Afghan demonstrators in Herat marched toward a government building, chanting "Women, Work and Freedom!" The move marked a rare public backlash against the Taliban’s strict dress code and gender restrictions.

The protests followed the arrest of at least 30 women on June 6‑7 for wearing uncovered hijabs, sparking UN concern and violent clashes that killed two and injured over 20.

Taliban officials denied arrests, while police and checkpoints surrounded the city. Local clinics warned against treating injured protestors, illustrating the regime’s tightening control over civil society.

The unrest signals growing domestic pressure that could embolden international humanitarian partners to reassess aid strategies in a country where women’s rights face severe curtailment.