Afghanistan: Suspected car bomb detonates in Kabul November 13

Event

A suspected vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated in Kabul on the morning (local time) of Wednesday, November 13. Initial reports indicate the blast occurred near the Interior Ministry headquarters in the Qasaba area of the capital. According to government officials, at least seven people were killed and seven others wounded in the blast. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are anticipated around the blast site over the coming hours. Details are still emerging; avoid the area.

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 province 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 or their home governments.

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