Amnesty International has expressed deep concern over reports that Taliban forces opened fire on protesters in Herat, describing the alleged use of live ammunition against demonstrators as a shocking escalation in attacks on the rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and women’s rights.
In a statement published Tuesday on the social media platform X, the global human rights organization said it was closely monitoring developments in Herat and was alarmed by reports of violence against citizens protesting recent restrictions imposed on women.
Amnesty International stressed that individuals participating in peaceful demonstrations must not be subjected to violence, intimidation, arbitrary detention, or the use of lethal force.
The organization called on Taliban authorities to immediately halt the use of force against protesters and release all individuals reportedly detained during the demonstrations.
Amnesty also urged the Taliban to respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of women and girls, emphasizing that freedom of movement, freedom of expression, and the right to peaceful assembly are basic rights that must be protected.
The statement comes amid growing reports of arrests of women in Herat and public protests that followed allegations of stricter enforcement of Taliban-imposed restrictions on women’s appearance and movement.
Local sources and witnesses have reported that Taliban forces fired on demonstrators during recent protests, injuring several people and detaining dozens of others. Independent verification of all reported details remains difficult due to limited access to information and conflicting accounts from different parties.
The developments in Herat have drawn increasing international attention as concerns grow over the treatment of women, civic freedoms, and public dissent in Afghanistan.
Human rights organizations have repeatedly warned that restrictions imposed on women and girls since the Taliban’s return to power have significantly reduced their participation in public life. Recent reports from Herat have intensified those concerns and prompted renewed calls for accountability and respect for internationally recognized human rights standards.
As of publication, Taliban authorities had not issued an official response to Amnesty International’s latest statement.
NIMRUZ TV has not independently verified all claims regarding the reported shootings, injuries, and arrests.
