At Least 14 Shia Hazara Martyred in Afghanistan after ISIS Gunmen Open Fire on Arbaeen-Welcoming Crowd

Local sources in the predominantly Shia province of Daikundi in central Afghanistan report that a group of citizens from the district of Sangtakht and Bandar, who were welcoming pilgrims returning from Karbala, were attacked by armed individuals near the border with Ghor province.

The martyred had gathered to greet Arbaeen pilgrims returning from holy sites in Iraq and Iran when they came under fire from gunmen.

One source indicates that at least 12 were martyred, while other reports suggest the death toll has risen to 14, with several others injured.

Another source identified the attack location as the village of “Palo Sang” in Ghor, adjacent to the Sangtakht and Bandar districts of Daikundi.

According to reports, the condition of some of the injured from this terrorist incident is critical.

Local Taliban officials in Daikundi and Ghor have yet to comment on the attack.

Notably, the Khorasan branch of ISIS has claimed responsibility for the shooting of Hazara citizens in the border area of Daikundi and Ghor. In their statement, the group reported that 15 people were killed and six others wounded.

Sources in Daikundi confirm the death of 14 individuals, stating that all victims were men.