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ALCON
JUST FYI AT THIS POINT
May have an effect on the days after the scheduled protest.
Mike
Afghanistan: Protests, unrest likely over planned burning of Islamic holy book by US pastor
Controversial US pastor Terry Jones has announced plans to burn 2,998 copies of the Islamic holy book, the Qoran, on 11 September 2013, to commemorate the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks in the US. There is a high likelihood of protests across the country if the event goes ahead.
Comments:
There is considerable anti-Western sentiment in Afghanistan, which is exacerbated when emotive issues regarding Islam – particularly the desecration of the Koran – are involved. The planned 11 September 2013 event is expected to trigger protests, including in the capital Kabul and other urban centres, particularly on the date as well as after Friday 13 September 2013 midday prayers. Possible venues for such demonstrations in Kabul include the US embassy, located at Bibi Mahru, as well as in the vicinity of the UN offices in the central Shar-e Naw district, or the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force headquarters on Airport Road.
Related demonstrations could turn violent without notice, potentially degenerating into looting, vandalism and arson, or possibly stone-throwing against the security forces. While the security forces can be expected to quickly contain any disturbances, they may fire rubber bullets or tear gas to disperse crowds, or live rounds into the air, depending on the severity of the unrest. Such disturbances pose both incidental and direct risks to foreigners; personnel – particularly those of Western appearance – are advised to minimise movement and stand fast in a secure site if there are calls for related protests in their location.
Security Advice:
· Developments regarding the planned burning of the Qurans will be monitored closely during the coming week.
· It is advised that travel plans should exclude the period of 11 to 13 September 2013. There will be commemorations of the September 11 Attacks on 11 September 2013, and due to the time zone difference it is expected that the news on the burning of the Qurans (should it happen) will reach Afghanistan on 12 September 2013 – in time for the evening TV News broadcast before the Friday Prayers on 13 September 2013.
· It is possible that anti-Western demonstrations, that could turn violent, could be staged in Kabul, Mazar-E Sharif, Jalalabad and Herat as the most likely venues, but it can also be extended to other provinces.
· Mission Essential Movement could occur - strictly avoid all demonstrations because of the risk that they will degenerate into violence.
· Plan all movements to make sure the route is clear and no demonstrations are planned.
· Exercise additional caution when in the vicinity of the diplomatic facilities and business interests of the US and its allies, as well as places frequented by the nationals of these countries.
· The way the ANSF handle and act during the possible demonstrations, will determine if the demonstrations turn violent or not.
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