Two people were killed in an explosion in Kabul on Thursday (Jan 11), the third such incident in less than a week. Twelve others were also injured in the&nbsp;grenade blast in PD 18 of Kabul, a spokesman for the Kabul security department, Khalid Zadran said.

He added that an investigation is underway to arrest the perpetrator.

Also watch |&nbsp;At least 32 killed in Kabul suicide blast in Afghanistan; no group has claimed responsibility yet

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The grenade was detonated outside a commercial centre in the Dasht-e-Barchi area, an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community.

"The initial information shows that unfortunately two civilian compatriots were martyred and 12 others were wounded," Zadran said in a statement.

The blast is the second deadly explosion in the area in less than a week.

<h2>Earlier attacks in Kabul</h2>

On Saturday, a bomb planted on a bus killed at least five people and wounded 15 others. The responsibility for these attacks&nbsp;was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group, which considers Shiites heretics.

IS claimed responsibility for another blast days later in eastern Kabul, in which police said three people were killed and four wounded by a bomb hidden in a cart near a minivan.

The recent attacks in Kabul mark an exit from a patter when the&nbsp;number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks in Afghanistan had declined after Taliban seized&nbsp;power in August 2021.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-taliban-have-put-afghan-clock-back-to-1990s-autocracy-un-report-603152">Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report</a>

However, a&nbsp;number of armed groups -- including IS (Khorasan)&nbsp; -- remain a security&nbsp;threat for the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two people were killed in an explosion in Kabul on Thursday (Jan 11), the third such incident in less than a week. Twelve others were also injured in the grenade blast in PD 18 of Kabul, a spokesman for the Kabul security department, Khalid Zadran said.

Two people were killed in an explosion in Kabul on Thursday (Jan 11), the third such incident in less than a week. Twelve others were also injured in the grenade blast in PD 18 of Kabul, a spokesman for the Kabul security department, Khalid Zadran said. He added that an investigation is underway to arrest the perpetrator. Also watch | At least 32 killed in Kabul suicide blast in Afghanistan; no group has claimed responsibility yet × The grenade was detonated outside a commercial centre in the Dasht-e-Barchi area, an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community. "The initial information shows that unfortunately two civilian compatriots were martyred and 12 others were wounded," Zadran said in a statement. The blast is the second deadly explosion in the area in less than a week. Earlier attacks in Kabul On Saturday, a bomb planted on a bus killed at least five people and wounded 15 others. The responsibility for these attacks was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group, which considers Shiites heretics. IS claimed responsibility for another blast days later in eastern Kabul, in which police said three people were killed and four wounded by a bomb hidden in a cart near a minivan. The recent attacks in Kabul mark an exit from a patter when the number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks in Afghanistan had declined after Taliban seized power in August 2021. Also read | Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report However, a number of armed groups -- including IS (Khorasan) -- remain a security threat for the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Kabul: Two killed as Afghanistan capital rocked by deadly explosion

A blast occurred in front of the Taliban-led Ministry of Foreign Affairs' building in Kabul. More than 20 people are reported to be dead in the attack. In the latest development, Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul suicide blast

An explosion has taken place outside the military airport in Kabul where several casualties are feared. The Taliban-run government in Afghanistan has confirmed the development. The explosion was reported was reported near the entrance to a military airfield.

Afghanistan: 8 killed in explosion outside military airport in Kabul

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

At least 12 people were killed as three bombs rocked the Afghanistan capital of Kabul on Thursday.

The first blast went off in a bus carrying government employees, killing a total of at least 12 people, news agency Reuters reported quoting officials.

Five employees of the ministry of mines and petroleum were killed and 10 wounded in the bus attack, the officials said, adding that seven people were killed and 21&nbsp;wounded in the second explosion.

"First a magnetic bomb pasted to a minibus exploded, then a suicide bomber blew himself near the bus attack site and the third blast happened when a car was blown up by unknown militants," said Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman of the interior ministry in Kabul.

"The death toll could rise from all the three blasts," he said.

No militant group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

The United States is trying to negotiate a deal that would see foreign forces pull out of Afghanistan. The eighth round of talks is expected to begin this month in Qatar.

(With inputs from Reuters) 
&nbsp;

At least 12 people were killed as three bombs rocked the Afghanistan capital of Kabul on Thursday. The first blast went off in a bus carrying government employees, killing a total of at least 12 people, news agency Reuters reported quoting officials.

At least 12 people were killed as three bombs rocked the Afghanistan capital of Kabul on Thursday. The first blast went off in a bus carrying government employees, killing a total of at least 12 people, news agency Reuters reported quoting officials. Five employees of the ministry of mines and petroleum were killed and 10 wounded in the bus attack, the officials said, adding that seven people were killed and 21 wounded in the second explosion. "First a magnetic bomb pasted to a minibus exploded, then a suicide bomber blew himself near the bus attack site and the third blast happened when a car was blown up by unknown militants," said Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman of the interior ministry in Kabul. "The death toll could rise from all the three blasts," he said. No militant group has claimed responsibility for the attacks. The United States is trying to negotiate a deal that would see foreign forces pull out of Afghanistan. The eighth round of talks is expected to begin this month in Qatar. (With inputs from Reuters)

12 killed, 21 wounded as three bombs rock Afghan capital Kabul

Multiple explosions in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday (March 21) killed six people and wounded 23 in an attack during celebrations to mark the Persian new year, government spokesmen said.

The attacks came on Nowruz, an ancient Persian festival to mark the start of spring that is widely celebrated in many parts of Afghanistan but has also faced opposition from some hardline Islamists, who say it is un-Islamic.

There were conflicting reports about of the cause of the blasts near the Kart-e Sakhi shrine, in a heavily Shi'ite Muslim area in the west of Kabul.

An interior ministry spokesman said mortar bombs had been fired. The defence ministry said in a post on Twitter that three rockets were fired at civilian homes and Nowruz gatherings. Authorities also said police had arrested the attacker and secured the area. 
&nbsp;

Multiple explosions in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday (March 21) killed six people and wounded 23 in an attack during celebrations to mark the Persian new year, government spokesmen said.

Multiple explosions in the Afghan capital of Kabul on Thursday (March 21) killed six people and wounded 23 in an attack during celebrations to mark the Persian new year, government spokesmen said. The attacks came on Nowruz, an ancient Persian festival to mark the start of spring that is widely celebrated in many parts of Afghanistan but has also faced opposition from some hardline Islamists, who say it is un-Islamic. There were conflicting reports about of the cause of the blasts near the Kart-e Sakhi shrine, in a heavily Shi'ite Muslim area in the west of Kabul. An interior ministry spokesman said mortar bombs had been fired. The defence ministry said in a post on Twitter that three rockets were fired at civilian homes and Nowruz gatherings. Authorities also said police had arrested the attacker and secured the area.

Afghanistan: Six killed, 23 injured in Kabul explosion during new year festival

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

At least five people were killed and twenty suffered injuries on Monday after a bomb exploded in&nbsp;Afghanistan Capital Kabul.

The bomb exploded in front of the gate of Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development building in Darulaman area.

According to media reports, the explosion occurred around 1 pm while employees were leaving the building.

Local Afghan media suggested that the explosion was a suicide bombing.

No individual or group has owned responsibility for the incident while filing this report. 
&nbsp;

No individual or group has owned responsibility for the incident while filing this report.

At least five people were killed and twenty suffered injuries on Monday after a bomb exploded in Afghanistan Capital Kabul. The bomb exploded in front of the gate of Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development building in Darulaman area. According to media reports, the explosion occurred around 1 pm while employees were leaving the building. Local Afghan media suggested that the explosion was a suicide bombing. No individual or group has owned responsibility for the incident while filing this report.

Afghanistan: 5 killed, 20 injured in Kabul suicide bombing

The pictures show journalists killed in the second of two explosions that rocked Kabul during the morning rush hour. They were taken by Reuters photographer Omar Sobhani, 10 or 15 seconds after a suicide bomber, apparently targeting members of the media, detonated his explosives.&nbsp;

In one image, a cameraman from Al Jazeera can be seen kneeling wounded against the kerb, while nearby a journalist from Afghanistan's Radio Azadi is being helped by an old man who was passing by when the blast went off.&nbsp;

Sobhani, who began working for Reuters as a driver and fixer in 2002 and has been a photographer since 2007, was among the journalists who had raced to cover the initial explosion on Monday morning in the Shashdarak area of central Kabul, not far from the US&nbsp;embassy.

"I had been waiting with other journalists to cover an earlier blast. It was a normal scene. It was about 8:30 in the morning, there were security forces guarding the site of the first blast and quite a few people going to work and we were just waiting with other journalists," he says.

"Then we heard a huge bang just behind me. I survived because I was standing in front of a concrete pillar that shielded me from the force of the explosion, but I saw all my friends and colleagues on the ground and a lot of them were dead with a few wounded - you can still see the smoke from the explosion in the pictures." 
 
Afghanistan's interior ministry said the suicide bomber who detonated the second blast had posed as a media worker, showing a press card to security forces and standing among the gathered journalists before blowing himself up.

Sobhani was slightly wounded but was able to quickly capture some images of the scene before withdrawing to seek help.

"I was shocked but I could see there was nothing to be done and I shot some pictures immediately before leaving," he said. "I could feel some pain and there was some shrapnel in my shoulder, which was taken out at the hospital."

Eight of the journalists were from Afghan outlets: two reporters from the Mashal TV, a cameraman and a reporter working for 1TV, three reporters from Radio Azadi and one from Tolo News, according to the Afghan Journalists Safety Committee.

The French news agency Agence France-Presse said its chief photographer in Afghanistan, Shah Marai, was killed.

For Sobhani and the other journalists at the scene, many of the victims of the attack were people they had worked alongside, covering the bloodshed in Afghanistan, for years.

"The people killed were all innocent people, people just going about their business or journalists just doing their job. They're showing the truth of what's happening, it's not politics, it's very important so that people can know what's happening," he said.

"It's a challenging job with a lot of problems, you see war and violence all the time, but it's important to make sure people know. I was very shocked, these were colleagues of mine, and one was a very good friend."

Total nine journalists lost their lives in Monday's twin explosion in Kabul, Afghanistan

The pictures show journalists killed in the second of two explosions that rocked Kabul during the morning rush hour. They were taken by Reuters photographer Omar Sobhani, 10 or 15 seconds after a suicide bomber, apparently targeting members of the media, detonated his explosives. In one image, a cameraman from Al Jazeera can be seen kneeling wounded against the kerb, while nearby a journalist from Afghanistan's Radio Azadi is being helped by an old man who was passing by when the blast went off. Sobhani, who began working for Reuters as a driver and fixer in 2002 and has been a photographer since 2007, was among the journalists who had raced to cover the initial explosion on Monday morning in the Shashdarak area of central Kabul, not far from the US embassy. "I had been waiting with other journalists to cover an earlier blast. It was a normal scene. It was about 8:30 in the morning, there were security forces guarding the site of the first blast and quite a few people going to work and we were just waiting with other journalists," he says. "Then we heard a huge bang just behind me. I survived because I was standing in front of a concrete pillar that shielded me from the force of the explosion, but I saw all my friends and colleagues on the ground and a lot of them were dead with a few wounded - you can still see the smoke from the explosion in the pictures." Afghanistan's interior ministry said the suicide bomber who detonated the second blast had posed as a media worker, showing a press card to security forces and standing among the gathered journalists before blowing himself up. Sobhani was slightly wounded but was able to quickly capture some images of the scene before withdrawing to seek help. "I was shocked but I could see there was nothing to be done and I shot some pictures immediately before leaving," he said. "I could feel some pain and there was some shrapnel in my shoulder, which was taken out at the hospital." Eight of the journalists were from Afghan outlets: two reporters from the Mashal TV, a cameraman and a reporter working for 1TV, three reporters from Radio Azadi and one from Tolo News, according to the Afghan Journalists Safety Committee. The French news agency Agence France-Presse said its chief photographer in Afghanistan, Shah Marai, was killed. For Sobhani and the other journalists at the scene, many of the victims of the attack were people they had worked alongside, covering the bloodshed in Afghanistan, for years. "The people killed were all innocent people, people just going about their business or journalists just doing their job. They're showing the truth of what's happening, it's not politics, it's very important so that people can know what's happening," he said. "It's a challenging job with a lot of problems, you see war and violence all the time, but it's important to make sure people know. I was very shocked, these were colleagues of mine, and one was a very good friend."

You can still see the smoke in the pictures: Kabul twin blasts witness recounts horror

Three people were injured in an explosion near a sit-in camp in Afghan capital Kabul.

The blast, which occurred in the city&#39;s Chaman-e-Hozoori area was a magnetic IED explosion, Tolo News reported citing the Kabul Police.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a>: The blast in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a>&#39;s PD8 near a sit-in camp in Chaman-e-Hozoori area was a magnetic IED explosion in which 3 people were wounded, reports TOLOnews quoting Kabul police. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/977562641056051207?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Fifteen people were killed and 40 injured in a car bomb explosion on Friday in the Lashkar Gah City in Afghanistan&#39;s Helmand province.

The explosion occurred when spectators were leaving a stadium after the conclusion of a wrestling match.

 
&nbsp;

The explosion occurred near a sit-in camp in the Afghan capital

Three people were injured in an explosion near a sit-in camp in Afghan capital Kabul. The blast, which occurred in the city's Chaman-e-Hozoori area was a magnetic IED explosion, Tolo News reported citing the Kabul Police. #UPDATE: The blast in #Kabul's PD8 near a sit-in camp in Chaman-e-Hozoori area was a magnetic IED explosion in which 3 people were wounded, reports TOLOnews quoting Kabul police. #Afghanistan — ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2018 × Fifteen people were killed and 40 injured in a car bomb explosion on Friday in the Lashkar Gah City in Afghanistan's Helmand province. The explosion occurred when spectators were leaving a stadium after the conclusion of a wrestling match.

3 injured in IED explosion in Kabul

A suicide car bomb targeting a foreign forces convoy rocked eastern Kabul early Friday, killing at least one civilian and injuring fourteen others in an area where many expatriates reside, AFP reported quoting Afghan interior ministry.

Local media showed extensive damage to the facades of nearby houses, and witnesses reported a strong explosion. Security forces could be seen rushing to the scene as passers-by helped move the wounded.

A horse was also badly injured in the blast and had to be shot dead in the street, an AFP reporter at the scene said.

&quot;Unfortunately around 9:00 am, a car bombing took place in (the) Qabil Bay area of Kabul. The target of the attack was a foreign forces convoy,&quot; ministry spokesman Najib Danish told AFP, giving the toll and adding that police are investigating.

His deputy, Nasrat Rahimi, said it was not clear if there were foreign casualties following the blast.

No group immediately claimed the attack, which is the latest to hit Kabul, one of the deadliest places in Afghanistan for civilians as both the Taliban and the expanding Islamic State group step up their assaults on the city.

The bombing also comes just days after Afghan president Ashraf Ghani unveiled a plan for peace talks with the Taliban, including a proposal to eventually recognise them as a political party.

Ghani revealed his plans in a speech during international peace talks in Kabul this week that went better than expected, with officials in Washington dare to hold out hope that the longest war in US history may be heading to a negotiated settlement.

US ambassador in Kabul John R. Bass hailed Ghani&#39;s &quot;very courageous stand&quot; and his &quot;commitment to pursue a peaceful settlement through talks&quot; after more than 16 years of conflict, as officials said the onus was now on the Taliban to respond.

Before Ghani&#39;s speech, the militants had called for direct talks with the US. They have not yet offered a full response to the president&#39;s proposal, but the apparent openness to negotiations on both sides has sparked cautious optimism.

More than 16,000 foreign troops are deployed in Afghanistan under the NATO mandate, most Americans who supervise Afghan forces and conduct counter-terrorism operations.

Since November, the US military has increased air raids against Taliban positions, training camps and heroin laboratories, which are an important source of revenue for the group.

Despite the optimism, Kabul remains on high alert, fearing further violence. American officials are also braced for more fighting in spring.

Since mid-January, militants have stormed a luxury hotel, bombed a crowded street, raided a military compound and launched a suicide attack during morning rush hour in the capital, killing more than 130 people.

(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;

Ministry of Interior's deputy spokesman Nusrat Rahimi said the explosion targeted a foreign forces convoy which was passing through the Qabel Bai area in Kabul’s PD9.

A suicide car bomb targeting a foreign forces convoy rocked eastern Kabul early Friday, killing at least one civilian and injuring fourteen others in an area where many expatriates reside, AFP reported quoting Afghan interior ministry. Local media showed extensive damage to the facades of nearby houses, and witnesses reported a strong explosion. Security forces could be seen rushing to the scene as passers-by helped move the wounded. A horse was also badly injured in the blast and had to be shot dead in the street, an AFP reporter at the scene said. "Unfortunately around 9:00 am, a car bombing took place in (the) Qabil Bay area of Kabul. The target of the attack was a foreign forces convoy," ministry spokesman Najib Danish told AFP, giving the toll and adding that police are investigating. His deputy, Nasrat Rahimi, said it was not clear if there were foreign casualties following the blast. No group immediately claimed the attack, which is the latest to hit Kabul, one of the deadliest places in Afghanistan for civilians as both the Taliban and the expanding Islamic State group step up their assaults on the city. The bombing also comes just days after Afghan president Ashraf Ghani unveiled a plan for peace talks with the Taliban, including a proposal to eventually recognise them as a political party. Ghani revealed his plans in a speech during international peace talks in Kabul this week that went better than expected, with officials in Washington dare to hold out hope that the longest war in US history may be heading to a negotiated settlement. US ambassador in Kabul John R. Bass hailed Ghani's "very courageous stand" and his "commitment to pursue a peaceful settlement through talks" after more than 16 years of conflict, as officials said the onus was now on the Taliban to respond. Before Ghani's speech, the militants had called for direct talks with the US. They have not yet offered a full response to the president's proposal, but the apparent openness to negotiations on both sides has sparked cautious optimism. More than 16,000 foreign troops are deployed in Afghanistan under the NATO mandate, most Americans who supervise Afghan forces and conduct counter-terrorism operations. Since November, the US military has increased air raids against Taliban positions, training camps and heroin laboratories, which are an important source of revenue for the group. Despite the optimism, Kabul remains on high alert, fearing further violence. American officials are also braced for more fighting in spring. Since mid-January, militants have stormed a luxury hotel, bombed a crowded street, raided a military compound and launched a suicide attack during morning rush hour in the capital, killing more than 130 people. (With AFP inputs)

One killed, 14 injured as Kabul car bomb targets foreign forces: Interior Ministry

The UN and the US today strongly condemned the &quot;senseless and cowardly bombing&quot; in Kabul which claimed at least <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-40-dead-140-wounded-after-massive-suicide-bomb-explosion-rocks-kabul-30897">95 lives and left 158 injured</a>, saying those responsible for it must be brought to justice.

Strongly condemning the Taliban-claimed assault - the second carried out by the militant group in the Afghan capital in a week, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, in a statement said that indiscriminate attacks against civilians are grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, and can never be justified.

&quot;The Secretary-General strongly condemns the deadly attack today in central Kabul, which was claimed by the Taliban...Those responsible for today&#39;s attack must be brought to justice,&quot; said a statement attributable to UN Secretary General&#39;s spokesperson.

Condemning the attack, the US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert tweeted: &quot;We condemn today&#39;s cowardly bombing in Kabul and those who perpetrated it. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we stand with the brave people of #Afghanistan.&quot;

US Ambassador to Afghanistan John R Bass, in a statement, also condemned the &quot;senseless and cowardly bombing&quot; in Kabul and those who perpetrated it.

&quot;Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. My government and I stand with the brave people of Afghanistan.? Their work to create a peaceful, prosperous future for all the citizens of this country is the best response to terrorists and others who know only violence,&quot; he said.

Meanwhile, the White House said President Donald Trump is aware of the terrorist attack.

Eiffel Tower to go dark

The Eiffel Tower will cut its lights on Saturday night to commemorate those killed and wounded in a devastating ambulance bombing in Kabul, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo said on Twitter.&nbsp;

&quot;Tonight at midnight the Eiffel Tower will go out in homage to the victims of the horrific attack that struck Kabul,&quot; Hidalgo said.&nbsp;

&quot;The city of Paris and Parisians are with the Afghan people who are once again facing terrorist barbarity.&quot;&nbsp;

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Ce soir, &agrave; minuit, <a href="https://twitter.com/LaTourEiffel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaTourEiffel</a> s&#39;&eacute;teindra en hommage aux victimes de l&#39;ignoble attentat qui a frapp&eacute; le coeur de <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kaboul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kaboul</a>. La Ville de <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris</a>, les Parisiennes et les Parisiens sont aux c&ocirc;t&eacute;s du peuple afghan qui fait face une nouvelle fois &agrave; la barbarie terroriste. <a href="https://t.co/o0e8HCJKDU">pic.twitter.com/o0e8HCJKDU</a>
&mdash; Anne Hidalgo (@Anne_Hidalgo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anne_Hidalgo/status/957285839280713728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-explosion-the-perpetrators-of-these-dastardly-attacks-should-be-brought-to-justice-says-ministry-of-external-affairs-30922">India has also condemned the attack</a>&nbsp;with the External Affairs ministry calling the incident as &quot;barbaric and barbaric and dastardly&quot;.

The Ministry called the attack &quot;reprehensible&quot; noting that no justification for the tragedy would suffice.

&quot;The perpetrators of these attacks and their supporters should be brought to justice,&quot; the release noted. &nbsp;

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India strongly condemns the barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul today. Full Press Release available at <a href="https://t.co/pPMhgb3tdz">https://t.co/pPMhgb3tdz</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbKabul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianEmbKabul</a>
&mdash; Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/957235485033705472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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President&nbsp;Ram Nath Kovind also expressed his regret on the incident.

&quot;Shocked at the&nbsp;news of the terrorist attack in Kabul. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families &amp; with those injured. India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the people &amp; government of Afghanistan in the fight against the forces of terror and evil,&quot; noted the President.&nbsp;

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Shocked at news of the terrorist attack in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a>. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families &amp; with those injured. India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the people &amp; government of Afghanistan in the fight against the forces of terror and evil, tweets President Ram Nath Kovind. <a href="https://t.co/vnOlKenQE0">pic.twitter.com/vnOlKenQE0</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/957277311669121024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Condemning the attack, the US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert tweeted: 'We condemn today's cowardly bombing in Kabul'

The UN and the US today strongly condemned the "senseless and cowardly bombing" in Kabul which claimed at least 95 lives and left 158 injured, saying those responsible for it must be brought to justice. Strongly condemning the Taliban-claimed assault - the second carried out by the militant group in the Afghan capital in a week, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, in a statement said that indiscriminate attacks against civilians are grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, and can never be justified. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns the deadly attack today in central Kabul, which was claimed by the Taliban...Those responsible for today's attack must be brought to justice," said a statement attributable to UN Secretary General's spokesperson. Condemning the attack, the US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert tweeted: "We condemn today's cowardly bombing in Kabul and those who perpetrated it. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we stand with the brave people of #Afghanistan." US Ambassador to Afghanistan John R Bass, in a statement, also condemned the "senseless and cowardly bombing" in Kabul and those who perpetrated it. "Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. My government and I stand with the brave people of Afghanistan.? Their work to create a peaceful, prosperous future for all the citizens of this country is the best response to terrorists and others who know only violence," he said. Meanwhile, the White House said President Donald Trump is aware of the terrorist attack. Eiffel Tower to go dark The Eiffel Tower will cut its lights on Saturday night to commemorate those killed and wounded in a devastating ambulance bombing in Kabul, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo said on Twitter. "Tonight at midnight the Eiffel Tower will go out in homage to the victims of the horrific attack that struck Kabul," Hidalgo said. "The city of Paris and Parisians are with the Afghan people who are once again facing terrorist barbarity." Ce soir, à minuit, @LaTourEiffel s'éteindra en hommage aux victimes de l'ignoble attentat qui a frappé le coeur de #Kaboul. La Ville de #Paris, les Parisiennes et les Parisiens sont aux côtés du peuple afghan qui fait face une nouvelle fois à la barbarie terroriste. pic.twitter.com/o0e8HCJKDU — Anne Hidalgo (@Anne_Hidalgo) January 27, 2018 × Meanwhile, India has also condemned the attack with the External Affairs ministry calling the incident as "barbaric and barbaric and dastardly". The Ministry called the attack "reprehensible" noting that no justification for the tragedy would suffice. "The perpetrators of these attacks and their supporters should be brought to justice," the release noted. India strongly condemns the barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul today. Full Press Release available at https://t.co/pPMhgb3tdz @IndianEmbKabul — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 27, 2018 × President Ram Nath Kovind also expressed his regret on the incident. "Shocked at the news of the terrorist attack in Kabul. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families & with those injured. India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the people & government of Afghanistan in the fight against the forces of terror and evil," noted the President. Shocked at news of the terrorist attack in #Kabul. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families & with those injured. India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the people & government of Afghanistan in the fight against the forces of terror and evil, tweets President Ram Nath Kovind. pic.twitter.com/vnOlKenQE0 — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2018 × (With inputs from agencies)

Kabul explosion: UN, US condemn terrorist attack, Eiffel Tower to go dark

Pakistan today strongly condemned a terror attack in Kabul that claimed at least 95 lives and called for cooperation among countries for effectively combating and eliminating the scourge of terrorism.

An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul today, 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.

Condemning the terror attack, Pakistan emphasised on the need for concerted efforts and effective cooperation among the states to eradicate the scourge of terrorism.

&quot;No cause or ends justify acts of terrorism against innocent people. We emphasise the need for concerted efforts and effective cooperation among the states to eradicate the scourge of terrorism,&quot; the Foreign Office said.

&quot;We convey our deepest sympathies for those who have lost their loved ones and our sincere prayers and wishes are for early recovery of those who have sustained injuries in this dreadful terror attack,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

Condemning the terror attack, Pakistan emphasised on the need for concerted efforts and effective cooperation among the states

Pakistan today strongly condemned a terror attack in Kabul that claimed at least 95 lives and called for cooperation among countries for effectively combating and eliminating the scourge of terrorism. An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul today, 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. Condemning the terror attack, Pakistan emphasised on the need for concerted efforts and effective cooperation among the states to eradicate the scourge of terrorism. "No cause or ends justify acts of terrorism against innocent people. We emphasise the need for concerted efforts and effective cooperation among the states to eradicate the scourge of terrorism," the Foreign Office said. "We convey our deepest sympathies for those who have lost their loved ones and our sincere prayers and wishes are for early recovery of those who have sustained injuries in this dreadful terror attack," he said.

Pakistan calls for cooperation for combating terrorism

The Ministry of External Affairs has strongly condemned the massive suicide-bomb&nbsp;explosion in Kabul.&nbsp;

The official release noted that the &quot;barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul targeted innocent civilians and the wounded under treatment.&quot;

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India stands in solidarity with Govt &amp; people of Afghanistan at this difficult time of mindless violence &amp; terror imposed on them. We convey our heartfelt condolences to next of kins of victims of these terror attacks &amp; pray for speedy recovery to those injured: MEA <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KabulAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KabulAttack</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/957229857150189570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Ministry called the attack &quot;reprehensible&quot; noting that no justification for the tragedy would suffice.

&quot;The perpetrators of these attacks and their supporters should be brought to justice,&quot; the release noted.&nbsp;

The Indian External Affairs department expressed its complete solidarity and utmost support with the Government and the people of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

&quot;We convey our heartfelt condolences to the next of kins of victims of these terror attacks and pray for a speedy recovery to those injured,&quot; noted the release which was tweeted by Raveesh Kumar, the official spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, India.&nbsp;

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India strongly condemns the barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul today. Full Press Release available at <a href="https://t.co/pPMhgb3tdz">https://t.co/pPMhgb3tdz</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbKabul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianEmbKabul</a>
&mdash; Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/957235485033705472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The MEA also worded its commitment to extend &quot;all possible assistance, including for treatment of those injured.&quot;

An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-40-dead-140-wounded-after-massive-suicide-bomb-explosion-rocks-kabul-30897">Kabul on Saturday</a>&nbsp;in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years.

The horrific explosion came just a couple of days after gunmen stormed the office compound of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-blast-outside-save-the-children-in-jalalabad-30587">Save the Children charity in Jalalabad</a>, Afghanistan on Wednesday morning.

The Ministry further called the attack "reprehensible" noting that no justification for the tragedy would suffice.

The Ministry of External Affairs has strongly condemned the massive suicide-bomb explosion in Kabul. The official release noted that the "barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul targeted innocent civilians and the wounded under treatment." India stands in solidarity with Govt & people of Afghanistan at this difficult time of mindless violence & terror imposed on them. We convey our heartfelt condolences to next of kins of victims of these terror attacks & pray for speedy recovery to those injured: MEA #KabulAttack — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2018 × The Ministry called the attack "reprehensible" noting that no justification for the tragedy would suffice. "The perpetrators of these attacks and their supporters should be brought to justice," the release noted. The Indian External Affairs department expressed its complete solidarity and utmost support with the Government and the people of Afghanistan. "We convey our heartfelt condolences to the next of kins of victims of these terror attacks and pray for a speedy recovery to those injured," noted the release which was tweeted by Raveesh Kumar, the official spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, India. India strongly condemns the barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul today. Full Press Release available at https://t.co/pPMhgb3tdz @IndianEmbKabul — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 27, 2018 × The MEA also worded its commitment to extend "all possible assistance, including for treatment of those injured." An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul on Saturday in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years. The horrific explosion came just a couple of days after gunmen stormed the office compound of the Save the Children charity in Jalalabad, Afghanistan on Wednesday morning.

India reacts to Kabul explosion: 'The perpetrators should be brought to justice,' says MEA

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-40-dead-140-wounded-after-massive-suicide-bomb-explosion-rocks-kabul-30897">At least 63 dead, 151 wounded after massive suicide bomb explosion rocks Kabul</a>

An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul on Saturday, killing at least 63 people and wounding 151 others, officials said, in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kasganj-clash-49-people-arrested-section-144-to-continue-30912">Kasganj clash: 49 people arrested, section 144 to continue</a>

Violence erupted in Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Kasganj district after the cremation of a youth, who lost his life in firing during a clash between two groups on Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/caroline-wozniacki-beats-simona-halep-to-win-australian-open-30913">Caroline Wozniacki beats Simona Halep to win Australian Open</a>

Caroline Wozniacki claimed her maiden grand slam title with a 7-6(2) 3-6 6-4 win over top seed Simona Halep in the Australian Open final on Saturday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/iplauction-2018-live-30884">IPL 2018 auction LIVE: Sunrisers Hyderabad retains Rashid Khan for 9 crores</a>

The IPL 2018 auction is taking place in Bengaluru today where a total of 578 players went under the hammer.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eight-dead-as-us-strike-hits-iraq-forces-30899">Eight dead as US strike hits Iraq forces</a>

Eight Iraqis were killed on Saturday, most of them security personnel, in a US air strike that apparently targeted them by mistake, a provincial official said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At least 63 dead, 151 wounded after massive suicide bomb explosion rocks Kabul An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul on Saturday, killing at least 63 people and wounding 151 others, officials said, in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years. Kasganj clash: 49 people arrested, section 144 to continue Violence erupted in Uttar Pradesh's Kasganj district after the cremation of a youth, who lost his life in firing during a clash between two groups on Friday. Caroline Wozniacki beats Simona Halep to win Australian Open Caroline Wozniacki claimed her maiden grand slam title with a 7-6(2) 3-6 6-4 win over top seed Simona Halep in the Australian Open final on Saturday. IPL 2018 auction LIVE: Sunrisers Hyderabad retains Rashid Khan for 9 crores The IPL 2018 auction is taking place in Bengaluru today where a total of 578 players went under the hammer. Eight dead as US strike hits Iraq forces Eight Iraqis were killed on Saturday, most of them security personnel, in a US air strike that apparently targeted them by mistake, a provincial official said.

WION Evening News Brief, 27 January 2018

Local media of Afghanistan has reported the arrest of five persons in connection with the January 21 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-five-dead-in-kabul-hotel-attack-afghan-spy-agency-30204">attack on the Intercontinental hotel in&nbsp;Kabul.</a>

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Breaking : Five persons arrested in connection with attack on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/intercontinentalhotel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#intercontinentalhotel</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>
&mdash; Pajhwok Afghan News (@pajhwok) <a href="https://twitter.com/pajhwok/status/957555713584390145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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At least four <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabuls-intercontinental-hotel-under-attack-by-at-least-four-gunmen-30184">Taliban gunmen attacked Kabul&#39;s landmark Intercontinental Hotel </a>on Saturday and started shooting at guests, which went on for 12 hours.

The overnight attack killed at least 22 people, the majority of them were foreigners including citizens from Venezuela, the Ukraine, Germany and Kazakhstan and America.

About 100 people were kept hostage who later were released after the attack.

During the investigation after the attack, many<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-hotel-guests-describe-lax-security-before-deadly-attack-30537"> issues relating to security </a>came to the light.

A witness and a security source said that at least two of the gunmen were armed and inside the hotel before the attack began, and questions have been raised &mdash; including by the country&#39;s interior minister &mdash; over whether the militants had inside help.

Constantly under threat, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kabul-explosion-death-toll-increases-to-103-30982">Kabul also faced another deadly attack </a>on Saturday, in which 103 were killed and 235 were wounded.

An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years.

The<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-explosion-the-perpetrators-of-these-dastardly-attacks-should-be-brought-to-justice-says-ministry-of-external-affairs-30922"> Ministry of External Affairs&nbsp;strongly condemned t</a>he&nbsp;suicide-bomb explosion on Saturday.&nbsp;

At least four Taliban gunmen attacked Kabul's landmark Intercontinental Hotel on Saturday and started shooting at guests, which went on for 12-hours

Local media of Afghanistan has reported the arrest of five persons in connection with the January 21 attack on the Intercontinental hotel in Kabul. Breaking : Five persons arrested in connection with attack on #intercontinentalhotel in #Kabul.#Afghanistan — Pajhwok Afghan News (@pajhwok) January 28, 2018 × At least four Taliban gunmen attacked Kabul's landmark Intercontinental Hotel on Saturday and started shooting at guests, which went on for 12 hours. The overnight attack killed at least 22 people, the majority of them were foreigners including citizens from Venezuela, the Ukraine, Germany and Kazakhstan and America. About 100 people were kept hostage who later were released after the attack. During the investigation after the attack, many issues relating to security came to the light. A witness and a security source said that at least two of the gunmen were armed and inside the hotel before the attack began, and questions have been raised — including by the country's interior minister — over whether the militants had inside help. Constantly under threat, Kabul also faced another deadly attack on Saturday, in which 103 were killed and 235 were wounded. An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years. The Ministry of External Affairs strongly condemned the suicide-bomb explosion on Saturday.

Five arrested over Kabul Intercontinental hotel shooting

At least eight policemen and 10 civilians were killed in a suicide attack that took place outside a restaurant in Kabul on Thursday afternoon, security officials confirmed to Afghan channel Tolo News.

The explosion took place at Khair Khana near the Lab-e-Jar square in Kabul city. A&nbsp;number of senior officials of the Jamiat-e-Islami party had gathered in the area, the report added, citing eyewitnesses.

The officials were supporters of&nbsp;Balkh Atta Mohammad Noor, the chief of the mainly ethnic Tajik party and the powerful governor of the northern province, AFP and Reuters reported, adding that it was not clear if the politician was at the meeting at the time of the attack.

The Islamic State claimed responsibility, according to Amaq, its official news agency. The Taliban denied involvement, Reuters reported.

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The attack took place outside a restaurant in the PD4 area (Reuters,Others)
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Afghan president Ashraf Ghani issued a statement condemning the attack as a &quot;criminal act&quot;.

A police spokesperson told AFP that the bomber tried to get into the building but was stopped at the security checkpoint where he detonated himself.

At least three cars were also destroyed, eyewitnesses told Tolo News. The area has been cordoned off.

Kabul has been rocked by a series of explosions in the last one year.

This is the&nbsp;second attack this year against a Jamiat gathering.&nbsp; 
 
In June, at least seven people were killed and more than 119 wounded in three separate explosions at the funeral of a son of a Jamiat leader in Kabul. The son had been killed in a shooting during a protest rally the previous day.&nbsp; 
 
Political tensions are up as politicians have begun jockeying for position ahead of presidential elections expected in 2019.

At least eight policemen and 10 civilians were killed in the suicide attack, Afghan channel Tolo News reported

At least eight policemen and 10 civilians were killed in a suicide attack that took place outside a restaurant in Kabul on Thursday afternoon, security officials confirmed to Afghan channel Tolo News. The explosion took place at Khair Khana near the Lab-e-Jar square in Kabul city. A number of senior officials of the Jamiat-e-Islami party had gathered in the area, the report added, citing eyewitnesses. The officials were supporters of Balkh Atta Mohammad Noor, the chief of the mainly ethnic Tajik party and the powerful governor of the northern province, AFP and Reuters reported, adding that it was not clear if the politician was at the meeting at the time of the attack. The Islamic State claimed responsibility, according to Amaq, its official news agency. The Taliban denied involvement, Reuters reported. Video: The attack took place outside a restaurant in the PD4 area (Reuters,Others) × Afghan president Ashraf Ghani issued a statement condemning the attack as a "criminal act". A police spokesperson told AFP that the bomber tried to get into the building but was stopped at the security checkpoint where he detonated himself. At least three cars were also destroyed, eyewitnesses told Tolo News. The area has been cordoned off. Kabul has been rocked by a series of explosions in the last one year. This is the second attack this year against a Jamiat gathering. In June, at least seven people were killed and more than 119 wounded in three separate explosions at the funeral of a son of a Jamiat leader in Kabul. The son had been killed in a shooting during a protest rally the previous day. Political tensions are up as politicians have begun jockeying for position ahead of presidential elections expected in 2019.

Kabul: 18 killed in suicide attack outside political gathering

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

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

An Afghan official says at least 10 people have been killed in two explosions in the eastern province of Paktia. 
 
Naqib Ahmad Atal, spokesman for the provincial governor, says five members of one family died when their vehicle struck a hidden roadside bomb. He says another five people were killed when their tractor hit a similar device an hour later today afternoon. 
 
Both incidents happened in Chamkani district.&nbsp;Atal blamed Taliban fighters who are active in the area and regularly seed the roads with bombs. The Taliban use such terrorising tactics to intimidate local residents. 
 
The United Nations says the Taliban are responsible for the vast majority of civilians killed and wounded in the war. The world body has said that 1,601 died in the first half of 2016.&nbsp; 
 
(PTI)

Five people died when their vehicle struck a hidden roadside bomb. Another five died when their tractor hit a similar device an hour later

An Afghan official says at least 10 people have been killed in two explosions in the eastern province of Paktia. Naqib Ahmad Atal, spokesman for the provincial governor, says five members of one family died when their vehicle struck a hidden roadside bomb. He says another five people were killed when their tractor hit a similar device an hour later today afternoon. Both incidents happened in Chamkani district. Atal blamed Taliban fighters who are active in the area and regularly seed the roads with bombs. The Taliban use such terrorising tactics to intimidate local residents. The United Nations says the Taliban are responsible for the vast majority of civilians killed and wounded in the war. The world body has said that 1,601 died in the first half of 2016. (PTI)

10 civilians killed by roadside bombs: Afghan official

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