The Taliban killed at least 10 people including two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-envoy-zalmay-khalilzad-meets-afghan-president-in-kabul-247118">NATO troops in a bombing</a> in Kabul on Thursday, in another horrific attack on the Afghan capital as the US and the insurgents negotiate a deal to see American troops leave the country.

The car bomb blast shook Shash Darak, a heavily fortified area adjacent to the Green Zone and home to several important complexes including the National Directorate of Security (NDS), the Afghan intelligence service.

Apparent surveillance<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-suicide-blast-kills-at-least-4-in-kabul-city-246717"> footage of the attack</a>, which occurred at about 10:10 am (0540 GMT), showed a grey minivan explode just after it had cut in front of a line of white SUVs waiting to make a right turn onto a street.

One nearby pedestrian can be seen turning and trying to run away as the minivan crashed through a barrier just before the blast.

Resolute Support, the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, said a Romanian and an American service member had been killed in the explosion.

Romania's defence ministry said the Romanian soldier had been conducting a joint patrol near the Green Zone. The American death brings to at least 16 the number of US military killed in action in Afghanistan this year, just as Washington is seeking a way out of its longest war.

According to interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi, at least 10 people were killed and 42 more wounded.

On Twitter, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack, saying a "martyrdom seeker" - or suicide bomber - had triggered the car bomb and that 12 "foreign invaders" were killed.

Massoud Zazai, who owns a photo studio across the street from the blast site, said he was in his shop when the explosion happened.

"I fell off my chair and it got dark inside the shop because of smoke and dust," Zazai said. "I went out to the scene moments after the attack, the side of the road was littered with debris and bodies."

Through the smoke, Zazai said he could hear injured people crying and calling for their mothers and brothers.

"I saw at least five very badly injured, one was covered in blood and not moving. It was horrifying."

The attack was close to where the Islamic State group killed nine journalists in a blast in April last year, including AFP Kabul's chief photographer Shah Marai.

It was the second Romanian national to be killed by the Taliban this week. On Monday, a Romanian was among at least 16 people killed in a Taliban attack on a residential area in east Kabul.

Currently, Romania contributes about 760 military personnel to the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, which has a total force size of about 17,000 troops from 39 countries. About half of these are American.

The capital has been gripped by a surge in deadly violence even after the US and the insurgents reached an agreement "in principle" that would see the Pentagon pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in return for various Taliban security promises.

But there is increasing unease about the deal, with Afghans fearing it will lead to a return of the Taliban to power, and a growing chorus of US lawmakers and officials expressing doubts.

According to parts of the deal made public so far, the Pentagon would pull about 5,000 of its 13,000 or so troops from five bases across Afghanistan by early next year, provided the Taliban hews to its security pledges.

The insurgents have said they will renounce Al-Qaeda, fight the Islamic State group and stop jihadists using Afghanistan as a safe haven.

On Wednesday, the Afghan government expressed doubts about the prospective deal, saying officials need more information about the risks it poses.

"There is too much concern about it, and we are still not assured of what consequences this agreement could have for Afghanistan's future," presidential advisor Waheed Omar told journalists Thursday.

"The people of Afghanistan have been bitten by the snake before, and have been witness to the consequences of hasty deals".

Even as negotiations for an accord have entered what are widely considered to be the final stages, violence has surged across Afghanistan.

On Saturday, the Taliban attempted to seize the provincial capital of Kunduz in the north and sporadic fighting has continued on the outskirts all week.&nbsp;

Insurgents launched an operation in the city of Pul-e Khumri, the capital of neighbouring Baghlan province on Sunday.

The Taliban killed at least 10 people including two NATO troops in a bombing in Kabul on Thursday, in another horrific attack on the Afghan capital as the US and the insurgents negotiate a deal to see American troops leave the country.

The Taliban killed at least 10 people including two NATO troops in a bombing in Kabul on Thursday, in another horrific attack on the Afghan capital as the US and the insurgents negotiate a deal to see American troops leave the country. The car bomb blast shook Shash Darak, a heavily fortified area adjacent to the Green Zone and home to several important complexes including the National Directorate of Security (NDS), the Afghan intelligence service. Apparent surveillance footage of the attack, which occurred at about 10:10 am (0540 GMT), showed a grey minivan explode just after it had cut in front of a line of white SUVs waiting to make a right turn onto a street. One nearby pedestrian can be seen turning and trying to run away as the minivan crashed through a barrier just before the blast. Resolute Support, the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, said a Romanian and an American service member had been killed in the explosion. Romania's defence ministry said the Romanian soldier had been conducting a joint patrol near the Green Zone. The American death brings to at least 16 the number of US military killed in action in Afghanistan this year, just as Washington is seeking a way out of its longest war. According to interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi, at least 10 people were killed and 42 more wounded. On Twitter, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack, saying a "martyrdom seeker" - or suicide bomber - had triggered the car bomb and that 12 "foreign invaders" were killed. Massoud Zazai, who owns a photo studio across the street from the blast site, said he was in his shop when the explosion happened. "I fell off my chair and it got dark inside the shop because of smoke and dust," Zazai said. "I went out to the scene moments after the attack, the side of the road was littered with debris and bodies." Through the smoke, Zazai said he could hear injured people crying and calling for their mothers and brothers. "I saw at least five very badly injured, one was covered in blood and not moving. It was horrifying." The attack was close to where the Islamic State group killed nine journalists in a blast in April last year, including AFP Kabul's chief photographer Shah Marai. It was the second Romanian national to be killed by the Taliban this week. On Monday, a Romanian was among at least 16 people killed in a Taliban attack on a residential area in east Kabul. Currently, Romania contributes about 760 military personnel to the US-led NATO mission in Afghanistan, which has a total force size of about 17,000 troops from 39 countries. About half of these are American. The capital has been gripped by a surge in deadly violence even after the US and the insurgents reached an agreement "in principle" that would see the Pentagon pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in return for various Taliban security promises. But there is increasing unease about the deal, with Afghans fearing it will lead to a return of the Taliban to power, and a growing chorus of US lawmakers and officials expressing doubts. According to parts of the deal made public so far, the Pentagon would pull about 5,000 of its 13,000 or so troops from five bases across Afghanistan by early next year, provided the Taliban hews to its security pledges. The insurgents have said they will renounce Al-Qaeda, fight the Islamic State group and stop jihadists using Afghanistan as a safe haven. On Wednesday, the Afghan government expressed doubts about the prospective deal, saying officials need more information about the risks it poses. "There is too much concern about it, and we are still not assured of what consequences this agreement could have for Afghanistan's future," presidential advisor Waheed Omar told journalists Thursday. "The people of Afghanistan have been bitten by the snake before, and have been witness to the consequences of hasty deals". Even as negotiations for an accord have entered what are widely considered to be the final stages, violence has surged across Afghanistan. On Saturday, the Taliban attempted to seize the provincial capital of Kunduz in the north and sporadic fighting has continued on the outskirts all week. Insurgents launched an operation in the city of Pul-e Khumri, the capital of neighbouring Baghlan province on Sunday.

Two NATO troops among 10 killed in Kabul suicide attack; Taliban claims responsibility

A Taliban suicide blast in the centre of Kabul killed at least 10 people and wounded more than 40 on Thursday, destroying cars and shops in an area near the headquarters of Afghanistan's NATO force and the US embassy, officials said.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack even as the insurgents and US officials have been negotiating a deal on a US troop withdrawal in exchange for Taliban security guarantees.

"At least 10 civilians have been killed and 42 injured were taken to hospitals," said Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman for the interior ministry in Kabul.

Video footage and photographs posted on social media showed several cars and small shops torn apart by the blast at a checkpoint on a road near the NATO office and US embassy. Police cordoned off the area.

Witnesses said the suicide bomber blew himself up as hundreds of people were standing or crossing the road.

Besmellah Ahmadi said he suffered minor wounds in the blast and sought shelter in a shop.

"My car windows were shattered. People rushed to get me out of the car," he told Reuters.

On Monday, a Taliban suicide truck bomber attacked a compound used by international organisations in Kabul, killing at least 16 people and wounding more than 100.

The US top negotiator for peace in Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad said this week the two sides had drawn up a draft framework agreement under which US troops would leave five military bases in Afghanistan within 135 days of the signing of the pact.

There are some 14,000 US troops in Afghanistan, deployed at various bases across the country.

Khalilzad is expected to meet Afghan and NATO officials to explain the draft agreement, which must still be approved by US President Donald Trump before it can be signed.

Khalilzad, a veteran Afghan-American diplomat, has shared details of the draft with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, and sought his opinion before firming up an agreement that could bring an end to America's longest military intervention overseas.

But Ghani's government is seeking clarification from the United States on the draft agreement.

A Taliban suicide blast in the centre of Kabul killed at least 10 people and wounded more than 40 on Thursday, destroying cars and shops in an area near the headquarters of Afghanistan's NATO force and the US embassy, officials said.

A Taliban suicide blast in the centre of Kabul killed at least 10 people and wounded more than 40 on Thursday, destroying cars and shops in an area near the headquarters of Afghanistan's NATO force and the US embassy, officials said. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack even as the insurgents and US officials have been negotiating a deal on a US troop withdrawal in exchange for Taliban security guarantees. "At least 10 civilians have been killed and 42 injured were taken to hospitals," said Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman for the interior ministry in Kabul. Video footage and photographs posted on social media showed several cars and small shops torn apart by the blast at a checkpoint on a road near the NATO office and US embassy. Police cordoned off the area. Witnesses said the suicide bomber blew himself up as hundreds of people were standing or crossing the road. Besmellah Ahmadi said he suffered minor wounds in the blast and sought shelter in a shop. "My car windows were shattered. People rushed to get me out of the car," he told Reuters. On Monday, a Taliban suicide truck bomber attacked a compound used by international organisations in Kabul, killing at least 16 people and wounding more than 100. The US top negotiator for peace in Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad said this week the two sides had drawn up a draft framework agreement under which US troops would leave five military bases in Afghanistan within 135 days of the signing of the pact. There are some 14,000 US troops in Afghanistan, deployed at various bases across the country. Khalilzad is expected to meet Afghan and NATO officials to explain the draft agreement, which must still be approved by US President Donald Trump before it can be signed. Khalilzad, a veteran Afghan-American diplomat, has shared details of the draft with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, and sought his opinion before firming up an agreement that could bring an end to America's longest military intervention overseas. But Ghani's government is seeking clarification from the United States on the draft agreement.

Afghanistan: Taliban suicide bomber kills at least 10 in Kabul, 42 wounded

The toll from a massive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-at-least-six-security-personnel-killed-in-explosion-in-kunduz-city-247159">blast claimed by the Taliban</a> in Kabul has risen to 16 dead -- all civilians -- with scores more wounded, an official said Tuesday.

Monday night's attack took place in a residential area near Green Village, a large compound that houses aid agencies and international organisations.

Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast was caused by a tractor packed with explosives that had been parked alongside a wall by Green Village.

"Sixteen killed, 119 wounded in last night's attack," Rahimi said, noting a search-and-rescue operation had lasted through the night.

Green Village is separate from the nearby Green Zone, a walled-off and heavily fortified part of Kabul that is home to several embassies including the US and British missions.

The Taliban claimed the attack, which came as US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad was in Kabul to discuss a proposed deal that would see the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-to-withdraw-5000-troops-from-afghanistan-close-bases-zalmay-khalilzad-247234">US withdraw troops from Afghanistan </a>in return for insurgent security guarantees.

Residents in the area around Green Village were furious that their neighbourhood, which has been targeted before, had been hit once again and blamed the international presence.&nbsp;

Locals set tyres on fire, sending plumes of thick, acrid smoke into the morning sky, and closed off a main road alongside the scene of the attack.

"We want these foreigners to move out of our neighbourhood," local resident Abdul Jamil told AFP.&nbsp;

"This is not the first time we suffer because of them... We don't want them here anymore."

The toll from a massive blast claimed by the Taliban in Kabul has risen to 16 dead -- all civilians -- with scores more wounded, an official said Tuesday. Monday night's attack took place in a residential area near Green Village, a large compound that houses aid agencies and international organisations.

The toll from a massive blast claimed by the Taliban in Kabul has risen to 16 dead -- all civilians -- with scores more wounded, an official said Tuesday. Monday night's attack took place in a residential area near Green Village, a large compound that houses aid agencies and international organisations. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast was caused by a tractor packed with explosives that had been parked alongside a wall by Green Village. "Sixteen killed, 119 wounded in last night's attack," Rahimi said, noting a search-and-rescue operation had lasted through the night. Green Village is separate from the nearby Green Zone, a walled-off and heavily fortified part of Kabul that is home to several embassies including the US and British missions. The Taliban claimed the attack, which came as US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad was in Kabul to discuss a proposed deal that would see the US withdraw troops from Afghanistan in return for insurgent security guarantees. Residents in the area around Green Village were furious that their neighbourhood, which has been targeted before, had been hit once again and blamed the international presence. Locals set tyres on fire, sending plumes of thick, acrid smoke into the morning sky, and closed off a main road alongside the scene of the attack. "We want these foreigners to move out of our neighbourhood," local resident Abdul Jamil told AFP. "This is not the first time we suffer because of them... We don't want them here anymore."

Death toll rises to 16, more than 100 injured in Kabul blast: Official

The groom of a wedding in western Kabul that was hit by a suicide blast that killed dozens told media on Monday his happiness has been "taken away".

'They took my happiness away'- Afghan groom after Islamic State attack on his wedding

Blast at Shahr-e-Dubai wedding hall. Dozens killed and injured in this Kabul wedding hall explosion. Watch this video to know more.

Dozens killed, injured in Kabul wedding hall explosion

A Taliban suicide car bomber targeted a police station the Afghan capital on Wednesday, killing 14 people.

Explosion rocks Afghan capital of Kabul

A powerful explosion hit central Kabul during rush hour on Sunday, killing at least 16 people and injuring more than 50. Afghnaistan's Vice Presidential candidate Amarullah Saleh was also injured in the attack.

Kabul blast death toll rises to 16

At least one person was killed and 13 others wounded in an attack Sunday targeting the Kabul office of the running mate of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, officials said.

The violence came the same day as Afghanistan marked the official start of campaign season for the upcoming presidential elections, serving as a grim reminder of the sort of mayhem and bloodshed that have marred previous polls.

Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the attack began with a blast in north Kabul near the office for Green Trend, a youth- and reform-focused civil society organisation that Amrullah Saleh heads.

"At around 4:40 pm (1210 GMT), first a blast occurred near Green Trend office... then a number of attackers entered that office," Rahimi said.

Two hours later, the attack was still ongoing.

"The security forces have cordoned off the area. The security forces are trying to kill the attackers as soon as possible," he continued.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Rahimi said Saleh, who has previously served as the head of the country's intelligence agency, was not wounded.

Ejaz Malikzada, a witness, told AFP he had heard three explosions.

"It is a direct attack on the office of the Green Trend," he said. "I have heard three explosions so far, and gunfire is also continuing."

Images on social media showed a large plume of smoke rising above the city.

Health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar said at least one person had been killed and 13 wounded so far.&nbsp;

Initial reports said the attack had been near a wedding hall that earlier hosted a campaign rally for Afghanistan's chief executive Abdullah Abdullah, one of the leading candidates running against Ghani on September 28.

At least one person was killed and 13 others wounded in an attack Sunday targeting the Kabul office of the running mate of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, officials said.

At least one person was killed and 13 others wounded in an attack Sunday targeting the Kabul office of the running mate of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, officials said. The violence came the same day as Afghanistan marked the official start of campaign season for the upcoming presidential elections, serving as a grim reminder of the sort of mayhem and bloodshed that have marred previous polls. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the attack began with a blast in north Kabul near the office for Green Trend, a youth- and reform-focused civil society organisation that Amrullah Saleh heads. "At around 4:40 pm (1210 GMT), first a blast occurred near Green Trend office... then a number of attackers entered that office," Rahimi said. Two hours later, the attack was still ongoing. "The security forces have cordoned off the area. The security forces are trying to kill the attackers as soon as possible," he continued. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Rahimi said Saleh, who has previously served as the head of the country's intelligence agency, was not wounded. Ejaz Malikzada, a witness, told AFP he had heard three explosions. "It is a direct attack on the office of the Green Trend," he said. "I have heard three explosions so far, and gunfire is also continuing." Images on social media showed a large plume of smoke rising above the city. Health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar said at least one person had been killed and 13 wounded so far. Initial reports said the attack had been near a wedding hall that earlier hosted a campaign rally for Afghanistan's chief executive Abdullah Abdullah, one of the leading candidates running against Ghani on September 28.

Afghanistan: One dead, 13 injured as explosion hits office of President Ashraf Ghani's running mate

A huge blast was reported in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-bombers-kill-19-including-afghan-election-workers-231800">Kabul </a>on Monday, sending a plume of black smoke over the Afghan capital.

The explosion occurred during rush hour in the Puli Mahmood Khan neighbourhood of the city.

Reuters witnesses said the sound shook the building.&nbsp;Kabul police officials confirmed there had been an explosion, but gave no immediate details.

Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast hit a densely populated area where the ministry of defence is located.

An AFP reporter said he could hear gunshots shortly after the blast, which sent a plume of smoke into the air above the area.

"Dozens of wounded were taken to hospitals from today's blast in Kabul," health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar tweeted.&nbsp;

The neighbourhood is home to some military and government buildings, as well as the Afghan football federation and the Afghan cricket board.

No group immediately claimed responsibility, and it was not immediately clear what the precise target was.&nbsp;

It comes a day after Taliban bombers targeting a district centre in southern Afghanistan killing 19 people, including eight election workers.

The militants had earlier rammed four armoured vehicles packed with explosives into a government compound in Maruf district late on Saturday.&nbsp;

The violence comes amid stepped-up efforts by the United States to find a negotiated end to America's longest war, with Washington and the Taliban opening a fresh round of negotiations in Doha on Saturday.

(Inputs: Reuters, AFP)

A huge blast was reported in Kabul on Monday, sending a plume of black smoke over the Afghan capital. The explosion occurred during rush hour in the Puli Mahmood Khan neighbourhood of the city.

A huge blast was reported in Kabul on Monday, sending a plume of black smoke over the Afghan capital. The explosion occurred during rush hour in the Puli Mahmood Khan neighbourhood of the city. Reuters witnesses said the sound shook the building. Kabul police officials confirmed there had been an explosion, but gave no immediate details. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast hit a densely populated area where the ministry of defence is located. An AFP reporter said he could hear gunshots shortly after the blast, which sent a plume of smoke into the air above the area. "Dozens of wounded were taken to hospitals from today's blast in Kabul," health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar tweeted. The neighbourhood is home to some military and government buildings, as well as the Afghan football federation and the Afghan cricket board. No group immediately claimed responsibility, and it was not immediately clear what the precise target was. It comes a day after Taliban bombers targeting a district centre in southern Afghanistan killing 19 people, including eight election workers. The militants had earlier rammed four armoured vehicles packed with explosives into a government compound in Maruf district late on Saturday. The violence comes amid stepped-up efforts by the United States to find a negotiated end to America's longest war, with Washington and the Taliban opening a fresh round of negotiations in Doha on Saturday. (Inputs: Reuters, AFP)

Afghanistan: Blast near defence ministry in Kabul; several injured

At least four people were killed Monday when a bomb tore through a bus in Kabul, an official said, marking the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/student-bus-targeted-amid-deadly-wave-of-kabul-bombings-223693">second day straight that attackers have targeted a bus</a>.

The vehicle was taking workers home from a government watchdog agency ahead of the Eid holidays marking the end of Ramadan when the bomb exploded.

Farid Ahmad, a spokesman for the Independent Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission (IARCSC), told AFP the bomb had been concealed on a bicycle along the side of the road.

"Unfortunately, we have lost four colleagues, nine have been wounded", Ahmad said.

Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi put the toll at five dead and 10 wounded -- all of them civilians.

Video:&nbsp;3 explosions rocked Afghanistan's capital, 1killed

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He said the explosion had been caused by a sticky bomb, a common threat in Kabul where criminals and insurgents slap explosives under vehicles.

No one immediately claimed responsibility.

The blast comes one day after two people were killed and dozens more wounded in Kabul as a wave of bombings hit civilian targets -- including a university school bus -- across the Afghan capital.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for those bombings on Sunday.&nbsp;

Buses carrying government employees have remained a constant target of militant attacks during the rush hour in Kabul.

The IARCSC was established in 2002 with the aim of providing oversight to the notoriously corrupt Afghan civil service.

At least four people were killed Monday when a bomb tore through a bus in Kabul, an official said, marking the second day straight that attackers have targeted a bus.

At least four people were killed Monday when a bomb tore through a bus in Kabul, an official said, marking the second day straight that attackers have targeted a bus. The vehicle was taking workers home from a government watchdog agency ahead of the Eid holidays marking the end of Ramadan when the bomb exploded. Farid Ahmad, a spokesman for the Independent Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission (IARCSC), told AFP the bomb had been concealed on a bicycle along the side of the road. "Unfortunately, we have lost four colleagues, nine have been wounded", Ahmad said. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi put the toll at five dead and 10 wounded -- all of them civilians. Video: 3 explosions rocked Afghanistan's capital, 1killed He said the explosion had been caused by a sticky bomb, a common threat in Kabul where criminals and insurgents slap explosives under vehicles. No one immediately claimed responsibility. The blast comes one day after two people were killed and dozens more wounded in Kabul as a wave of bombings hit civilian targets -- including a university school bus -- across the Afghan capital. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for those bombings on Sunday. Buses carrying government employees have remained a constant target of militant attacks during the rush hour in Kabul. The IARCSC was established in 2002 with the aim of providing oversight to the notoriously corrupt Afghan civil service.

Afghanistan: At least four killed as government bus hit in Kabul blast

At least four bystanders were killed and four U.S. troops wounded Friday when a suicide car bomb targeted a passing U.S. convoy in the Afghan capital, U.S. and Afghan

3 explosions rocked Afghanistan's capital, 1killed

A car packed with explosives blew up near a heavily fortified foreign compound in Kabul on Monday, killing at least four people and wounding more than 90, officials said, in the latest deadly attack to rock the Afghan capital.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the huge blast, which shook the sprawling city, but it comes as diplomatic efforts to end the 17-year war with the Taliban gather pace.&nbsp;

The explosion happened near Green Village, a highly secure compound close to a busy road and residential neighbourhoods in the east of the city.&nbsp;

So far, four people had been confirmed dead and more than 90 wounded, including 23 children, interior ministry deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said.&nbsp;

There are fears the toll could rise.&nbsp;

Three of the dead were members of the security forces and one was a civilian. Most of the wounded were civilians, who have long borne the brunt of the Afghan war.

Until recently some UN staff had lived and worked at the compound, which is protected by cement blast walls, but Danish said the area was now largely empty and "only a number of guards" were left.&nbsp;

"Residential houses nearby have sustained heavy damage," Danish said.

"Special police forces' units have been deployed to the site to check if there are more attackers."

Afghanistan's customs office and headquarters for the Independent Election Commission, which has previously been targeted by militants, are also nearby.

The explosion happened in the early evening when traffic is normally heavy.&nbsp;

The last assault on a foreign compound was in late November when a Taliban-claimed vehicle bomb exploded outside the compound of British security firm G4S, killing at least 10 people.

Five G4S employees were among the dead.&nbsp;

That was followed by a suicide and gun attack on a government compound in Kabul on December 24 that killed at least 43 people, making it one of the deadliest assaults on the city last year.&nbsp;

The latest bombing comes as US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad visits the region for further meetings aimed at bringing an end to the war in Afghanistan, which by some estimates was the world's deadliest conflict zone in 2018.

Khalilzad, who met Taliban representatives last month in Abu Dhabi, is travelling to Afghanistan as well as China, India and Pakistan on the trip lasting through January 21.

Last month's leaking of US President Donald Trump's plan to slash troop numbers in Afghanistan, however, has threatened to derail those efforts and alarmed many Afghans who fear a return to oppressive Taliban rule.

The recent flurry of activity to get the Taliban to the negotiating table has caused disquiet in Afghanistan, with the government feeling sidelined from the discussions.&nbsp;

The Taliban has repeatedly refused to talk to Kabul, which it sees as a US puppet and ineffective.

Afghan security advisor Hamdullah Mohib is touring the region for talks with key powers, including China.&nbsp;

A car packed with explosives blew up near a heavily fortified foreign compound in Kabul on Monday, killing at least four people and wounding more than 90, officials said, in the latest deadly attack to rock the Afghan capital.

A car packed with explosives blew up near a heavily fortified foreign compound in Kabul on Monday, killing at least four people and wounding more than 90, officials said, in the latest deadly attack to rock the Afghan capital. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the huge blast, which shook the sprawling city, but it comes as diplomatic efforts to end the 17-year war with the Taliban gather pace. The explosion happened near Green Village, a highly secure compound close to a busy road and residential neighbourhoods in the east of the city. So far, four people had been confirmed dead and more than 90 wounded, including 23 children, interior ministry deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said. There are fears the toll could rise. Three of the dead were members of the security forces and one was a civilian. Most of the wounded were civilians, who have long borne the brunt of the Afghan war. Until recently some UN staff had lived and worked at the compound, which is protected by cement blast walls, but Danish said the area was now largely empty and "only a number of guards" were left. "Residential houses nearby have sustained heavy damage," Danish said. "Special police forces' units have been deployed to the site to check if there are more attackers." Afghanistan's customs office and headquarters for the Independent Election Commission, which has previously been targeted by militants, are also nearby. The explosion happened in the early evening when traffic is normally heavy. The last assault on a foreign compound was in late November when a Taliban-claimed vehicle bomb exploded outside the compound of British security firm G4S, killing at least 10 people. Five G4S employees were among the dead. That was followed by a suicide and gun attack on a government compound in Kabul on December 24 that killed at least 43 people, making it one of the deadliest assaults on the city last year. The latest bombing comes as US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad visits the region for further meetings aimed at bringing an end to the war in Afghanistan, which by some estimates was the world's deadliest conflict zone in 2018. Khalilzad, who met Taliban representatives last month in Abu Dhabi, is travelling to Afghanistan as well as China, India and Pakistan on the trip lasting through January 21. Last month's leaking of US President Donald Trump's plan to slash troop numbers in Afghanistan, however, has threatened to derail those efforts and alarmed many Afghans who fear a return to oppressive Taliban rule. The recent flurry of activity to get the Taliban to the negotiating table has caused disquiet in Afghanistan, with the government feeling sidelined from the discussions. The Taliban has repeatedly refused to talk to Kabul, which it sees as a US puppet and ineffective. Afghan security advisor Hamdullah Mohib is touring the region for talks with key powers, including China.

Afghanistan: Four killed, over 90 wounded in Kabul car bomb attack

Kabul blast: 4 killed, 44 injured; police begin search operation

Gunmen entered a Kabul government&nbsp;compound in Afghanistan after detonating a car bomb, officials said.

The attack occurred outside Afghanistan's ministry of public works.&nbsp;Afghan security forces have killed two of the attackers and freed 200 employees trapped inside one of the buildings occupied by the gunmen, the government said.&nbsp;

Afghanistan's ministry of labour said a number of gunmen had entered the compound.

"There are still some hostages with the enemy and a clearance operation is ongoing," Interior ministry deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said.

It is still not known who is responsible for the latest attack.

At least four people have been wounded, health ministry spokesman Wahid Majroh said.

Today's attack was the biggest in Kabul since November 28 when the Taliban detonated a car bomb outside the compound of British security firm G4S, killing at least 10 people. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Gunmen entered a Kabul government compound in Afghanistan after detonating a car bomb, officials said. The attack occurred outside Afghanistan's ministry of public works.

Gunmen entered a Kabul government compound in Afghanistan after detonating a car bomb, officials said. The attack occurred outside Afghanistan's ministry of public works. Afghan security forces have killed two of the attackers and freed 200 employees trapped inside one of the buildings occupied by the gunmen, the government said. Afghanistan's ministry of labour said a number of gunmen had entered the compound. "There are still some hostages with the enemy and a clearance operation is ongoing," Interior ministry deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said. It is still not known who is responsible for the latest attack. At least four people have been wounded, health ministry spokesman Wahid Majroh said. Today's attack was the biggest in Kabul since November 28 when the Taliban detonated a car bomb outside the compound of British security firm G4S, killing at least 10 people.

Afghanistan: Car bomb attack in Kabul; 2 gunmen killed

A blast occurred near a Polytechnic University where clerics had gathered, reports said.

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Reports said the explosion occurred as the clerics were leaving the area.

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&nbsp;attack.

The reports added that three others killed had not yet been identified.

The reports said 17 others had been wounded.

"Our initial information shows that the suicide attack took place when guests were exiting the tent where the meeting was being held," police spokesman Hashmat Stanikzai said.

Terrorists had opened fire in the Afghan capital last week leading to a gunfight with security forces.&nbsp;

Security officials said a suicide bomber exploded a device near a tent where Muslim clerics had gathered to denounce terrorism

A blast occurred near a Polytechnic University where clerics had gathered, reports said. × Reports said the explosion occurred as the clerics were leaving the area. 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 attack. The reports added that three others killed had not yet been identified. The reports said 17 others had been wounded. "Our initial information shows that the suicide attack took place when guests were exiting the tent where the meeting was being held," police spokesman Hashmat Stanikzai said. Terrorists had opened fire in the Afghan capital last week leading to a gunfight with security forces.

Afghanistan: At least 14 killed in suicide bomb attack in Kabul

At least one person was killed on Saturday after a bomb exploded in the eastern part of Afghanistan's Kabul City.

The explosion also injured two archaeologists and one driver.

The incident occurred in Benisar area&nbspof the eastern part of Kabul city.

The injured were immediately rushed to the hospital.

The archaeologists were attacked in their vehicle&nbspon their way to Afghan's Logar province.&nbsp

No individual or group has taken the responsibility for the incident till now.

(With inputs from ANI)

The incident occurred in Benisar area of the eastern part of Kabul city

At least one person was killed on Saturday after a bomb exploded in the eastern part of Afghanistan's Kabul City. The explosion also injured two archaeologists and one driver. The incident occurred in Benisar area&nbspof the eastern part of Kabul city. The injured were immediately rushed to the hospital. The archaeologists were attacked in their vehicle&nbspon their way to Afghan's Logar province. No individual or group has taken the responsibility for the incident till now. (With inputs from ANI)

1 killed, 3 injured in Kabul blast

The White House on Tuesday condemned a double suicide blast in Kabul that killed at least 25 people, including nine journalists, saying there was no justification for such a senseless and heinous act.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters at her daily news conference that the Trump administration "strongly condemns" the attacks that rocked the Afghan capital Kabul on Monday, killing several members of the media.

"These journalists were in the area to cover a bomb blast when a second explosion occurred. Afghanistan's press corps is a powerful illustration of how that country has transformed. There's absolutely no justification for such a senseless and heinous act," she said.

Responding to a question, Sanders said the Trump administration laid out its Afghanistan strategy just a few months ago and "there is no change to that policy at this point".

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters at her daily news conference that the Trump administration "strongly condemns" the attacks that rocked the Afghan capital Kabul on Monday, killing several members of the media

The White House on Tuesday condemned a double suicide blast in Kabul that killed at least 25 people, including nine journalists, saying there was no justification for such a senseless and heinous act. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters at her daily news conference that the Trump administration "strongly condemns" the attacks that rocked the Afghan capital Kabul on Monday, killing several members of the media. "These journalists were in the area to cover a bomb blast when a second explosion occurred. Afghanistan's press corps is a powerful illustration of how that country has transformed. There's absolutely no justification for such a senseless and heinous act," she said. Responding to a question, Sanders said the Trump administration laid out its Afghanistan strategy just a few months ago and "there is no change to that policy at this point".

No justification for senseless act: White House on Kabul blasts

Islamic State has claimed responsibility for a blast that targetted a voter registration centre in Kabul, Afghanistan on Sunday.

The blast was carried out by a suicide bomber and claimed at least 48 lives wounding 112 others.

No other details were communicated by the AMAQ, the militant group's news agency.

Interior Ministry spokesman Najib Danesh said a bomber on foot approached the centre where officials had been issuing identity cards as part of a process of registering voters for parliamentary elections due this year.

The attack — the latest assault targeting a voter registration centre —occured in a heavily Shia-populated neighbourhood in the west of the Kabul city.&nbsp;

Afghanistan on April 14 began registering voters for long-delayed legislative elections scheduled for October.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

The blast was carried out by a suicide bomber and claimed at least 31 lives wounding 54 others

Islamic State has claimed responsibility for a blast that targetted a voter registration centre in Kabul, Afghanistan on Sunday. The blast was carried out by a suicide bomber and claimed at least 48 lives wounding 112 others. No other details were communicated by the AMAQ, the militant group's news agency. Interior Ministry spokesman Najib Danesh said a bomber on foot approached the centre where officials had been issuing identity cards as part of a process of registering voters for parliamentary elections due this year. The attack — the latest assault targeting a voter registration centre —occured in a heavily Shia-populated neighbourhood in the west of the Kabul city. Afghanistan on April 14 began registering voters for long-delayed legislative elections scheduled for October. (With inputs from Reuters)

Kabul blast: Islamic State claims responsibility

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-to-chart-a-new-course-for-india-china-ties-at-wuhan-summit--132075">Modi-Xi to chart a new course for India-China ties at Wuhan summit</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold a summit in China's Wuhan city from April 27 to 28 for a "heart-to-heart" chat to explore a new paradigm for India-China ties and find ways to address the contentious issues like the border dispute.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-election-2018-many-killed-in-a-blast-at-voter-registration-centre-in-kabul-131999">Kabul suicide blast: Death toll reaches 48</a>

The death toll from Sunday's blast in the Afghan capital Kabul rose to 48, with 112 others wounded, a public health officer said. The attack follows several weeks of relative calm in Kabul.&nbsp;

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/congress-may-move-court-if-impeachment-notice-rejected-132066">Congress may move court if impeachment notice rejected</a>

As the Congress awaits the decision of Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu on an impeachment notice moved by it and other parties against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, it is considering moving the Supreme Court if the petition is rejected, party leaders said.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/israel-hints-it-could-hit-irans-air-force-in-syria-132058">Israel hints it could hit Iran's 'air force' in Syria</a>

Israel released details on Tuesday about what it described as an Iranian "air force" deployed in neighbouring Syria, including civilian planes suspected of transferring arms, a signal that these could be attacked should tensions with Tehran escalate.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-also-ignored-amit-shah-doesnt-allow-any-of-my-programme-to-happen-subramanian-swamy-on-yashwant-sinha-132030">Subramanian Swamy accuses Amit Shah of ignoring him, but won't quit BJP</a>

Subramanian Swamy on Sunday claimed that he has often been ignored by party chief Amit Shah who, he said, has often did not allow his programmes to take place.

.

Modi-Xi to chart a new course for India-China ties at Wuhan summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold a summit in China's Wuhan city from April 27 to 28 for a "heart-to-heart" chat to explore a new paradigm for India-China ties and find ways to address the contentious issues like the border dispute. Kabul suicide blast: Death toll reaches 48 The death toll from Sunday's blast in the Afghan capital Kabul rose to 48, with 112 others wounded, a public health officer said. The attack follows several weeks of relative calm in Kabul. Congress may move court if impeachment notice rejected As the Congress awaits the decision of Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu on an impeachment notice moved by it and other parties against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, it is considering moving the Supreme Court if the petition is rejected, party leaders said. Israel hints it could hit Iran's 'air force' in Syria Israel released details on Tuesday about what it described as an Iranian "air force" deployed in neighbouring Syria, including civilian planes suspected of transferring arms, a signal that these could be attacked should tensions with Tehran escalate. Subramanian Swamy accuses Amit Shah of ignoring him, but won't quit BJP Subramanian Swamy on Sunday claimed that he has often been ignored by party chief Amit Shah who, he said, has often did not allow his programmes to take place. .

News brief: Big stories of the day

At least 26 people have been killed and 18 wounded in a suspected suicide bomb attack near a shrine in the Afghan capital Kabul, officials say.

Reports suggest the bomber attacked a crowd of hundreds of people who had gathered to celebrate the start of Nowruz, the New Year festival.

The explosion occurred in in PD3 area of Kabul.The blast site is&nbsp;close to the Ali Abad hospital and Kabul University.

PD3 police chief Abdulhamid Chakari has confirmed a car bomb was used in today&#39;s explosion.&nbsp;

He did not give any further details but casualties are feared.&nbsp;

Eyewitnesses say it was a suicide bombing and all casualties were civilians but police officials have not commented on the incident so far.

Security forces have quardend off the area.

There was no immediate word on the cause of the blast or any damage or casualties

At least 26 people have been killed and 18 wounded in a suspected suicide bomb attack near a shrine in the Afghan capital Kabul, officials say. Reports suggest the bomber attacked a crowd of hundreds of people who had gathered to celebrate the start of Nowruz, the New Year festival. The explosion occurred in in PD3 area of Kabul.The blast site is close to the Ali Abad hospital and Kabul University. PD3 police chief Abdulhamid Chakari has confirmed a car bomb was used in today's explosion. He did not give any further details but casualties are feared. Eyewitnesses say it was a suicide bombing and all casualties were civilians but police officials have not commented on the incident so far. Security forces have quardend off the area.

At least 26 killed and 18 wounded after blast in Kabul

An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul on Saturday, killing at least 95 people and wounding 158 others, officials said, in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years.

The Taliban-claimed assault -- the second carried out by the militant group in the Afghan capital in a week -- triggered chaotic scenes as terrified survivors fled the area scattered with body parts, blood and debris, and hospitals were overwhelmed by a large number of wounded.

It came as both the insurgents and the Islamic State group have escalated their attacks on Kabul, one of the deadliest places in Afghanistan for civilians.

An AFP reporter saw &quot;lots of dead and wounded&quot; civilians in the Jamuriate hospital, which is metres away from the blast and where medical staff struggled to treat the bloodied men, women and children lying on the floor in corridors.

Health ministry spokesman Waheed Majroh told AFP that the toll &quot;now stands at 95 dead, 158 wounded&quot;, shortly after the interior ministry warned that an earlier death toll of 63 could rise.

The blast happened in an area where several high-profile organisations, including the European Union, have offices. Members of the EU delegation in Kabul were in their &quot;safe room&quot; and there were no casualties, an official told AFP.

The force of the explosion shook windows of buildings at least two kilometres (more than a mile) away and caused some low-rise structures in the immediate vicinity to collapse.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haqqani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haqqani</a> Network is behind Kabul suicide attack which killed 63 &amp; wounded 151 people: Afghanistan government
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/957240084247408640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Unjustifiable

The suicide bomber passed through at least one checkpoint in the ambulance, saying he was taking a patient to Jamuriate hospital, an interior ministry spokesman told AFP.

&quot;At the second checkpoint he was recognised and blew his explosive-laden car,&quot; Nasrat Rahimi said.

Rahimi told a news conference that most of the victims were civilians. He said the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani Network was responsible and four suspects had been arrested.

Twenty minutes before the blast an AFP reporter saw police checking ambulances several hundred metres from the scene of the explosion, as the drivers and patients stood on the street. Ambulances are rarely checked in the city.

The International Committee of the Red Cross in Afghanistan condemned the use of an ambulance in the bombing, saying on Twitter it was &quot;unacceptable and unjustifiable&quot;.

The Taliban used social media to claim responsibility for the attack, which comes exactly a week after its insurgents stormed Kabul&#39;s landmark Intercontinental hotel, killing at least 25 people, the majority foreigners.

Massacre

Photos shared on social media purportedly of the blast -- the deadliest in Kabul since a truck bomb ripped through the city&#39;s diplomatic quarter on May 31, killing 150 people and wounding hundreds -- showed a huge plume of smoke rising into the sky.

Near the blast site, civilians walked through debris-covered streets carrying wounded on their backs as others loaded several bodies at a time into ambulances and private cars to take them to medical facilities around the city.

The Italian NGO Emergency said 131 wounded had been taken to its hospital, with its coordinator Dejan Panic tweeting that it had been a &quot;massacre&quot;.

A photo posted on Emergency&#39;s Twitter account showed hospital staff treating injured people in an outdoor walkway next to a garden.

A man told Ariana TV he had taken his wounded brother to Jamuriate and Emergency hospitals but had been turned away.

&quot;They are asking people with non-life threatening wounds to go to other hospitals,&quot; he said.

Aminullah, whose stationery shop is just metres from where the explosion happened, said the force of the explosion shook the foundations of his building.

&quot;The building shook. All our windows broke. The people are in shock in our market,&quot; he told AFP.

Pools of blood

A man told Tolo News he was passing the area when the explosion happened.

&quot;I heard a big bang and I fainted,&quot; he said, outside the Emergency hospital.

&quot;There were dozens of people who were killed and wounded. There were pools of blood.&quot;

The attack was condemned by the presidential palace as a &quot;crime against humanity&quot;. There was international outcry too, with NATO, the US embassy in Kabul and British foreign minister Boris Johnson among those expressing horror at the latest attack.

The offices of the High Peace Council, charged with negotiating with the Taliban which has been waging a more than 16-year insurgency in the war-torn country, are also near the blast site.

&quot;It targeted our checkpoint. It was really huge -- all our windows are broken,&quot; Hassina Safi, a member of High Peace Council, told AFP.

&quot;So far we don&#39;t have any reports if any of our members are wounded or killed.&quot;

A security alert issued on Saturday morning had warned that the Islamic State group was planning &quot;to conduct aggressive attacks&quot; on supermarkets, shops and hotels frequented by foreigners.

An ambulance packed with explosives blew up in a crowded area of Kabul on Saturday

An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul on Saturday, killing at least 95 people and wounding 158 others, officials said, in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years. The Taliban-claimed assault -- the second carried out by the militant group in the Afghan capital in a week -- triggered chaotic scenes as terrified survivors fled the area scattered with body parts, blood and debris, and hospitals were overwhelmed by a large number of wounded. It came as both the insurgents and the Islamic State group have escalated their attacks on Kabul, one of the deadliest places in Afghanistan for civilians. An AFP reporter saw "lots of dead and wounded" civilians in the Jamuriate hospital, which is metres away from the blast and where medical staff struggled to treat the bloodied men, women and children lying on the floor in corridors. Health ministry spokesman Waheed Majroh told AFP that the toll "now stands at 95 dead, 158 wounded", shortly after the interior ministry warned that an earlier death toll of 63 could rise. The blast happened in an area where several high-profile organisations, including the European Union, have offices. Members of the EU delegation in Kabul were in their "safe room" and there were no casualties, an official told AFP. The force of the explosion shook windows of buildings at least two kilometres (more than a mile) away and caused some low-rise structures in the immediate vicinity to collapse. #Haqqani Network is behind Kabul suicide attack which killed 63 & wounded 151 people: Afghanistan government — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2018 × Unjustifiable The suicide bomber passed through at least one checkpoint in the ambulance, saying he was taking a patient to Jamuriate hospital, an interior ministry spokesman told AFP. "At the second checkpoint he was recognised and blew his explosive-laden car," Nasrat Rahimi said. Rahimi told a news conference that most of the victims were civilians. He said the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani Network was responsible and four suspects had been arrested. Twenty minutes before the blast an AFP reporter saw police checking ambulances several hundred metres from the scene of the explosion, as the drivers and patients stood on the street. Ambulances are rarely checked in the city. The International Committee of the Red Cross in Afghanistan condemned the use of an ambulance in the bombing, saying on Twitter it was "unacceptable and unjustifiable". The Taliban used social media to claim responsibility for the attack, which comes exactly a week after its insurgents stormed Kabul's landmark Intercontinental hotel, killing at least 25 people, the majority foreigners. Massacre Photos shared on social media purportedly of the blast -- the deadliest in Kabul since a truck bomb ripped through the city's diplomatic quarter on May 31, killing 150 people and wounding hundreds -- showed a huge plume of smoke rising into the sky. Near the blast site, civilians walked through debris-covered streets carrying wounded on their backs as others loaded several bodies at a time into ambulances and private cars to take them to medical facilities around the city. The Italian NGO Emergency said 131 wounded had been taken to its hospital, with its coordinator Dejan Panic tweeting that it had been a "massacre". A photo posted on Emergency's Twitter account showed hospital staff treating injured people in an outdoor walkway next to a garden. A man told Ariana TV he had taken his wounded brother to Jamuriate and Emergency hospitals but had been turned away. "They are asking people with non-life threatening wounds to go to other hospitals," he said. Aminullah, whose stationery shop is just metres from where the explosion happened, said the force of the explosion shook the foundations of his building. "The building shook. All our windows broke. The people are in shock in our market," he told AFP. Pools of blood A man told Tolo News he was passing the area when the explosion happened. "I heard a big bang and I fainted," he said, outside the Emergency hospital. "There were dozens of people who were killed and wounded. There were pools of blood." The attack was condemned by the presidential palace as a "crime against humanity". There was international outcry too, with NATO, the US embassy in Kabul and British foreign minister Boris Johnson among those expressing horror at the latest attack. The offices of the High Peace Council, charged with negotiating with the Taliban which has been waging a more than 16-year insurgency in the war-torn country, are also near the blast site. "It targeted our checkpoint. It was really huge -- all our windows are broken," Hassina Safi, a member of High Peace Council, told AFP. "So far we don't have any reports if any of our members are wounded or killed." A security alert issued on Saturday morning had warned that the Islamic State group was planning "to conduct aggressive attacks" on supermarkets, shops and hotels frequented by foreigners.

Kabul explosion: 95 dead, 158 wounded in massive suicide bomb blast

According to fresh reports, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-blasts-islamic-state-group-claims-responsibility-27958">attack at Tebyan Social-Cultural activities centre in Kabul</a> has claimed 41 lives so far.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> Attack at Tebyan Social-Cultural activities center in Kabul claimed 41 lives and injured 84 people, says spokesman for Public Health Ministry: Afghanistan media
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/946340760290344960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Close to 84 people have been injured, spokesman for Public Health Ministry of Afghanistan told media.&nbsp;

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack earlier today.

IS&#39;s online statement noted that the group targeted the centre with &quot;three bombs followed by a suicide,&quot; noted an AFP report.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A spokesman for Public Health Ministry of Afghanistan told media today

According to fresh reports, the attack at Tebyan Social-Cultural activities centre in Kabul has claimed 41 lives so far. #UPDATE Attack at Tebyan Social-Cultural activities center in Kabul claimed 41 lives and injured 84 people, says spokesman for Public Health Ministry: Afghanistan media — ANI (@ANI) December 28, 2017 × Close to 84 people have been injured, spokesman for Public Health Ministry of Afghanistan told media. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack earlier today. IS's online statement noted that the group targeted the centre with "three bombs followed by a suicide," noted an AFP report.

Kabul attack: Death toll rises to 41, 84 injured

Islamic State claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a compound of Afghanistan&#39;s national intelligence agency in Kabul on Monday, that killed at least six people and wounded two.

The blast comes a week after the group claimed an attack on a training facility of the same agency, the National Directorate for Security, in Kabul that ended when the attackers were killed before causing significant casualties.

In a statement issued through the group&#39;s Amaq news agency, Islamic State said it was also behind Monday&#39;s attack.

In Kabul, security officials said the explosion was caused by a suicide bomber who approached the agency&#39;s entrance on foot before blowing himself up. All the casualties reported were of civilian passersby.

Najib Danish, a spokesman for the interior ministry, said at least five people had been killed and two wounded.

Islamic State&#39;s local affiliate, which first appeared in eastern Afghanistan near the border with Pakistan in early 2015, has become increasingly active and has claimed several recent suicide attacks in Kabul.

It has frequently fought Taliban militants and has been heavily targeted by US air strikes and Special Forces operations in its main stronghold in Nangarhar province.

But there remains considerable uncertainty about how the group operates and the exact nature of its connections with Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

The blast comes a week after the group claimed an attack on a training facility of the same agency, the National Directorate for Security, in Kabul.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a compound of Afghanistan's national intelligence agency in Kabul on Monday, that killed at least six people and wounded two. The blast comes a week after the group claimed an attack on a training facility of the same agency, the National Directorate for Security, in Kabul that ended when the attackers were killed before causing significant casualties. In a statement issued through the group's Amaq news agency, Islamic State said it was also behind Monday's attack. In Kabul, security officials said the explosion was caused by a suicide bomber who approached the agency's entrance on foot before blowing himself up. All the casualties reported were of civilian passersby. Najib Danish, a spokesman for the interior ministry, said at least five people had been killed and two wounded. Islamic State's local affiliate, which first appeared in eastern Afghanistan near the border with Pakistan in early 2015, has become increasingly active and has claimed several recent suicide attacks in Kabul. It has frequently fought Taliban militants and has been heavily targeted by US air strikes and Special Forces operations in its main stronghold in Nangarhar province. But there remains considerable uncertainty about how the group operates and the exact nature of its connections with Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

Islamic State claims blast at Afghan intelligence agency in Kabul

A blast rocked Kabul&#39;s diplomatic zone on Tuesday and multiple casualties were taken away by ambulances, witnesses said.

The Afghan interior ministry and police confirmed there was an explosion in the heavily fortified area but could not immediately provide further details.&nbsp;

A blast rocked Kabul's diplomatic zone on Tuesday and multiple casualties were taken away by ambulances, witnesses said

A blast rocked Kabul's diplomatic zone on Tuesday and multiple casualties were taken away by ambulances, witnesses said. The Afghan interior ministry and police confirmed there was an explosion in the heavily fortified area but could not immediately provide further details.

Blast rocks Kabul diplomatic zone, multiple casualties, say witnesses

Afghanistan has&nbsp;cancelled proposed home and away cricket fixtures with Pakistan after a deadly bomb attack blamed by the country&#39;s intelligence agency on militants allegedly backed by Islamabad.

Pakistan were set to play their first Twenty20 match in Kabul later this year in what was seen as an opportunity for the neighbours to ease tensions over border skirmishes and alleged proxy warfare.

The Kabul match, set for July or August, would have been followed by a fixture in Pakistan and a full series at an unspecified date.

But the Afghanistan Cricket Board issued a strongly worded statement late on Wednesday, cancelling the matches in light of a truck bombing in the city&#39;s diplomatic quarter that killed at least 90 people.

No group has claimed responsibility for Wednesday&#39;s attack, although the Taliban has denied involvement.

&quot;The ACB hereby cancel all kinds of cricket matches and initial mutual relationship agreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board,&quot; the Afghan board said on its Facebook page.

&quot;No agreement of friendly matches and mutual relationship agreement is possible with a country where terrorists are housed and provided safe havens.&quot;&nbsp;

Afghanistan&#39;s intelligence agency has blamed the Taliban-allied Haqqani Network for the attack, which has been linked to Pakistan&#39;s military in the past.

&nbsp;

Isolation:

The development leaves Pakistan&#39;s cricketers even more isolated in the region.&nbsp;

India has refused to play a full series since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, while ties with fellow Test team Bangladesh have also soured after Pakistan pulled out of a planned series in July.

Pakistani officials said they were unhappy that Bangladesh were not willing to send their team to Pakistan.

Only minnows Zimbabwe have been willing to tour the insecurity-wracked country since a 2009 militant attack on the visiting Sri Lanka team.

Cricketing relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan were not always so frosty. Afghans learned to play cricket in refugee camps in Pakistan after they were forced to leave their homes in the wake of the Soviet invasion in 1979.

The sport struggled to get a foothold in Afghanistan under the hardline Taliban, but has become hugely popular since the Islamist regime was toppled in a US-led invasion in 2001.

While Pakistan has supported the Afghan team by supplying equipment and arranging fixtures with the fledgling side, rival India has also been keen to lend its support.

Last year, Afghanistan&#39;s national team shifted its base from Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates to Noida, Delhi, while India&#39;s former batsman Lalchand Rajput replaced Pakistan&#39;s Inzamam-ul-Haq as their national team coach.

(AFP)

'No agreement of friendly matches and mutual relationship agreement is possible with a country where terrorists are housed'

Afghanistan has cancelled proposed home and away cricket fixtures with Pakistan after a deadly bomb attack blamed by the country's intelligence agency on militants allegedly backed by Islamabad. Pakistan were set to play their first Twenty20 match in Kabul later this year in what was seen as an opportunity for the neighbours to ease tensions over border skirmishes and alleged proxy warfare. The Kabul match, set for July or August, would have been followed by a fixture in Pakistan and a full series at an unspecified date. But the Afghanistan Cricket Board issued a strongly worded statement late on Wednesday, cancelling the matches in light of a truck bombing in the city's diplomatic quarter that killed at least 90 people. No group has claimed responsibility for Wednesday's attack, although the Taliban has denied involvement. "The ACB hereby cancel all kinds of cricket matches and initial mutual relationship agreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board," the Afghan board said on its Facebook page. "No agreement of friendly matches and mutual relationship agreement is possible with a country where terrorists are housed and provided safe havens." Afghanistan's intelligence agency has blamed the Taliban-allied Haqqani Network for the attack, which has been linked to Pakistan's military in the past. Isolation: The development leaves Pakistan's cricketers even more isolated in the region. India has refused to play a full series since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, while ties with fellow Test team Bangladesh have also soured after Pakistan pulled out of a planned series in July. Pakistani officials said they were unhappy that Bangladesh were not willing to send their team to Pakistan. Only minnows Zimbabwe have been willing to tour the insecurity-wracked country since a 2009 militant attack on the visiting Sri Lanka team. Cricketing relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan were not always so frosty. Afghans learned to play cricket in refugee camps in Pakistan after they were forced to leave their homes in the wake of the Soviet invasion in 1979. The sport struggled to get a foothold in Afghanistan under the hardline Taliban, but has become hugely popular since the Islamist regime was toppled in a US-led invasion in 2001. While Pakistan has supported the Afghan team by supplying equipment and arranging fixtures with the fledgling side, rival India has also been keen to lend its support. Last year, Afghanistan's national team shifted its base from Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates to Noida, Delhi, while India's former batsman Lalchand Rajput replaced Pakistan's Inzamam-ul-Haq as their national team coach. (AFP)

Cricket: Afghanistan cancels Pakistan games after Kabul attack

A day after a suicide car bomb attack in Kabul, another suicide attack has killed one killed person&nbsp;and injured five others near Jalalabad airport in eastern Afghanistan, media reports said.

Reports said it was car bomb attack.

The attack took place on Jalalabad-Torkham highway, a busy road that connects Jalalabad to Peshawar.

Developing...

(WION)

The blast killed one person and injured five others, media reports said

A day after a suicide car bomb attack in Kabul, another suicide attack has killed one killed person and injured five others near Jalalabad airport in eastern Afghanistan, media reports said. Reports said it was car bomb attack. The attack took place on Jalalabad-Torkham highway, a busy road that connects Jalalabad to Peshawar. Developing... (WION)

Suicide blast near Jalalabad airport in eastern Afghanistan, 1 person killed

Afghanistan has blamed the Pakistan intelligence agency ISI for being&nbsp;involved in the blast in Kabul that claimed the lives of 90 people and injured hundreds&nbsp;of others.

Afghanistan president&#39;s spokesperson Nazibullah Azad told WION that the Pakistan-based Haqqani network was behind the attack.

In addition, Afghanistan&#39;s intelligence agency blamed the Taliban-allied Haqqani Network for the attack.

Former US intel officer Glenn Carle also blamed Pakistan for the attack.

Watch what Carle had to tell WION:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-QiXAlZ7SdE" width="560"></iframe>

A massive truck bomb ripped through Kabul&#39;s diplomatic quarter, bringing carnage to the streets of the Afghan capital just days into the holy fasting month of Ramzan. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.

The bomb, one of the deadliest in Kabul and coming at the start of the holy month of Ramadan, exploded close to the fortified entrance to the German embassy, wounding some staff, German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said.&nbsp;

One Afghan security guard was killed and others were likely among the dead, Gabriel said. A spokeswoman for the German foreign ministry said the bomber&#39;s target was unknown.

Embassies damaged&nbsp;

The sound of the bomb, which went off near Kabul&#39;s busy Zanbaq Square, reverberated across the Afghan capital, with residents comparing it to an earthquake. Most victims appear to be civilians.

&quot;The vigilance and courage of Afghan security forces prevented the VBIED (vehicle-borne improvised explosive device) from gaining entry to the Green Zone, but the explosion caused civilian casualties,&quot; NATO said in a statement.

The explosion damaged several embassies in the area, which houses diplomatic and government buildings and is a maze of concrete blast walls, vehicle barriers and armed security guards.

German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said the &quot;despicable&quot; attack killed an Afghan guard from the German embassy, and added that some employees had been injured, though he did not give further details.

He said the bomb had gone off &quot;in the immediate vicinity&quot; of the German embassy.&nbsp;

France, India, Turkey, Japan, the United Arab Emirates and Bulgaria similarly reported damage to their embassies, including shattered windows, as the blast drew an avalanche of international condemnation.&nbsp;

The White House issued a scathing statement condemning the &quot;atrocious&quot; attack.

&quot;That this attack would occur during the holy month of Ramadan underscores the senseless and barbaric nature of this attack,&quot; a White House spokesman said.

Amnesty International said the bombing shows that the conflict in Afghanistan is &quot;dangerously widening in a way that should&nbsp;alarm the international community&quot;.

Germany was forced to postpone a scheduled deportation flight of rejected Afghan asylum-seekers in the wake of the attack. The European nation has drawn criticism for sending back Afghans to an increasingly dangerous country.

Wednesday&#39;s blast was the latest in a string of attacks in Kabul. The province surrounding the capital had the highest number of casualties in the country in the first three months of 2017 due to multiple attacks in the city, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence.

Afghan troops are backed by US and NATO forces, and the White House is considering sending thousands more soldiers to break the deadlock in the battle against the Taliban.

US troops in Afghanistan number about 8,400 now, and there are another 5,000 from NATO allies. They mainly serve in an advisory capacity -- a far cry from the US presence of more than 100,000 six years ago.

Barbaric attack: Trump

US President Donald Trump spoke with his Afghan counterpart Ashraf Ghani and condemned the terror attack in Kabul, describing it as &quot;barbaric&quot;.

He condemned the attack, which occurred during the holy month of Ramadan, underscoring the barbaric nature of the terrorists who are enemies of all civilised peoples,&quot; the White House said in a readout of the telephonic conversation between the two leaders.

Conveying condolences to the families and friends of those killed and injured in the blast, Trump commended the bravery of the first responders, who worked quickly to support the wounded.

&quot;He also commended Afghan security forces for their steadfast efforts to defend their people from enemies who would seek to deny them the security and prosperity,&quot; the White House said.

(WION with inputs from agencies)

Though security agencies have blamed Pakistan, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack that has left 90 people dead

Afghanistan has blamed the Pakistan intelligence agency ISI for being involved in the blast in Kabul that claimed the lives of 90 people and injured hundreds of others. Afghanistan president's spokesperson Nazibullah Azad told WION that the Pakistan-based Haqqani network was behind the attack. In addition, Afghanistan's intelligence agency blamed the Taliban-allied Haqqani Network for the attack. Former US intel officer Glenn Carle also blamed Pakistan for the attack. Watch what Carle had to tell WION: A massive truck bomb ripped through Kabul's diplomatic quarter, bringing carnage to the streets of the Afghan capital just days into the holy fasting month of Ramzan. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. The bomb, one of the deadliest in Kabul and coming at the start of the holy month of Ramadan, exploded close to the fortified entrance to the German embassy, wounding some staff, German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said. One Afghan security guard was killed and others were likely among the dead, Gabriel said. A spokeswoman for the German foreign ministry said the bomber's target was unknown. Embassies damaged The sound of the bomb, which went off near Kabul's busy Zanbaq Square, reverberated across the Afghan capital, with residents comparing it to an earthquake. Most victims appear to be civilians. "The vigilance and courage of Afghan security forces prevented the VBIED (vehicle-borne improvised explosive device) from gaining entry to the Green Zone, but the explosion caused civilian casualties," NATO said in a statement. The explosion damaged several embassies in the area, which houses diplomatic and government buildings and is a maze of concrete blast walls, vehicle barriers and armed security guards. German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said the "despicable" attack killed an Afghan guard from the German embassy, and added that some employees had been injured, though he did not give further details. He said the bomb had gone off "in the immediate vicinity" of the German embassy. France, India, Turkey, Japan, the United Arab Emirates and Bulgaria similarly reported damage to their embassies, including shattered windows, as the blast drew an avalanche of international condemnation. The White House issued a scathing statement condemning the "atrocious" attack. "That this attack would occur during the holy month of Ramadan underscores the senseless and barbaric nature of this attack," a White House spokesman said. Amnesty International said the bombing shows that the conflict in Afghanistan is "dangerously widening in a way that should alarm the international community". Germany was forced to postpone a scheduled deportation flight of rejected Afghan asylum-seekers in the wake of the attack. The European nation has drawn criticism for sending back Afghans to an increasingly dangerous country. Wednesday's blast was the latest in a string of attacks in Kabul. The province surrounding the capital had the highest number of casualties in the country in the first three months of 2017 due to multiple attacks in the city, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence. Afghan troops are backed by US and NATO forces, and the White House is considering sending thousands more soldiers to break the deadlock in the battle against the Taliban. US troops in Afghanistan number about 8,400 now, and there are another 5,000 from NATO allies. They mainly serve in an advisory capacity -- a far cry from the US presence of more than 100,000 six years ago. Barbaric attack: Trump US President Donald Trump spoke with his Afghan counterpart Ashraf Ghani and condemned the terror attack in Kabul, describing it as "barbaric". He condemned the attack, which occurred during the holy month of Ramadan, underscoring the barbaric nature of the terrorists who are enemies of all civilised peoples," the White House said in a readout of the telephonic conversation between the two leaders. Conveying condolences to the families and friends of those killed and injured in the blast, Trump commended the bravery of the first responders, who worked quickly to support the wounded. "He also commended Afghan security forces for their steadfast efforts to defend their people from enemies who would seek to deny them the security and prosperity," the White House said. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Trump condemns Kabul blast as Afghanistan blames Pakistan-backed Haqqani network

Afghan Taliban militants said they attacked police, military and intelligence targets in Kabul on Wednesday and security officials confirmed attacks in at least two areas of the city.

A resounding explosion was heard across the city followed immediately by gunfire between security forces and an unknown number of attackers in the west of Kabul.

The fighting was concentrated near a district police headquarters not far from a military training school, according to one police official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to the media.

A security official said one attacker was barricaded inside the police building.

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A separate attack appeared to have targeted an office of Afghanistan&#39;s intelligence agency, the National Directorate for Security (NDS), on the eastern outskirts of Kabul. However a senior army official said that attack appeared to have been quickly suppressed.

&quot;Two terrorists entered a building. One blew himself up and the second was shot by Afghan security forces,&quot; said Abdul Nasir Ziaee, commander of 111th corps based in the east of the city.

The Taliban, who sometimes exaggerate the impact of their operations, said the attacks had caused heavy casualties.

An official from the ministry of public health said one person had been killed in the attack on the NDS office while at least 35 people had been wounded and transferred to hospital in the attack on the police office in western Kabul.

Last month, a suicide bomber killed at least 20 people outside the Supreme Court in Kabul. The Islamic State militant group claimed responsibility for that attack.

The Taliban are seeking to expel foreign troops, defeat the U.S.-backed government and reimpose Islamic law after their 2001 ouster.

The Wednesday attacks come shortly ahead of the period when the Taliban usually announce a spring offensive, and underline warnings from Afghan officials that they faced a difficult year.

Government forces have struggled to control the insurgency since a NATO-led force ended its combat mission in 2014.

According to U.S. estimates, Afghan government forces now control less than 60 percent of the country although they hold all main provincial centres.&nbsp;

(Reuters)

The militants said they attacked police, military and intelligence targets in the Afghan capital; authorities confirm two attacks

Afghan Taliban militants said they attacked police, military and intelligence targets in Kabul on Wednesday and security officials confirmed attacks in at least two areas of the city. A resounding explosion was heard across the city followed immediately by gunfire between security forces and an unknown number of attackers in the west of Kabul. The fighting was concentrated near a district police headquarters not far from a military training school, according to one police official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to the media. A security official said one attacker was barricaded inside the police building. An official from the ministry of public health said one person had been killed and at least 35 people had been wounded × A separate attack appeared to have targeted an office of Afghanistan's intelligence agency, the National Directorate for Security (NDS), on the eastern outskirts of Kabul. However a senior army official said that attack appeared to have been quickly suppressed. "Two terrorists entered a building. One blew himself up and the second was shot by Afghan security forces," said Abdul Nasir Ziaee, commander of 111th corps based in the east of the city. The Taliban, who sometimes exaggerate the impact of their operations, said the attacks had caused heavy casualties. An official from the ministry of public health said one person had been killed in the attack on the NDS office while at least 35 people had been wounded and transferred to hospital in the attack on the police office in western Kabul. Last month, a suicide bomber killed at least 20 people outside the Supreme Court in Kabul. The Islamic State militant group claimed responsibility for that attack. The Taliban are seeking to expel foreign troops, defeat the U.S.-backed government and reimpose Islamic law after their 2001 ouster. The Wednesday attacks come shortly ahead of the period when the Taliban usually announce a spring offensive, and underline warnings from Afghan officials that they faced a difficult year. Government forces have struggled to control the insurgency since a NATO-led force ended its combat mission in 2014. According to U.S. estimates, Afghan government forces now control less than 60 percent of the country although they hold all main provincial centres. (Reuters)

Taliban claim multiple attacks on Kabul

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A high intensity blast rocked kabul early today morning killing at least one person and leaving two injured.&nbsp;

An interior ministry official confirmed that an Improvised Explosive Devise (IED) detonated in Charqala area of Kabul.&nbsp;

According to Afghan news website, Khaama Press, the IED was attached to a bicycle parked in Charqala. Khaama reported several were injured in the blast.&nbsp;

No militant group has claimed responsibilty for the attack yet.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(WION)

Khaama Press reported that an Improvised Explosive Device was attached to a bicycle parked in Charqala

A high intensity blast rocked kabul early today morning killing at least one person and leaving two injured. An interior ministry official confirmed that an Improvised Explosive Devise (IED) detonated in Charqala area of Kabul. According to Afghan news website, Khaama Press, the IED was attached to a bicycle parked in Charqala. Khaama reported several were injured in the blast. No militant group has claimed responsibilty for the attack yet. (WION)

1 killed, several injured in Kabul blast- reports

The Taliban on Saturday captured a district in Afghanistan&#39;s northeastern Kunduz province, near the provincial capital where militants scored their biggest victory in 14 years last September. 
 
The militants, waging a bloody insurgency to topple the Western-backed Kabul government, have intensified their attacks nationwide and tightened their grip on the besieged capital of Helmand province southwest of Kunduz in recent weeks.&nbsp;Khan Abad district, which is around 30 kilometres east of Kunduz city, fell to the Taliban after they launched a pre-dawn attack on the district centre, according to local officials. 
 
&quot;After several hours of fighting the militants overran the district,&quot; the district&#39;s governor Hayatullah Amiri told AFP, adding that the provincial governor ignored their calls for reinforcements.&nbsp;Provincial spokesman Sayed Mahmood Danish confirmed the overnight battle, and said security forces were &quot;trying to get back control of the district from the Taliban&quot;. 
 
Khan Abad resident Abdul Satar told AFP hundreds had fled their homes amid the fighting.&nbsp;&quot;The residents of the city are worried about their lives and safety. People are fleeing their homes and they have left their shops,&quot; he said, adding that roads to neighbouring provinces were closed. 
 
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed in a statement the group&#39;s fighters were in control of district and police headquarters.&nbsp;Meanwhile, a roadside bomb ripped through a civilian vehicle in neighbouring Takhar province killing four people and wounding two others, Sunatullah Temor, a government spokesman for the province, told AFP. 
 
Civilians are bearing the brunt of conflict in Afghanistan, with casualties soaring to a record high in the first half of 2016, according to a recent UN report. 
 
Between January and June, 1,601 civilians were killed and 3,565 were wounded, a four per cent increase in casualties compared to the same period last year. Deaths from the conflict have reached their highest level since the UN began issuing its reports in 2009. 
 
The Taliban briefly captured northern Kunduz city in September last year, the first city to fall to the insurgents in their biggest victory in 14 years of war.&nbsp;The militants were driven out almost two weeks later by Afghan forces backed by US aircraft and NATO soldiers, but it marked the first time since 2001 that the Taliban were able to take control of a major city in the country. 
 
After the brief Kunduz takeover, US and Afghan officials insisted that they would not allow another urban centre to be captured. 
 
Earlier this month, the Taliban launched a major offensive in volatile southern Helmand province, surrounding the capital Lashkar Gah, a town of 200,000 inhabitants, but were stopped by Afghan forces supported by American air strikes. 
 
The fighting in Helmand and Kunduz come as Afghan troops are stretched on multiple fronts across Afghanistan, including eastern Nangarhar province where the Islamic State group is making inroads. 
 
(AFP)&nbsp;

Civilians are bearing the brunt of conflict in Afghanistan with casualties soaring to a record high in the first half of 2016, says the UN

The Taliban on Saturday captured a district in Afghanistan's northeastern Kunduz province, near the provincial capital where militants scored their biggest victory in 14 years last September. The militants, waging a bloody insurgency to topple the Western-backed Kabul government, have intensified their attacks nationwide and tightened their grip on the besieged capital of Helmand province southwest of Kunduz in recent weeks. Khan Abad district, which is around 30 kilometres east of Kunduz city, fell to the Taliban after they launched a pre-dawn attack on the district centre, according to local officials. "After several hours of fighting the militants overran the district," the district's governor Hayatullah Amiri told AFP, adding that the provincial governor ignored their calls for reinforcements. Provincial spokesman Sayed Mahmood Danish confirmed the overnight battle, and said security forces were "trying to get back control of the district from the Taliban". Khan Abad resident Abdul Satar told AFP hundreds had fled their homes amid the fighting. "The residents of the city are worried about their lives and safety. People are fleeing their homes and they have left their shops," he said, adding that roads to neighbouring provinces were closed. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed in a statement the group's fighters were in control of district and police headquarters. Meanwhile, a roadside bomb ripped through a civilian vehicle in neighbouring Takhar province killing four people and wounding two others, Sunatullah Temor, a government spokesman for the province, told AFP. Civilians are bearing the brunt of conflict in Afghanistan, with casualties soaring to a record high in the first half of 2016, according to a recent UN report. Between January and June, 1,601 civilians were killed and 3,565 were wounded, a four per cent increase in casualties compared to the same period last year. Deaths from the conflict have reached their highest level since the UN began issuing its reports in 2009. The Taliban briefly captured northern Kunduz city in September last year, the first city to fall to the insurgents in their biggest victory in 14 years of war. The militants were driven out almost two weeks later by Afghan forces backed by US aircraft and NATO soldiers, but it marked the first time since 2001 that the Taliban were able to take control of a major city in the country. After the brief Kunduz takeover, US and Afghan officials insisted that they would not allow another urban centre to be captured. Earlier this month, the Taliban launched a major offensive in volatile southern Helmand province, surrounding the capital Lashkar Gah, a town of 200,000 inhabitants, but were stopped by Afghan forces supported by American air strikes. The fighting in Helmand and Kunduz come as Afghan troops are stretched on multiple fronts across Afghanistan, including eastern Nangarhar province where the Islamic State group is making inroads. (AFP)

Blast in Kabul kills one, Taliban claims responsibility?

Two people were reportedly killed in an explosion in Kot-e-Sangee in Kabul today, TOLOnews reported.&nbsp; 
 
In an update, TOLOnews said parliament&#39;s head of HR department was killed in the blast reported this evening.&nbsp; 
 
The number of casualties is likely to increase. Three were wounded in the incident according to eyewitnesses, TOLOnews said.&nbsp; 
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Update Kabul explosion: Two people reportedly killed in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IED?src=hash">#IED</a> explosion in Kot-e-Sangee and two other wounded
&mdash; TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/TOLOnews/status/759034276125872129">July 29, 2016</a></blockquote>
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Update <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash">#Kabul</a> explosion: Eye witnesses report that at least one person was killed and three others wounded in the explosion
&mdash; TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/TOLOnews/status/759024401987805184">July 29, 2016</a></blockquote>
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BREAKING: Parliament&#39;s head of HR department killed in Kote Sangi, Kabul, explosion: official
&mdash; TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/TOLOnews/status/759031305598300160">July 29, 2016</a></blockquote>
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(WION)&nbsp;

The number of casualties is likely to rise

Two people were reportedly killed in an explosion in Kot-e-Sangee in Kabul today, TOLOnews reported. In an update, TOLOnews said parliament's head of HR department was killed in the blast reported this evening. The number of casualties is likely to increase. Three were wounded in the incident according to eyewitnesses, TOLOnews said. Update Kabul explosion: Two people reportedly killed in #IED explosion in Kot-e-Sangee and two other wounded — TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) July 29, 2016 Update #Kabul explosion: Eye witnesses report that at least one person was killed and three others wounded in the explosion — TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) July 29, 2016 BREAKING: Parliament's head of HR department killed in Kote Sangi, Kabul, explosion: official — TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) July 29, 2016 (WION)

Parliament's head of HR, one other killed in Kabul blast: Local media?

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