Afghanistan: Up to 100 killed in May 31 Kabul suicide bombing /update 3

Event

Official figures report that up to 100 people were killed and over 400 others were injured in the suicide truck bombing that ripped through Kabul’s diplomatic quarter on Wednesday, May 31.

The bomb exploded near the German Embassy and the Afghan presidential palace, located in the Wazir Akbar Khan area at the center of Kabul’s highly secured “Green Zone.” The bomb was reportedly delivered within a water tanker and contained over 1500 kg (3300 lb) of explosives that left a 7 m (23 ft) deep crater.

The Taliban has denied responsibility for the blast. The Afghan intelligence services believe Haqqani - an Islamic State (IS)-affiliated insurgent group based in Afghanistan and suspected of having ties with Pakistan - is responsible for the attack. IS has not yet released any statement.

Heightened security measures have been introduced in the capital, with security checkpoints preventing trucks from getting close to embassies.

Context

This attack takes place during the holy month of Ramadan (May 26-June 25). Typically, there is a heightened terror threat during this period in Afghanistan; IS has in the past called on members to perpetrate attacks during Ramadan and some regional terrorist groups have followed suit. Furthermore, the Taliban, widely present in the region, announced the official start of their yearly spring offensive in late April, an announcement typically followed by a nationwide surge in attacks.

Advice

As always, due to major security concerns individuals throughout Afghanistan are urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to Afghanistan due to the high threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Travel to the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.