Afghanistan: Islamic State claims responsibility for attack near Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul Aug. 26 /update 3

Event

Islamic State (IS) media has claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing near the Abbey Gate of Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL) on the evening of Aug. 26. The IS statement only mentioned a single bomber and explosion, but authorities believe two blasts occurred during the attack, which killed at least 72 people and injured about 155 others. Most casualties were Afghan civilians; the attack also killed at least 12 US military personnel. Official casualty figures are likely to rise. Subsequent reports of additional explosions near KBL several hours after the initial two blasts were apparently the result of controlled detonations performed by US-led forces at the facility for the purpose of destroying equipment and munitions prior to their eventual departure from Afghanistan. The controlled detonations are not believed to represent an imminent security threat.

There have also been unconfirmed reports of an explosion targeting a Taliban vehicle or security checkpoint at or near Mirwais Maidan in central Kabul late Aug. 26.

Taliban gunmen will likely impose stricter security measures throughout Kabul in response to the incident. Additional checkpoints, vehicle searches, and roadblocks are likely. Further mass casualty attacks are possible.

Context

The explosions came as the US and allied countries had warned of an increased risk of an imminent attack on KBL amid ongoing international evacuations. Thousands of civilians have crowded the gate in recent days, prompting officials to ask people to leave the area.

Advice

Avoid the area near KBL until security officials give the all-clear. Only travel to the airport if contacted by officials for evacuation.