Taliban violently suppress protest over arrested women in Afghanistan

Taliban security forces violently dispersed a rare protest in Herat, western Afghanistan, on Tuesday. The demonstration was held to demand the release of dozens of women and girls arrested days earlier by the Taliban for allegedly violating dress codes. The Taliban's actions have drawn widespread condemnation from international bodies and human rights organizations.

According to reports from Afghan media outlets operating abroad, citing local sources, the protest involved between 70 and 150 people. Online publication Rukhshana reported that Taliban forces opened fire on the crowd, killing two people, injuring three, and beating several others. The UN confirmed that at least one boy was shot dead during the protest.

“

The Taliban forces fired into the crowd at the protest. Two people died, three were injured, and several people were beaten.

The clash occurred in the Jibrail area of Herat, a region with a significant Hazara population, an ethnic minority frequently targeted by the Taliban. Local accounts suggest women and girls were apprehended from streets and shopping centers, with vehicles stopped and inspected for those not adhering to the strict dress code. Even women fully covered were reportedly detained.

Information regarding the current status of the detained women remained unclear as of Wednesday, with conflicting statements from local authorities. The Taliban's so-called Ministry of Virtue and Vice denied any arrests. Protests against the Taliban have been rare since their return to power in 2021, as demonstrations are often met with violence and imprisonment, effectively silencing dissent.

“

at least one boy has been shot dead in connection with the protest.