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Kabul, July 29, 2026: At least 33 Ismaili prayer halls, known as Jamat Khanas, have been closed in Afghanistan’s northeastern Badakhshan province over the past three months, according to the United Nations, raising concerns over religious freedom and minority rights under Taliban rule.
In its latest quarterly human rights report, the U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said the closures occurred between April and June, affecting 17 Jamat Khanas in Zebak, 14 in Ishkashim and two in Wakhan
UNAMA said officials from the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, sometimes accompanied by other authorities, ordered the closures and told Ismaili community members to stop using the prayer halls.
The U.N. said authorities cited the presence of mihrabs, or prayer niches indicating the direction of Mecca, arguing that the buildings should function as mosques rather than Ismaili places of worship.
Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry said the status of the buildings varied following official assessments. It said some had previously been used as mosques, while others served as residences or non-religious facilities, adding that decisions were made individually.
The closures have intensified international scrutiny of the treatment of religious minorities since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021.
The U.N. and rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns over restrictions affecting Ismaili and Shiite Muslims and urged Afghan authorities to uphold freedom of religion and belief.
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