Afghanistan: Several killed in suicide attack in Kabul May 30 /update 1

Event

Militants launched a suicide bombing attack at the entrance of Marshal Fahim National Defense University in Kabul on Thursday, May 30, killing at least six people and wounding several others, according to officials. The explosion took place in western Kabul around 12:00 (local time) as cadets were exiting the academy. The Islamic State (IS) group reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack, alleging it had killed dozens; the claim was not confirmed from authorities. 

Further details are still emerging. Similar attacks are possible in Kabul over the coming days and weeks.

Context

Taliban and Islamic State (IS) 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 area of the blast, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.

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