Afghan security officials dispersed a women's rights protest in the western province of Herat on Tuesday, following reports that Taliban morality police detained women accused of violating mandatory dress rules. Witnesses reported that one person was killed, several others were wounded, and dozens of individuals, including women and girls, were arrested. Taliban authorities have not confirmed any casualties or arrests.
Background of the Incident
The protest took place in the Jebrail area of Herat. Sayed Masoud Hosseini, spokesperson for Herat police, told the state-run Bakhtar News Agency that the gathering had created tensions and disturbed public order under the pretext of opposing the Islamic hijab, which he described as a religious obligation. Witnesses said the protests erupted when officials from the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice attempted to arrest women opposing the mandatory dress requirements.
Details of the Crackdown
Some residents claimed that officials targeted women who were already observing the required dress code, which includes fully covering the face and body. Video footage from Herat showed armed officials breaking up the demonstration, including fully veiled women among the protesters. In one clip, people ran for cover as gunshots were heard in the background.
Broader Context of Taliban Restrictions
Since seizing power in Kabul in 2021, the Taliban has imposed sweeping restrictions on women and girls in the war-shattered country, including limits on access to education, employment, and sports, drawing widespread international criticism. Herat, long regarded as one of Afghanistan's most socially and culturally vibrant cities, has undergone significant changes under Taliban rule.
International Response
On Monday, the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan expressed concern over reports of women detained in western Afghanistan for allegedly failing to meet dress requirements. The mission urged Taliban authorities to respect freedom of movement and equality before the law. The Taliban maintains that it respects women's rights in accordance with its interpretation of Islamic law.
