Afghan Protest: Two Women Killed in Rare Outcry Over Hijab Enforcement

Sat Jun 13 2026 12:24:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A rare women-led protest in Herat turns deadly as Taliban police fire live shots, two men die and dozens injured over hijab rule enforcement.

In the western Afghan city of Herat, women rallied against tightened hijab rules, sparking a police crackdown that left two men dead and several wounded. Taliban authorities claim no fatalities, but witnesses confirm live gunfire. The incident underscores the rising tension amid rare public dissent since 2021. International human rights observers warn of excessive force. The event highlights the regime’s ongoing suppression of women's rights.

Afghan Protest: Two Women Killed in Rare Outcry Over Hijab Enforcement

In Herat, a cluster of women marched to protest the Taliban’s enforced hijab rules. Police used live fire, reportedly killing two men and injuring dozens.

The Crackdown

Witnesses report sticks, whips and firearms being deployed. Videos circulating online show gunfire and screams, contradicting police claims of no fatalities.

Regime Response

The Herat Police Command said the protest "disturbed public order" and that any opposition was "destabilising the state." The Taliban’s morality police have arrested women who do not wear the hijab correctly.

International observers, including UN special rapporteur Richard Bennett, have criticised the excessive force and called for accountability.

Context

Since 2021, protests have been rare, and women face jail, abuse or death threats for defying the Taliban’s strict dress codes. The current crackdown was only announced on Friday.

Woman in long robe and mask walking in Herat streets

Afghan Protest: Two Women Killed in Rare Outcry Over Hijab Enforcement

A rare women-led protest in Herat turns deadly as Taliban police fire live shots, two men die and dozens injured over hijab rule enforcement.

Afghan Protest: Two Women Killed in Rare Outcry Over Hijab Enforcement

The Crackdown

Regime Response

Context

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