Taliban Ban Tasu’a and Ashura Mourning Ceremonies in Herat

By Farhaad

June 24, 2026

Mourners walk through a street decorated with religious flags and banners during Muharram observances in Herat. (Photo credit: 8am.media)

Local sources in Herat say that the Taliban have not permitted the observance of Tasu’a and Ashura ceremonies in the province, including street processions, chest-beating rituals, and the carrying of religious standards, and have imposed extensive restrictions on mourners.

Sources told the Hasht-e Subh Daily on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, that representatives of the people of Herat had met several times with Taliban officials to obtain permission for Ashura-related ceremonies, but the Taliban opposed holding the events in the same manner as in previous years.

According to the sources, the Taliban governor of Herat ultimately informed community representatives that mourners would only be allowed to gather on the day of Ashura, while all forms of street chest-beating, public processions, and the carrying of flags and religious standards would be completely prohibited.

The sources added that in previous years, the Hazara community of Herat would march in organized processions from various mosques on the day of Tasu’a and gather at the Jibrail Grand Mosque, and would also hold large gatherings on the day of Ashura.

According to the sources, restrictions this year have been so severe that even small mourning flags placed on the rooftops of some homes have been taken down by Taliban fighters.

Local sources say that the people of Herat are dissatisfied and angered by the situation and are calling on the Taliban to allow the free observance of Tasu’a and Ashura religious ceremonies.

© 2023 - ©Hasht-e Subh Daily