Two employees of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC) were killed in an IED explosion.

Two staffers of Human Rights Organisation killed in Kabul IED explosion

Coronavirus outbreak has done little to curtail the menace of terror. An attack on a Sikh shrine in Afghanistan has claimed 25 lives. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how the attack exposes the diabolical mindset of terror backers.

Gravitas: Afghanistan Gurudwara attack: WION reports from Ground Zero

They say terrorism has no religion, it knows no borders. The coronavirus is redefining this proverb.

Nobody is immune to this pandemic;&nbsp;but in Afghanistan, it has done little to curtail the menace of terror.

There was a terror attack in Kabul on Wednesday in which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attack-on-gurudwara-in-kabul-kills-27-injures-8-288442">gunmen and suicide bombers laid siege to a Sikh shrine</a> in this city.

As many as 150 people were inside the gurudwara. The attackers killed 25 of them while several others were wounded.

Several children were stuck inside the shrine when the attackers charged in. One of them lost their life.

Later in the day, the Indian government strongly condemned the attack as India conveyed its condolences to the family of the victims.

It has extended all support to the Sikh community in Afghanistan and expressed solidarity with the Afghan security forces.

The attack only exposes the diabolical mindset of terror-backers.

This can't be for a cause.

Afghanistan has recorded 80 confirmed cases while two others have succumbed to the coronavirus and a pandemic is looming over Afghanistan with over a thousand cases in neighbouring Pakistan.

They say terrorism has no religion, it knows no borders. The coronavirus is redefining this proverb. Nobody is immune to this pandemic; but in Afghanistan, it has done little to curtail the menace of terror.

They say terrorism has no religion, it knows no borders. The coronavirus is redefining this proverb. Nobody is immune to this pandemic; but in Afghanistan, it has done little to curtail the menace of terror. There was a terror attack in Kabul on Wednesday in which gunmen and suicide bombers laid siege to a Sikh shrine in this city. As many as 150 people were inside the gurudwara. The attackers killed 25 of them while several others were wounded. Several children were stuck inside the shrine when the attackers charged in. One of them lost their life. Later in the day, the Indian government strongly condemned the attack as India conveyed its condolences to the family of the victims. It has extended all support to the Sikh community in Afghanistan and expressed solidarity with the Afghan security forces. The attack only exposes the diabolical mindset of terror-backers. This can't be for a cause. Afghanistan has recorded 80 confirmed cases while two others have succumbed to the coronavirus and a pandemic is looming over Afghanistan with over a thousand cases in neighbouring Pakistan.

With Kabul attack, terrorism prevails in Afghanistan as coronavirus pandemic looms

A major armed attack took place on a gurudwara in Kabul today. The Afghan government has blamed the Haqqani network for the attack. It said that the Indian mission in Kabul was their target. Watch report:

WION ground report: India condemns Kabul gurudwara attack

11 dead in terror attack on Gurudwara in Kabul: Haqqani network behind the attack

Unidentified suicide bombers attacked a Sikh Gurudwara in Shorbazar area of Afghanistan's capital Kabul, on Wednesday, killing at least eleven people, a minority Sikh parliamentarian said.

The gunmen and suicide bombers intruded into the Gurudwara at 7:45&nbsp;am in the morning at Dharamshala, a Sikh area of worship.

All four suicide bombers who attacked Dharamshala, a Sikh worship area in PD1 of Kabul, were killed after nearly six hours of fighting, Afghan special forces confirmed.<img alt="Sikh Gurudwara" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5ed177cb-7e92-4499-bf94-57e511c587de" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_25.jpg" />

Afghan forces have cleared the first floor of the Gurudwara in PD1 of Kabul, suicide bombers&nbsp;are battling security forces, said Tariq Arian, a spokesman for Ministry of Interior.&nbsp;

<img alt="gurudwara" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84326958-272f-4ae5-b127-7c54a1b5bb48" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-03-25%20at%2012.30.43%20PM%20%281%29.jpeg" />

(The visuals from inside Gurudwara)

<img alt="(The visuals from inside)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="846c1c29-1148-4532-86ab-7e2a6b4f64b5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-03-25%20at%2012.30.43%20PM_0.jpeg" /> 
 
“Several people have been rescued who were trapped inside the building,” he said.

The parliamentarian, Narender Singh Khalsa, said he was near the Gurudwara when the attack happened and ran to the site. He said at least four people were killed.

"There are about 150 people inside the temple. Families are living there and they usually gather to offer prayers in the mornings," said Anarkali Kaur Honaryar, a Sikh MP in the Afghan parliament.

"Some people inside the temple are hiding and their phones are off. I am very concerned."

No one has taken responsibility for the attack, but earlier this month an Islamic State affiliate attacked a gathering of minority Shia Muslims in Kabul, the capital, killing 32 people.

(With inputs from agencies)

Unidentified suicide bombers attacked a Sikh Gurudwara in Shorbazar area of Afghanistan's capital Kabul, on Wednesday, killing at least eleven people, a minority Sikh parliamentarian said.

Unidentified suicide bombers attacked a Sikh Gurudwara in Shorbazar area of Afghanistan's capital Kabul, on Wednesday, killing at least eleven people, a minority Sikh parliamentarian said. The gunmen and suicide bombers intruded into the Gurudwara at 7:45 am in the morning at Dharamshala, a Sikh area of worship. All four suicide bombers who attacked Dharamshala, a Sikh worship area in PD1 of Kabul, were killed after nearly six hours of fighting, Afghan special forces confirmed. Afghan forces have cleared the first floor of the Gurudwara in PD1 of Kabul, suicide bombers are battling security forces, said Tariq Arian, a spokesman for Ministry of Interior. (The visuals from inside Gurudwara) “Several people have been rescued who were trapped inside the building,” he said. The parliamentarian, Narender Singh Khalsa, said he was near the Gurudwara when the attack happened and ran to the site. He said at least four people were killed. "There are about 150 people inside the temple. Families are living there and they usually gather to offer prayers in the mornings," said Anarkali Kaur Honaryar, a Sikh MP in the Afghan parliament. "Some people inside the temple are hiding and their phones are off. I am very concerned." No one has taken responsibility for the attack, but earlier this month an Islamic State affiliate attacked a gathering of minority Shia Muslims in Kabul, the capital, killing 32 people. (With inputs from agencies)

Suicide bombers attack Sikh Gurudwara in Kabul; 11 killed

India on Wednesday condemned in "strongest terms" the "heinous" terrorist attack at a Sikh Gurdwara in Kabul which led to the death of twelve people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/terrorists-failed-to-attack-indian-mission-in-kabul-killed-11-in-gurudwara-288408">Also read: Terrorists failed to attack Indian mission in Kabul, killed 11&nbsp;in Gurudwara</a> 
 
In a statement, the government said that " We convey our sincerest condolences to the immediate family members of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands ready to extend all possible assistance to the affected families of the Hindu and Sikh community of Afghanistan."

Describing the incident as a “cowardly attack”, &nbsp;the MEA said in its statement that "such cowardly attacks on the places of religious worship of the minority community, &nbsp;especially at this time of COVID 19 pandemic, is reflective of the diabolical mindset of the perpetrators and their backers".

"India stands in solidarity with the people, &nbsp;the Government and the security forces of Afghanistan in their efforts for bringing peace and security to the country,” the MEA said in its statement.

Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri also “strongly condemned” the attack.

“These killings are a grim reminder of atrocities that continue to be inflicted upon religious minorities in some countries &amp; the urgency with which their lives &amp; religious freedom have to be safeguarded,” he tweeted.

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Suicide attack on a Gurudwara Sahib in Kabul needs to be strongly condemned. These killings are a grim reminder of atrocities that continue to be inflicted upon religious minorities in some countries &amp; the urgency with which their lives &amp; religious freedom have to be safeguarded. <a href="https://t.co/yQM3u41dVI">pic.twitter.com/yQM3u41dVI</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1242705849019027456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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India on Wednesday condemned in "strongest terms" the "heinous" terrorist attack at a Sikh Gurdwara in Kabul which led to the death of twelve people. Also read: Terrorists failed to attack Indian mission in Kabul, killed 11 in Gurudwara In a statement, the government said that " We convey our sincerest condolences to the immediate family members of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to the injured.

India on Wednesday condemned in "strongest terms" the "heinous" terrorist attack at a Sikh Gurdwara in Kabul which led to the death of twelve people. Also read: Terrorists failed to attack Indian mission in Kabul, killed 11 in Gurudwara In a statement, the government said that " We convey our sincerest condolences to the immediate family members of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands ready to extend all possible assistance to the affected families of the Hindu and Sikh community of Afghanistan." Describing the incident as a “cowardly attack”, the MEA said in its statement that "such cowardly attacks on the places of religious worship of the minority community, especially at this time of COVID 19 pandemic, is reflective of the diabolical mindset of the perpetrators and their backers". "India stands in solidarity with the people, the Government and the security forces of Afghanistan in their efforts for bringing peace and security to the country,” the MEA said in its statement. Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri also “strongly condemned” the attack. “These killings are a grim reminder of atrocities that continue to be inflicted upon religious minorities in some countries & the urgency with which their lives & religious freedom have to be safeguarded,” he tweeted. Suicide attack on a Gurudwara Sahib in Kabul needs to be strongly condemned. These killings are a grim reminder of atrocities that continue to be inflicted upon religious minorities in some countries & the urgency with which their lives & religious freedom have to be safeguarded. pic.twitter.com/yQM3u41dVI — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) March 25, 2020 ×

India strongly condemns 'heinous' terror attack on Sikh Gurdwara in Kabul

Gunmen and suicide bombers of Haqqani network on Wednesday attacked a Sikh Gurudwara in Shorbazar area of Afghanistan's capital Kabul, killing at least eleven people.

Gunmen and suicide bombers of Haqqani network on Wednesday attacked a Sikh Gurudwara in Shorbazar area of Afghanistan's capital Kabul, killing at least eleven people. Afghan security sources speaking to media have said, Haqqani network (Quetta shura) wanted to attack Indian mission in Kabul but could not due to tight security. Since they were not able to attack the Indian mission, they attacked the Gurudwara instead. The Haqqani network is an Afghan guerrilla terrorist group using asymmetric warfare to fight against US-led NATO forces and the government of Afghanistan. At least 11 people have been killed and 11 others wounded in the attack at Dharamshala, a Sikh worship area in PD1 of Kabul, a security source said, adding that "three attackers are still fighting with security forces and one has been shot." Up to 200 people were believed to be inside at the time of the attack, a member of parliament said. The gunmen and suicide bombers intruded into the Gurudwara at 7:45 am at Dharamshala, a Sikh area of worship. Earlier this month an Islamic State affiliate attacked a gathering of minority Shia Muslims in Kabul, the capital, killing 32 people. (With inputs from agencies)

Terrorists failed to attack Indian mission in Kabul, killed 11 in Gurudwara

At least four security forces officials were killed and three others injured&nbsp;on Thursday in a suicide attack in the south of Kabul close to a Special Forces base, an Afghan local news agency reported.

A suicide bomber detonated an explosives-laden vehicle on Kabul Commando Force base.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid issued a statement claiming responsibility for the attack, which he said killed more than 200 commandos. The insurgents routinely issue exaggerated casualty claims.

Mujahid said the bomber had been infiltrated into the base well before the attack.

The base is located in Chahar Asyab district of Kabul.

Last week, a Taliban suicide blast killed at least 10 civilians and two NATO service members near the US embassy in Kabul.

At least four security forces officials were killed and three others injured on Thursday in a suicide attack in the south of Kabul close to a Special Forces base, an Afghan local news agency reported.

At least four security forces officials were killed and three others injured on Thursday in a suicide attack in the south of Kabul close to a Special Forces base, an Afghan local news agency reported. A suicide bomber detonated an explosives-laden vehicle on Kabul Commando Force base. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid issued a statement claiming responsibility for the attack, which he said killed more than 200 commandos. The insurgents routinely issue exaggerated casualty claims. Mujahid said the bomber had been infiltrated into the base well before the attack. The base is located in Chahar Asyab district of Kabul. Last week, a Taliban suicide blast killed at least 10 civilians and two NATO service members near the US embassy in Kabul.

Taliban attacks Kabul commando base in Afghanistan; four killed

Peace talks called off over Kabul attack by U.S. President Donald Trump. Watch this video to know more.

Peace talks called off over Kabul attack by U.S. President Donald Trump

WION Exclusively speaks to Najib Sharifi, a strategic expert from Kabul over U.S. President Donald Trump's talks call off over Kabul blast.

WION Exclusive | In conversation with Najib Sharifi, a strategic expert from Afghanistan's Kabul

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the suicide attack in Afghanistan's Kabul which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-dead-100-injured-as-blast-rips-through-wedding-party-in-afghanistans-kabul-243740">killed at least 63 people</a> and injuring over 180.

"The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific 17 August terrorist attack on a wedding ceremony in Kabul, claiming the lives of 63 people and injuring over 180," Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement cited by media reports.

The UN chief expressed "his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and the Government and people of Afghanistan,'' the statement further added.

The deadly suicide-bomb blast took place in the Darulaman area of Kabul city.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-wedding-suicide-attack-in-kabul-243841">Islamic State group claimed responsibility</a> for the attack.

Watch: Islamic state claims responsibility for wedding suicide attack in Kabul

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According to eyewitnesses, the suicide bomber laid explosives among the wedding participants and detonated them.

The blast happened in western Kabul, a predominantly Shia locality. The Shia minority has been targeted by the Taliban multiple times over the years.

These attacks come at a time when the United States are discussing a peace deal in Afghanistan, a deal that involves the Taliban giving up arms.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the suicide attack in Afghanistan's Kabul which killed at least 63 people and injuring over 180. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific 17 August terrorist attack on a wedding ceremony in Kabul, claiming the lives of 63 people and injuring over 180," Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement cited by media reports.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the suicide attack in Afghanistan's Kabul which killed at least 63 people and injuring over 180. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific 17 August terrorist attack on a wedding ceremony in Kabul, claiming the lives of 63 people and injuring over 180," Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement cited by media reports. The UN chief expressed "his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and the Government and people of Afghanistan,'' the statement further added. The deadly suicide-bomb blast took place in the Darulaman area of Kabul city. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack. Watch: Islamic state claims responsibility for wedding suicide attack in Kabul According to eyewitnesses, the suicide bomber laid explosives among the wedding participants and detonated them. The blast happened in western Kabul, a predominantly Shia locality. The Shia minority has been targeted by the Taliban multiple times over the years. These attacks come at a time when the United States are discussing a peace deal in Afghanistan, a deal that involves the Taliban giving up arms.

Afghanistan: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemns Kabul attack that killed 63

The United States condemned a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-gun-battle-rages-in-kabul-after-blast-injures-100-taliban-claims-responsibility-231998">Taliban car bombing</a> and gun assault in the capital Kabul on Monday that killed six people and wounded dozens including 50 children.

"This brazen attack demonstrates the Taliban's callous disregard for their fellow Afghans, who have repeatedly voiced the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict," the White House said in a statement.

At least six people were killed and dozens, including 50 children, wounded when the Taliban detonated a powerful car bomb in Kabul -- the latest deadly attack in one of the most dangerous countries in the world to be a child.

Save the Children led international condemnation of the blast targeting a defence ministry building, which sent a plume of smoke into the air during rush hour and shook buildings nearly two kilometres away.&nbsp;

Gunmen then stormed a nearby building, triggering a gun battle with special forces in the Puli Mahmood Khan neighbourhood of the Afghan capital.&nbsp;

At least six people were killed, including one child and two special forces, said interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi.

The health ministry put the wounded toll at 116 people. Among the injured were 50 children, officials said, adding that most had been hurt by flying glass and were in stable condition.

Rahimi said all five gunmen and the driver of the car had been killed, and a clearing operation was over.

Some social media images purportedly taken at a hospital showed wounded, stunned children in school uniforms, still clutching books as they arrived for treatment.&nbsp;

Five schools were damaged in the blast, the education ministry said.

Save the Children branded the attack "utterly deplorable", warning that "children's smaller bodies sustain more serious injuries than adults" and that the trauma of such attacks can stay with them for years.

The Taliban claimed the attack, which came just two days after the insurgents began a seventh round of talks with the US in Qatar, as Washington eyes a breakthrough before Afghanistan's presidential election in September.

The United States condemned a Taliban car bombing and gun assault in the capital Kabul on Monday that killed six people and wounded dozens including 50 children.

The United States condemned a Taliban car bombing and gun assault in the capital Kabul on Monday that killed six people and wounded dozens including 50 children. "This brazen attack demonstrates the Taliban's callous disregard for their fellow Afghans, who have repeatedly voiced the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict," the White House said in a statement. At least six people were killed and dozens, including 50 children, wounded when the Taliban detonated a powerful car bomb in Kabul -- the latest deadly attack in one of the most dangerous countries in the world to be a child. Save the Children led international condemnation of the blast targeting a defence ministry building, which sent a plume of smoke into the air during rush hour and shook buildings nearly two kilometres away. Gunmen then stormed a nearby building, triggering a gun battle with special forces in the Puli Mahmood Khan neighbourhood of the Afghan capital. At least six people were killed, including one child and two special forces, said interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi. The health ministry put the wounded toll at 116 people. Among the injured were 50 children, officials said, adding that most had been hurt by flying glass and were in stable condition. Rahimi said all five gunmen and the driver of the car had been killed, and a clearing operation was over. Some social media images purportedly taken at a hospital showed wounded, stunned children in school uniforms, still clutching books as they arrived for treatment. Five schools were damaged in the blast, the education ministry said. Save the Children branded the attack "utterly deplorable", warning that "children's smaller bodies sustain more serious injuries than adults" and that the trauma of such attacks can stay with them for years. The Taliban claimed the attack, which came just two days after the insurgents began a seventh round of talks with the US in Qatar, as Washington eyes a breakthrough before Afghanistan's presidential election in September.

Brazen attack in Kabul demonstrates Taliban's callous disregard for Afghans: US

Dozens of people were wounded with fatalities feared as a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-bombers-kill-19-including-afghan-election-workers-231800"> powerful car bomb rocked Kabul</a> early on Monday and gunmen battled special forces in an area housing military and government buildings, officials said.&nbsp;

The rush-hour explosion sent a plume of smoke into the air above the Puli Mahmood Khan neighbourhood of the Afghan capital and shook buildings up to two kilometres (1.2 miles) away, with an AFP reporter saying he could hear gunshots after the blast.

"At first, a car bomb took place and then several attackers took over a building. The area is cordoned off by the police special forces and (they) are bringing down the attackers," interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said.&nbsp;

Health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar tweeted that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-kills-eight-election-commission-employees-in-south-afghanistan-officials-231728">53 wounded patients had been</a> taken to hospital, warning that the figures could rise.

The area was quickly blocked off by Afghan forces and ambulances, while the nearby "Green Zone" diplomatic area was put on lockdown, with no one allowed in or out.

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The heavily-secured neighbourhood is home to some military and government buildings, including one shared by Afghanistan's intelligence agency and defence ministry, as well as the Afghan Football Federation and the Afghan Cricket Board.

Shams Amini, a football federation spokesman, told AFP that the blast occurred near the federation's gates.&nbsp;

"Some of our colleagues are trapped inside, we have reports of some injuries. We don't know if the attackers have entered the building," he said.

Nearby Shamshad TV station, which was attacked in 2017, aired images of broken glass and damage to its offices but said it was not the target.

No group immediately claimed responsibility, and police said they did not yet know the target or nature of the blast.&nbsp;

The explosion came two days after the Taliban and the US began their seventh round of talks in the Qatari capital of Doha as Washington eyes a breakthrough before Afghanistan's September presidential election.

The negotiations have so far centred on four issues -- counter-terrorism, the foreign troop presence, an intra-Afghan dialogue and a permanent ceasefire.

A potential deal would see the US agree to withdraw its troops after more than 17 years in Afghanistan, igniting deep concerns among huge swathes of Afghans who fear the militants will return to some semblance of power.

In return, the Taliban would guarantee the country would never again become a safe haven for violent extremist groups, as happened with Al-Qaeda before the September 11, 2001 attacks.

US officials have previously said they are hoping for a deal before the upcoming Afghan presidential elections, which have already been delayed twice and are now slated for September 28.

Dozens of people were wounded with fatalities feared as a powerful car bomb rocked Kabul early on Monday and gunmen battled special forces in an area housing military and government buildings, officials said.

Dozens of people were wounded with fatalities feared as a powerful car bomb rocked Kabul early on Monday and gunmen battled special forces in an area housing military and government buildings, officials said. The rush-hour explosion sent a plume of smoke into the air above the Puli Mahmood Khan neighbourhood of the Afghan capital and shook buildings up to two kilometres (1.2 miles) away, with an AFP reporter saying he could hear gunshots after the blast. "At first, a car bomb took place and then several attackers took over a building. The area is cordoned off by the police special forces and (they) are bringing down the attackers," interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said. Health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar tweeted that 53 wounded patients had been taken to hospital, warning that the figures could rise. The area was quickly blocked off by Afghan forces and ambulances, while the nearby "Green Zone" diplomatic area was put on lockdown, with no one allowed in or out. The heavily-secured neighbourhood is home to some military and government buildings, including one shared by Afghanistan's intelligence agency and defence ministry, as well as the Afghan Football Federation and the Afghan Cricket Board. Shams Amini, a football federation spokesman, told AFP that the blast occurred near the federation's gates. "Some of our colleagues are trapped inside, we have reports of some injuries. We don't know if the attackers have entered the building," he said. Nearby Shamshad TV station, which was attacked in 2017, aired images of broken glass and damage to its offices but said it was not the target. No group immediately claimed responsibility, and police said they did not yet know the target or nature of the blast. The explosion came two days after the Taliban and the US began their seventh round of talks in the Qatari capital of Doha as Washington eyes a breakthrough before Afghanistan's September presidential election. The negotiations have so far centred on four issues -- counter-terrorism, the foreign troop presence, an intra-Afghan dialogue and a permanent ceasefire. A potential deal would see the US agree to withdraw its troops after more than 17 years in Afghanistan, igniting deep concerns among huge swathes of Afghans who fear the militants will return to some semblance of power. In return, the Taliban would guarantee the country would never again become a safe haven for violent extremist groups, as happened with Al-Qaeda before the September 11, 2001 attacks. US officials have previously said they are hoping for a deal before the upcoming Afghan presidential elections, which have already been delayed twice and are now slated for September 28.

Car bomb attack in Kabul's diplomatic area; several injured

Afghan authorities on Saturday announced that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blast-followed-by-gunfire-reported-in-afghanistan-capital-police-211996">hour-long attack in Kabul</a> was over. They also mentioned that all suicide bombers were killed.

"Operations finished. All suicide bombers killed &amp; more than 2000 civilians staff rescued," the Ministry of Interior said on Twitter.

Earlier today, Afghan central was hit by an explosion followed by gunfire.&nbsp;

The incident took place close to the communications ministry and one of the city's main hotels.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility.

The blast followed several months of relative calm in Kabul, which coincided with talks between US and Taliban officials aimed at opening the way for formal peace negotiations to end more than 17 years of war in Afghanistan.

Afghan authorities on Saturday announced that hour-long attack in Kabul was over. They also mentioned that all suicide bombers were killed. "Operations finished.

Afghan authorities on Saturday announced that hour-long attack in Kabul was over. They also mentioned that all suicide bombers were killed. "Operations finished. All suicide bombers killed & more than 2000 civilians staff rescued," the Ministry of Interior said on Twitter. Earlier today, Afghan central was hit by an explosion followed by gunfire. The incident took place close to the communications ministry and one of the city's main hotels. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. The blast followed several months of relative calm in Kabul, which coincided with talks between US and Taliban officials aimed at opening the way for formal peace negotiations to end more than 17 years of war in Afghanistan.

Kabul attack over, suicide bombers killed: Afghan ministry

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-kill-at-least-28-in-raid-on-afghan-government-building-186252">Gunmen kill at least 28 in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-kill-at-least-28-in-raid-on-afghan-government-building-186252">raid</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-kill-at-least-28-in-raid-on-afghan-government-building-186252"> on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-kill-at-least-28-in-raid-on-afghan-government-building-186252">Afghan</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-kill-at-least-28-in-raid-on-afghan-government-building-186252"> government building</a>

Gunmen who raided a government building in the Afghan capital killed at least 28 people - mostly government employees - and wounded more than 20 others in a seven-hour standoff with police that ended on Monday night, Afghan authorities said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/as-markets-slump-trump-calls-fed-only-problem-in-us-economy-186249">Trump attacks US central bank, says it is 'only problem' in economy</a>

President Donald Trump blasted the Federal Reserve on Monday, describing it as the "only problem" for the US economy, as top officials convened to discuss the growing rout in stock markets caused in part by the president's attacks on the central bank.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-say-trump-plunging-country-into-chaos-with-multiple-crises-186247">'Trump is plunging the country into chaos'</a>

US Democratic leaders charged Monday that President Donald Trump was "plunging the country into chaos" with multiple crises and said he was offering no way to end a government shutdown.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-indias-longest-rail-road-bridge-today-186250">Modi to inaugurate India's longest </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-indias-longest-rail-road-bridge-today-186250">rail-road</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-indias-longest-rail-road-bridge-today-186250"> bridge today in Assam</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Bogibeel bridge in Dibrugarh, Assam today. Bogibeel will be the country longest rail-road bridge.&nbsp;

The first passenger train passing through Bogibeel will be flagged off by Modi.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/on-christmas-pope-assails-insatiable-greed-of-todays-consumerism-186257">On Christmas, Pope assails 'insatiable greed' of today's consumerism</a>

Pope Francis assailed the "insatiable greed" of today's consumerism at the Vatican and pilgrims crowded into the church at the traditional site of Jesus's birth in Bethlehem on Tuesday as Christmas celebrations began worldwide.

Gunmen kill at least 28 in raid on Afghan government building Gunmen who raided a government building in the Afghan capital killed at least 28 people - mostly government employees - and wounded more than 20 others in a seven-hour standoff with police that ended on Monday night, Afghan authorities said.

Gunmen kill at least 28 in raid on Afghan government building Gunmen who raided a government building in the Afghan capital killed at least 28 people - mostly government employees - and wounded more than 20 others in a seven-hour standoff with police that ended on Monday night, Afghan authorities said. Trump attacks US central bank, says it is 'only problem' in economy President Donald Trump blasted the Federal Reserve on Monday, describing it as the "only problem" for the US economy, as top officials convened to discuss the growing rout in stock markets caused in part by the president's attacks on the central bank. 'Trump is plunging the country into chaos' US Democratic leaders charged Monday that President Donald Trump was "plunging the country into chaos" with multiple crises and said he was offering no way to end a government shutdown. Modi to inaugurate India's longest rail-road bridge today in Assam Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Bogibeel bridge in Dibrugarh, Assam today. Bogibeel will be the country longest rail-road bridge. The first passenger train passing through Bogibeel will be flagged off by Modi. On Christmas, Pope assails 'insatiable greed' of today's consumerism Pope Francis assailed the "insatiable greed" of today's consumerism at the Vatican and pilgrims crowded into the church at the traditional site of Jesus's birth in Bethlehem on Tuesday as Christmas celebrations began worldwide.

News brief: Big stories of the day

An hours-long gun and suicide <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-kill-at-least-28-in-raid-on-afghan-government-building-186252">attack on a Kabul government compound killed at least 43 people</a>, the health ministry said Tuesday, making it one of the deadliest assaults on the Afghan capital this year.

Another 10 were wounded in Monday's raid on a site where the Ministry of Public Works and other offices are located, spokesman Waheed Majroh said.

Gunmen stormed the compound mid-afternoon after detonating a car bomb at the entrance, sending terrifying government workers running for their lives. Some jumped from the windows.&nbsp;

Hundreds more were trapped inside buildings as security forces swarmed the area, engaging in a fierce gun battle with the attackers.&nbsp;

It was the deadliest attack in the Afghan capital since a suicide bomber blew himself up in the middle of a religious gathering last month, killing at least 55 people.&nbsp;

An hours-long gun and suicide attack on a Kabul government compound killed at least 43 people, the health ministry said Tuesday, making it one of the deadliest assaults on the Afghan capital this year.

An hours-long gun and suicide attack on a Kabul government compound killed at least 43 people, the health ministry said Tuesday, making it one of the deadliest assaults on the Afghan capital this year. Another 10 were wounded in Monday's raid on a site where the Ministry of Public Works and other offices are located, spokesman Waheed Majroh said. Gunmen stormed the compound mid-afternoon after detonating a car bomb at the entrance, sending terrifying government workers running for their lives. Some jumped from the windows. Hundreds more were trapped inside buildings as security forces swarmed the area, engaging in a fierce gun battle with the attackers. It was the deadliest attack in the Afghan capital since a suicide bomber blew himself up in the middle of a religious gathering last month, killing at least 55 people.

Afghanistan: 43 dead after gunmen attack govt compound in Kabul

Afghan authorities were struggling on Wednesday to identify the group behind a suicide bomb attack that killed at least 55 people attending a gathering of religious scholars in Kabul after the Taliban denied any responsibility.

The victims included religious delegates from various parts of the country, invited by the Afghan Ulema Council to celebrate the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammad on Tuesday.

Without knowing who was behind the attack, it was unclear whether the aim was simply to undermine President Ashraf Ghani's government, or whether it was part of a strategy to keep the pressure on his government and its Western allies while they pursued talks with the Taliban, to end the 17-year long war.

"As of now we don't know which militant outfit could be behind the attack. Investigations are at a preliminary stage," said a senior security official who was at the blast site on Wednesday morning to collect forensic evidence.

The council, the country’s largest religious organisation, brought together scholars from the Sunni sect, but it was uncertain whether the attack could have had a sectarian dimension.<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gGK8sFibt7o" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Though Sunni themselves, Taliban and Islamic State fighters have targeted religious scholars aligned with the Afghan government in the past.

This time, the Taliban quickly denied its involvement and condemned the attack on religious preachers and scholars.

Last week, Taliban leaders met US&nbsp;special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad at their political headquarters in Qatar in an effort to pave the way for peace talks. The three-day meeting was the second in the past month.

Khalilzad has declared a deadline of April 20, when Afghanistan's presidential election falls due, to end the war, but the country's security situation has worsened since NATO formally ended combat operations in 2014.

During recent days, US&nbsp;President Donald Trump has angered neighbouring Pakistan, which Afghan intelligence and Western military leaders have long suspected of giving succour to the Taliban.

Over the weekend, Trump said in an interview Pakistan doesn't "do a damn thing" for the United States despite billions of dollars in US&nbsp;aid, and alleged Pakistani officials knew of former al Qaeda leader bin Laden's location before his killing by US&nbsp;troops in a raid inside Pakistan in 2011.

The toll from Tuesday's attack could easily rise as most of the 80 wounded suffered severe injuries, hospital and government officials said early Wednesday, giving the latest casualty figures.

Investigators said the bomber had sneaked into a banquet hall on the first floor of a large building close to the Kabul airport, where some 200 people were gathered.

The explosion left body parts strewn all over the carpeted floor and copies of the Quran, the Muslim holy book, were scattered around burnt furniture.

"I was reciting verses from the Quran near the gate of the crowded banquet room when a loud explosion occurred. It was like a volcano," said Syed Usman, a Muslim scholar who had travelled from the outskirts of Kabul to attend.

Doctors at government and private hospitals in Kabul struggled to assist the badly wounded victims, many burned beyond recognition.

"The situation is really horrendous," said Mohammad Qaseem, a surgeon at the Kabul hospital.

Afghan authorities were struggling on Wednesday to identify the group behind a suicide bomb attack that killed at least 55 people attending a gathering of religious scholars in Kabul after the Taliban denied any responsibility.

Afghan authorities were struggling on Wednesday to identify the group behind a suicide bomb attack that killed at least 55 people attending a gathering of religious scholars in Kabul after the Taliban denied any responsibility. The victims included religious delegates from various parts of the country, invited by the Afghan Ulema Council to celebrate the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammad on Tuesday. Without knowing who was behind the attack, it was unclear whether the aim was simply to undermine President Ashraf Ghani's government, or whether it was part of a strategy to keep the pressure on his government and its Western allies while they pursued talks with the Taliban, to end the 17-year long war. "As of now we don't know which militant outfit could be behind the attack. Investigations are at a preliminary stage," said a senior security official who was at the blast site on Wednesday morning to collect forensic evidence. The council, the country’s largest religious organisation, brought together scholars from the Sunni sect, but it was uncertain whether the attack could have had a sectarian dimension. Though Sunni themselves, Taliban and Islamic State fighters have targeted religious scholars aligned with the Afghan government in the past. This time, the Taliban quickly denied its involvement and condemned the attack on religious preachers and scholars. Last week, Taliban leaders met US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad at their political headquarters in Qatar in an effort to pave the way for peace talks. The three-day meeting was the second in the past month. Khalilzad has declared a deadline of April 20, when Afghanistan's presidential election falls due, to end the war, but the country's security situation has worsened since NATO formally ended combat operations in 2014. During recent days, US President Donald Trump has angered neighbouring Pakistan, which Afghan intelligence and Western military leaders have long suspected of giving succour to the Taliban. Over the weekend, Trump said in an interview Pakistan doesn't "do a damn thing" for the United States despite billions of dollars in US aid, and alleged Pakistani officials knew of former al Qaeda leader bin Laden's location before his killing by US troops in a raid inside Pakistan in 2011. The toll from Tuesday's attack could easily rise as most of the 80 wounded suffered severe injuries, hospital and government officials said early Wednesday, giving the latest casualty figures. Investigators said the bomber had sneaked into a banquet hall on the first floor of a large building close to the Kabul airport, where some 200 people were gathered. The explosion left body parts strewn all over the carpeted floor and copies of the Quran, the Muslim holy book, were scattered around burnt furniture. "I was reciting verses from the Quran near the gate of the crowded banquet room when a loud explosion occurred. It was like a volcano," said Syed Usman, a Muslim scholar who had travelled from the outskirts of Kabul to attend. Doctors at government and private hospitals in Kabul struggled to assist the badly wounded victims, many burned beyond recognition. "The situation is really horrendous," said Mohammad Qaseem, a surgeon at the Kabul hospital.

Afghans try to identify group behind attack on clerics, toll climbs to 55

The Islamic State group claimed a suicide attack that killed six people in Kabul on Monday and wounded 20 others, its propaganda agency Amaq said.

"A suicide attacker wearing an explosives belt hits a gathering of Shiites near the presidential palace... in Kabul," Amaq said.

Afghan interior ministry spokesman Najib Danish said at least six people were killed in the blast, which struck in front of a high school in the downtown area of the Afghan capital, near the presidential palace.

Initial reports indicated most of the victims were members of the security forces, but Danish said civilians, including several women, had borne the brunt of the carnage.

The attack hit close to where scores of Afghans had been protesting Taliban attacks on the minority Hazara ethnic group, most of whom belong to the Shiite branch of Islam.&nbsp;

"The suicide attacker on foot wanted to target protesters, but he was stopped at a security checkpoint some 200 metres (660 feet) from the site," interior ministry deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said.

IS has claimed most suicide attacks in Kabul in recent months.

On October 31, an IS suicide bomber targeting a bus carrying employees of Afghanistan's biggest prison -- also in Kabul -- killed at least seven people.

That attack came days after a suicide bomber blew himself up near the entrance of Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission in the capital, killing at least one person.

The Islamic State group claimed a suicide attack that killed six people in Kabul on Monday and wounded 20 others, its propaganda agency Amaq said. "A suicide attacker wearing an explosives belt hits a gathering of Shiites near the presidential palace.

The Islamic State group claimed a suicide attack that killed six people in Kabul on Monday and wounded 20 others, its propaganda agency Amaq said. "A suicide attacker wearing an explosives belt hits a gathering of Shiites near the presidential palace... in Kabul," Amaq said. Afghan interior ministry spokesman Najib Danish said at least six people were killed in the blast, which struck in front of a high school in the downtown area of the Afghan capital, near the presidential palace. Initial reports indicated most of the victims were members of the security forces, but Danish said civilians, including several women, had borne the brunt of the carnage. The attack hit close to where scores of Afghans had been protesting Taliban attacks on the minority Hazara ethnic group, most of whom belong to the Shiite branch of Islam. "The suicide attacker on foot wanted to target protesters, but he was stopped at a security checkpoint some 200 metres (660 feet) from the site," interior ministry deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said. IS has claimed most suicide attacks in Kabul in recent months. On October 31, an IS suicide bomber targeting a bus carrying employees of Afghanistan's biggest prison -- also in Kabul -- killed at least seven people. That attack came days after a suicide bomber blew himself up near the entrance of Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission in the capital, killing at least one person.

IS claims deadly Kabul attack: Propaganda agency

A suicide bomber targeting a bus carrying employees of Afghanistan's biggest prison killed at least seven people on Wednesday, officials said, in the latest militant attack in the war-torn country.

Another five were wounded in the blast near the facility in Kabul, which police spokesman Basir Mujahid said had hit a vehicle that staff of Pul-e-Charkhi prison were travelling in. &nbsp;

The attacker was on foot, interior ministry spokesman Najib Danish said. He struck as the bus was entering the jail in the east of the Afghan capital. &nbsp;

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the explosion, but the Islamic State group (IS) has claimed most suicide attacks in Kabul in recent months.

The attack comes days after a suicide bomber blew himself up near the entrance of Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission in Kabul, killing at least one person and wounding six.

A wave of election-related violence has killed or wounded hundreds across the country in recent months as the Taliban and IS step up attacks on Afghan security forces and government workers.

Afghanistan's long-delayed parliamentary election, which was held over three days this month, was marred by chaos and deadly attacks.

Two days before voting began on October 20, a Taliban-claimed shooting killed a powerful police chief in the southern province of Kandahar.

General Abdul Raziq was among three people killed in the brazen insider attack on a high-level security meeting in the provincial capital that was attended by General Scott Miller, the top US and NATO commander in Afghanistan.

Miller escaped unhurt, but US Brigadier General Jeffrey Smiley was among 13 people wounded in the shooting, which the Taliban said had targeted Miller and Raziq.

US officials and NATO's Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan were adamant that Miller had not been a target.

Several days later another Taliban-claimed assault killed a NATO soldier and wounded two others -- all from the Czech Republic -- in the western province of Herat.

The attacks came amid a flurry of US-led diplomatic activity to convince the Taliban, Afghanistan's largest militant group, to negotiate an end to the 17-year war.

Earlier this month, newly appointed US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad met with Taliban representatives in Qatar.

Less than two weeks later a top Taliban commander held in Pakistani detention for more than eight years was freed.

A senior Taliban leader told AFP the group had requested the release of Abdul Ghani Baradar and several others at the meeting with Khalilzad.&nbsp;

A suicide bomber targeting a bus carrying employees of Afghanistan's biggest prison killed at least seven people on Wednesday, officials said, in the latest militant attack in the war-torn country.

A suicide bomber targeting a bus carrying employees of Afghanistan's biggest prison killed at least seven people on Wednesday, officials said, in the latest militant attack in the war-torn country. Another five were wounded in the blast near the facility in Kabul, which police spokesman Basir Mujahid said had hit a vehicle that staff of Pul-e-Charkhi prison were travelling in. The attacker was on foot, interior ministry spokesman Najib Danish said. He struck as the bus was entering the jail in the east of the Afghan capital. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the explosion, but the Islamic State group (IS) has claimed most suicide attacks in Kabul in recent months. The attack comes days after a suicide bomber blew himself up near the entrance of Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission in Kabul, killing at least one person and wounding six. A wave of election-related violence has killed or wounded hundreds across the country in recent months as the Taliban and IS step up attacks on Afghan security forces and government workers. Afghanistan's long-delayed parliamentary election, which was held over three days this month, was marred by chaos and deadly attacks. Two days before voting began on October 20, a Taliban-claimed shooting killed a powerful police chief in the southern province of Kandahar. General Abdul Raziq was among three people killed in the brazen insider attack on a high-level security meeting in the provincial capital that was attended by General Scott Miller, the top US and NATO commander in Afghanistan. Miller escaped unhurt, but US Brigadier General Jeffrey Smiley was among 13 people wounded in the shooting, which the Taliban said had targeted Miller and Raziq. US officials and NATO's Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan were adamant that Miller had not been a target. Several days later another Taliban-claimed assault killed a NATO soldier and wounded two others -- all from the Czech Republic -- in the western province of Herat. The attacks came amid a flurry of US-led diplomatic activity to convince the Taliban, Afghanistan's largest militant group, to negotiate an end to the 17-year war. Earlier this month, newly appointed US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad met with Taliban representatives in Qatar. Less than two weeks later a top Taliban commander held in Pakistani detention for more than eight years was freed. A senior Taliban leader told AFP the group had requested the release of Abdul Ghani Baradar and several others at the meeting with Khalilzad.

Seven killed in suicide attack near Kabul prison

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani condemned Monday’s suicide bomb attack outside a peace tent gathering of Muslim clerics in Kabul and backed their fatwa against suicide attacks, saying they violated the tenets of Islam.

The bomb killed 14 people, including seven clerics, and was the latest in a series of attacks that have underlined the deteriorating security ahead of parliamentary and district council elections set for Oct. 20.

The blast occurred near a Polytechnic University where clerics had gathered, reports said.

Reuters quoting security officials said a suicide bomber exploded a device near a tent where Muslim clerics had gathered to denounce terrorism.

Local media reported that at least 14 people, including 7 religious scholars and 4 security personnel, were killed in the&nbspattack.

“The attack that targeted the large gathering of clerics and religious scholars from across the country was in fact an attack against the heirs of the prophet of Islam and the values of Islam,” Ghani said in a video address, supporting the outlawing of suicide bombings.

“Unfortunately, the imposed war in Afghanistan every day takes lives of our innocent children.”

Islamic State, without providing evidence, claimed responsibility for the attack.

The Taliban, seeking to reimpose strict Islamic rule after their 2001 ouster by U.S.-led forces, denied involvement, but blamed the “American process”.

&nbsp

A series of bombings in Kabul has killed dozens of people in recent months and shown no sign of easing during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani condemned Monday’s suicide bomb attack outside a peace tent gathering of Muslim clerics in Kabul and backed their fatwa against suicide attacks, saying they violated the tenets of Islam. The bomb killed 14 people, including seven clerics, and was the latest in a series of attacks that have underlined the deteriorating security ahead of parliamentary and district council elections set for Oct. 20. The blast occurred near a Polytechnic University where clerics had gathered, reports said. Reuters quoting security officials said a suicide bomber exploded a device near a tent where Muslim clerics had gathered to denounce terrorism. Local media reported that at least 14 people, including 7 religious scholars and 4 security personnel, were killed in the&nbspattack. “The attack that targeted the large gathering of clerics and religious scholars from across the country was in fact an attack against the heirs of the prophet of Islam and the values of Islam,” Ghani said in a video address, supporting the outlawing of suicide bombings. “Unfortunately, the imposed war in Afghanistan every day takes lives of our innocent children.” Islamic State, without providing evidence, claimed responsibility for the attack. The Taliban, seeking to reimpose strict Islamic rule after their 2001 ouster by U.S.-led forces, denied involvement, but blamed the “American process”.

Afghanistan president backs suicide bomb fatwa after 14 killed

A suicide bomber on Wednesday killed at least 26 people, many of them teenagers, after detonating a device among a crowd of people in Kabul who were celebrating the Persian new year holiday, officials said.&nbsp;

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the deadly attack - the fifth suicide bombing in the Afghan capital in recent weeks - via its propaganda arm Amaq, SITE Intelligence Group said.&nbsp;

The Taliban earlier denied involvement on Twitter.&nbsp;

Another 18 people were wounded in the blast, interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said, &quot;all of them civilians&quot;. 
&nbsp; 
There were fears the figure could rise, however, with the health ministry giving a higher toll of 29 people killed and 52 wounded. Afghan officials often give conflicting tolls in the wake of attacks.

The bomber, who was on foot, detonated his device in front of Kabul University and a hospital that was opposite, Rahimi said. 
&nbsp; 
The blast occurred less than 200 metres from Karte Sakhi shrine where many Afghans gather every year to mark Nawrooz, which is the traditional Persian new year holiday - but had been unable to reach it due to heavy security for the holiday.

So he &quot;detonated himself among teenagers returning from there&quot;, Kabul police chief Mohammad Daud Amin told Tolo News.

Bloodstains could be seen among scattered belongings on the road at the site of the attack. A man who was standing metres from where the explosion happened told Tolo that he saw &quot;at least four bodies in blood&quot; on the ground.

IS has attacked the same shrine once before, in October 2016 when gunmen killed 18 people gathered to mark Ashura, an important date for many Muslims, especially Shi&#39;ites.

President Ashraf Ghani, whose government has been repeatedly lambasted for its inability to protect its citizens, condemned the attack in a statement as a &quot;crime against humanity&quot;.

Taliban and Islamic State militants have increasingly targeted the war-weary city in recent months as US and Afghan forces ramp up air strikes and ground offensives against the groups. Wednesday`s blast comes days after a Taliban suicide attacker blew up a bomb-laden car in Kabul, causing multiple casualties. 
&nbsp; 
Some Western and Afghan security experts believe the Haqqani Network, a hard-line wing of the Taliban, has been behind some of the attacks in Kabul in recent months, including those claimed by IS.

The Taliban, Afghanistan`s largest militant group, faces growing pressure to take up a recent offer by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani of peace talks to end the 16-year war. So far it has given only a muted response. This latest suicide attack underscores the growing challenge facing Afghan and foreign forces to protect the already heavily militarised city.&nbsp;

Authorities had increased security ahead of Nawrooz festivities, which militants have previously struck with deadly force.

General John Nicholson, who leads US and NATO forces in Afghanistan, recently told reporters that protecting Kabul was a priority for foreign troops.

&quot;Kabul is our main effort right now, to harden Kabul, to protect the people of Kabul and the international community that are here because of the strategic impact that has and the importance to the campaign,&quot; Nicholson said.&nbsp;

But he acknowledged that preventing further attacks would be challenging in the sprawling city that is poorly mapped and extremely porous.&nbsp;

The latest attack comes as US Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford visits Afghanistan to assess the military campaign against insurgents - weeks before the start of the spring fighting season, which is expected to be particularly bloody this year.&nbsp;

Despite calls for the Taliban to sit down with the Afghan government, the group appears to have few reasons to negotiate.

The Taliban has been resurgent since the withdrawal of US-led NATO combat troops at the end of 2014, taking back territory and devastating Afghanistan`s beleaguered security forces.

In October, insurgents controlled or influenced nearly half of Afghanistan`s districts - double the percentage in 2015, the US government`s office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction said in January.

Over the same period, the watchdog said, the number of districts under Afghan government control or influence fell to its lowest level since December 2015.

The Taliban earlier denied involvement on Twitter

A suicide bomber on Wednesday killed at least 26 people, many of them teenagers, after detonating a device among a crowd of people in Kabul who were celebrating the Persian new year holiday, officials said. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the deadly attack - the fifth suicide bombing in the Afghan capital in recent weeks - via its propaganda arm Amaq, SITE Intelligence Group said. The Taliban earlier denied involvement on Twitter. Another 18 people were wounded in the blast, interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said, "all of them civilians". There were fears the figure could rise, however, with the health ministry giving a higher toll of 29 people killed and 52 wounded. Afghan officials often give conflicting tolls in the wake of attacks. The bomber, who was on foot, detonated his device in front of Kabul University and a hospital that was opposite, Rahimi said. The blast occurred less than 200 metres from Karte Sakhi shrine where many Afghans gather every year to mark Nawrooz, which is the traditional Persian new year holiday - but had been unable to reach it due to heavy security for the holiday. So he "detonated himself among teenagers returning from there", Kabul police chief Mohammad Daud Amin told Tolo News. Bloodstains could be seen among scattered belongings on the road at the site of the attack. A man who was standing metres from where the explosion happened told Tolo that he saw "at least four bodies in blood" on the ground. IS has attacked the same shrine once before, in October 2016 when gunmen killed 18 people gathered to mark Ashura, an important date for many Muslims, especially Shi'ites. President Ashraf Ghani, whose government has been repeatedly lambasted for its inability to protect its citizens, condemned the attack in a statement as a "crime against humanity". Taliban and Islamic State militants have increasingly targeted the war-weary city in recent months as US and Afghan forces ramp up air strikes and ground offensives against the groups. Wednesday`s blast comes days after a Taliban suicide attacker blew up a bomb-laden car in Kabul, causing multiple casualties. Some Western and Afghan security experts believe the Haqqani Network, a hard-line wing of the Taliban, has been behind some of the attacks in Kabul in recent months, including those claimed by IS. The Taliban, Afghanistan`s largest militant group, faces growing pressure to take up a recent offer by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani of peace talks to end the 16-year war. So far it has given only a muted response. This latest suicide attack underscores the growing challenge facing Afghan and foreign forces to protect the already heavily militarised city. Authorities had increased security ahead of Nawrooz festivities, which militants have previously struck with deadly force. General John Nicholson, who leads US and NATO forces in Afghanistan, recently told reporters that protecting Kabul was a priority for foreign troops. "Kabul is our main effort right now, to harden Kabul, to protect the people of Kabul and the international community that are here because of the strategic impact that has and the importance to the campaign," Nicholson said. But he acknowledged that preventing further attacks would be challenging in the sprawling city that is poorly mapped and extremely porous. The latest attack comes as US Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford visits Afghanistan to assess the military campaign against insurgents - weeks before the start of the spring fighting season, which is expected to be particularly bloody this year. Despite calls for the Taliban to sit down with the Afghan government, the group appears to have few reasons to negotiate. The Taliban has been resurgent since the withdrawal of US-led NATO combat troops at the end of 2014, taking back territory and devastating Afghanistan`s beleaguered security forces. In October, insurgents controlled or influenced nearly half of Afghanistan`s districts - double the percentage in 2015, the US government`s office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction said in January. Over the same period, the watchdog said, the number of districts under Afghan government control or influence fell to its lowest level since December 2015.

Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul attack

Pakistan today strongly condemned a suicide attack near a Shia shrine in the Afghan capital that killed 29 people and wounded 52 others.

&quot;We are grieved at the loss of precious and innocent lives in this brutal attack of terrorism.We express our deepest sympathies and condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured,&quot; the Foreign Office said in a statement.

Pakistan reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all forms and manifestations and expresses solidarity with the government and people of Afghanistan in their fight against the menace of terrorism, it further said.

An Islamic State suicide bomber struck on the road to a Shia shrine in Kabul today, killing at least 29 people.

The Afghan Public Health Ministry said another 52 people were wounded in the attack.&nbsp;

Pakistan today strongly condemned a suicide attack near a Shia shrine in the Afghan capital that killed 29 people and wounded 52 others

Pakistan today strongly condemned a suicide attack near a Shia shrine in the Afghan capital that killed 29 people and wounded 52 others. "We are grieved at the loss of precious and innocent lives in this brutal attack of terrorism.We express our deepest sympathies and condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured," the Foreign Office said in a statement. Pakistan reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all forms and manifestations and expresses solidarity with the government and people of Afghanistan in their fight against the menace of terrorism, it further said. An Islamic State suicide bomber struck on the road to a Shia shrine in Kabul today, killing at least 29 people. The Afghan Public Health Ministry said another 52 people were wounded in the attack.

Pakistan condemns suicide attack in Kabul

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India today reacted on reports of social media giant Facebook&#39;s alleged involvement in the misuse of users&#39; private data. Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Ravi Shankar Prasad broke his silence on the issue stating that India will not permit or tolerate any attempt to misuse social media.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cambridge-analytica-facebook-row-indian-website-ovleno-currently-unavailable-36635">Cambridge Analytica-Facebook row: Indian website &#39;Ovleno&#39; currently unavailable&nbsp;</a>

An Indian business intelligence firm Ovleno Business Intelligence (OBI) has come under fire over alleged links with Facebook data breach issue. Its website is currently not available.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikh-youths-from-canada-europe-beingtrained-at-isi-facilities-in-pakhome-ministry-to-parliamentarypanel-36611">Sikh youths from Canada &amp; Europe being trained at ISI facilities in Pak: Home Ministry to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikh-youths-from-canada-europe-beingtrained-at-isi-facilities-in-pakhome-ministry-to-parliamentarypanel-36611">parliamentary</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikh-youths-from-canada-europe-beingtrained-at-isi-facilities-in-pakhome-ministry-to-parliamentarypanel-36611"> panel</a>

Top officials of the Home Ministry headed by BJP leader Murli Manohar have reportedly told a parliamentary panel that Sikh youths are being trained by Pakistan&#39;s intelligence agency - ISI- and are targeting several members of the community settled in Canada.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-kabul-attack-36628">Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul attack</a>

A suicide bomber on Wednesday killed at least 26 people, many of them teenagers, after detonating a device among a crowd of people in Kabul who were celebrating the Persian new year holiday, officials said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/163-armymen-have-died-in-siachen-in-last-10-years-due-to-harsh-weather-government-36640">163 Armymen have died in Siachen in last 10 years due to harsh weather: Government</a>

The Siachen glacier in the Karakorum range is known as the highest militarised zone in the world where the soldiers have to battle frostbite and high winds.

&nbsp;

Let my stern warning be heard across the Atlantic: Ravi Shankar Prasad on Facebook data breach India today reacted on reports of social media giant Facebook's alleged involvement in the misuse of users' private data. Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Ravi Shankar Prasad broke his silence on the issue stating that India will not permit or tolerate any attempt to misuse social media. Cambridge Analytica-Facebook row: Indian website 'Ovleno' currently unavailable An Indian business intelligence firm Ovleno Business Intelligence (OBI) has come under fire over alleged links with Facebook data breach issue. Its website is currently not available. Sikh youths from Canada & Europe being trained at ISI facilities in Pak: Home Ministry to parliamentary panel Top officials of the Home Ministry headed by BJP leader Murli Manohar have reportedly told a parliamentary panel that Sikh youths are being trained by Pakistan's intelligence agency - ISI- and are targeting several members of the community settled in Canada. Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul attack A suicide bomber on Wednesday killed at least 26 people, many of them teenagers, after detonating a device among a crowd of people in Kabul who were celebrating the Persian new year holiday, officials said. 163 Armymen have died in Siachen in last 10 years due to harsh weather: Government The Siachen glacier in the Karakorum range is known as the highest militarised zone in the world where the soldiers have to battle frostbite and high winds.

WION evening news brief, March 21, 2018

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