16 Aug 2018 | 04:05 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Islamic State claims August 15 attack in Kabul /update 1
Islamic State (IS) claims responsibility for attack in Kabul on August 15
Event
On Thursday, August 16, the Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the body-borne improvised explosive device (BBIED) attack on an educational center in western Kabul that killed at least 34 people and wounded some 57 others on Wednesday, August 15. According to Afghan police, the majority of the victims were students living in the predominately Shi'a neighborhood of Dasht-e-Barchi. Additional militant attacks are possible in Kabul in the near-term.
Context
According to UN figures, at least 86 schools in Afghanistan have been destroyed by militant attacks in 2018 and another 1000 schools remain closed due to security concerns.
Advice
Individuals in Kabul are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the area of the attack, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
