The Spanish government will repatriate the bodies
The State will repatriate the bodies of the three Catalans killed in an attack in Afghanistan in the near future. According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, the repatriation will take place as soon as possible, although there is no estimated date yet.
Contact with families and diplomatic protection
Minister Albares has stated that they have already contacted the families of the victims and that their identities will remain confidential. In addition, diplomatic personnel from the European Union have been dispatched to Afghanistan to manage the case and ensure the protection of the bodies until their repatriation.
Situation of survivors
The two Spanish citizens who were unharmed in the attack could be repatriated tomorrow. As for the sixth injured person, who has already undergone surgery in a hospital in Kabul, he is awaiting a medical evaluation to determine when he can be repatriated.
Ongoing investigation
Minister Albares has reiterated that the details of the attack are still unknown and that work is being done to obtain more information. Although the modus operandi suggests an attack, the minister has avoided speculating until more data is available.
Recommendation not to travel to Afghanistan
Minister Albares has recalled that the Spanish government advises against traveling to Afghanistan due to the risk of attacks and kidnappings. He stated that this tragedy was foreseeable, as the risk of attacks is present throughout the country.
Bamian, a punished tourist area
The attack took place in Bamian, an area that in the past was very touristic for its sculptures carved into the mountains of the Bamian Valley, considered a world heritage site. Since the Taliban came to power, the presence of foreign tourists has decreased considerably (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
Position of the Spanish government regarding the Taliban
Minister Albares has made it clear that the Spanish government does not and will not recognize the Taliban regime because of its violations of human rights, especially against women. However, they maintain contact with the de facto government for diplomatic matters.
