Afghanistan: Taliban claims responsibility for Kabul bombing /update 1

Event

On Tuesday, August 29, the Taliban released a statement claiming responsibility for a suicide bombing in Kabul earlier in the day. According to the statement, the group was targeting security personnel who were withdrawing their salaries from a bank. Police officials said that the bomber was shot by guards while attempting to enter the building but was still able to detonate his device.

Context

The attack took place around 10:00 (local time) at a branch of the New Kabul Bank, located in the capital’s commercial area near the US Embassy. At least five people were killed and another nine wounded in the blast.

The Taliban are known to target bank areas near the end of the month, when government workers and soldiers collect their pay. Moreover, many Afghans are withdrawing money ahead of the Muslim Eid holiday, which will take place from Friday, September 1, to Monday, September 3.

Advice

Individuals in Kabul are advised to avoid the blast site and as well as banks generally at the end of the month due to the high risk of attack.

Due to major security concerns, individuals throughout Afghanistan are also urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to Afghanistan due to the high threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Travel to the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.