“Al-Noor Movement” Marks Ninth Anniversary, Protesting Structural Discrimination Against Hazara Shias in Afghanistan

“Al-Noor Movement” Marks Ninth Anniversary, Protesting Structural Discrimination Against Hazara Shias in Afghanistan
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Today marks the ninth anniversary of the “Al-Noor Movement,” a pivotal event where thousands of Hazara Shias in western Kabul marched towards the city center and presidential palace on July 23, 2016. Their demonstration aimed to protest what they described as systemic injustice and structural discrimination against their minority community in Afghanistan.

According to Shia Waves Agency, citing Al Jazeera, the movement began when police blocked roads leading to the palace, halting protesters at Dehmazang Square. Following speeches by the movement’s leaders, protesters set up sit-in tents. Suddenly, a powerful explosion occurred, resulting in the martyrdom of over 90 individuals and more than 400 injured, with some succumbing to their injuries later in hospitals.

This tragic event has since become a symbol of resistance against discrimination and violence for the Hazara community in Afghanistan.