Afghanistan: Explosion reported near the American University in Kabul June 3

Event

A magnetically attached improvised explosive device (IED) detonated on a bus carrying employees from the Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission on the Darulaman road near the American University in Kabul at approximately 13:30 (local time) on Monday, June 3. At least five people were reportedly killed during the blast. The area has been cordoned off by security forces. Details are still emerging.

Further attacks are possible in the coming hours.

Context

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the June 3 bombings. Militants previously conducted bombings in Kabul on May 30, May 31, and June 2.

Taliban and Islamic State (IS) militants launch attacks on government personnel, security forces, and civilians in Afghanistan on a near-daily basis. Such assaults are, in part, intended to undermine the perceived capacity of Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) - and the Afghan government more broadly - to adequately provide security in the wake of the withdrawal of most US-led NATO forces from the country.

Advice

Individuals in Kabul are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the area of the blast, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.

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.