Residents of Herat are calling on people across Afghanistan to break their silence over the reported arrests of women and girls and the Taliban’s response to recent protests in the province.
In messages sent to media outlets, several residents appealed to citizens in Kabul, Mazar-e-Sharif, and other parts of the country to publicly support the people of Herat and raise their voices against the ongoing developments.
The appeals come amid growing reports that the Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has intensified restrictions on women in Herat. Local sources and activists have reported that dozens of women have been detained in recent days, although Taliban officials have denied such claims.
Public anger over the reported arrests has triggered demonstrations in parts of the province. Witnesses say Taliban forces intervened to disperse gatherings, leading to heightened tensions across the city.
Local sources describe Herat’s security environment as increasingly restrictive, with Taliban personnel deployed throughout key areas of the city. Residents report increased checkpoints, tighter monitoring of movement, and a visible security presence in public spaces.
Witnesses also claim that authorities have increased surveillance of citizens and expanded security measures across several districts. According to some reports, Taliban forces have visited medical centers and hospitals in an effort to identify individuals who may have been injured during recent protests.
Residents participating in the appeals argue that the events unfolding in Herat are not solely a local issue. They say the situation reflects broader concerns affecting Afghan society and requires attention from citizens across the country.
“The issue is not only about Herat,” one message stated. “What is happening today concerns all Afghans and should not be met with silence.”
The reported appeals highlight growing frustration among some residents over restrictions on women and the response to public dissent. They also underscore the continuing debate over civil liberties, public participation, and women’s rights under Taliban rule.
Taliban authorities have not publicly responded to the latest calls for nationwide solidarity or to reports regarding increased security measures and alleged detentions linked to the recent unrest.
NIMRUZ TV has not been able to independently verify all claims contained in local reports and witness accounts.
