Afghanistan: Grenade attack reported in Kabul’s Military Training Center November 18

Event

An unidentified attacker threw grenades at the Kabul Military Training Center (KMTC), located in Police district 19 at around 07:30 (local time) on Monday, November 18. According to government officials, the two explosions, first identified as a suicide bombing, injured five people, including four soldiers. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are anticipated around the blast site over the coming hours. Details are still emerging; avoid the area.

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 developments to the situation, avoid the affected area, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.