The Week of June 2 - June 8 Abbreviated
Security and Conflict
ISKP Attack – On Thursday, ISKP claimed responsibility for a mine explosion targeting a Taliban vehicle in Dara-e Noor district, Nangarhar, killing three and critically injuring one. Local sources confirmed the blast and the casualties, stating the injured was taken to a hospital. While the Taliban have not commented, the attack resembles a similar incident in the same area in August 2024, also claimed by ISKP. This marks ISKP’s first public claim in nearly four months, breaking a period of silence.
Human Rights
70 Detained in Daikundi for Early Eid Celebrations – In Daikundi province, the Taliban detained 70 people in Ashtarlay district for attempting to hold Eid al-Adha prayers a day earlier than the Taliban-declared date. Although 63 were released the same evening, seven remained in custody, with five later freed by lottery. The Taliban also blocked Eid prayers in Nili, Khedir, and Miramor districts. These incidents follow a pattern of religious repression, particularly targeting Shia Muslims, who have faced arrests and forced religious observance. Shia scholars have condemned the Taliban's interference in their religious practices.
International Developments
US Travel Ban Announced – On Wednesday, the Trump Administration issued a new travel ban targeting 19 countries, including Afghanistan. This policy bars entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants from 12 nations and limits entry from seven others, though there are exceptions made for certain categories of people. The ban affects Afghans outside the U.S. as of June 9, 2025, who lack valid visas, restricting access to both immigrant (e.g., family- and employment-based) and nonimmigrant (e.g., B-1/B-2, F, J, M) visas. Importantly, Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders, applicants, and their spouse and children under 21 years of age are explicitly exempt from the ban, as are lawful permanent residents, asylees, and already-admitted refugees.
Afghans already in the U.S. are not impacted and can continue to seek asylum or status adjustment. However, they are strongly advised not to travel abroad during the early implementation phase due to confusion and inconsistent enforcement historically seen in prior bans. Although the policy permits limited, case-by-case exceptions based on U.S. national interest, no formal application process has been provided. More information can be found here
Regional Developments
Pakistan Raids and Deportations – On Wednesday, Pakistani police raided Afghan refugee homes in Islamabad’s F-17 area, breaking down doors, even when residents were absent. Refugees report frequent visa issues due to delays by Pakistan’s Interior Ministry, leaving them vulnerable to detention despite having valid documentation. Police reportedly search private areas during raids. No exact figures on detentions were released, though over 90,000 Afghans have been deported in the past two months.
Iran Arrests ISKP Cells – On Sunday, Iranian authorities dismantled a 13-member ISKP cell in a coordinated operation across Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, and Alborz provinces. The arrests included the group's leader and several suicide bombers. Iranian police reported confiscating weapons, explosives, and military equipment.
NEXT WEEK
Afghanistan is currently celebrating Eid. Interruptions to communications have been reported and should be expected throughout the holiday. Increased security measures and checkpoints are likely, especially as many people are traveling. Travelers should remain aware of the security situation and exercise caution, as the Taliban’s Vice and Virtue Police are likely to be actively enforcing their laws.
In Pakistan, several cities have also reported heightened security protocols during Eid. Afghans in Pakistan—including those with valid visas—should be aware that officials at checkpoints may arbitrarily harass, detain, or deport them. Deportations of Afghans are ongoing in both Pakistan and Iran.
In the United States, a broad travel ban affecting Afghans has been announced and will take effect on June 9. The ban does not apply to SIV cases. Although Afghan Green Card holders and U.S. citizens are exempt from the ban, it is strongly advised that Afghans avoid international travel at this time, as complications are likely—especially during the initial weeks of the ban.
Flights to Doha and other processing platforms remain suspended and are unlikely to resume. SIV and immigrant visa interviews must now be conducted at U.S. embassies or consulates in third countries. All related costs—including travel, medical exams, and onward travel to the U.S.—must be self-funded. Those considering transferring their cases should carefully research processing times and the cost of living in the host country before proceeding.
Recently arrived SIVs who were originally denied resettlement benefits may now be qualified to receive benefits. Eligible individuals are encouraged to contact their local agency for more information.
In the U.S., Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghans is set to expire on July 14, despite ongoing litigation. Afghans whose only legal status is TPS should seek legal assistance immediately.
Resources for Afghans are available:
Parole assistance – Here
Resources for recent SIV arrivals – Here
Support for recent refugee arrivals – Here
Updates on U.S. visa cases and legal developments – Here
Information on Green Card holder travel – Here
TPS information can be found Here