Afghanistan: Taliban attack targeting NGO in Kabul ends May 8 /update 2

Event

Militants launched a complex attack on an international non-governmental organization (NGO) in the Shahr-e-Naw area in Kabul, near the Attorney General's Office, on Wednesday, May 8, killing at least six people and wounding 15 others, according to initial reports. The death toll, however, remains unclear and may rise over the coming hours. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the assault.

The attack, which reportedly began with a suicide bomber driving a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) into the perimeter of the NGO compound around 11:45 (local time), had ended by 17:40. Security forces were conducting clearance operations in the area as of Wednesday evening.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in Kabul, particularly near the site of the attack, over the coming hours. Similar Taliban attacks are possible in the capital over the near term.

Context

Taliban 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 and their home governments.

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