ISIL claims responsibility for deadly Kabul attack
- A suicide bombing in Kabul killed at least six people and injured thirteen others.
- ISIL claimed responsibility, stating the attack was in retaliation for the Taliban's treatment of Muslims in their prisons.
- The incident underscores the ongoing security threats posed by ISIL in Afghanistan despite the Taliban's assertions of control.
A deadly suicide bombing occurred in Kabul, resulting in at least six fatalities and injuring thirteen others. The attack took place in the Qala-e-Bakhtiar area, where an ISIL member detonated an explosive vest among government employees as they finished their workday. The Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISKP) claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was a retaliation for the Taliban's imprisonment of Muslims. They reported that the casualties were significantly higher, claiming more than 45 victims. Despite a general decline in violence since the Taliban's takeover in 2021, ISIL remains a significant threat in Afghanistan, frequently targeting civilians and Taliban officials. The group has a history of violent attacks, including a previous suicide bombing in Kandahar that killed over 20 people. In 2022, a tragic bombing at an education center in Kabul resulted in the deaths of 53 individuals, predominantly young girls. The Taliban government has downplayed the threat posed by ISIL, with officials asserting that the group was previously suppressed and no longer poses a danger. However, the recent attack highlights the ongoing instability and security challenges in Afghanistan, particularly in relation to ISIL's activities. The resurgence of ISIL's violent tactics raises concerns about the safety of civilians and the effectiveness of the Taliban's security measures. As the situation evolves, the potential for further attacks remains a pressing issue for both the Taliban and the Afghan populace.