VANCOUVER, CANADA – An armed attack in Bamiyan City, central Afghanistan, has shattered the once-peaceful reputation of the province. The Taliban’s Ministry of Interior Affairs Spokesperson confirmed the attack, which targeted civilians on May 17th.
Abdul Mateen Qani, the spokesperson for the ministry, stated in a message on X that three foreigners and one Afghan citizen were killed and four foreign citizens and three Afghan citizens were injured as a result of the attack. Qani did not specify the nationalities of the foreign victims. He mentioned that Taliban security forces have arrested four suspects in connection with the attack.
No individual or group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet. Earlier reports from local sources indicated that unidentified armed individuals shot eight people, including foreign citizens, in front of the ‘Highland’ hotel. It has been reported that the foreign victims were tourists, although some sources suggest they might have been employees. Precise information on their identities has not been released.
Bamiyan, located in the central highlands of Afghanistan, is a region of profound historical and cultural significance and stunning natural beauty. This area is most renowned for the ancient Buddha statues that were destroyed by the Taliban in March 2001.
In addition to its Buddhist heritage, Bamiyan boasts numerous archaeological sites, including monasteries, caves, and ancient fortifications adorned with frescoes and artifacts. These relics offer a glimpse into the region’s rich historical tapestry, influenced by Greek, Persian, and Indian civilisations due to its strategic location on the ancient Silk Road.
The Bamiyan Valley, nestled in the Hindu Kush mountains, is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, including serene valleys, towering mountains, and pristine rivers. Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan’s first national park located in Bamiyan, is particularly famous for its series of deep blue lakes, attracting visitors from around the world.
Over the past 20 years of republic governments in the country, Bamiyan emerged as a notable destination for tourists due to its relative safety compared to other parts of Afghanistan. Its peaceful environment and cultural sites made it a favoured spot for both international and domestic travellers seeking to explore Afghanistan’s heritage and natural beauty.
The population of Bamiyan is predominantly Hazara, an ethnic minority in Afghanistan that primarily practices Shia Islam. The Hazara community has faced significant historical persecution and discrimination, adding a layer of complexity to the region’s social fabric.
Economically, Bamiyan relies heavily on agriculture, with farming and livestock being the primary sources of livelihood for its residents. The region was also striving to develop its tourism sector, leveraging its historical sites and natural beauty to attract visitors before the Taliban takeover. However, the Taliban’s takeover, coupled with their restrictive policies, has led to a significant decrease in the number of tourists visiting Bamiyan. One notable restriction is the ban on women entering Band-e Amir National Park.
Today’s attack is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges and instability facing Afghanistan, even in regions like Bamiyan that have been relatively peaceful.
