Protest breaks out in western Afghanistan city
A rare protest took place in Herat after reports emerged that women were being detained for not following strict dress rules linked to hijab enforcement. Both men and women joined the demonstration, demanding an end to arrests and restrictions on women’s daily lives.
Witnesses say the gathering formed shortly after local reports of increased monitoring of women in public spaces. Some described a growing climate of fear in markets and streets as patrols checked women’s clothing compliance.
Security forces respond to crowd
Security personnel moved in to disperse the protest. According to people present, forces used sticks, whips, and firearms. Gunfire was also heard during the incident, with some witnesses reporting shots fired into the air.
Medical staff confirmed that two people died and several others were injured. The exact cause of death was not officially confirmed.
Authorities in Herat rejected claims of fatalities. They said officers acted to maintain public order and denied that any deaths occurred.
Voices from the scene
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as the protest escalated. Some protesters reported injuries and panic as security forces advanced. Videos shared online showed loud gunfire and people screaming for safety.
One protester said many people were hurt and described a strong security response. Another witness said officers struck demonstrators and used firearms toward the crowd area.
Officials defended their response, saying the protest threatened stability and public safety. They also accused some participants of creating unrest under the issue of dress code enforcement.
Background to rising tensions
The protest came after reports that women were being detained for not wearing hijab in the required manner. Eyewitness accounts suggest increased street checks by morality enforcement officers in the days leading up to the demonstration.
Since the return of Taliban rule in 2021, protests led by women have been rare. Earlier demonstrations faced arrests, beatings, and intimidation, which discouraged further public gatherings.
Hijab rules became mandatory in 2022, along with other restrictions affecting women’s education, movement, and public presence.
International reaction
A United Nations human rights official expressed concern over the reported use of force. The statement called for accountability and raised alarm over violence against peaceful demonstrators.
