Taliban Arrests Spark Outrage in Herat

The United Nations reported that Taliban authorities in Herat, western Afghanistan, arrested at least 30 women for allegedly violating the movement’s hijab regulations. While some women were later released, these arrests triggered a wave of protests that the Taliban suppressed violently.

Crackdown and Widespread Arrests

According to a UN statement, the arrests occurred on Tuesday in the Injil district, instilling fear and anxiety among women and girls across the country. The UN Women’s Agency noted that these actions reflect a “rise in restrictions on women” since the Taliban regained power in 2021.

Gunfire and Assault on Protesters

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) expressed “serious concern” over the “excessive use of force” against demonstrators. The statement revealed that Taliban forces opened fire on men, women, and children, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, including a boy, and injuring over 20 others.

Morality Police and Forced Hijab Enforcement

Local media reported that the Taliban’s “morality police” detained women in the days leading up to the protests for not adhering to hijab rules. However, local authorities denied any arrests took place.

Comprehensive Restrictions on Women Since 2021

Since the Taliban took control of Kabul, the group has imposed extensive restrictions on women, including:

• Banning secondary and higher education
• Prohibiting work in most sectors
• Restricting access to parks and gyms
• Imposing travel limitations without a male guardian
• Forbidding participation in sports

These measures have drawn widespread international criticism, raising alarms about the deteriorating human rights situation in the country.

For more details, visit Yemen TV for the original article.

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