25 Jul 2019 | 05:49 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Multiple explosions in Kabul July 25
Suicide bomber targets bus carrying government employees in Kabul on July 25, killing at least five people; two other explosions also reported
Event
A suicide bomber targeted a bus carrying employees of the Ministry of Mines in Kabul at approximately 08:10 (local time) on Thursday, July 25. At least two other explosions were reported after the initial attack, which left at least five people dead and another ten wounded. The first two bombings occurred in the Old Macroyan area of PD16, while the third explosion was reported around 08:55 in PD9. Recovery operations are ongoing around the blast site. A heightened security presence and localized disruptions are anticipated in the area. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Details are still emerging.
Context
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 the situation, avoid the area, liaise with their security partner, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home government.
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.
