05 Sep 2019 | 07:08 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Taliban-claimed VBIED attack kills 12 people in Kabul September 5 /update 2
Taliban-claimed vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) attack kills 12 people, including two NATO soldiers, and wounds 42 others in Kabul September 5; similar Taliban attacks expected over the near term
Event
A vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) attack killed 12 people, including two NATO soldiers, and wounded 42 others in Kabul on Thursday, September 5. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, which targeted a checkpoint near NATO Resolute Support mission offices and the US Embassy in the capital's Sash Darak area.
Similar Taliban attacks are to be anticipated in Afghanistan over the near term as US negotiators seek to finalize a deal with the militant group to withdraw American troops from the country.
Context
Taliban 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.
At least 16 people were killed and another 119 wounded after Taliban fighters launched a complex attack on Kabul's Green Village on Monday, September 2.
Advice
Individuals in Kabul are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the affected area, liaise with their security partner, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
