Gunmen Target Shia Civilians Near Shrine in Herat, Martyring Dozens

Gunmen Target Shia Civilians Near Shrine in Herat, Martyring Dozens
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Local sources have reported that a gun attack targeting Shia civilians took place on Friday near the shrine of Sayyid Mohammad Agha Shrine in western Herat, resulting in a number of individuals martyrs and others wounded in an incident that underscores ongoing security challenges facing civilians in the region.

According to available information, the attack occurred in the Dahmiri area of Injil district, where a group of visitors—including women and children—had gathered near the shrine. Armed assailants riding motorcycles reportedly stormed the area and opened fire on those present.

The Interior Ministry of the Taliban authorities stated that at least seven people were killed and 13 others injured in the attack, noting that several of the wounded are in critical condition and that the death toll may rise.

However, local sources indicated that the number of victims could be higher, reporting that at least 20 people were killed or injured, including women and children. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.

The incident comes amid repeated acts of violence targeting Shia civilians in Herat province in recent years. Similar attacks have previously struck religious gatherings and places of worship, raising growing concerns about the safety of residents and the stability of the security situation.

For his part, the acting head of Afghanistan’s mission to the United Nations condemned the attack, offering condolences to the families of the victims and calling for the perpetrators to be identified and held accountable. He stressed that the repetition of such incidents highlights the urgent need to strengthen measures to protect civilians and prevent further acts of violence.