Afghanistan: Suicide bombing in Kabul June 4

Event

A body-borne suicide bomber detonated his explosives in the capital Kabul, at the entrance of the Loya Jirga tent near Kabul Polytechnic University in the PD4 neighborhood, at around 11:30 (local time) on Monday, June 4, as a religious conference drew to a close. At least eight individuals are reported to have been killed and dozens others injured; the casualty numbers are expected to rise. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack as yet.

Additionally, on the afternoon of June 3, three children were killed when a landmine exploded in the village of Shirullah Qala village (Haska Mina district; Nangarhar province).

Context

Both the Taliban and the Islamic State (IS) are present and active in the capital region. On April 25, the Taliban issued a statement announcing the launch of their annual spring offensive, which coincides every year with the arrival of warmer weather that allows militants to move more easily over Afghanistan's mountainous terrain. The group launched multiple attacks in Kabul, Badghis, Farah, and Ghazni provinces throughout April and May, killing dozens of security forces and civilians. Additionally, on May 21, the Taliban threatened to perpetrate attacks against "military and intelligence centers" in the capital, urging residents to avoid areas in close proximity to such facilities.

Advice

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.