Afghanistan’s western hub, gateway to Iran and Turkmenistan
Protests in Herat over hijab rules have intensified as security forces deploy to disperse demonstrators. Reported casualties and arrests trigger UN concerns, while Taliban officials deny using force and describe the events as maintaining order.
Protests over dress-code arrests in Herat have escalated as police have opened fire during demonstrations. The UN and rights groups warn of serious rights abuses amid a harsher enforcement of hijab rules. Multiple arrests and at least one fatality are reported, with authorities insisting actions align with Shariah.