The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) expresses “grave” concern after the arrest and detention of women in western Afghanistan for alleged non-compliance with Taliban-imposed dress requirements. Multiple outlets report that the cases involve women detained in or around Herat city and the wider Herat province, with local reporting cited for the number affected.

UN Women describes the situation as serious, stating that at least 30 women were arrested in Herat city during the previous weekend. Other reporting and local media accounts mention figures in the low 20s, including reports that at least 21 women and girls were detained. However, UNAMA does not specify an exact total in the public statements cited by the outlets.

The UN calls on Taliban authorities to end what it characterizes as discriminatory treatment and urges equal treatment for all people. None of the sources provide confirmation from Taliban officials, and at least one report says the Taliban did not respond to a request for comment. The detentions are linked to enforcement by Taliban morality authorities, under a strict interpretation of Islamic law.