Afghanistan: Fighting between Taliban and militants ends following attack in Kabul June 18 /update 1

Event

The Ministry of Interior has confirmed that fighting between Taliban security forces and militants has ended at a Sikh Gurdwara on Bagh-e-Bala Road in the Karte Parwan area of Kabul June 18. Taliban forces responded after militants allegedly detonated two hand grenades to gain access to the site at around 06:30. Witness accounts indicated that several blasts and sporadic gunfire occurred during the operation. Officials confirmed that the attack left one civilian dead and one other injured. No group has claimed responsibility for the assault, but authorities have suggested that Islamic State is likely responsible, given that the militants targeted the religious site.

Heightened security remains possible in Karte Parwan in the coming hours. Authorities had closed the road near the site, and localized ground travel disruptions will likely continue until authorities complete an investigation into the attack.

Advice

Avoid the attack site until officials clear the area and complete their investigation. Heed the instructions of local security officials. Plan for localized ground transport delays.