29 Oct 2018 | 11:36 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Attack targeting election commission in Kabul Oct. 29 /update 10
Islamic State claims responsibility for October 29 attack against election commission staff in Kabul; votes being counted
Event
The Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for a suicide attack targeting a shuttle bus carrying employees of the Independent Election Commission (IEC) in the capital Kabul on Monday, October 29, which left six people injured. It is likely that the assailants were prevented by security forces from entering the actual IEC building. The IEC - the body counting ballots cast nationwide in the October 20-21 parliamentary elections - is a highly sensitive target and further attacks against it are likely.
Context
Parliamentary elections were held on October 20 and extended through October 21 after voting was disrupted by deadly attacks and technical issues at polling stations. Both days of voting were marked by violence, notably low-yield IED (improvised explosive device) attacks carried out to deter civilians from voting.
Preliminary results are expected to be made public between early and mid-November. Further attacks against the government, security forces, and the IEC are anticipated.
Advice
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.
