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

A Taliban attack on a housing complex used by international organisations in the Afghan capital Kabul late on Monday killed at least 16 people and angered local residents who demanded the heavily fortified compound be moved.&nbsp;

The blast, which shook buildings several kilometres away, happened just as Zalmay Khalilzad, the special US&nbsp;envoy for peace in Afghanistan, was outlining details of a draft accord with the insurgents in a television interview.&nbsp;

Following major Taliban attacks on two northern cities over the weekend, the bombing of the Green Village compound in a mixed business and residential area added to questions around the peace deal reached between US&nbsp;and Taliban negotiators in the Qatari capital, Doha.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-to-withdraw-5000-troops-from-afghanistan-close-bases-zalmay-khalilzad-247234">US to withdraw 5,000 troops from Afghanistan, close bases: Zalmay Khalilzad</a>&nbsp;

It was condemned by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and prompted an urgent call from the top United Nations official in Afghanistan, Tadamichi Yamamoto, for an end to the violence and a negotiated intra-Afghan settlement to the conflict.

"Meaningful steps must take place now to obtain an immediate and nationwide halt to violence. The United Nations stands ready to help," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

Monday's attack left wreckage strewn around the area, destroying cars and badly damaging the concrete blast walls protecting the Green Village complex located off a major road in an area of houses, shops and warehouses.&nbsp;

Habib Jan, who was in his house nearby when the blast occurred, said residents wanted the compound, used mainly by foreign staff of international groups including aid organisations, moved to another location.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/committed-to-supporting-afghan-forces-nato-chief-stoltenberg-247361">Committed to supporting Afghan forces, says NATO chief Stoltenberg</a>

"This isn't once or twice, it's the fourth or fifth time, all by the Taliban. A lot of my friends, a lot of my family have been wounded or killed," he said as smoke spiralled into the sky from burning tyres lit by protesters demanding that the complex be moved.

"Our young people have been killed, our children have been killed, our old men have been killed, our girls have been killed. What can we do?"

Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast was caused by a tractor packed with explosives but that armed attackers, who planned to follow up the blast, were killed by security forces. Around 400 foreign nationals were evacuated.

Like other compounds built to house the thousands of foreign contractors and agency staff who work in Kabul, Green Village is a fortified complex of concrete blast walls and steel gates protected by armed guards.

While such compounds have been attacked repeatedly over the years, the main victims are often Afghan civilians living in the surrounding area.

The timing of the attack, as Khalilzad's interview was still being broadcast, appeared to be deliberate. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid declared the blast had destroyed rooms and offices and caused countless casualties among "invaders".

"Enemy claims of civilian losses are false as no civilians were allowed close to the site of the attack," he said in a tweet.

Khalilzad, a veteran Afghan-born diplomat who has been leading US&nbsp;negotiations, said almost 5,000 US&nbsp;troops would be pulled out and five bases closed in exchange for Taliban guarantees that Afghanistan would not be used as a base for militant attacks on the United States and its allies.

But the deal did not include a formal ceasefire and Monday's attacks, as well as major assaults on the northern cities of Kunduz and Pul-e Khumri, underlined doubts about whether it would really bring an end to violence.

On the other side, officials in the southern province of Helmand, one of the Taliban's main strongholds, said 15 insurgents, including the commander and deputy commander of a special operations unit, were killed by US&nbsp;air strikes.

A Taliban attack on a housing complex used by international organisations in the Afghan capital Kabul late on Monday killed at least 16 people and angered local residents who demanded the heavily fortified compound be moved.

A Taliban attack on a housing complex used by international organisations in the Afghan capital Kabul late on Monday killed at least 16 people and angered local residents who demanded the heavily fortified compound be moved. The blast, which shook buildings several kilometres away, happened just as Zalmay Khalilzad, the special US envoy for peace in Afghanistan, was outlining details of a draft accord with the insurgents in a television interview. Following major Taliban attacks on two northern cities over the weekend, the bombing of the Green Village compound in a mixed business and residential area added to questions around the peace deal reached between US and Taliban negotiators in the Qatari capital, Doha. Also Read: US to withdraw 5,000 troops from Afghanistan, close bases: Zalmay Khalilzad It was condemned by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and prompted an urgent call from the top United Nations official in Afghanistan, Tadamichi Yamamoto, for an end to the violence and a negotiated intra-Afghan settlement to the conflict. "Meaningful steps must take place now to obtain an immediate and nationwide halt to violence. The United Nations stands ready to help," he said in a statement. Monday's attack left wreckage strewn around the area, destroying cars and badly damaging the concrete blast walls protecting the Green Village complex located off a major road in an area of houses, shops and warehouses. Habib Jan, who was in his house nearby when the blast occurred, said residents wanted the compound, used mainly by foreign staff of international groups including aid organisations, moved to another location. Also Read: Committed to supporting Afghan forces, says NATO chief Stoltenberg "This isn't once or twice, it's the fourth or fifth time, all by the Taliban. A lot of my friends, a lot of my family have been wounded or killed," he said as smoke spiralled into the sky from burning tyres lit by protesters demanding that the complex be moved. "Our young people have been killed, our children have been killed, our old men have been killed, our girls have been killed. What can we do?" Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast was caused by a tractor packed with explosives but that armed attackers, who planned to follow up the blast, were killed by security forces. Around 400 foreign nationals were evacuated. Like other compounds built to house the thousands of foreign contractors and agency staff who work in Kabul, Green Village is a fortified complex of concrete blast walls and steel gates protected by armed guards. While such compounds have been attacked repeatedly over the years, the main victims are often Afghan civilians living in the surrounding area. The timing of the attack, as Khalilzad's interview was still being broadcast, appeared to be deliberate. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid declared the blast had destroyed rooms and offices and caused countless casualties among "invaders". "Enemy claims of civilian losses are false as no civilians were allowed close to the site of the attack," he said in a tweet. Khalilzad, a veteran Afghan-born diplomat who has been leading US negotiations, said almost 5,000 US troops would be pulled out and five bases closed in exchange for Taliban guarantees that Afghanistan would not be used as a base for militant attacks on the United States and its allies. But the deal did not include a formal ceasefire and Monday's attacks, as well as major assaults on the northern cities of Kunduz and Pul-e Khumri, underlined doubts about whether it would really bring an end to violence. On the other side, officials in the southern province of Helmand, one of the Taliban's main strongholds, said 15 insurgents, including the commander and deputy commander of a special operations unit, were killed by US air strikes.

Deadly Taliban attack in Afghan capital casts shadow on peace deal

A massive car bomb explosion rocks Afghanistan's capital Kabul last night. 16 people were killed. This bomb blast took place near Green Village in Kabul. Dozens of people were rushed to the nearby hospital. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Last night massive car explosion rocks Kabul, Taliban claimed responsibility

A suicide blast ripped through the capital city of Afghanistan, Kabul on Friday evening, state media reported.&nbsp;

As many as four civilians are reported as injured in the explosion. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;More details are awaited.&nbsp;

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At least four people were wounded in an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/explosion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#explosion</a> in the 2nd Street of Taimani in Kabul's PD4, a spokesman for the Ministry of Interior, Nusrat Rahimi, said.
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The blast comes days after nearly 80 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack at a wedding reception in Afghanistan's Kabul earlier this month.&nbsp;

President Ashraf Ghani had condemned the incident and said, "My top priority for now is to reach out to the families of victims of this barbaric attack." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-wedding-suicide-attack-in-kabul-243841">The Islamic State</a> had claimed the responsibility of the attack.&nbsp;

IS said one of its fighters blew himself up at a "large gathering" in Kabul while others "detonated a parked explosives-laden vehicle" when security forces arrived, in a statement posted on the Telegram messaging app.

On Wednesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-kills-14-pro-government-militia-in-afghanistan-officials-246178">Taliban militants killed</a> at least 14 members of a pro-government militia in Afghanistan. The incidents come in the backdrop of Taliban and US officials nearing a deal aimed at ending the 18-year war.

Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-drop-troop-level-but-permanent-presence-to-remain-in-afghanistan-trump-246453">US President Donald Trump on Thursday said</a> that US troop levels will drop to 8,600 in Afghanistan if a peace deal is reached with the Taliban and that a permanent presence will remain.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A suicide blast ripped through the capital city of Afghanistan, Kabul on Friday evening, state media reported. As many as four civilians are reported as injured in the explosion.

A suicide blast ripped through the capital city of Afghanistan, Kabul on Friday evening, state media reported. As many as four civilians are reported as injured in the explosion. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. More details are awaited. At least four people were wounded in an #explosion in the 2nd Street of Taimani in Kabul's PD4, a spokesman for the Ministry of Interior, Nusrat Rahimi, said. — TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) August 30, 2019 × The blast comes days after nearly 80 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack at a wedding reception in Afghanistan's Kabul earlier this month. President Ashraf Ghani had condemned the incident and said, "My top priority for now is to reach out to the families of victims of this barbaric attack." The Islamic State had claimed the responsibility of the attack. IS said one of its fighters blew himself up at a "large gathering" in Kabul while others "detonated a parked explosives-laden vehicle" when security forces arrived, in a statement posted on the Telegram messaging app. On Wednesday, Taliban militants killed at least 14 members of a pro-government militia in Afghanistan. The incidents come in the backdrop of Taliban and US officials nearing a deal aimed at ending the 18-year war. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Thursday said that US troop levels will drop to 8,600 in Afghanistan if a peace deal is reached with the Taliban and that a permanent presence will remain. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Suicide blast kills at least 4 in Kabul city

Afghanistan on Tuesday accused Pakistan of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-fired-over-200-missiles-on-afghanistans-kunar-province-in-last-3-days-244565">yet another military violation</a>&nbsp;and sought United Nations' (UN) intervention.&nbsp;

Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan,&nbsp;Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals.

Kabul wrote to the UN&nbsp;Security Council citing the dates for the violations.

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Afghanistan wrote to United Nations Security Council (UNSC), over continuous shelling by Pakistan in various cities of Afghanistan near borders with Pakistan. Afghanistan urged UNSC to take necessary measures. <a href="https://t.co/rRF3QXcEOx">pic.twitter.com/rRF3QXcEOx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1166335028868993024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Afghanistan's provincial governor`s spokesman Abdul Ghani Musamim had earlier&nbsp;claimed that Pakistan had fired over 200 missiles on Afghanistan's Kunar province.

Musamim said that the missiles were fired over a period of three days.Tolo News quoted him as saying that the rocket attacks left four houses destroyed.

Quoting sources, the Afghan agency had reported that the shelling from across the border had been going on for the past few days and had even started spreading fear.&nbsp;

Afghanistan on Tuesday accused Pakistan of yet another military violation and sought United Nations' (UN) intervention. Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan, Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals.

Afghanistan on Tuesday accused Pakistan of yet another military violation and sought United Nations' (UN) intervention. Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan, Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals. Kabul wrote to the UN Security Council citing the dates for the violations. Afghanistan wrote to United Nations Security Council (UNSC), over continuous shelling by Pakistan in various cities of Afghanistan near borders with Pakistan. Afghanistan urged UNSC to take necessary measures. pic.twitter.com/rRF3QXcEOx — ANI (@ANI) August 27, 2019 × Afghanistan's provincial governor`s spokesman Abdul Ghani Musamim had earlier claimed that Pakistan had fired over 200 missiles on Afghanistan's Kunar province. Musamim said that the missiles were fired over a period of three days.Tolo News quoted him as saying that the rocket attacks left four houses destroyed. Quoting sources, the Afghan agency had reported that the shelling from across the border had been going on for the past few days and had even started spreading fear.

Kabul accuses Pakistan of military violations; seeks action from United Nations

Terrorists Sponsored By Pakistan Continue To Hurt Peace In The Region.

WION Gravitas: Kabul Attacks: Abu Asim Al-Pakistani identified as a suicide bomber

For years, as violence raged through Afghanistan, lavish weddings offered a rare opportunity for celebration, but now even that is under threat after last weekend's deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-dead-100-injured-as-blast-rips-through-wedding-party-in-afghanistans-kabul-243740">attack </a>on a party venue sent shock waves through one of Kabul's key industries.

Over-the-top, glitzy weddings are a big deal for Afghans and for the economy in Kabul, where showy venues the size of aircraft hangars dot the city and employ thousands of workers.

Wedding hall owners and betrothed couples alike are wondering what's next after Saturday's attack, when an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-wedding-suicide-attack-in-kabul-243841"> Islamic State bomber</a> killed at least 63 guests and staff and wounded scores more during celebrations at the Shahr-e-Dubai wedding hall in western Kabul.

"Wedding halls were one of the few businesses that were still functioning relatively well despite all the problems," said Ghulam Sakhi Sultani, one of the Shahr-e-Dubai's three owners.&nbsp;

"It will be hard to regain the trust of the people to hold mass weddings inside a wedding hall following this attack."

While Afghan weddings have been hit in the past, attacks have typically targeted smaller functions away from the capital.

"We fear the terrorists may have chosen mass wedding gatherings as their new targets," said Sultani, who was out of the country when the bombing happened and spoke to AFP by phone late Sunday. Ten of his staff were killed or injured.

"Today, most of them did not show up. When we contacted them, they said they fear for their lives."

&nbsp;No security&nbsp;

Saturday's attack exposes the vulnerability of the wedding halls.&nbsp;

In a city where bombs go off almost daily and crime is rampant, Kabul weddings typically don't have any security measures at all, and the halls themselves often have few emergency exits.

Couples frequently invite more than 1,000 guests, and gate crashers often wander in off the street.&nbsp;

Unless VIPs are present, it is considered insulting to frisk guests, and strangers blend in easily with the crowds of friends and relatives.

"We will take extra security measures, but it will be hard to stop a bomber among hundreds of guests coming to a wedding party," Sultani said.

Sharif, the manager of another Kabul wedding hall who only gave one name, said his business was already suffering, with no new couples calling to book the venue since the attack.

"We are supposed to provide a joyful and safe environment for people to celebrate the start of their new life together, but following the horrific attack last night, everything will change," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"I don't think people will trust us or the government for their security any more."

The attack underscores both the inadequacy of Afghanistan's security forces and the scale of the challenge they face in a city that sees frequent attacks by IS, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-condemns-kabul-suicide-attack-says-taliban-cant-escape-blame-243788">Taliban</a>, criminals and other groups.

Dawood Hotak, a 26-year-old engaged student, blamed local police and said he now plans to get married at home instead of at a wedding hall.

"People should be searched before entering the wedding halls," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"If there would have been body searches, I am sure the attack would have been prevented."

Fellow student Ahmad Jawed, 24, was also angry at the authorities and lamented the lack of security.

"How come a wedding hall does not get attacked when there is VIP party or ceremony?" he said.&nbsp;

"The security institutions fail to provide security to ordinary Afghans."

&nbsp;'No more safe places'&nbsp;

Kabul weddings pump millions of dollars into the local economy, with the events typically a costly affair

A fancy wedding with all the trimmings -- including singers, live music and vast plates of food -- can cost $15,000 or more, an absolute fortune in one of the world's poorest countries.&nbsp;

Young grooms often splash out their life savings or take on debt for a night of celebration.

A few years ago, Afghan politicians passed legislation to cap wedding costs and limit the number of guests to 500, but this has been roundly ignored.

Last November, a suicide bomber hit the Uranus Wedding Palace in the capital as religious scholars gathered, killing at least 55, but Saturday's attack is thought to be the first of its kind against a Kabul wedding in full swing.

"There are no more safe places in Kabul," the Uranus's manager Haji Ghulam Sediq told AFP.&nbsp;

"It is not just the employees and the guests, I myself am fearful."

For years, as violence raged through Afghanistan, lavish weddings offered a rare opportunity for celebration, but now even that is under threat after last weekend's deadly attack on a party venue sent shock waves through one of Kabul's key industries.

For years, as violence raged through Afghanistan, lavish weddings offered a rare opportunity for celebration, but now even that is under threat after last weekend's deadly attack on a party venue sent shock waves through one of Kabul's key industries. Over-the-top, glitzy weddings are a big deal for Afghans and for the economy in Kabul, where showy venues the size of aircraft hangars dot the city and employ thousands of workers. Wedding hall owners and betrothed couples alike are wondering what's next after Saturday's attack, when an Islamic State bomber killed at least 63 guests and staff and wounded scores more during celebrations at the Shahr-e-Dubai wedding hall in western Kabul. "Wedding halls were one of the few businesses that were still functioning relatively well despite all the problems," said Ghulam Sakhi Sultani, one of the Shahr-e-Dubai's three owners. "It will be hard to regain the trust of the people to hold mass weddings inside a wedding hall following this attack." While Afghan weddings have been hit in the past, attacks have typically targeted smaller functions away from the capital. "We fear the terrorists may have chosen mass wedding gatherings as their new targets," said Sultani, who was out of the country when the bombing happened and spoke to AFP by phone late Sunday. Ten of his staff were killed or injured. "Today, most of them did not show up. When we contacted them, they said they fear for their lives." No security Saturday's attack exposes the vulnerability of the wedding halls. In a city where bombs go off almost daily and crime is rampant, Kabul weddings typically don't have any security measures at all, and the halls themselves often have few emergency exits. Couples frequently invite more than 1,000 guests, and gate crashers often wander in off the street. Unless VIPs are present, it is considered insulting to frisk guests, and strangers blend in easily with the crowds of friends and relatives. "We will take extra security measures, but it will be hard to stop a bomber among hundreds of guests coming to a wedding party," Sultani said. Sharif, the manager of another Kabul wedding hall who only gave one name, said his business was already suffering, with no new couples calling to book the venue since the attack. "We are supposed to provide a joyful and safe environment for people to celebrate the start of their new life together, but following the horrific attack last night, everything will change," he told AFP. "I don't think people will trust us or the government for their security any more." The attack underscores both the inadequacy of Afghanistan's security forces and the scale of the challenge they face in a city that sees frequent attacks by IS, the Taliban, criminals and other groups. Dawood Hotak, a 26-year-old engaged student, blamed local police and said he now plans to get married at home instead of at a wedding hall. "People should be searched before entering the wedding halls," he told AFP. "If there would have been body searches, I am sure the attack would have been prevented." Fellow student Ahmad Jawed, 24, was also angry at the authorities and lamented the lack of security. "How come a wedding hall does not get attacked when there is VIP party or ceremony?" he said. "The security institutions fail to provide security to ordinary Afghans." 'No more safe places' Kabul weddings pump millions of dollars into the local economy, with the events typically a costly affair A fancy wedding with all the trimmings -- including singers, live music and vast plates of food -- can cost $15,000 or more, an absolute fortune in one of the world's poorest countries. Young grooms often splash out their life savings or take on debt for a night of celebration. A few years ago, Afghan politicians passed legislation to cap wedding costs and limit the number of guests to 500, but this has been roundly ignored. Last November, a suicide bomber hit the Uranus Wedding Palace in the capital as religious scholars gathered, killing at least 55, but Saturday's attack is thought to be the first of its kind against a Kabul wedding in full swing. "There are no more safe places in Kabul," the Uranus's manager Haji Ghulam Sediq told AFP. "It is not just the employees and the guests, I myself am fearful."

Kabul's glitzy wedding industry fears for future after attack

At least 63&nbsp;people are feared dead and over 182&nbsp;injured following a deadly suicide-bomb blast in Darulaman area of Kabul city on Saturday night, a senior Afghan official said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghans-in-limbo-ahead-of-independence-day-amid-concerns-over-election-us-taliban-talks-243720">Afghan Interior Ministry</a> confirmed the attack and said the explosion took place at around 10:40 pm, reported Tolo news.&nbsp;

According to eyewitnesses, the suicide bomber laid explosives among the wedding participants and detonated them.

People say that almost a thousand people were invited to the ceremony.

There are reports that this could end up being the deadliest attack on Kabul in recent times.

While the Taliban is the obvious candidate to have carried out the attack, the group has not released any statements yet.

The blast happened in western Kabul, a predominantly Shia locality.

The Shia minority has been targeted by the Taliban multiple times over the years.

Most of the injured were later taken to a hospital in the city.

There has been a slew of attacks in Afghanistan in recent times.

Most of which have been claimed by the Taliban.

10 days back, they had attacked a police headquarters, killing 14 people and injuring more than a hundred.

These attacks come at a time when the united states are discussing a peace deal in Afghanistan — a deal that involves the Taliban giving up arms.

The latest blast at the wedding comes ahead of Afghanistan's 100th independence day celebrations tomorrow, and shortly after the festival of Eid al-Adha.

Meanwhile, Taliban sources indicate that the younger brother of a prominent Afghan Taliban leader was killed in a bomb blast near a mosque in Pakistan.

But the Taliban leadership has promised that his killing will not affect the progress of the peace talks with the united states.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 63 people are feared dead and over 182 injured following a deadly suicide-bomb blast in Darulaman area of Kabul city on Saturday night, a senior Afghan official said.

At least 63 people are feared dead and over 182 injured following a deadly suicide-bomb blast in Darulaman area of Kabul city on Saturday night, a senior Afghan official said. Afghan Interior Ministry confirmed the attack and said the explosion took place at around 10:40 pm, reported Tolo news. According to eyewitnesses, the suicide bomber laid explosives among the wedding participants and detonated them. People say that almost a thousand people were invited to the ceremony. There are reports that this could end up being the deadliest attack on Kabul in recent times. While the Taliban is the obvious candidate to have carried out the attack, the group has not released any statements yet. The blast happened in western Kabul, a predominantly Shia locality. The Shia minority has been targeted by the Taliban multiple times over the years. Most of the injured were later taken to a hospital in the city. There has been a slew of attacks in Afghanistan in recent times. Most of which have been claimed by the Taliban. 10 days back, they had attacked a police headquarters, killing 14 people and injuring more than a hundred. These attacks come at a time when the united states are discussing a peace deal in Afghanistan — a deal that involves the Taliban giving up arms. The latest blast at the wedding comes ahead of Afghanistan's 100th independence day celebrations tomorrow, and shortly after the festival of Eid al-Adha. Meanwhile, Taliban sources indicate that the younger brother of a prominent Afghan Taliban leader was killed in a bomb blast near a mosque in Pakistan. But the Taliban leadership has promised that his killing will not affect the progress of the peace talks with the united states. (With inputs from agencies)

63 killed, 182 injured as blast rips through wedding party in Afghanistan's Kabul

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

At least 20 people were wounded in a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-ied-blast-targets-bus-in-kabul-at-least-10-wounded-221867"> blast</a> at a Kabul wedding late Saturday, a local hospital said, while a witness said he had seen many <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-vice-president-candidate-injured-as-kabul-blast-kills-two-wounds-another-25-239058">dead bodies</a> at the scene.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-death-toll-in-blast-near-kabul-university-mounts-to-8-dozens-wounded-237097">explosion</a> came just as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghans-in-limbo-ahead-of-independence-day-amid-concerns-over-election-us-taliban-talks-243720">US and the Taliban </a>are widely expected to sign off on a deal that would see American troops begin to depart Afghanistan in return for various security assurances from the insurgents.

"#Kabul #Afghanistan explosion in a hotel during a wedding party, about 20 patients arrived up to now at our hospital #masscasualty," the Italian-run Emergency hospital of Kabul said on Twitter.

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🔴 <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> explosion in a hotel during a wedding party, about 20 patients arrived up to now at our hospital <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/masscasualty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#masscasualty</a>
— EMERGENCY (@emergency_ong) <a href="https://twitter.com/emergency_ong/status/1162808274749722624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast occurred in a west Kabul wedding hall around 10:40 pm (1810 GMT).

He shared on Facebook photos showing several apparent bodies inside a dining area.

Afghan weddings are epic and vibrant affairs, with hundreds or often thousands of guests celebrating inside industrial-scale wedding halls where the men are usually segregated from the women and children.

Mohammad Farhag, who had been at the wedding, said he had been in the women's section when he heard a huge blast in the men's area.&nbsp;

"Everyone ran outside shouting and crying," he said.

"For about 20 minutes the hall was full of smoke. Almost everyone in the men's section is either dead or wounded. Now, two hours after the blast, they are still taking bodies out of the hall."

No group immediately claimed responsibility.

Little security

Government spokesman Feroz Bashari said the blast was "a clear sign that terrorists can't see Afghans express happiness."

"You can't make them bow by killing them. The perpetrators of tonight's attack shall be held responsible," he wrote on Twitter.

Insurgents have periodically struck Afghan weddings, which are seen as easy targets because they frequently lack rigorous security precautions.

On July 12, at least six people were killed when a suicide bomber attacked a wedding ceremony in the eastern Afghan province of Nangarhar. The Islamic State group, which has a growing footprint in the region, claimed the blast.

Expectations are rising for a deal in which the US would start withdrawing its approximately 14,000 soldiers from Afghanistan after a two-decade war that has turned into a stalemate.

US President Donald Trump has said since the start of his presidency that he wants troops out of the country where Washington has spent more than $1 trillion on military operations and reconstruction since 2001.

In return for the US departure, the Taliban would commit to various security guarantees, including that the Islamist hardliners who long harboured Al-Qaeda would not allow Afghanistan to once again become a jihadist haven.

On Friday, Ahmadullah Azkhundzada, brother of Afghan Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhundzada, was among four people killed in a blast at a mosque in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan, a senior official with the provincial government said.

At least 20 people were wounded in a blast at a Kabul wedding late Saturday, a local hospital said, while a witness said he had seen many dead bodies at the scene.

At least 20 people were wounded in a blast at a Kabul wedding late Saturday, a local hospital said, while a witness said he had seen many dead bodies at the scene. The explosion came just as the US and the Taliban are widely expected to sign off on a deal that would see American troops begin to depart Afghanistan in return for various security assurances from the insurgents. "#Kabul #Afghanistan explosion in a hotel during a wedding party, about 20 patients arrived up to now at our hospital #masscasualty," the Italian-run Emergency hospital of Kabul said on Twitter. 🔴 #Kabul #Afghanistan explosion in a hotel during a wedding party, about 20 patients arrived up to now at our hospital #masscasualty — EMERGENCY (@emergency_ong) August 17, 2019 × Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast occurred in a west Kabul wedding hall around 10:40 pm (1810 GMT). He shared on Facebook photos showing several apparent bodies inside a dining area. Afghan weddings are epic and vibrant affairs, with hundreds or often thousands of guests celebrating inside industrial-scale wedding halls where the men are usually segregated from the women and children. Mohammad Farhag, who had been at the wedding, said he had been in the women's section when he heard a huge blast in the men's area. "Everyone ran outside shouting and crying," he said. "For about 20 minutes the hall was full of smoke. Almost everyone in the men's section is either dead or wounded. Now, two hours after the blast, they are still taking bodies out of the hall." No group immediately claimed responsibility. Little security Government spokesman Feroz Bashari said the blast was "a clear sign that terrorists can't see Afghans express happiness." "You can't make them bow by killing them. The perpetrators of tonight's attack shall be held responsible," he wrote on Twitter. Insurgents have periodically struck Afghan weddings, which are seen as easy targets because they frequently lack rigorous security precautions. On July 12, at least six people were killed when a suicide bomber attacked a wedding ceremony in the eastern Afghan province of Nangarhar. The Islamic State group, which has a growing footprint in the region, claimed the blast. Expectations are rising for a deal in which the US would start withdrawing its approximately 14,000 soldiers from Afghanistan after a two-decade war that has turned into a stalemate. US President Donald Trump has said since the start of his presidency that he wants troops out of the country where Washington has spent more than $1 trillion on military operations and reconstruction since 2001. In return for the US departure, the Taliban would commit to various security guarantees, including that the Islamist hardliners who long harboured Al-Qaeda would not allow Afghanistan to once again become a jihadist haven. On Friday, Ahmadullah Azkhundzada, brother of Afghan Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhundzada, was among four people killed in a blast at a mosque in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan, a senior official with the provincial government said.

Many feared dead as bomb rips through wedding party in Afghanistan's Kabul

Islamic State on Sunday claimed responsibility for a suicide attack in Kabul on Saturday. A suicide bomber killed 63 people and wounded 182 in an attack on a packed wedding reception in the Afghan capital, the Afghan interior ministry said on Sunday.

Islamic state claims responsibility for wedding suicide attack in Kabul

Two consecutive explosions injured at least nine people, including two police personnel, in Khost city, capital of Afghanistan`s eastern Khost province on Thursday, provincial police spokesman Haider Adil said.

The first blast, with a magnetic mine, targeted a car at around 11:20 am (local time) next to Spin Jumat locality.&nbsp;

The second one went off a few minutes later, almost in the same area, injuring nine people, including two police personnel, Adil was quoted as saying by Xinhua news agency.No group has claimed responsibility for the bombings.

Today`s blasts come two days after the city of Khost was targeted by a magnetic bomb blast that killed at least one person and injured two others.

The incident comes at a time when the Taliban and the United States are engaged in conducting the eighth round of talks in Doha aimed at achieving ever-lasting peace after decades of war in Afghanistan.

In his Eid message to the US, Taliban leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada today said that the group is taking forward the peace process "thoroughly" and that the former should move forward "honestly" to take effective steps to resolve the country`s issues and end 18 years of war.

Akhundzada also ordered members of the group to take all necessary steps to protect people of his country during Eid days.

He said that while the war is ongoing, the political efforts have also increased aimed at ending the "occupation of Afghanistan".

However, reacting on his comments, Afghan presidential spokesman, Sediq Sediqqi, during a press briefing, earlier in the day, said, "Afghans have no need to hear Taliban`s message. Taliban`s message is still a message of panic, a message of fear and message of war."

"The Taliban are the main cause of destruction and killing of civilians. The people of Afghanistan want the Taliban to renounce war and destruction," he added.&nbsp;

Two consecutive explosions injured at least nine people, including two police personnel, in Khost city, capital of Afghanistan`s eastern Khost province on Thursday, provincial police spokesman Haider Adil said.

Two consecutive explosions injured at least nine people, including two police personnel, in Khost city, capital of Afghanistan`s eastern Khost province on Thursday, provincial police spokesman Haider Adil said. The first blast, with a magnetic mine, targeted a car at around 11:20 am (local time) next to Spin Jumat locality. The second one went off a few minutes later, almost in the same area, injuring nine people, including two police personnel, Adil was quoted as saying by Xinhua news agency.No group has claimed responsibility for the bombings. Today`s blasts come two days after the city of Khost was targeted by a magnetic bomb blast that killed at least one person and injured two others. The incident comes at a time when the Taliban and the United States are engaged in conducting the eighth round of talks in Doha aimed at achieving ever-lasting peace after decades of war in Afghanistan. In his Eid message to the US, Taliban leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada today said that the group is taking forward the peace process "thoroughly" and that the former should move forward "honestly" to take effective steps to resolve the country`s issues and end 18 years of war. Akhundzada also ordered members of the group to take all necessary steps to protect people of his country during Eid days. He said that while the war is ongoing, the political efforts have also increased aimed at ending the "occupation of Afghanistan". However, reacting on his comments, Afghan presidential spokesman, Sediq Sediqqi, during a press briefing, earlier in the day, said, "Afghans have no need to hear Taliban`s message. Taliban`s message is still a message of panic, a message of fear and message of war." "The Taliban are the main cause of destruction and killing of civilians. The people of Afghanistan want the Taliban to renounce war and destruction," he added.

Twin blasts in east Afghanistan injure nine

A large explosion occurred in&nbsp;Kabul on Wednesday morning, sending massive plume of smoke over the capital and shattering shop windows far from the blast site.

The blast occurred around 9:00 am(local time) during morning rush hour in western Kabul, interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told AFP.

The Taliban said a "recruitment centre" had been attacked by one of their suicide bombers while claiming responsibility for the attack.

"A large number of soldiers and police were killed or wounded," the Taliban said in a statement.

The bomb went off when a vehicle was stopped at a checkpoint outside the police station, said interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi.

Health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar said at least 95 people, mostly civilians and including women and children, had been taken to hospital.

On August 4, two people were killed in a bus bomb attack in the Afghan capital. The interior ministry had said homemade&nbsp;"sticky bomb" was used to carry out the attack.

The blast targeted local TV station employees, the ministry had said.

No group had claimed responsibility for the attack. 
&nbsp;

(Inputs: AFP, Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

A large explosion occurred in Kabul on Wednesday morning, sending massive plume of smoke over the capital and shattering shop windows far from the blast site. The blast occurred around 9:00 am(local time) during morning rush hour in western Kabul, interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told AFP.

A large explosion occurred in Kabul on Wednesday morning, sending massive plume of smoke over the capital and shattering shop windows far from the blast site. The blast occurred around 9:00 am(local time) during morning rush hour in western Kabul, interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told AFP. The Taliban said a "recruitment centre" had been attacked by one of their suicide bombers while claiming responsibility for the attack. "A large number of soldiers and police were killed or wounded," the Taliban said in a statement. The bomb went off when a vehicle was stopped at a checkpoint outside the police station, said interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi. Health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar said at least 95 people, mostly civilians and including women and children, had been taken to hospital. On August 4, two people were killed in a bus bomb attack in the Afghan capital. The interior ministry had said homemade "sticky bomb" was used to carry out the attack. The blast targeted local TV station employees, the ministry had said. No group had claimed responsibility for the attack. (Inputs: AFP, Reuters)

At least 95 people injured in Kabul blast; Taliban claims responsibility

A suicide attacker detonated a car bomb outside a police station in the Afghan capital Kabul on Wednesday wounding almost 100 people, Taliban has claimed responsibility for the blasts. Watch this video to know more.

Aghanistan: Bomb attack leaves around 100 injured

Campaign for the fourth presidential elections in Afghanistan slated for September 28 began Sunday. A total of 18 candidates, including incumbent President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, embarked on a two-month campaign.

Afghan presidential election campaign begins

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

A powerful explosion has hit central Kabul during on Sunday. Reports say that a car bomb targeted an office of the Afghanistan Green Trend. Watch this video to know more.

News Alert: Powerful blast hits central Kabul

The body of a Croatian soldier killed in a Taliban-claimed suicide car bomb attack in Kabul landed back in his native country on Friday, media reported.

Josip Briski, 27, was a member of a Croatian contingent deployed in Afghanistan as part of a US-led mission.

He was killed on Wednesday when a suicide attacker hit his convoy, injuring two other Croatian soldiers, Croatia's Defence Minister Damir Krsticevic said.

A US Air Force plane brought Briski's coffin draped in the red, white and blue Croatian flag to Zagreb airport where it received military honours, Croatia's Hina news agency reported.

President Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic attended the airport ceremony along with other ministers, NATO representatives and family members.

A commemoration is scheduled for Friday in the capital Zagreb and the soldier's funeral will be held on Saturday.&nbsp;

Two other Croatian soldiers were wounded in the attack in Kabul. They were said to have serious but not life-threatening injuries, Krsticevic said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Violence in Afghanistan has flared in recent weeks as the United States leads an effort to forge a peace deal with the Taliban after nearly 18 years of war.

About 100 Croatian soldiers are deployed in Afghanistan as part of the US Resolute Support Mission. Coalition soldiers help train and advise their Afghan partners.&nbsp;

The body of a Croatian soldier killed in a Taliban-claimed suicide car bomb attack in Kabul landed back in his native country on Friday, media reported. Josip Briski, 27, was a member of a Croatian contingent deployed in Afghanistan as part of a US-led mission.

The body of a Croatian soldier killed in a Taliban-claimed suicide car bomb attack in Kabul landed back in his native country on Friday, media reported. Josip Briski, 27, was a member of a Croatian contingent deployed in Afghanistan as part of a US-led mission. He was killed on Wednesday when a suicide attacker hit his convoy, injuring two other Croatian soldiers, Croatia's Defence Minister Damir Krsticevic said. A US Air Force plane brought Briski's coffin draped in the red, white and blue Croatian flag to Zagreb airport where it received military honours, Croatia's Hina news agency reported. President Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic attended the airport ceremony along with other ministers, NATO representatives and family members. A commemoration is scheduled for Friday in the capital Zagreb and the soldier's funeral will be held on Saturday. Two other Croatian soldiers were wounded in the attack in Kabul. They were said to have serious but not life-threatening injuries, Krsticevic said on Wednesday. Violence in Afghanistan has flared in recent weeks as the United States leads an effort to forge a peace deal with the Taliban after nearly 18 years of war. About 100 Croatian soldiers are deployed in Afghanistan as part of the US Resolute Support Mission. Coalition soldiers help train and advise their Afghan partners.

Croatian soldier killed in Kabul attack returns home

Three Croatian soldiers were seriously wounded in Kabul on Wednesday when their vehicle was hit by a Taliban suicide attacker, officials and the insurgents said.&nbsp;

Croatia has about 100 troops deployed in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/could-win-afghanistan-war-in-a-week-or-ten-days-but-chose-not-to-do-so-says-donald-trump-in-meeting-with-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-237798">Afghanistan</a> as part of NATO's US-led Resolute Support mission, where coalition soldiers are helping train and advise local partners.

According to Croatian defence minister Damir Krsticevic, a suicide bomber was thought to have targeted the troops' armoured vehicle in the attack Wednesday morning.

"One soldier was seriously injured and his life is endangered," Krsticevic told reporters in Zagreb. He described the other two soldiers' wounds as serious but not life-threatening.

Croatian General Kresimir Tuskan said the troops had been working as part of a British-led special operations advisory group.

Afghan interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast had come from a car bomb.

The Taliban, who often exaggerate or misrepresent claims, said one of its "martyrdom" attackers had killed or wounded a "large number" of CIA officers by detonating a car packed with explosives.

Kabul police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz told AFP that no Afghan police or civilians were wounded.

Violence in Kabul and across Afghanistan has flared up in recent weeks even as the US is leading an effort to try to forge a peace deal with the Taliban after nearly 18 years of war.

Both Afghan forces and the Taliban claim to have inflicted heavy casualties on each other and large numbers of civilians are being killed each week. 
&nbsp;

Three Croatian soldiers were seriously wounded in Kabul on Wednesday when their vehicle was hit by a Taliban suicide attacker, officials and the insurgents said.

Three Croatian soldiers were seriously wounded in Kabul on Wednesday when their vehicle was hit by a Taliban suicide attacker, officials and the insurgents said. Croatia has about 100 troops deployed in Afghanistan as part of NATO's US-led Resolute Support mission, where coalition soldiers are helping train and advise local partners. According to Croatian defence minister Damir Krsticevic, a suicide bomber was thought to have targeted the troops' armoured vehicle in the attack Wednesday morning. "One soldier was seriously injured and his life is endangered," Krsticevic told reporters in Zagreb. He described the other two soldiers' wounds as serious but not life-threatening. Croatian General Kresimir Tuskan said the troops had been working as part of a British-led special operations advisory group. Afghan interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the blast had come from a car bomb. The Taliban, who often exaggerate or misrepresent claims, said one of its "martyrdom" attackers had killed or wounded a "large number" of CIA officers by detonating a car packed with explosives. Kabul police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz told AFP that no Afghan police or civilians were wounded. Violence in Kabul and across Afghanistan has flared up in recent weeks even as the US is leading an effort to try to forge a peace deal with the Taliban after nearly 18 years of war. Both Afghan forces and the Taliban claim to have inflicted heavy casualties on each other and large numbers of civilians are being killed each week.

Three Croatian soldiers wounded in Taliban attack in Kabul

Afghanistan's government called on Tuesday for clarification of US President Donald Trump's remarks that he could win the Afghan war in just 10 days by "wiping out Afghanistan from the face of the earth," the presidential palace in Kabul said. Trump's remarks followed a meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the White House on Monday. He voiced optimism that Pakistan could help broker a political settlement to end the nearly 18-year-old war in Afghanistan.

Kabul slams Trump's 'can wipe off Afghanistan in a week' comment

Taliban attacks police HQ in Kandahar as violence continues in Afghanistan. Violence continues to be the norm in Afghanistan amidst peace talks. Taliban attacked a police HQ in Kandahar yesterday. They also opened fire on policemen. Today a bomb attack killed 8 people in Kabul. Palki summarises.

Gravitas: Afghanistan: Peace talks amid more bloodshed

The path to peace in Afghanistan has been a bumpy ride. Acts of violence continue. So what is the status of the peace talks? What will the future look like for Afghanistan government, Taliban and the U.S.? Here's a report.

Gravitas: A bumpy road to Afghan peace

Afghan government forces mistakenly killed seven civilians, including children, in an attack on militants south of the capital, a provincial official said on Monday, the latest victims of a war undiminished by peace talks.

Government forces, have been facing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-taliban-us-violence-for-upper-hand-in-afghan-deal-237189">Taliban</a> attacks across much of the country, and have responded with airstrikes aimed at killing insurgent leaders, even as US and Afghan representatives have been negotiating with the militants in Qatar.

The seven civilians, including women and children, were killed in Logar province, just south of Kabul, on Sunday night said Hasib Stanekzai, a member of Logar's provincial council. Six people were wounded, he said.

Provincial police confirmed the attack on militants by government forces but said they were investigating the casualties.

"According to our initial information a number of militants were killed or wounded, but local people gathered in the area, claiming that a house belonging to a Kuchi family had been bombed, causing civilian casualties," said Shahpor Ahmadzai, a spokesman for Logar police.

Kuchi is nomadic herders, but some now live in permanent settlements.

Ahmadzai, who said police were investigating, also said foreign force was involved in the attack on the militants. Officials with Afghanistan's NATO force were not immediately available to confirm or deny their involvement in the operation.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-has-no-military-solution-says-pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-in-us-diaspora-address-237567&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjKiM2hvsjjAhUIPo8KHbTxBNIQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw13XcLzzXPbUvinqsOphqlU">Afghan forces</a>, backed by US advisers, have in recent months stepped up their airstrikes and raids to the highest levels since 2014.

The latest phase of Afghanistan's war - which began when US-backed forces overthrew the Taliban following September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States - has intensified despite the most sustained peace talks of the war.

The United Nations has repeatedly expressed concern about civilian casualties, which reached their highest level last year since detailed accounting began nearly a decade ago.

The war claimed 3,804 civilian lives in 2018, that included 927 children, both figures all-time highs, representing an 11% increase in civilian deaths compared with 2017, UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said in February.

Afghan government forces mistakenly killed seven civilians, including children, in an attack on militants south of the capital, a provincial official said on Monday, the latest victims of a war undiminished by peace talks.

Afghan government forces mistakenly killed seven civilians, including children, in an attack on militants south of the capital, a provincial official said on Monday, the latest victims of a war undiminished by peace talks. Government forces, have been facing Taliban attacks across much of the country, and have responded with airstrikes aimed at killing insurgent leaders, even as US and Afghan representatives have been negotiating with the militants in Qatar. The seven civilians, including women and children, were killed in Logar province, just south of Kabul, on Sunday night said Hasib Stanekzai, a member of Logar's provincial council. Six people were wounded, he said. Provincial police confirmed the attack on militants by government forces but said they were investigating the casualties. "According to our initial information a number of militants were killed or wounded, but local people gathered in the area, claiming that a house belonging to a Kuchi family had been bombed, causing civilian casualties," said Shahpor Ahmadzai, a spokesman for Logar police. Kuchi is nomadic herders, but some now live in permanent settlements. Ahmadzai, who said police were investigating, also said foreign force was involved in the attack on the militants. Officials with Afghanistan's NATO force were not immediately available to confirm or deny their involvement in the operation. Afghan forces, backed by US advisers, have in recent months stepped up their airstrikes and raids to the highest levels since 2014. The latest phase of Afghanistan's war - which began when US-backed forces overthrew the Taliban following September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States - has intensified despite the most sustained peace talks of the war. The United Nations has repeatedly expressed concern about civilian casualties, which reached their highest level last year since detailed accounting began nearly a decade ago. The war claimed 3,804 civilian lives in 2018, that included 927 children, both figures all-time highs, representing an 11% increase in civilian deaths compared with 2017, UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said in February.

Afghan forces kill seven civilians in attack on militants

On #WionEdit, Palki analyses the Afghanistan peace talks and summarises the battle for power between the Taliban and the U.S. She also takes a look at what the future could look like for all the parties in Afghanistan.

WION Edit: Analysing the Afghanistan peace talks

A labyrinth of concrete blast walls, spotlights, and checkpoints are eating up ever more of Kabul, standing in stark contrast to a similar area in Iraq's Baghdad where easing tensions have seen its barricades come down.

The tale of the two "Green Zones" provides a snapshot of the dramatically changing nature of the Afghan conflict, long overshadowed by the war in Iraq where multiple insurgencies following the toppling of Saddam Hussein in 2003 turned Baghdad into a warzone.

But following the so-called Islamic State group's loss of territory in Syria and Iraq, Baghdad has experienced a sharp reduction in violence.

AFP reported recently on the reopening of Baghdad's Green Zone, with hundreds of streets long sealed off from the public opened as Iraq gets back on its feet after decades of conflict.

Not so in central Kabul, once known as a city of gardens and revered by Babur, the nature-loving founder of the Mughal empire.

Today its once-leafy avenues are increasingly blocked by concrete. Towering blast walls continue to expand along with the addition of an already dizzying number of checkpoints that keep traffic perennially gridlocked and residents stressed across the city.

The expansion began with a devastating truck bomb near the Green Zone in 2017 that killed some 150 people and wounded hundreds more, becoming the deadliest attack since the US invasion of 2001.&nbsp;

It caused extensive damage to the nearby German Embassy, among other buildings, and blew windows out hundreds of metres away.

Shortly after, officials announced that they were expanding the ring of steel around the heart of the city - though with more than a hundred of ways into Kabul they have admitted it is impossible to control all entrances.

Trucks entering Kabul en route to the area must now pass through a new sophisticated scanner near the airport to detect explosives, often waiting hours before they can proceed.

Congestion has grown as more of the area, which contains some of Kabul's key traffic arteries, is sealed off - a security concern, with bombers often targeting rush hour.&nbsp;

Diplomats are increasingly avoiding the roads, opting for expensive minutes-long helicopter flights to the city's airport. Diesel generators add to the roar of the choppers passing every few minutes over once tranquil streets.

Only a tiny portion of the Afghan population is allowed to enter the Green Zone, where vehicles are scanned again and armed sentries at myriad checkpoints inspect cars further.

Most Kabul residents have been locked out of the area for years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The last time I drove my taxi there was during the Taliban rule," recalls Shir Mohammad, a 48-year-old taxi driver.

'Ugly city'&nbsp;

The zone, originally established in 2001 and encompassing buildings such as NATO headquarters and the presidential palace, is classified as "green" in security lingo, while most other areas in the capital are labelled "red" due to their high-threat levels.

In the years after the invasion, as security deteriorated across Afghanistan, the resurgent Taliban and in recent years IS stepped up their attacks on Kabul.&nbsp;

Attacks have dipped slightly in recent months, as the US and Taliban hold ongoing talks aimed at ending the nearly 18-year-old conflict.

But even if a breakthrough comes the threat from other insurgent groups remains, and Kabul officials say they are moving forward with the plans to expand the Green Zone.&nbsp;

The expansion is planned mostly at the north end of the Green Zone near the airport, with the ultimate aim of building a new access road, a security official requesting anonymity tells AFP.

The plans have gotten off to a slow start, the official admits, saying hundreds of land plots must first be levelled and its owners relocated to a new area.

Several officials questioned by AFP refused to speak about the specifics of the project, citing security concerns.&nbsp;

Kabul residents, often trapped in their cars as helicopters travelling in and out of the Green Zone whir overhead, are hopeful the situation will not last forever.

"If the Green Zone opens again it will dramatically ease the traffic pressure in the city," suggests Mohammad.

Shukrullah Khan, another Kabul resident, is anxiously awaiting the day when it "opens up to the public and the blast walls are removed from the city".

"Kabul has become an ugly city," he adds. "They should move the Green Zone to the outskirts."

A labyrinth of concrete blast walls, spotlights, and checkpoints are eating up ever more of Kabul, standing in stark contrast to a similar area in Iraq's Baghdad where easing tensions have seen its barricades come down.

A labyrinth of concrete blast walls, spotlights, and checkpoints are eating up ever more of Kabul, standing in stark contrast to a similar area in Iraq's Baghdad where easing tensions have seen its barricades come down. The tale of the two "Green Zones" provides a snapshot of the dramatically changing nature of the Afghan conflict, long overshadowed by the war in Iraq where multiple insurgencies following the toppling of Saddam Hussein in 2003 turned Baghdad into a warzone. But following the so-called Islamic State group's loss of territory in Syria and Iraq, Baghdad has experienced a sharp reduction in violence. AFP reported recently on the reopening of Baghdad's Green Zone, with hundreds of streets long sealed off from the public opened as Iraq gets back on its feet after decades of conflict. Not so in central Kabul, once known as a city of gardens and revered by Babur, the nature-loving founder of the Mughal empire. Today its once-leafy avenues are increasingly blocked by concrete. Towering blast walls continue to expand along with the addition of an already dizzying number of checkpoints that keep traffic perennially gridlocked and residents stressed across the city. The expansion began with a devastating truck bomb near the Green Zone in 2017 that killed some 150 people and wounded hundreds more, becoming the deadliest attack since the US invasion of 2001. It caused extensive damage to the nearby German Embassy, among other buildings, and blew windows out hundreds of metres away. Shortly after, officials announced that they were expanding the ring of steel around the heart of the city - though with more than a hundred of ways into Kabul they have admitted it is impossible to control all entrances. Trucks entering Kabul en route to the area must now pass through a new sophisticated scanner near the airport to detect explosives, often waiting hours before they can proceed. Congestion has grown as more of the area, which contains some of Kabul's key traffic arteries, is sealed off - a security concern, with bombers often targeting rush hour. Diplomats are increasingly avoiding the roads, opting for expensive minutes-long helicopter flights to the city's airport. Diesel generators add to the roar of the choppers passing every few minutes over once tranquil streets. Only a tiny portion of the Afghan population is allowed to enter the Green Zone, where vehicles are scanned again and armed sentries at myriad checkpoints inspect cars further. Most Kabul residents have been locked out of the area for years. "The last time I drove my taxi there was during the Taliban rule," recalls Shir Mohammad, a 48-year-old taxi driver. 'Ugly city' The zone, originally established in 2001 and encompassing buildings such as NATO headquarters and the presidential palace, is classified as "green" in security lingo, while most other areas in the capital are labelled "red" due to their high-threat levels. In the years after the invasion, as security deteriorated across Afghanistan, the resurgent Taliban and in recent years IS stepped up their attacks on Kabul. Attacks have dipped slightly in recent months, as the US and Taliban hold ongoing talks aimed at ending the nearly 18-year-old conflict. But even if a breakthrough comes the threat from other insurgent groups remains, and Kabul officials say they are moving forward with the plans to expand the Green Zone. The expansion is planned mostly at the north end of the Green Zone near the airport, with the ultimate aim of building a new access road, a security official requesting anonymity tells AFP. The plans have gotten off to a slow start, the official admits, saying hundreds of land plots must first be levelled and its owners relocated to a new area. Several officials questioned by AFP refused to speak about the specifics of the project, citing security concerns. Kabul residents, often trapped in their cars as helicopters travelling in and out of the Green Zone whir overhead, are hopeful the situation will not last forever. "If the Green Zone opens again it will dramatically ease the traffic pressure in the city," suggests Mohammad. Shukrullah Khan, another Kabul resident, is anxiously awaiting the day when it "opens up to the public and the blast walls are removed from the city". "Kabul has become an ugly city," he adds. "They should move the Green Zone to the outskirts."

From Kabul to Baghdad, a tale of two 'Green Zones'

Naya, a three-year-old Belgian Malinois, focuses intently as she leaps over hurdles and zooms through tunnels on an obstacle course at a training centre on a hill overlooking Kabul.

She seems to be having fun but is being trained for a life-or-death mission,&nbsp;finding explosives in a country where hidden mines, bombs, and weapons routinely kill.

Naya is one of about 200 dogs at the Afghan capital's Mine Detection Centre (MDC), a non-governmental group raising the animals from rambunctious pups into a disciplined force, and teaching handlers how to work with the canines.

A common sight around the Afghan capital, explosives-sniffing dogs are deployed at checkpoints and government facilities, where they are an important tool in combatting the flow of homemade bombs being smuggled into Kabul.

"The dogs are very useful they are very fast, they do their jobs with great speed," Taj Mohammad, a long-time trainer at the centre, told AFP on a recent visit.

Handlers demonstrated how they train dogs to hone in on particular scents explosives mainly, but also narcotics by using a special carousel of identical metal canisters that conceal different smells.

Each time a dog correctly identifies a target smell, the handler gives it a rubber chewy ball to chomp on as a reward.

"The relationship with the handler must be perfect. If it does not work, there will be casualties," Mohammad said.

It takes about two years to train an explosives dog, and the process is intense for both the handler and the canine. The animals at the MDC are all German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois.

"It's as if you are building a house or bringing up a child," Mohammad said.

Handlers get about $500 a month for their dangerous work, not a bad wage in Afghanistan as well as life insurance and retirement benefits.

Explosives are "a hidden enemy, so all the time I have a little fear in my heart," dog handler Zabihullah Amin said.

No more mine detection&nbsp;

After the MDC was established in 1989, the dogs mainly came from the Netherlands, but now most are local after breeding started here in 1994. More than 1,100 dogs have completed the training.

The canines' initial mission was to hunt for landmines, a vital task in a country left strewn with the devastating weapons during the war with the Soviet Union in the 1980s.

But the dogs' use tapered off in recent years following a series of incidents where they missed explosives, sometimes causing casualties as people returned to areas thought to be cleared.

According to Abdul Qudos Ziaee, head of operations at Afghanistan's Directorate of Mine Action Coordination, dogs can be a useful mine-detection tool if properly managed.

But in several areas contaminated with anti-vehicle mines, some agencies failed to use the canines correctly or handlers were improperly trained, leading to sloppy practice and areas of terrain left dangerous.

"Whether it was the fault of the dog handler or the dog was not properly trained ... the mine will be missed and the negative consequence will be borne by civilians," Qudos Ziaee told AFP.

Dogs can still be used to sweep large areas deemed "low threat", he said, noting that procedures are currently being revised and new standards will be introduced in about a year.

At the MDC, handlers insist dogs are a better tool for finding mines than mechanical detectors, as they can sniff the explosives in non-metallic devices.&nbsp;

According to Ziaee, at least 1,432 people were killed or wounded in Afghanistan by mines and so-called explosive remnants of war in 2018.

Mohammad Wirwais, who works at the Mine Detection Center, was blinded by a mine while clearing terrain in 2008.

"I am fortunate and lucky, I have friends ... who lost their lives to mine explosions," he said.

"I am good, thank God, I can solve my problems on my own, and I can work here too."

Naya, a three-year-old Belgian Malinois, focuses intently as she leaps over hurdles and zooms through tunnels on an obstacle course at a training centre on a hill overlooking Kabul.

Naya, a three-year-old Belgian Malinois, focuses intently as she leaps over hurdles and zooms through tunnels on an obstacle course at a training centre on a hill overlooking Kabul. She seems to be having fun but is being trained for a life-or-death mission, finding explosives in a country where hidden mines, bombs, and weapons routinely kill. Naya is one of about 200 dogs at the Afghan capital's Mine Detection Centre (MDC), a non-governmental group raising the animals from rambunctious pups into a disciplined force, and teaching handlers how to work with the canines. A common sight around the Afghan capital, explosives-sniffing dogs are deployed at checkpoints and government facilities, where they are an important tool in combatting the flow of homemade bombs being smuggled into Kabul. "The dogs are very useful they are very fast, they do their jobs with great speed," Taj Mohammad, a long-time trainer at the centre, told AFP on a recent visit. Handlers demonstrated how they train dogs to hone in on particular scents explosives mainly, but also narcotics by using a special carousel of identical metal canisters that conceal different smells. Each time a dog correctly identifies a target smell, the handler gives it a rubber chewy ball to chomp on as a reward. "The relationship with the handler must be perfect. If it does not work, there will be casualties," Mohammad said. It takes about two years to train an explosives dog, and the process is intense for both the handler and the canine. The animals at the MDC are all German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois. "It's as if you are building a house or bringing up a child," Mohammad said. Handlers get about $500 a month for their dangerous work, not a bad wage in Afghanistan as well as life insurance and retirement benefits. Explosives are "a hidden enemy, so all the time I have a little fear in my heart," dog handler Zabihullah Amin said. No more mine detection After the MDC was established in 1989, the dogs mainly came from the Netherlands, but now most are local after breeding started here in 1994. More than 1,100 dogs have completed the training. The canines' initial mission was to hunt for landmines, a vital task in a country left strewn with the devastating weapons during the war with the Soviet Union in the 1980s. But the dogs' use tapered off in recent years following a series of incidents where they missed explosives, sometimes causing casualties as people returned to areas thought to be cleared. According to Abdul Qudos Ziaee, head of operations at Afghanistan's Directorate of Mine Action Coordination, dogs can be a useful mine-detection tool if properly managed. But in several areas contaminated with anti-vehicle mines, some agencies failed to use the canines correctly or handlers were improperly trained, leading to sloppy practice and areas of terrain left dangerous. "Whether it was the fault of the dog handler or the dog was not properly trained ... the mine will be missed and the negative consequence will be borne by civilians," Qudos Ziaee told AFP. Dogs can still be used to sweep large areas deemed "low threat", he said, noting that procedures are currently being revised and new standards will be introduced in about a year. At the MDC, handlers insist dogs are a better tool for finding mines than mechanical detectors, as they can sniff the explosives in non-metallic devices. According to Ziaee, at least 1,432 people were killed or wounded in Afghanistan by mines and so-called explosive remnants of war in 2018. Mohammad Wirwais, who works at the Mine Detection Center, was blinded by a mine while clearing terrain in 2008. "I am fortunate and lucky, I have friends ... who lost their lives to mine explosions," he said. "I am good, thank God, I can solve my problems on my own, and I can work here too."

Man's best friend: The dogs who sniff out explosives in Kabul

Russia, U.S, China, Pak come together on Taliban. 4 nations issue statement on Afghan talks. India left out of the negotiating table. Pakistan gains a good round on the Taliban. India wants Kabul elections to be held on time. Watch this video to know more.

India Sidelined In Afghan Talks?

At least one policeman was killed and two others sustained injuries in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Jalalabad city in Afghanistan, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-five-dead-in-suicide-blast-at-afghan-wedding-235243">Nangarhar</a> governor's spokesman Attaullah Khogyani told Tolo News on Saturday morning.

No terror group has so far claimed responsibility for the blast.

Further details in the matter are awaited.

The blast comes a day after at least five people were killed and 40 others suffered injuries in a suicide bombing at a wedding ceremony in the eastern province of Nangarhar on Friday.

Afghanistan has been witnessing more attacks in recent days especially when the United States is leading the negotiations with the Taliban in Doha with an aim to end two decades of war in the country.

At least one policeman was killed and two others sustained injuries in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Jalalabad city in Afghanistan, Nangarhar governor's spokesman Attaullah Khogyani told Tolo News on Saturday morning.

At least one policeman was killed and two others sustained injuries in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Jalalabad city in Afghanistan, Nangarhar governor's spokesman Attaullah Khogyani told Tolo News on Saturday morning. No terror group has so far claimed responsibility for the blast. Further details in the matter are awaited. The blast comes a day after at least five people were killed and 40 others suffered injuries in a suicide bombing at a wedding ceremony in the eastern province of Nangarhar on Friday. Afghanistan has been witnessing more attacks in recent days especially when the United States is leading the negotiations with the Taliban in Doha with an aim to end two decades of war in the country.

Afghanistan: At least one policeman killed, two injured in IED blast in Jalalabad

Badar Amar, a 15-year old student in Kabul stopped attending school to avoid getting teased by his classmates after a teacher chopped off his hair as a punishment, a decades-old practice common in Afghan schools that was banned by the government recently.

Afghan teachers may lose jobs for forcing haircuts upon students

An earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale hit the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan on Thursday.

The earthquake occurred at around 9:50 am (IST) today, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).&nbsp;

An earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale hit the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan on Thursday. The earthquake occurred at around 9:50 am (IST) today, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

5.5 magnitude earthquake strikes Hindu Kush in Afghanistan

A powerful blast hit Kabul's diplomatic district during rush hour on Monday sending a plume of black smoke over the Afghan capital, with tens of injured taken to hospital and ambulances ferrying still more.

Powerful explosion in Afghan capital Kabul, Many hurt

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