Afghan political analyst Salim Paigeer was wounded in an armed assassination attempt in Kabul on Thursday, 9 October, according to sources close to his family. He was taken to hospital following the attack.

The shooting occurred near Hanzala Mosque in the Shahr-e-Naw area, close to Paigeer’s residence. He was transferred to Emergency Hospital, where sources said he had sustained a gunshot wound to the head.

Neighbours reportedly rushed to help Paigeer and managed to detain the suspected assailant before authorities arrived. Informed sources told Afghanistan International that the Taliban have since restricted access to the analyst, preventing visitors from seeing him in hospital.

The Taliban’s Ministry of Interior confirmed the incident, saying Paigeer underwent surgery after the attack. No individual or group has claimed responsibility.

Paigeer, known for his political commentary, has at times expressed support for the Taliban administration but has also criticised some of its policies, including the continued closure of girls’ schools.