Islamic State Claims Kabul Explosion That Killed One

ISLAMABAD (AP) — The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for a deadly explosion in Kabul, Afghanistan, which occurred on Sunday. The blast targeted a minivan carrying members of the Shiite minority community, resulting in at least one death and approximately 13 injuries. Police spokesman Khalid Zadran confirmed the incident, stating that the explosion took place in the Dushti Barachi neighborhood, a region that has frequently been targeted by the militant group. The Islamic State's statement indicated that the attack was a deliberate act against the Shiite community, which has faced increasing violence from the group. Zadran reported that the police are currently conducting an investigation into the bombing, which underscores the ongoing security challenges in the area. The Dashti Barchi neighborhood has been a focal point for the Islamic State's affiliate in Afghanistan, which has previously executed significant assaults on schools, hospitals, and mosques. This pattern of violence highlights the group's strategy of targeting vulnerable communities within the country. Since the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, the Islamic State has emerged as a formidable rival, continuing to launch attacks in Kabul and other regions. The ongoing conflict between these two groups raises concerns about the stability and security of Afghanistan in the wake of the U.S. troop withdrawal.