HERAT, Afghanistan — In response to the recent armed attack on the Imam Zaman Mosque in Herat province, Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, condemned the violence against Shia Hazara worshippers.
“I condemn last night’s killing of Shia Hazara worshippers at a mosque in Guzara, Herat,” Bennett said. “All Afghans must be able to pray in peace,” he added.
Bennett also called for “prevention, protection, and justice for Hazara/Shia who continue to be targeted, including in Herat.”
The attack occurred last night, killing seven and injuring about ten others, according to local reports. The Taliban reported six fatalities and one injury.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.