Tensions Rise as Mourning Flags Vandalized During Shiites’ Muharram Ceremony in Afghanistan

As the holy month of Muharram began, marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, grandson of Prophet Muhammad, a wave of vandalism has targeted Shia mourning displays in Kabul and Herat, Afghanistan. Sources report unknown individuals tearing down and desecrating mourning flags erected in various neighborhoods.

Kabul Residents Express Discontent:

A resident from Kabul’s 10th district recounted how black mourning flags and inscriptions were ripped down and discarded around 12:00 am on Sunday, July 7th. This resident, for security reasons requesting anonymity, criticized Shia religious leaders, accusing them of “inaction and compromise” in the face of such disrespect.

Shia Religious Practices Restricted:

Sources claim the Taliban, similar to last year, have restricted the installation of Muharram decorations in public spaces. Shia religious scholars in Kabul and provinces have reportedly been instructed to confine mourning ceremonies within Shiites mosques rather streets and public spaces.

Arrests and Vandalism in Herat:

In Herat’s predominantly Shia and Hazara “Jabreal” district, local sources report the Taliban arresting two men for putting up a mourning flag.

Social media images depict individuals removing Muharram flags and throwing them onto streets in Herat’s Haji Abbas neighborhood, an area with a history of terrorist attacks targeting Shia religious sites.

Increased Restrictions Despite Security Assurances:

Despite Taliban assurances of security during Muharram, reports suggest a rise in restrictions on Shia religious practices since their return to power. While the Taliban’s Ministry of Interior Affairs has released a statement emphasizing security for the capital and provinces during Muharram, these incidents highlight existing tensions.

The Taliban leadership is comprised of Sunni religious scholars; some within the group, similar to ISIS, consider Hazaras and Shiites to be non-believers. This has fueled violence against Shia minorities.

Last year, during the Ashura (the last ceremony day), reports emerged from Ghazni of Taliban forces dispersing a mourning gathering with violence. Public sources allege that mourners were beaten and subsequently fired upon. The incident resulted in the deaths of at least four people, including two children, with several others injured.