textbook Printing and Distribution Project. The project is a United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-funded program for the Afghan Ministry of Education (MoE). USAID will provide $75 million to ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on Secretary Tillerson’s Visit to Afghanistan
Secretary Tillerson and President Ghani met at Bagram Airfield north of Kabul on October 23 and together reaffirmed the U.S.-Afghan commitment to achieving peace, stability, and long-term prosperity in Afghanistan. The Secretary stated that the new U.S. strategy for South Asia makes clear the United States’ commitment to working with the government of Afghanistan and ... Read More»
Statement By U.S. Department of State on Terrorist Attacks in Afghanistan
The United States strongly condemns the October 20 terrorist attacks in Kabul and Ghor, as well as the other attacks carried out across the country this week. We commend the Government and security forces of Afghanistan for their response to these attacks, and we offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those ... Read More»
U.S. Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens Condemns Attacks in Paktiya and Ghazni
I strongly condemn the October 17 Taliban-Haqqani terrorist attacks in Paktiya and Ghazni provinces, which killed more than 70 civilians and police personnel, including the Paktiya provincial police chief, and wounded at least 200 individuals. This heinous attack targeting brave and dedicated Afghan police forces shows blatant disrespect for human life and the rights of ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Citizens Traveling to Turkey
Effective October 8, the Government of Turkey suspended visa services to U.S. citizens, to include the issuance of physical “sticker” visas at the Turkish Embassy and Consulates in the United States and the online Turkish electronic visa (otherwise known as an e-visa). At the present time, U.S. citizens are no longer permitted to apply for ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Changes in Social Security Administration Services
As of October 1, 2017, only U.S. Embassies and Consulates with dedicated Federal Benefits Units are permitted to assist with most Social Security Administration matters. We do not have such an office at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul. Therefore, if you reside in Afghanistan and have questions regarding Social Security Administration (SSA) services, you must ... Read More»
Message of U.S. Citizens Travel To Turkey
U.S. Embassy Kabul Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Citizens Traveling to Turkey October 12, 2017 Effective October 8, the Government of Turkey suspended visa services to U.S. citizens, to include the issuance of physical “sticker” visas at the Turkish Embassy and Consulates in the United States and the online Turkish electronic visa (otherwise known ... Read More»
Message on Federal Benefits Services
U.S. Embassy Kabul Message for U.S. Citizens: Changes in Social Security Administration Services October 11, 2017 As of October 1, 2017, only U.S. Embassies and Consulates with dedicated Federal Benefits Units are permitted to assist with most Social Security Administration matters. We do not have such an office at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul. ... Read More»
Remarks by USAID Assistant to the Administrator Greg Huger for the Senior Officials Meeting
Good morning. It is a pleasure to be with you today and it was a pleasure to hear His Excellency President Ghani describe the progress that the Afghan government has made since the United States, and representatives from 100 other countries and international organizations met last year in Brussels. I am returning to Afghanistan after ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Closure and Possible Traffic Disruptions
This security message is being issued to alert U.S. citizens of possible traffic disruptions and road closures in Kabul on Wednesday, October 4 and/or Thursday, October 5, possibly including roads leading to the airport and the International Zone. U.S. citizens may also notice heightened security measures around the city and are advised to avoid central Kabul ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Security During Ashura Holiday
With the Afghan observance of 10th of Muharram (Ashura) over the weekend, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and vigilance regarding your personal security. There is an increased likelihood of extremist groups targeting Shi’a Muslims in terrorist attacks during Ashura. Maintain a high level of vigilance when visiting ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on Kabul International Airport Attack
The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan condemns the cowardly September 27 attack on Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport. Terrorist attacks such as this do not diminish our and our partners’ resolve to stand with the people of Afghanistan in their quest for a more prosperous, stable, and secure future. Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens: Kabul Airport Attack September 27, 2017
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports of an indirect fire attack against Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport, starting at approximately 11:00 a.m. local time. The attack may still be ongoing. Authorities report that the airport is closed at this time. The Embassy urges all U.S. citizens to avoid the area, until authorities have ... Read More»
Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens Statement on Meeting with Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, Leader of Hizb-e Islami
Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens met on September 26 with Hizb-e Islami leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar. Ambassador Llorens reiterated the U.S. government’s support for the success and continuing implementation of the historic peace agreement between the National Unity Government and Hizb-e Islami, and he emphasized the critical need for a broad, inclusive peace process led by the Afghan government and Afghan people. Ambassador Llorens welcomed Hekmatyar’s stated commitment to peace and democracy and emphasized the importance of respect for human rights, constitutional norms, and freedom of expression in maintaining ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: October Holiday Closures September 26, 2017
The Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed for routine services on Sunday, October 1, 2017, in observance of the Afghan holiday 10th of Muharram (Ashura). The Consular Section will reopen for normal operations on Monday, October 2, 2017. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed ... Read More»
Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Meeting with President Ashraf Ghani of Afghanistan
President Donald J. Trump met today with President Ashraf Ghani of Afghanistan in New York. President Trump and President Ghani expressed their commitment to fully implementing President Trump’s new South Asia strategy to defeat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of the American and Afghan people. They discussed economic development issues, including how American ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Kidnapping Threats
U.S. Embassy Kabul Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Kidnapping Threats September 21, 2017 The threat to U.S. citizens of kidnapping and hostage taking is very high in Afghanistan. The U.S. Embassy continues to receive reports of kidnap-for-ransom groups targeting foreigners, including doctors and other medical professionals, teachers, aid workers, and visitors. The U.S. Embassy takes ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement Condemning Suicide Bombing at Cricket Match
The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan strongly condemns the horrific attack claimed by ISIS-K terrorists at the Alokozay Kabul International Cricket Ground yesterday afternoon. We recognize in particular the bravery and sacrifice of the police officers and other security forces who were killed and wounded as they prevented even more bloodshed. The spirit of cricket is ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Holds September 11 Flag Ceremony
Today the U.S. Embassy commemorated the events of September 11, 2001. Said Ambassador Llorens: “We will continue to partner with the Government of National Unity and the Afghan people in our common fight against terrorists and those forces unwilling to reconcile.” Read More»
Statement by Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens on the Passing of Nancy Dupree
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Nancy Dupree, a pillar of the American community in Afghanistan for many decades, whose love for this country and dedication to its culture and history will be forever remembered. Ms. Dupree worked tirelessly for the preservation of history and culture in Afghanistan since she arrived in 1962. ... Read More»
Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: Labor Day Day Holiday Closure
The Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed on Sunday, September 3, 2017, in honor of the U.S. Labor Day national holiday. The Consular Section will reopen for normal operations on Monday, September 4, 2017. In accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against travel ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Security During Upcoming Holidays
As the Afghan observance of Eid-ul-Qurban over the weekend, Martyrs’ Day on September 9, 2017, and the anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks approach, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and vigilance regarding your personal security. Demonstrations and additional local security related to public ceremonies could ... Read More»
Ambassador Hugo Llorens Statement on the Occasion of Eid al-Adha
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul and I extend our best wishes to the people of Afghanistan on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. Thousands of Afghans have attended the annual Hajj pilgrimage with millions of Muslims from around the world, and they will soon begin returning home with a message of peace, dedication, and compassion. Millions ... Read More»
Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Hugo Llorens on the U.S. Afghanistan Policy
Thank you Director Sediqi. This week has been historic in more ways than one, and I think it is appropriate that General Nicholson and I come before you together to discuss this historic moment. The United States is an enduring partner to Afghanistan, and President Trump’s words on Tuesday reinforced that commitment before the American ... Read More»
U.S.-Afghan Statement on the Bilateral Compact Executive Committee Meeting
President Ashraf Ghani initiated a process within the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan over the past couple of months. The Compact is an Afghan-led initiative to demonstrate the government’s commitment to creating a peaceful, stable, and prosperous society and is an important factor upon which the United States relied when developing key components ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Hugo Llorens on U.S. Afghanistan Policy Review
Yesterday evening, President Donald Trump spoke to the American people and the world about our government’s new strategy and renewed commitment to success here in Afghanistan and in the broader South Asia region. The President was very clear about the United States’ continuing support for the Government of National Unity and you, the Afghan people, ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstrations Planned for July 23 and July 24, 2017
The U.S. Embassy has received information that on July 23 and July 24, 2017, there may be large scale gatherings and protests in various parts of Kabul, Afghanistan. The reports indicate the demonstrations may start in areas southwest of the U.S. Embassy and move north and east along major city streets including Sevom Aqrab Road and ... Read More»
Remarks by U.S. Embassy Kabul Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens on the Legal Case against First Vice President Dostum
I want to be very clear; it is not for me to speak on the technicalities of legal cases in Afghanistan. Nevertheless, my government, the international community, and the Afghan people, support the continued serious investigation and possible follow up legal actions in the case of First Vice President Dostum and his associates. The allegations ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Security Message for U.S. Citizens – July 3, 2017
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that there are demonstrations planned for today, July 3. The reports indicate the demonstration may start in the area of Airport Circle to the north of the U.S. Embassy and move south and east towards Jalalabad Road. Embassy personnel have been advised to avoid this area. ... Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador Hugo Llorens at Resolute Support Commemoration Ceremony for the Victims of the May 31 Attack in Kabul
Good evening, General Nicholson, Mrs. Nicholson, my distinguished colleagues and friends, honored guests. I myself feel the weight of the honor of being invited to speak at this solemn occasion. As Americans here in Afghanistan, we know too well what we ask of our men and women, many who leave behind their families and homes ... Read More»
Routine U.S. Embassy Kabul Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Section Closure July 4, 2017 for U.S. Independence Day Holiday
The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy will be closed for routine services on Tuesday, July 4, 2017 in observance of the U.S. Independence Day. For emergency assistance for U.S. citizens, please call the Embassy at 0700-114-000. For further information: See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution , Travel Warning for Afghanistan , Travel Alerts, and Afghanistan Country Specific Information. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP ) to ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Section Closure for Eid al-Fitr and Security Reminder
U.S. Embassy Kabul June 22, 2017 The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed for routine services during the three days of Eid al-Fitr, which will likely start on Sunday, June 25, or Monday, June 26. Emergency and urgent American citizen services will be continue to be available. With the start ... Read More»
Ambassador Hugo Llorens Special Chargé d’Affaires Remarks at the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies – June 15, 2017
Key Elements: Again, we have now a new administration. As Davood mentioned, we are, have been in the last several months, in a policy review process which is normal. But again, the interesting thing is that Afghanistan is one of the first countries where the new administration conducted its policy review, which again, although it’s ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that a demonstration is taking place in Kabul City in the southwest corner of the International Zone at Shirpur Square, at the intersection of Suhl Road and Sher Ali-Khan Road. There are also multiple traffic disruptions and road closures in Kabul City as a result of the ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Embassy Kabul Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens on the Attack Near the German Embassy in Kabul
I condemn today’s deadly attack near the German Embassy compound in Kabul in the strongest possible terms. Carried out in a busy street during the morning rush hour, and during the holy month of Ramadan, this horrific and shameful attack demonstrates these terrorists’ complete disregard for human life and their nihilistic opposition to the dream ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Section Closure June 1, 2017 and Security Reminder
The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed for routine visa and American Citizen Services on Thursday, June 1 and will resume normal operations on Sunday, June 4, 2017. U.S. citizens needing emergency assistance can call the American Citizen Services section at 070-011-4000 or send an email to KabulACS@state.gov . In accordance with the ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Kabul Explosion
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul reports that a large explosion has taken place in the city of Kabul near the German Embassy. There are media reports of casualties as a result of the explosion. Afghan Government authorities are responding to the attack. U.S. citizens in Kabul are advised to avoid traveling to that area. As ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Consular Section Closure June 1, 2017 and Security Reminder
The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed for routine visa and American Citizen Services on Thursday, June 1 and will resume normal operations on Sunday, June 4, 2017. U.S. citizens needing emergency assistance can call the American Citizen Services section at 070-011-4000 or send an email to KabulACS@state.gov . In accordance with the ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Embassy Kabul Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens on the Attack Near the German Embassy in Kabul
I condemn today’s deadly attack near the German Embassy compound in Kabul in the strongest possible terms. Carried out in a busy street during the morning rush hour, and during the holy month of Ramadan, this horrific and shameful attack demonstrates these terrorists’ complete disregard for human life and their nihilistic opposition to the dream ... Read More»
Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Meeting with President Ashraf Ghani of Afghanistan
President Donald J. Trump met briefly today with President Ashraf Ghani of Afghanistan on the margins of the Islamic Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. President Trump welcomed President Ghani’s leadership in Afghanistan on fighting terrorism and implementing key reforms. He also commended the brave service of Afghan security forces as they fight to secure their ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Hugo Llorens on Health Care in Afghanistan
There are few things more important to the well-being of the nation than the health of its people. The basic health care challenges facing Afghan families are serious and sometimes devastating. Even if equitable and reliable access to health care is rarely front page news in Afghanistan, it is an issue I focus on with ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Embassy Kabul Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens on Attack in Kabul
I condemn this morning’s utterly despicable attack in downtown Kabul. In recent days some have rejected violence and recognized that the only future for Afghanistan is through constructive dialogue and peace. Unfortunately, there are those who refuse to allow Afghans their chance at peace, and instead insist on killing and maiming innocent civilians. I extend ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Statement on the Return of Gulbuddin Hekmatyar
The United States welcomes the Government of National Unity’s steps to fulfill its obligations in implementing the peace agreement it signed with the representatives of Hizb-e-Islami Gulbuddin (HIG). Continued, successful progress towards this vital goal was most recently demonstrated by the return of Gulbuddin Hekmatyar to Afghanistan. We consider this step clear evidence of the ... Read More»
U. S. National Security Advisor Lieutenant General H. R. McMaster Traveled to Afghanistan
U.S. National Security Advisor Lieutenant General H. R. McMaster, joined by a senior U.S. interagency delegation, met with President Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah, National Security Advisor Atmar, and other senior leaders in the National Unity Government to discuss shared priorities and our strong bilateral cooperation in Afghanistan during a two-day visit. The leaders discussed regional ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Hugo Llorens on Corruption
While Afghanistan has made real progress in its march toward democracy and prosperity, webs of corruption in the government and business sectors continue to hold the country back from its full potential. Cases of bribery, graft, and nepotism erode the public’s faith and trust in the very institutions they rely on for protection, justice, and ... Read More»
Remarks by Secretary of State at NATO Foreign Ministerial Intervention
Good morning, Secretary General and my fellow ministers, and thank you for the opportunity to speak. Let me be very clear at the outset of my remarks: the U.S. commitment to NATO is strong and this Alliance remains the bedrock for transatlantic security. This Alliance was forged from the ashes of World War II, and ... Read More»
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul had a blood donation event for the Afghan Blood Bank
This week the U.S. Embassy in Kabul had a blood donation event for the Afghan Blood Bank. 292 volunteers donated units of blood that will help save almost 876 lives at Kabul-area hospitals. High-level Afghan officials like the Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the President also stepped up to donate their blood for this ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Tillerson on the Occasion of Nowruz
March 22, 2017 I wish a joyful and prosperous Nowruz to all those around the world celebrating this ancient tradition that marks the beginning of spring and the beginning of a new year. Millions of people across the world, including communities in Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, China, Georgia, India, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Syria, Tajikistan, ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens: Reports of Gunfire and Explosion Northwest of Embassy Compound
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports of ongoing gunfire and an explosion northwest of the U.S. Embassy compound at the Afghan National Army (ANA) Hospital, known as Wazir Akbar Khan (WAK) Hospital or “Sardar Mohammad Dawood Khan Hospital” at approximately 09:05AM. Initial reports of this being a NDS Hospital are incorrect. Embassy personnel ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack on Afghan National Army Hospital in Kabul
March 8, 2017 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns today’s deadly attack on an Afghan National Army Hospital in Kabul. The attack demonstrates the blatant disregard for human life by those seeking to disrupt Afghanistan’s democratic progress. Targeting a medical facility providing care for the brave Afghans working to protect their fellow citizens is abhorrent and ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Hugo Llorens on Parliamentary Elections
March 2, 2017 Holding timely, credible, and transparent parliamentary elections is an essential step along Afghanistan’s path to greater stability, security, and prosperity. I am encouraged to see momentum building toward bringing Afghans back to polling stations and the ballot box to choose their representatives. My colleagues at the U.S. Embassy and I will work ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that an explosion and complex attack are ongoing at the Headquarters of the Afghan National Police Department (PD) 6 since approximately 12:38. Additionally, there is another complex attack in the Pol-e Charki Area of PD 12. Embassy personnel have been advised to avoid these areasuntil further notice. ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Embassy Kabul Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens on the Terrorist Attacks in Kabul, Afghanistan
March 1, 2017 The U.S. Embassy condemns today’s deadly attacks in Kabul in the strongest possible terms. To callously target Afghan men and women who devote their lives to serving and defending their fellow citizens, as the Taliban did today, is an act of extraordinary cowardice. We share the sorrow of all Afghans over these ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Hugo Llorens on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
February 20, 2017 Illicit drug production and trafficking are among the most insidious and destructive challenges we face–together with our brave Afghan government and security force partners. These drugs fuel violence, abuse, and addiction of the Afghan people, and indeed the world. Drugs are a poison to our youth and have created a serious public ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Embassy Kabul Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens on Terrorist Attack in Jowzjan Province, Afghanistan
February 9, 2017 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns yesterday’s deadly attack on six staff members of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Jowzjan Province. Those responsible for this despicable act have a complete disregard for human life. There is no possible justification for the murder of selfless humanitarian workers committed to alleviating suffering ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Embassy Kabul’s Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens on Terrorist Attack in Kabul, Afghanistan
February 8, 2017 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns yesterday’s deadly attacks at the Afghan Supreme Court in Kabul that killed at least 21 innocent Afghans and wounded more than 40. This was an attack on the very foundation of Afghan democracy and the rule of law. The terrorists who committed this dastardly act have no ... Read More»
Ambassador Llorens Congratulates Afghanistan on Opening of New Permanent Facility for Anti-Corruption Justice Center
January 29, 2017 Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens welcomed the establishment of a new permanent facility for the Anti-Corruption Justice Center in Kabul. The new location will provide a secure and functional environment for the investigators, trial attorneys, and judges of the Anti-Corruption Justice Center to help them carry out their vital mandate to investigate ... Read More»
Readout of the President’s Call with President Ghani and CEO Abdullah of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
January 18, 2017 President Obama spoke by phone today with President Ashraf Ghani of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, who was joined by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Abdullah Abdullah. President Obama expressed his deep appreciation for the steadfast partnership between the United States and Afghanistan. He commended the leaders for their commitment to the Afghan ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Embassy Kabul’s Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens on Terrorist Attacks in Afghanistan
January 11, 2017 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns yesterday’s deadly attacks in Kabul that killed at least 38 innocent Afghans and wounded more than 70. We also condemn the heinous attacks on the Kandahar Governor’s Office that killed at least 10 people and wounded 21, including the United Arab Emirates Ambassador to Afghanistan and Emirati ... Read More»
Statement by NSC Spokesperson Ned Price on Terrorist Attacks in Afghanistan
January 11, 2017 The United States strongly condemns the terrorist attack on Parliamentary buildings in Kabul today that killed at least 38 Afghans and wounded more than 70. An attack on Parliamentary facilities and lawmakers is clearly an assault on Afghanistan’s efforts to build democratic institutions. We also strongly condemn the terrorist attack today in ... Read More»
Statement of Under Secretary of State Thomas Shannon during camera spray at the Afghanistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
January 7, 2017 Ambassador Shannon: Well, thank you very much. I am deeply grateful to the Acting Minister for his hospitality today both in serving us a wonderful Afghan lunch but also for the excellent conversation that we had…I only want to underscore that the purpose of my trip was two-fold. First as the administration ... Read More»
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas Shannon Travels to Afghanistan and Austria
January 7, 2017 Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas Shannon traveled to Kabul, Afghanistan, where he met with President Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, and other senior government officials. Ambassador Shannon underscored the strong partnership between the United States and Afghanistan and reiterated our continued commitment to Afghanistan’s peace, prosperity, and security. ... Read More»
Statement on the Arrival of Special Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens (December 19, 2016)
December 19, 2016 Ambassador Hugo Llorens, Special Chargé d’Affaires, a.i, has assumed responsibilities as Chief of the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan. Ambassador Llorens, who previously served as Assistant Chief of Mission in Kabul from 2012 to 2013, returns to Afghanistan to lead the U.S. Mission in its ongoing efforts to bolster Afghanistan’s embrace of democracy, ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Security Reminder
December 14, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul reminds U.S. citizens that serious threats to safety and security exist in the city of Kabul and throughout Afghanistan. The threat of kidnapping is high. The potential also exists for protests to occur in Afghan cities at short notice. Militant groups usually plan attacks against locations and individuals ... Read More»
Afghanistan Top Exports at “Exhibition Afghanistan” in Dubai (December 8, 2016)
December 8, 2016 The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in partnership with Afghanistan’s Ministry of Commerce and Industries, held a five-day event called Exhibition Afghanistan in Dubai to drive exports of Afghan products ranging from carpets and cashmere to almonds and apparel. The two-part program consisted of a business-to-business matchmaking event on December ... Read More»
Heart of Asia Ministerial Intervention (December 4, 2016)
Remarks by Laurel Miller – Acting Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan – Heart of Asia—Istanbul Process Ministerial Conference – Amritsar, India – December 4, 2016 It is an honor to join all the distinguished participants at this year’s Heart of Asia Ministerial Conference. On behalf of President Obama and Secretary Kerry, I want to ... Read More»
Routine Message for U.S. Citizens (November 22, 2016)
November 22, 2016 The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy will be closed for routine services on Thursday, November 24, 2016 in observance of the U.S. Thanksgiving Holiday. For emergency assistance for U.S. citizens, please call the Embassy at 0700-114-000. For further information: See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution , Travel Warning for Afghanistan , Travel Alerts, and Afghanistan Country Specific Information. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP ) to receive security ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on Kabul Mosque Attack (November 21, 2016)
November 21, 2016 We strongly condemn today’s attack on worshippers at the Baqir-ul-Olum mosque in Kabul and extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims of this senseless and cowardly act. This attack is another demonstration of contempt for religious tolerance and communal harmony by the enemies of peace and progress ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
November 12, 2016 Consular Section Closed – November 13, 2016 In light of the November 12 attack on Bagram Airfield and the November 10 attack on the German Consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed for routine services on Sunday, November 13 as a temporary precautionary measure. The consular section will only provide ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
November 10, 2016 The U.S. Embassy Kabul The U.S. Embassy has received information of a potential demonstration scheduled for November 11 in Kabul City. The demonstration is reportedly being organized by the Enlightenment Movement leader over the death of an Afghan female in Iran. The event has also been publicized on social media. The U.S. ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
November 10, 2016 U.S. Embassy Kabul The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports regarding a possible pending attack targeting foreigners at the Serena Hotel and a guest house located in PD-10 Kabul City. The attack may be carried out by multiple suicide bombers at each location. The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that serious ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on Kabul Shrine Attack (October 12, 2016)
October 12, 2016 We strongly condemn yesterday evening’s attack on worshippers at Kabul’s Kart-e-Sakhi shrine and extend our deepest condolences to families and friends of the victims of this senseless and cowardly act. This attack is another demonstration of contempt for religious tolerance and communal harmony by the enemies of peace and progress in Afghanistan. ... Read More»
Statement by John Kirby, Spokesperson on Attacks against Ashura Mourners (October 12, 2016)
October 12, 2016 The United States condemns the deplorable attacks against worshippers at Shia shrines in Kabul yesterday evening and against Ashura mourners today in Balkh province. We send our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those killed and injured. Such attacks are clearly intended to drive sectarian tension in Afghanistan. We commend ... Read More»
Recent Emergency Messages for U.S. Citizens
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that several heavily armed suicide bombers entered the Karte Sakhi Mosque (PD-3) and may have opened fire on parishioners. It is believed the insurgents are now holding hostages. Afghan security forces have deployed to the site. As a reminder, in accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department of ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens
October 5, 2016 Don’t wait, return your voted ballot right away! Remember U.S. embassies and consulates are not polling places; same-day in-person voting is not available outside the United States. The majority of states require voted ballots to reach local election officials by the close of polls on Tuesday, November 8. U.S. citizens who want ... Read More»
Recent Emergency Messages for U.S. Citizens
October 5, 2016 The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to Afghanistan because of continued instability and threats by terrorist organizations against U.S. citizens. This replaces the Travel Warning issued June 22, 2016. Travel to all areas of Afghanistan remains unsafe due to the ongoing risk of kidnapping, hostage taking, military combat operations, ... Read More»
Communique on the Brussels Conference on Afghanistan (October 5, 2016)
October 5, 2016 The following is the text of a joint communique issued by the 75 countries and over 22 international organizations participating in the Brussels Conference on Afghanistan. The Brussels Conference was opened by H.E. Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, and H.E. Donald Tusk, President of the European Council, ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Security Reminder
October 4, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul reminds U.S. citizens that serious threats to safety and security exist in the city of Kabul and throughout Afghanistan. The threat of kidnapping is high. The potential also exists for protests to occur in Afghan cities at short notice. Militant groups usually plan attacks against locations and ... Read More»
Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy Closure In Observance of Columbus Day and Ashura
October 3, 2016 The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy will be closed for routine services on Sunday, October 9, 2016 in observance of the Columbus Day. In addition, the Embassy will be closed on Wednesday, October 12, 2016 in observance of the Afghan holiday Ashura. For emergency assistance for U.S. citizens, please call the ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Peace Accords Statement (September 22, 2016)
September 22, 2016 We welcome today’s accord negotiated and concluded by the Government of Afghanistan and Hizb-e Islami Gulbuddin (HIG) as a step in bringing the conflict in Afghanistan to a peaceful end. The United States continues to support an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process that results in armed groups ceasing violence, breaking ties with international ... Read More»
Afghanistan Welcomes Foreign Investors to Partner in Advancing its Energy Sector (September 19, 2016)
September 19, 2016 Kabul, Afghanistan – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in partnership with Afghanistan’s Ministry of Energy and Water, organized a two-day Energy Business Opportunities Conference in Dubai, on September 18 – 19, 2016. More than 200 participants representing Middle Eastern , Central Asian, Turkish, European and North American companies working ... Read More»
Presidential Proclamation — Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance (September 11, 2016)
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION September 11, 2016 Fifteen years ago, nearly 3,000 innocent lives men, women, and children who had been going about their normal routines were taken from us, depriving families and loved ones of a lifetime of precious moments. But the acts of terror of September ... Read More»
Routine Message for U.S. Citizens
September 10, 2016 The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy will be closed for routine services from Monday, September 12 to Wednesday, September 14, 2016 in observance of the Afghan holiday Eid-e-Qurban. For emergency assistance for U.S. citizens, please call the Embassy at 0700-108-001. For further information: See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution , Travel Warning for Afghanistan , Travel Alerts, and Afghanistan Country Specific Information. Enroll in ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
September 7, 2016 As the Afghan observance of Martyrs’ Day on September 9, 2016 and the anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks approach, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and vigilance regarding your personal security. Demonstrations and additional local security related to ceremonies commemorating Martyrs’ Day ... Read More»
Routine Message for U.S. Citizens: Afghan Martyrdom Day Holiday Closure
September 6, 2016 The Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed on Thursday, September 8, 2016, in honor of the Afghan Martyrdom Day national holiday. The Consular Section will reopen for normal operations on Sunday, September 11, 2016. As a reminder, in accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department of State warns U.S. ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
September 6, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that an ongoing attack is taking place in the Shar-e-Now neighborhood of Kabul, behind the Kabul Bank. All U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area until further notice. As a reminder, in accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attacks in Kabul (September 6, 2016)
September 6, 2016 We strongly condemn yesterday’s deadly attack on security forces near the Ministry of Defense in Kabul. “We offer our deepest condolences to those affected by the attacks and their families.” said U.S. Ambassador P. Michael McKinley. “These horrendous attacks reinforce the callous disregard the Taliban have for the innocent men, women, and ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack on CARE International (September 6, 2016)
September 6, 2016 We strongly condemn today’s deadly attack on the offices of CARE International in Kabul. The men and women of CARE International help to build a brighter future for Afghanistan. Their efforts save lives, empower women, mitigate poverty, and improve the opportunities of all Afghans. We offer our condolences to the victims and ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack on American University Afghanistan (August 25, 2016)
August 25, 2016 We condemn yesterday’s heinous attack on the American University Afghanistan in Kabul. The targeting of Afghan students and university staff who are working to improve the future of Afghanistan is a cruel and cowardly act. “Our thoughts and prayers are with those killed and injured, as well as with the victims’ families, ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Kerry on Afghan Independence Day (August 18, 2016)
August 18, 2016 On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I extend our congratulations and best wishes to the government and people of Afghanistan on the occasion of Afghanistan’s 97th anniversary of independence on August 18. Despite the many challenges Afghanistan has faced and the many sacrifices endured, there is much to celebrate ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
August 4, 2016 In light of recent violence, including the July 23 explosions in western Kabul, which killed at least 80 people and injured over 260 others, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul reminds U.S. citizens of the serious threat of violence, kidnapping, and hostage taking in Afghanistan. Additionally, the U.S. Embassy continues to receive reports ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens (July 31, 2016)
July 31, 2016 Starting August 2, 2016, the pedestrian entrance to the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, located opposite of the Afghan National Radio and TV station, will be temporarily closed for construction. U.S. Embassy visitors, including U.S. citizens and visa applicants, must instead use the temporary visitor entrance located on Street 10 Burj Barqh, opposite ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Commends Afghanistan on Becoming the 164th Member of the World Trade Organization (July 29, 2016)
July 29, 2016 The U.S. Embassy warmly commends the Afghan government and its people on becoming the 164th member of the World Trade Organization, or WTO. This landmark achievement comes after over a decade of partnership between the United States and Afghanistan on trade issues, including sustained USAID assistance. Afghanistan’s accession to the WTO calls ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
July 23, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that an explosion has taken place at Dehmazang Circle at the intersection of Kot-i-Sari Road and Darul Aman Road in western Kabul at approximately 2:30 PM. Embassy personnel have been advised to avoid that area. As a reminder, in accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack on Peaceful TUTAP Demonstration (July 23, 2016)
July 23, 2016 The United States Embassy condemns in the strongest terms the cowardly bombing attack that has claimed scores of innocent lives in Kabul during a peaceful demonstration in which citizens were exercising their constitutional rights. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the deceased, and we wish all ... Read More»
SECURITY MESSAGE ON DEMONSTRATIONS AND GATHERINGS
July 21, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information that on July 23, there may be large scale protests in various parts of Kabul, Afghanistan along major city streets. Large crowds are expected to begin mobilizing as early as 6:00 a.m. and the protests may continue until the afternoon. The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens ... Read More»
Ambassador McKinley Remarks for Independence Day Event (July 12, 2016)
July 12, 2016 Salaam Aleykum. Welcome to our Embassy. Out of respect for everyone observing the holy month of Ramazan, we moved the celebration of our Independence Day. My wife Fatima and I, and all our Mission staff, thank you for joining us today. We gather here today to celebrate more than the signing of ... Read More»
Statement by the President on Afghanistan (July 6, 2015)
July 6, 2016 | 10:27 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Good morning, everybody. More than 14 years ago, after al Qaida attacked our nation on 9/11, the United States went to war in Afghanistan against these terrorists and the Taliban that harbored them. Over the years — and thanks to heroic efforts by our military, our ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on the Occasion of Eid Al-Fitr (July 5, 2016)
July 5, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul extends its best wishes to the people of Afghanistan on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. Millions of American Muslims are celebrating Eid as well, and, like families in Afghanistan, they will mark the holiday by reaching out to those in need and spending time in the company ... Read More»
Senators meet President Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah (July 4, 2016)
July 4, 2016 U.S. Senator John McCain (Republican-Arizona), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and leader of the U.S. delegation including Senators Lindsey Graham (Republican-South Carolina), Joe Donnelly (Democrat-Indiana) and Ben Sasse (Republican-Nebraska), met with President Ghani and with Chief Executive Abdullah to discuss security issues and the bilateral relationship between the United States ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack on Afghan National Police and Civilians (June 30, 2016)
June 30, 2016 The U.S. Embassy condemns today’s horrific, multi-part attack on Afghan National Police and civilians in Kabul. The first attack targeted new police cadets, with a second attack purposefully targeting the brave people who rushed to help the victims. This cruel and complete disregard for human life during the holy month of Ramazan ... Read More»
Chargé d’Affaires Michael Raynor’s Remarks for Promote Scholarship Launch Ceremony (June 29, 2016)
June 29, 2016 I’m very honored to be here today to celebrate the launch of a great new scholarship program under the framework of USAID’s initiative for Promoting Gender Equity in National Priority Programs, perhaps better known as “Promote.” These new scholarships will be administered by our long-term partner, the Asia Foundation, and will directly ... Read More»
U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Olson on the World’s “Resolute Commitment” to Afghanistan (June 22, 2016)
The investments in security and development that the international community has made in Afghanistan are yielding dividends, according to U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan (SRAP) Richard Olson. “With momentous achievements in education, health, the economy, infrastructure, women’s rights, and the most dynamic media landscape in the region, Afghanistan has made unparalleled developmental gains. ... Read More»
Ambassador Olson’s Remarks on Afghanistan at the Atlantic Council (June 21, 2016)
June 21, 2016 We are on the eve of the NATO Warsaw Summit, where NATO allies and partners will reaffirm their financial commitments to support the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces for 2018 through 2020 and sustain our Resolute Support Mission to train, advise and assist the Afghan Security forces beyond 2016. In October, ... Read More»
SECURITY MESSAGE FOR U.S. CITIZENS
June 5, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports of an ongoing attack in Logar Province, at the Appellate Court. Embassy personnel have been advised to avoid the Appellate Court and the surrounding area until further notice. As a reminder, in accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department of State warns U.S. citizens against ... Read More»
Statement by the President on the Occasion of Ramadan (June 05, 2016)
The White House June 05, 2016 As another new moon heralds the start of the holy month of Ramadan, Michelle and I extend our best wishes to Muslims across the United States and around the world. For many, this month is an opportunity to focus on reflection and spiritual growth, forgiveness, patience and resilience, compassion ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
May 28, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to receive reports of militants planning unspecified attacks in Kabul City and elsewhere in Afghanistan against locations and individuals with potential American connections, including Afghan and U.S. government facilities, foreign embassies, foreign guest houses, restaurants, hotels, airports, civilian institutes, and educational centers. As a precaution, the ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
May 17, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that an attack took place near the Ministry of Interior in Kabul at approximately 9:00 a.m. Embassy personnel have been advised to avoid the Ministry of Interior and the surrounding area until further notice. As a reminder, in accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
May 15, 2016 Due to planned mass demonstrations throughout Kabul City, the U.S. Embassy Consular Section will not be handling visa appointments on Monday, May 16. The Consular Section will provide emergency consular services for U.S. citizens. Large crowds are expected to begin mobilizing as early as 6:00 a.m. in various parts of Kabul City. ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
March 5, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning a threat to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan: The threat to U.S. citizens of kidnapping and hostage taking continues to be very high at this time in Kabul. There are no further details regarding the targets, timing, or method of any planned kidnappings. ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
May 5, 2016 U.S. Embassy Kabul Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens May 5, 2016 An attempted kidnapping occurred in Kabul on May 2, 2016 targeting several expatriates including a U.S. citizen. The U. S. Embassy Kabul reminds U.S. citizens that the threat of kidnapping and hostage taking continues to be very high. There are no further details ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
May 4, 2016 U.S. Embassy Kabul Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens May 4, 2016 The Kabul City Police District 10 Chief of Police has issued a warning to Kabul City residents, especially in Police District 10, advising of ongoing threats of suicide and/or coordinated attacks, and kidnapping against International Guest Houses, UN Offices, ICRC Offices, ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
May 4, 2016 U.S. Embassy Kabul Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens May 4, 2016 The Kabul City Police District 10 Chief of Police has issued a warning to Kabul City residents, especially in Police District 10, advising of ongoing threats of suicide and/or coordinated attacks, and kidnapping against International Guest Houses, UN Offices, ICRC Offices, ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
May 2, 2016 Following the Taliban announcement of the formal start of the Spring offensive, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to receive reports of militants planning unspecified attacks in Kabul City and elsewhere in Afghanistan against locations and individuals with potential American connections, including Afghan and U.S. government facilities, foreign embassies, foreign guest houses, ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
April 19, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that an attack has taken place across from the Ministry of Defense in District 10, Kabul, approximately 1.2 kilometers southeast of the Embassy, near the Soccer Stadium, at approximately 9:04am. Afghan National Security Forces are securing the area and are currently engaging unknown insurgents ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on Today’s Attack in Kabul (April 19, 2016)
April 19, 2016 Today Kabul suffered a deadly attack for which the Taliban claimed credit, underscoring the harm that the Taliban continues to inflict on the Afghan people. The U.S. Embassy condemns this senseless act of violence. Afghanistan deserves peace and security, not attacks that victimize parents taking their children to school, workers on their ... Read More»
Transcript of Ambassador Olson’s interview with TOLO news (April 10, 2016)
April 10, 2016 TOLO NEWS: Ambassador Olson, thank you for your time and welcome to Kabul. AMB. OLSON: It is very nice to be back. Thank you very much. QUESTION: Afghanistan and the United States signed a strategic partnership agreement in May 2012 and then a bilateral security agreement two years later in September 2014. ... Read More»
REMARKS: Joint Press Availability With Afghanistan President Ghani (April 9, 2016)
April 9, 2016 MODERATOR: (In progress) (Via interpreter) and after that we will only allow two questions. We’ll only be responding to two questions. So (inaudible) to his Excellency, president of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – your Excellency president. PRESIDENT GHANI: (Via interpreter) The entirely merciful, especially merciful, honorable John Kerry, Secretary of State, and respective ... Read More»
REMARKS: Secretary of State John Kerry And Afghanistan Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani At the Opening of Bilateral Commission (April 9, 2016)
April 9, 2016 MODERATOR: Honorable Secretary of State Mr. John Kerry, Excellency Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani, distinguished ministers, and ladies and gentlemen: Good afternoon, and welcome to the third bilateral commission meeting. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is delighted to be your host. May I at the outset invite His Excellency the Foreign Minister to ... Read More»
Joint Statement on the Third Meeting of the U.S.-Afghanistan Bilateral Commission Kabul (April 9, 2016)
April 9, 2016 On April 9 in Kabul, Afghan Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani and U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry convened the third meeting of the U.S.-Afghanistan Bilateral Commission to review progress in the bilateral relationship and chart a course for future cooperation. This meeting, called for by the Enduring Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) between ... Read More»
Remarks by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and Afghan CEO Abdullah Abdullah Before Their Meeting (April 9, 2016)
April 9, 2016 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ABDULLAH: I welcome Secretary John Kerry, a friend of Afghanistan and of mine who is visiting Afghanistan on the occasion of the convening of the joint [bilateral] commission. Today, he had comprehensive meetings during the commission that covered all areas of bilateral and multilateral relations, as well as mutual cooperation. ... Read More»
Ambassador McKinley’s Remarks to the Joint Coordination and Monitoring Board (April 4, 2016)
Delivered April 4, 2016 Good morning. Minister Hakimi, distinguished guests, thank you for giving me an opportunity to address this forum. Earlier today, President Ghani made clear that the NATO Summit in Warsaw and the donors conference in Brussels are part of a larger process of laying the foundations for a longer-term commitment of the ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
March 17, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that due to Nawruz, the Afghan New Year (20-21 March) insurgents are planning disruptive activities aimed to target celebrations in Kabul City, Kabul Province, Afghanistan. In response to this potential threat, there may be a significant increase in security throughout Kabul City. As a ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Welcomes Participants of Youth Solidarity and English Language Camp Home to Afghanistan (March 13, 2016)
March 13, 2016 On March 10, the United States Embassy in Kabul hosted a welcome home celebration for 59 Afghan youth and 6 Afghan coaches who participated in the Youth Solidarity and English Language Camp. The participants, who come from Kabul, Nangarhar, Jawzjan, and Herat provinces, spent 4 weeks together in Antalya Turkey improving their ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Hosts Job Fair for Exchange Program Alumni (March 3, 2016)
March 3, 2016 On March 2, the United States Embassy in Kabul hosted a job fair and networking event for alumni of Embassy-sponsored exchange programs. More than 45 exchange program alumni met with 22 potential employers, including private companies, government ministries, job placement agencies, USAID contractors, and NGOs. The majority of alumni in attendance participated ... Read More»
Statement Condemning the Terrorist Attack in Kunar Province (February 27, 2016)
February 27, 2016 The U.S. Embassy emphatically condemns the terrorist attack in Kunar Province today that claimed the lives of more than a dozen innocent civilians, including children, and wounded many more. The Afghan people deserve peace and security, not attacks like this one against innocent civilians. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families ... Read More»
The Fourth Meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) of Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China (February 23, 2016)
February 23, 2016 The fourth meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) of Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China on the Afghan Peace and Reconciliation process was held in Kabul on February 23, 2016. The delegations were led by Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Khalil Karzai, Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Chinese Ambassador ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
February 19, 2016 U.S. Embassy Kabul The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning a threat to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan: The threat to U.S. citizens of kidnapping and hostage taking in Afghanistan is very high at this time. There were no further details regarding the targets, timing, or method of any planned ... Read More»
Afghan and American Female Footballers Hold Friendly Match at U.S. Embassy (February 11, 2016)
Afghan and American Female Footballers Hold Friendly Match at U.S. Embassy February 11, 2016 The Afghan Football Federation women’s footballers joined forces with the U.S. Embassy to celebrate the U.S. National Girls and Women in Sports Day on February 3, 2016. The day started with a video conference session with retired U.S. National Women’s Soccer ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Ambassador P. Michael McKinley on work of Afghan Mass Media Commission (February 9, 2016)
February 9, 2016 I congratulate the Afghan Mass Media Commission’s launch of the by-law on Establishment and Activity of Private Mass Media, which is the result of a broad collaboration of representatives from the government, media, and civil society. I particularly commend the new law’s protections for the rights of journalists. I hope the implementation ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
February 8, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that as of early February 2016, unidentified insurgents are planning to attack unidentified foreign guesthouses in Kabul City, possibly near the Qala-e Fatullah neighborhood. The attack could also occur near Ansari or Haji Yaqub roundabouts in Kabul City. There is no further information regarding ... Read More»
The Third Meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) of Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China (February 6, 2016)
Islamabad – Pakistan February 6, 2016 The third meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) of Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China on the Afghan Peace and Reconciliation process was held in Islamabad on 6 February 2016. Foreign Secretary of Pakistan Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry hosted the meeting. Other delegations were led by Afghan Deputy ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
February 3, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to receive reports of insurgents planning unspecified attacks in Kabul and elsewhere in Afghanistan against locations, vehicles, and individuals with potential American connections, including Afghan and U.S. government facilities, foreign embassies, foreign guest houses, restaurants, hotels, airports, civilian institutes, educational centers, and vehicle convoys. The potential ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that as of mid-January 2016, militants were planning to attack an unknown hotel or guesthouse frequented by the international community in the Shar-e-Now area of Kabul City, Kabul Province, Afghanistan. There is no further information regarding the timing, target, location, or method of any planned attacks. As ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on January 20 Attack on Media Professionals (January 20, 2016)
January 20, 2016 We strongly condemn tonight’s attack on a bus carrying media professionals on Darulaman Road in Kabul. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time. Murdering those who work to enlighten, educate, and entertain will not stop Afghans from exercising their universal human right to freedom of expression. ... Read More»
The Second Meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) of Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China (January 18, 2016)
January 18, 2016 The second meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) of Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China on the Afghan Peace and Reconciliation process was held in Kabul on January 18, 2016. The delegations were led by Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Khalil Karzai, Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, the US ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack in Jalalabad (January 17, 2016)
January 17, 2016 We strongly condemn today’s attack in Jalalabad on the home of Nangarhar Provincial Council member Obaidullah Shinwari, which killed at least thirteen and wounded many more. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims. We will continue to be a strong partner of a democratic Afghanistan. Read More»
Ambassador Richard Olson Travel to Afghanistan (January 12, 2016)
January 12, 2016 Ambassador Richard Olson, Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, traveled to Kabul on January 12 to meet with senior Afghan government officials. Ambassador Olson expressed continued U.S. support for the National Unity Government and the Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation effort. He also expressed continued U.S. support for the Afghan National Defense ... Read More»
Joint Press Release of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group on Afghan Peace and Reconciliation (January 11, 2016)
Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC January 11, 2016 The following statement was released by the Governments of Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, and the United States of America on the occasion of the first meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) in Islamabad, Pakistan. Begin Text: The first meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) of ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizen
January 10, 2016 U.S. Embassy Kabul Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens January 10, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that as of early January 2016 an unspecified group of militants plan to kidnap an unidentified American and unidentified Europeans who are employees of an unidentified non-governmental organization (NGO) in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
The U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to receive reports of militants planning unspecified attacks in Kabul and elsewhere in Afghanistan against locations, vehicles, and individuals with potential American connections, including Afghan and U.S. government facilities, foreign embassies, foreign guest houses, restaurants, hotels, airports, civilian institutes, educational centers, and vehicle convoys. The Embassy is taking these ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
January 4, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that an explosion has taken place in the vicinity of Airport Circle in Kabul at approximately 11:00 a.m. local time. Embassy personnel have been advised to avoid the area. As a reminder, in accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department of State warns U.S. citizens ... Read More»
Statement from the U.S. Embassy in Kabul Regarding This Evening’s Terrorist Attack (January 4, 2016)
January 4, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul strongly condemns today’s terrorist attack near Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport. We are investigating the situation. In response to this incident, Ambassador McKinley said “Our thoughts are with those affected by today’s violence. The United States remains committed to the people of Afghanistan and to the National ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador P. Michael McKinley on the Attack near Bagram
December 22, 2015 “Today we mourn the loss of six U.S. service members killed in a cowardly Taliban attack on U.S. and Afghan forces near Bagram Airfield. Our deepest condolences go to the families of the six killed, as they face such heartbreaking news during the holiday season. Our thoughts and prayers are with the ... Read More»
The United States Government Provides $50 million for Immediate Job Creation
December 20, 2015 The U.S. government is investing an additional $50 million in two on-going projects to stimulate immediate job creation for the Afghan people. “We recognize that the past year has been a difficult time for the people of Afghanistan,” said the United States Ambassador to Afghanistan P. Michael McKinley. “We support the National ... Read More»
WTO Approves Afghanistan’s Accession Terms
December 17, 2015 The World Trade Organization (WTO) formally adopted Afghanistan’s terms of accession into the renowned multilateral trading organization at the WTO’s 10th Ministerial Conference on December 17 in Nairobi, Kenya. Afghanistan will have until June 2016 to ratify the deal and formally become WTO’s 164th Member, joining a global trading organization that accounts ... Read More»
Ambassador Richard Olson Gives Press Conference at U.S. Embassy Kabul
December 6, 2015 Ambassador Olson: Good afternoon. First of all, let me say I’m sorry to have kept you waiting. We had a busy day of meetings. I should mention this is my first visit to Kabul since assuming the position of U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, but it is a pleasure for ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy 2016 Holiday Schedule
This notice is to advise American citizens residing or traveling in Afghanistan that the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed for all routine services on the following Afghan and U.S. holidays throughout 2016. Date Day Holiday Type December 31 Thursday New Year’s Day U.S. January 17 Sunday Martin Luther King’s ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy 2016 Holiday Schedule
This notice is to advise American citizens residing or traveling in Afghanistan that the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul will be closed for all routine services on the following Afghan and U.S. holidays throughout 2016. Date Day Holiday Type December 31 Thursday New Year’s Day U.S. January 17 Sunday Martin Luther King’s ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack on Guesthouse near Spanish Embassy
December 12, 2015 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns last night’s attack on a guest house near the Spanish Embassy. The Taliban’s recent attacks in Kandahar, Jalalabad, and Kabul are just the latest examples of the insurgency’s absolute disregard for the lives of innocent Afghans who are working to make their country a better place. We ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens: Attack on Spanish Embassy’
December 11, 2015 | U.S. Embassy Kabul The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that an explosion and follow on attack targeting the Spanish Embassy has taken place at the Spanish Embassy at approximately 5:55 p.m. local time. Embassy personnel have been advised to avoid Wazir Ahkbarkan near the Spanish Embassyuntil further notice. As ... Read More»
Ambassador McKinley Announces Application Open Season for the Fulbright Exchange Program in Afghanistan
December 10, 2015 On December 10, U.S. Ambassador Michael McKinley announced the start of the recruitment season for the U.S. government’s flagship Fulbright exchange program. The Fulbright Program is one the most prestigious U.S. government academic exchange programs, awarding highly competitive scholarships to participants from more than 165 countries around the world to pursue graduate ... Read More»
Statement of the Quadrilateral Meeting among Afghanistan, Pakistan, China and the United States
December 10, 2015 A Quadrilateral (2+2) meeting of Afghanistan, Pakistan, China and the United States was held in Islamabad today, on the sidelines of the Fifth Heart of Asia Ministerial Conference. Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and US Deputy Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken ... Read More»
Statement of the Trilateral Meeting among Afghanistan, Pakistan and the United States
December 10, 2015 Afghanistan, Pakistan and the United States are fully committed to enabling an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned political process that promotes a dialogue between the Afghan government and groups of Taliban on the future of Afghanistan and the cessation of violence. Peace and reconciliation remains the surest way to end violence and ensure stability in ... Read More»
Interview with Antony Blinken, Deputy Secretary of State
December 10, 2015 Question: Secretary Blinken, thank you very much for your time. Deputy Secretary Blinken: Thank you. Question: I heard you attended a Heart of Asia Conference, and what is your main purpose of your trip to Afghanistan? Deputy Secretary Blinken: Well, it’s several purposes, but first and foremost it’s just to reaffirm the ... Read More»
Joint Statement – Trilateral Meeting Afghanistan, United States and the European Union on 9th December 2015
December 9, 2015 The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, the European Union, and the United States of America met on December 9th 2015, in Islamabad, on the margins of the Heart of Asia Ministerial. Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, and Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Announces Technology Competition for Afghan Citizens
December 7, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul is pleased to announce the global 2016 Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) Technology Idea (Tech-I) competition. GIST Tech-I is an annual competition for science and technology entrepreneurs aged 18-40. Winners will be invited to present their submissions at the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) in Silicon ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul has received credible reports of an imminent attack in Kabul City, Kabul Province, Afghanistan within the next 48 hours. During this period of heightened threat, the U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to exercise extreme caution if moving around the city. There were no further details regarding the targets, timing, or method ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul | November 23, 2015 The State Department alerts U.S. citizens to possible risks of travel due to increased terrorist threats. Current information suggests that ISIL (aka Da’esh), al-Qa’ida, Boko Haram, and other terrorist groups continue to plan terrorist attacks in multiple regions. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics, using conventional ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
November 19, 2015 | U.S. Embassy Kabul U.S. Embassy Kabul has received reports that as of mid-November 2015, militants planned to target and kidnap a group of three or four unidentified U.S. persons who dressed in Afghan attire and frequently traveled to the Chotari (unlocated), Mangal, and Tang (unlocated) areas of Azrah District, Logar Province, ... Read More»
Ambassador Attends Ceremony to Honor Victims
On November 16, 2015, U.S. Ambassador Michael McKinley participated in a ceremony held at the NATO Resolute Support Mission Headquarters in Kabul to honor victims of the recent terrorist attack in Paris, France. Ceremony attendees, including General Campbell, Commander of Resolute Support and senior officers and troops from other nations, also commemorated victims of attacks ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement Condemning Beheading of Seven Civilians in Zabul Province
November 9, 2015 The U.S. Embassy condemns yesterday’s beheading of seven civilians, including women and a child, in Zabul Province. As President Ghani noted in his recent statement, the killing of innocents has no justification in any religion or creed. We offer our sincere condolences to the victims’ families. Read More»
U. S. Embassy Statement on the Murder of a Young Afghan Woman
November 5, 2015 We are deeply saddened by the murder of a young Afghan woman in the Taliban-controlled area of Feroz-koh city of Ghor Province. We strongly welcome the investigation ordered by President Ashraf Ghani. The United States stands with the people of Afghanistan in condemning violence against women. We are actively involved in efforts to ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on the Earthquake in Afghanistan
October 26, 2015 Our hearts go out to all those affected by today’s earthquake, in Afghanistan and throughout the region. We applaud the efforts of those who are working to bring relief to those in need. Our humanitarian partners are joining in that effort, and we stand ready to do more should the Afghan government ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul
October 21, 2015 As of late October 2015, militants were planning a complex attack involving both suicide vehicular improvised explosive devices (SVIEDS) and attackers armed with assault rifles against a U.S. compound in Kabul City, Kabul Province, Afghanistan. The Embassy is taking this threat very seriously. In accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department of State ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul | October 10, 2015 U.S. Embassy Kabul has received reports that as of early October 2015, militants were planning to conduct a complex attack using a vehicle borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) and suicide bombers against the United Nations Headquarters or possibly other United Nations facilities in Kabul City, Kabul Province, Afghanistan ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Blood Drive Supports the Afghan National Blood Safety and Transfusion Service
October 7, 2015 On October 6, 2015, the U.S. Embassy Kabul hosted a blood drive to support the Afghan National Blood Safety and Transfusion Service (ANBSTS). U.S. Embassy employees – American, Afghan, and other nationalities – donated hundreds of units of blood that will be used to treat patients at Afghan health care facilities. Ambassador ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul | October 6, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul has received reports that an attack involving multiple suicide bombers and assaulters has taken place at a former lawmaker’s guesthouse in Kabul in the Daurl Aman area in Police District 7 at approximately 8:00 p.m. local time on October 5, 2015. There were also ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on the Violence in Kunduz
For Immediate Release | October 3, 2015 The U.S. Embassy mourns for the individuals and families affected by the tragic incident at the Doctors without Borders hospital, and for all those suffering from the violence in Kunduz. Doctors without Borders performs heroic work throughout the world, including in Afghanistan, and our thoughts and prayers are ... Read More»
Statement by the President on the Casualties in Kunduz
The White House – Office of the Press Secretary – October 3, 2015 On behalf of the American people, I extend my deepest condolences to the medical professionals and other civilians killed and injured in the tragic incident at a Doctors Without Borders hospital in Kunduz. The Department of Defense has launched a full investigation, ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul | October 3, 2015 As of October 3, 2015, media sources are reporting that Taliban fighters have moved into Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan. U.S. citizens present in Badakhshan, including the provincial capital of Fayzabad, are strongly urged to consider departing the area immediately. In accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department of State continues ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul
September 29, 2015 As of September 29, 2015, multiple media sources are reporting that Taliban fighters have moved into Kunduz City, Kunduz Province, Afghanistan. In accordance with the Travel Warning for Afghanistan , the Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against travel to Afghanistan, including to Kunduz. The security situation in Afghanistan is extremely unstable, and the ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack in Paktika Province
September 28, 2015 The Embassy of the United States condemns yesterday’s horrific attack on a crowd of Afghans playing sports in Paktika Province, and offers our sincerest condolences to the victims and their families. The attack resulted in numerous deaths and injuries to innocent Afghans, including children, affecting families just days after Eid-Al-Adha. Such heinous ... Read More»
Security Message
The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following threat information against U.S. citizens in Afghanistan: As of late September 2015, militants planned to attack the Cure Eye Hospital or Clinic that was located near the Afghan National Assembly in Kabul City, Kabul Province, Afghanistan on an unspecified date. The hospital or clinic’s physicians were unspecified ... Read More»
Deputy Secretary Higginbottom’s Remarks at the Afghan Narcotics Rollout of the National Drug Action Plan
September 26, 2015 DEPUTY SECRETARY HIGGINBOTTOM: Good afternoon. Ambassador Tanin, thank you for your introduction, for moderating this event. Chief Executive Abdullah, I’d like to thank you and President Ghani for your leadership of Afghanistan. I’d also like to recognize Foreign Minister Rabbani, Deputy Foreign Minister Karzai, and all of the friends of Afghanistan who are ... Read More»
Secretary Kerry’s Remarks at the UNGA High-Level Event on Afghanistan
September 26, 2015 SECRETARY KERRY: Well, thank you very much, Minister Rabbani. And welcome to all of our colleagues to New York, to the annual UN diplomatic speed-dating derby. We’re delighted to have you all here. Chief Executive Abdullah, thank you very much. Minister Wang, thank you for your participation in this. And friends of ... Read More»
Co-chairs’ Statement of the High-level Event on Afghanistan’s Peaceful Development and Regional Cooperation
September 26, 2015 The United States of America, the People’s Republic of China, and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan convened a high-level meeting on Afghanistan’s peaceful development and regional cooperation on the margins of the 70th UN General Assembly. Chief Executive of Afghanistan Abdullah Abdullah, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Statement on the Occasion of Eid Al-Adha
September 23, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul extends its best wishes to the people of Afghanistan on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. Again this year thousands of Afghans have attended the annual Hajj pilgrimage, with millions of Muslims from around the world, and they will soon begin returning home with a message of peace, ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul | September 21, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following threat information against U.S. citizens in Afghanistan: As of early September 2015, militants planned to conduct suicide attacks against the U.S. or U.K. Embassies in Kabul City, Kabul Province, Afghanistan; the Continental Hotel in Kabul City; and the White House ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Hosts Fulbright Alumni and Candidates
September 14, 2015 On September 10, U.S. Ambassador Michael McKinley hosted a reception at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul in honor of recently selected candidates and alumni of the Fulbright academic exchange program. Fulbright is one the most prestigious U.S. government programs, awarding highly competitive scholarships to participants from more than 165 countries to pursue ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador P. Michael McKinley’s Statement on the SOM and RECCA
Last week the world saw a remarkable show of support for Afghanistan as representatives from over 40 regional and donor countries gathered at two high-level meetings to show their commitment to helping Afghanistan achieve enduring stability, security, and prosperity. The Senior Officials Meeting demonstrated the deep and continuing commitment of donor countries to support the ... Read More»
Statement by Deputy Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Laurel Miller at the Senior Officials Meeting
September 5, 2015 The United States is committed to helping Afghanistan achieve enduring stability. We are pleased that so many of our partners have gathered here in Kabul to engage in this constructive conversation and show our collective support for Afghanistan’s stability, security and prosperity. Together with others in the international community, the United States ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
August 31, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to receive reports of militants planning unspecified attacks in Kabul and elsewhere in Afghanistan against locations, vehicles, and individuals with potential American connections, including Afghan and U.S. government facilities, foreign embassies, foreign guest houses, restaurants, hotels, airports, civilian institutes, educational centers, and vehicle convoys. The potential ... Read More»
U.S. State Department Announces $10.7 million for Humanitarian Demining Programs in Afghanistan
August 29, 2015 On August 25, 2015, the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) announced the winners of six competitive grants worth $10.7 million to fund humanitarian demining and conventional weapons destruction programs in six Afghan provinces: Kabul, Parwan, Panjshir, Baghlan, Balkh, and Takhar. After three decades of conflict, Afghanistan ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
August 26, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following threat information against U.S. citizens in Afghanistan: As of late August 2015, militants planned to conduct an attack against an unknown U.S. citizen at the Bos Hotel in Lashkar Gah, Lashkar Gah District, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. No further information was available regarding the attackers, ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack in Kabul
August 22, 2015 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns today’s terror attack in Kabul that resulted in the deaths of three Resolute Support civilians, as well as many Afghan civilians, and left dozens of others wounded. At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families who suffered as a result of ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary of State, John Kerry on Afghan Independence Day
August 19, 2015 On behalf of the President of the United States and the American people, I send best wishes to the people and government of Afghanistan as you celebrate your Independence Day on August 19. Today is a testament to the bravery and determination of the Afghan people. Over the last year we have ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
August 15, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning threats to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: As of mid-August 2015, Afghan Taliban insurgents are planning to carry out an attack against a compound possibly located in the Taimani area of Police District 4 in Kabul City, Kabul Province, Afghanistan. Additionally, the ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack near Kabul International Airport
August 10, 2015 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns today’s attack near the International Airport in Kabul. This attack shows a complete disregard for the lives of innocent Afghans. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families who suffered as a result of this attack. Again, we call upon the Taliban and anyone ... Read More»
Afghanistan: U.S. Condemns Attacks in Kabul
August 8, 2015 Statement by Mark Toner, Deputy Spokesperson We strongly condemn the series of insurgent attacks in Kabul yesterday. These attacks resulted in hundreds of casualties and at least 44 deaths, including children, and demonstrate again the insurgency’s complete disregard for the lives of innocent Afghans. Such actions have no justification. We again call ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack in Kabul
The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns the attack in Kabul early this morning that resulted in the death of numerous civilians. This attack in a heavily populated area shows a complete disregard for human life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families at this time. Read More»
United States and Afghanistan Sign Memorandum of Understanding for the New Development Partnership
Kabul – Afghan Minister of Finance Hakimi, the U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan P. Michael McKinley, and the USAID Mission Director William Hammink signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the New Development Partnership on August 3, 2015. The New Development Partnership reflects the strategic importance of the U.S.-Afghanistan relationship and recognizes a new era of development ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
July 29, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to receive reports of militants planning unspecified attacks in Kabul and elsewhere in Afghanistan against locations, vehicles, and individuals with potential American connections, including Afghan and U.S. government facilities, foreign embassies, foreign guest houses, restaurants, hotels, airports, civilian institutes, educational centers, and vehicle convoys. The potential ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Welcomes the Special Electoral Reform Commission
Statement by the US Embassy Welcoming the Special Electoral Reform Commission The U.S. Embassy welcomes the inaugural meeting of the Special Electoral Reform Commission (SERC). The Commission represents yet another sign of Afghanistan’s commitment to democratic principles including a credible, fair, and transparent electoral process. Read More»
Readout of the President’s Video Conference with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani
July 22, 2015 The President today participated in a video conference with President Ashraf Ghani of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Abdullah. The President commended the progress made since the leaders met in Washington in March, including on efforts to curb corruption, revive the economy, and improve regional economic connectivity. ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack against Civilians in Faryab Province
July 22, 2015 The U.S. Embassy condemns today’s attack on civilians at a marketplace in Faryab Province. The attack targeting civilians demonstrates a complete disregard for life and liberty. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of today’s attack as well as their friends and families. Read More»
Statement by U.S. Ambassador P. Michael McKinley on the Occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr (July 16, 2015)
July 16, 2015 On behalf of the American people and the U.S. government, I would like to extend my best wishes to the people of Afghanistan on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. Today the Afghan people celebrate the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a month of devotion and self-reflection celebrated by millions of ... Read More»
Statement by the President on Iran (July 14, 2015)
For Immediate Release July 14, 2015 The White House Office of the Press Secretary State Floor **Please see below for a correction, marked with an asterisk. 7:02 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Today, after two years of negotiations, the United States, together with our international partners, has achieved something that decades of animosity has not — ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Strongly Condemns Attack on Worshippers at the Grand Mosque in Baghlan Province (July 14, 2015)
July 14, 2015 For Immediate Release The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns yesterday’s attack on worshippers gathered for Iftar at the Grand Mosque in Baghlan province. The attack deliberately targeting individuals praying in a mosque is abhorrent, particularly during Ramadan, a time of peace and reflection. At this time, we offer our sympathies to the people ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan: Sunday, July 12, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning a threat to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: As of early-July 2015, there is information suggesting militants are planning an attack in the Shar-e Now neighborhood, Kabul City, Afghanistan. The target may be a guesthouse or western ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul: Monday, July 6, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning a threat to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: Militants are planning to conduct a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) attack in the vicinity of the Shar-e Naw neighborhood in Kabul City, Afghanistan. The target will likely be a ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
July 2, 2015 Following the June 30, 2015, attack on a coalition military convoy in Kabul City, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to receive reports of militants planning unspecified attacks in Kabul and elsewhere in Afghanistan against locations, vehicles, and individuals with potential American connections, including Afghan and U.S. government facilities, foreign embassies, foreign ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack on Coalition Forces in Kabul (June 30, 2015)
June 30, 2015 The U.S. Embassy condemns today’s attack on NATO coalition forces in Kabul. The attack resulted tragically in civilian casualties and demonstrates the blatant disregard for human life by those seeking to disrupt Afghanistan’s democratic progress. The United States remains firmly committed to assisting the government of Afghanistan as it provides for the ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul: Sunday, June 28, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning a threat to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: Militants are planning to conduct a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive (VBIED) attack in Kabul City in the vicinity of the American University of Kabul in the near future. The Embassy is ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul – Security Message for U.S. Citizens
June 25, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning a threat to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: As of mid-June 2015, militants planned to kidnap two purported U.S. citizens operating in Khost City, Khost Province, Afghanistan. The two unidentified individuals purportedly work for an unspecified U.S. or British organization based in ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Today’s Attack on the Afghan Parliament (June 22, 2015)
June 22, 2015 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns today’s attack on the Afghan Parliament. The attack on Parliament shows blatant disrespect for democracy and the rule of law. At this time, we offer our sympathies to the people of Afghanistan and the Members of Parliament, who suffered as a result of this attack. Our thoughts ... Read More»
Secretary’s Remarks: World Refugee Day (June 18, 2015)
June 18, 2015 Press Statement John Kerry Secretary of State Washington, DC World Refugee Day, marked on June 20, is a time to honor those who flee violence and persecution and those who help them on their journey. It’s almost unfathomable that nearly 60 million men, women and children are now displaced inside and outside ... Read More»
Statement by the President on the Occasion of Ramadan (June 18, 2015)
June 18, 2015 As the new crescent moon brings in the holy month of Ramadan, Michelle and I send our warmest greetings to all those observing the month of fasting in the United States and around the world. Ramadan is a time in which families and communities come together for iftars and prayers in festive ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary of State on the Occasion of Ramadan (June 18, 2015)
June 18, 2015 On behalf of the U.S. Department of State, Teresa and I wish all Muslims a happy and blessed Ramadan. Ramadan is a season for heightened reflection, worship, compassion, and community. For Muslims everywhere, this special month provides spiritual nourishment and reinforces appreciation for the universal value — and values — of humanity. ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack on Czech NGO People in Need (PIN) (June 03, 2015)
June 03, 2015 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns the attack on the guesthouse in Northern Afghanistan where employees of the Czech NGO People in Need (PIN) were staying. PIN was implementing programs for the Afghan Government’s National Solidarity Program and trying to improve the lives of Afghans in rural areas. We offer our deepest sympathy ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
June 1, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to receive reports of militants planning unspecified attacks in Kabul City and elsewhere in Afghanistan against locations and individuals with potential American connections, including Afghan and U.S. government facilities, foreign embassies, foreign guest houses, restaurants, hotels, airports, civilian institutes, and educational centers. The potential also exists ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Condemns Attack on Heetal Plaza Hotel (May 27, 2015)
May 27, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul strongly condemns the attack targeting the Heetal Plaza Hotel in Kabul the evening of May 26, 2015. The recent targeting of guest houses and hotels by the Taliban shows their complete disregard for civilian lives. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul is in close contact with the Afghan ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
May 21, 2015 As noted in our most recent travel advisory, the U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan continues to receive information concerning threats to U.S. Government facilities including the Embassy and major hotels. The potential also exists for attacks against locations and individuals with American or foreign national connections. Separately, recent incidents have included attacks against ... Read More»
Embassy Statement Condemning Today’s Attacks targeting the Ministry of Justice in Afghanistan (May 19, 2015)
May 19, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul strongly condemns today’s attack targeting the Ministry of Justice in Kabul, Afghanistan. The attack reminds us of the risks that the civilian staff of the Ministry of Justice face in going about their daily work supporting the administration of rule of law in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and ... Read More»
US Embassy Statement of Condemnation of Attack in Kabul (May 14, 2015)
May 14, 2015 We strongly condemn the attack at the Park Palace Guesthouse in Kabul, Afghanistan on May 13, 2015, which took the life of one American and several other innocent civilians. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims at this time. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul is in ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
May 11, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning a threat to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: As of late April, militants planned to conduct unspecified attacks against residences routinely visited by foreigners in Jalalabad City, Behsud District, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. There were no further details regarding the locations or timing ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
May 5, 2015 Following the announcement of the official start of the Taliban fighting season on April 24, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul continues to receive reports of militants planning unspecified attacks in Kabul City and elsewhere in Afghanistan against locations and individuals with potential American connections, including Afghan and U.S. government facilities, foreign embassies, ... Read More»
Deputy Chief of Mission David Lindwall’s OpEd on World Media Freedom Day (May 3, 2015)
Free Media Equals Positive Change May 3, 2015 Today, May 3, we mark World Press Freedom Day. The United States joins with Afghanistan and the international community in celebrating the contributions of free media to the advancement of human dignity, liberty and prosperity worldwide. Freedom of the media is the hallmark of a free society. ... Read More»
United States Helps Afghan Refugee Returnees and Internally Displaced Persons (April 26, 2015)
April 26, 2015 Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), Simon Henshaw, visited Kabul on April 25-27 to review U.S. humanitarian assistance programs and discuss cooperation to assist refugee returnees and displaced persons with Afghan, UN and other international and non-governmental organization officials. Henshaw commended ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
April 22, 2015 U.S. Embassy Kabul The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning a threat to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens that there is credible information suggesting that there could be attacks in coming days against vehicles transporting western officials on routes linking Masood Circle and ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan: April 21, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning an imminent threat to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: As of mid-April 2015, militants planned to conduct an imminent attack in Police District 2 of Kabul City, Afghanistan. There was no further information regarding the timing, target, location, ... Read More»
Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition (April 19, 2015)
April 19, 2015 The United States Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs funded the 2014-15 Afghanistan National Rounds of the Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition. Jessup, the world’s largest and most prestigious law school moot court competition, attracts teams from nearly 550 law schools in more than 80 countries. ... Read More»
Embassy Statement Condemning Today’s Attacks in Jalalabad (April 18, 2015)
April 18, 2015 The U.S. Embassy strongly condemns today’s barbaric attacks in Jalalabad, Nangarhar province, which resulted in numerous casualties. We offer our sincere condolences to the victims and their families and we wish for a speedy recovery of those injured. Read More»
Demonstration Notice
Security Message for U.S. Citizens U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan: April 16, 2015 U.S. Embassy Kabul informs U.S. citizens of a demonstration taking place in Sharee-Now Park right on Thursday, April 16, 2015. The protesters will be demonstrating against recent attacks on police check points in Badakhshan province. We anticipate the size of the protest to ... Read More»
Demonstration Notice
U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan: April 13, 2015 U.S. Embassy Kabul informs U.S. citizens that a demonstration is taking place in front of Afghan Parliament Building on Monday, April 13, 2015. Kabul university students are gathering to protest the kidnap of 31 Hazaras in Zabul province. The size of the protest is approximately 250 people. Even ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan: April 11, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning a threat to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: Militants planned to launch a series of attacks targeting non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civilians operating in Andar, Giro and Gelan Districts in Ghazni Province, Afghanistan; and in Gomal, Sarobi and ... Read More»
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
August 11, 2015 U.S. Embassy Kabul In light of a wave of recent attacks and surge in civilian casualties, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul reiterates the heightened security environment and escalated threat level for U.S. citizens. The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against travel to Afghanistan. The security situation in Afghanistan is extremely ... Read More»
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
U.S. Embassy Kabul, Afghanistan: April 10, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan received the following information concerning an imminent threat to U.S. citizens living in Afghanistan: As of early April 2015, militants planned to conduct an imminent attack using a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) against unspecified foreign entities in Kabul City, Afghanistan. There was ... Read More»
U.S. Embassy Kabul Condemns Today’s Attack on the Courthouse in Mazar-e Sharif (April 9, 2015)
April 9, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Kabul strongly condemns the horrific attack on the courthouse in Mazar-e Sharif in Balkh Province. Today’s attack reminds us of the risks that police, prosecutors and judges face in going about their daily work pursuing impartial justice and rule of law in Afghanistan. Our thoughts are with the ... Read More»
Statement attributable to U.S. Embassy Spokesperson (April 8, 2015)
April 8, 2015 We are aware that there was an exchange of gunfire involving Resolute Support service members near the provincial governor’s com