Afghanistan: Third explosion reported in Kabul after two earlier blasts kill at least 60, injure 140 Aug. 26 /update 2

Event

A third explosion has been reported in Kabul the evening of Aug. 26. The exact location and nature of the blast are unclear, unconfirmed reporting suggests it may have occurred at or near Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL). Nevertheless, information circulating about the incident remains dubious, with some sources publishing photos from a bombing that took place in Kabul on March 14 and asserting they depict the aftermath of the alleged third Aug. 26 explosion.

These latest reports come after two explosions occurred near the Abbey Gate of KBL earlier in the evening of Aug. 26. At least one of the explosions was the result of a suspected suicide bombing. The explosions killed at least 60 people and injured at least 140 others. Most casualties were civilians, though at least 12 US military personnel were also killed. Official casualty figures are highly likely to rise. There have been no immediate claims of responsibility for the attack; however, both the US and the Taliban have stated that Islamic State (IS) operatives are likely responsible.

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

Taliban gunmen are likely to 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 explosion comes 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.