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 holidayTherefore, 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 as hotels, residential compounds, security checkpoints, government facilities, and airports.

The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that 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 Travel Advisory for Afghanistan remains Level 4-Do Not Travel due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and COVID-19. Commercial flight options from Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA) remain available and the U.S. Embassy strongly suggests that U.S. citizens make plans to leave Afghanistan as soon as possible. Given the security conditions and reduced staffing, the Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens in Afghanistan is extremely limited.

 

Actions to Take:

  • Make plans to depart Afghanistan by commercial airlines
  • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance
  • Stay alert in places frequented by foreigners
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Keep a low profile
  • Notify a trusted person of your travel and movement plans
  • Be aware of your surroundings and local security developments
  • Monitor local media
  • Review your personal security plans

Assistance: