A rare protest in Afghanistan has turned deadly. British forces are monitoring the Taliban's response. The protest, which began peacefully, escalated into violence.
Reports indicate casualties. The situation remains fluid. Whitehall sources are tight-lipped but clearly rattled.
This is a test of the Taliban's grip on power. And a test of Britain's dwindling influence in the region. The Foreign Office is in damage control mode.
But with no boots on the ground, their options are limited. Expect emergency briefings. And expect the usual platitudes about 'monitoring the situation closely'.
The real question: can the Taliban maintain order? Or is this the start of a wider insurgency? For now, all eyes are on Kabul.
And on London's cautious response.
