Afghanistan: Large explosion reported in Kot-e Sangi, Kabul July 24; at least 24 killed

Event

A large explosion has been reported in the western Kot-e Sangi/Sar-e Kareez areas of Kabul city on the morning of Monday, July 24. Reporting suggests that the device was a suicide vehicle borne improvised device (VBIED) targeting a mini bus. Early reports suggest the majority of the casualties were employees of a governmental ministry, suggesting the attack may have been targeting the minibus during the morning commute.  The exact location of the incident remains unconfirmed. The Ministry of Interior has said that at least 24 have been killed and 40 wounded; the casualty toll is likely to rise in the coming hours.

Context

Details and precise location of the incident remain unconfirmed. Preliminary reporting suggests the detonation was near the Star Educational Center or politician Mohammed Mohaqeq's home. There has been no claim of responsibility yet, but the Taliban or the Islamic State (IS) are the likely culprits. The area has been the scene of several incidents, including the suicide attack that killed prominent Shiite Muslim cleric Ramazan Hussainzada in June.

Advice

Individuals present in Kabul are advised to monitor the situation and avoid the blast area.

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.