Afghanistan: Rocket strike reported near Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, at around 06:40 Aug. 30

Event

Reports indicate that unidentified attackers fired several rockets from the Laab-E Jaar area towards Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL) in Kabul at around 06:40 Aug. 30. The rockets were reportedly intercepted in Arya township. There have been no reports of casualties, though officials may announce injuries or fatalities in the coming hours. No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the incident.

Officials will probably maintain heightened security measures in the impact areas through Aug. 30. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely.

Context

The rocket attack comes after the US embassy in Kabul issued a statement early Aug. 29 urging citizens to avoid travel to KBL due to a "specific, credible threat". The statement comes after US President Joseph Biden Aug. 28 warned that a new terror attack targeting KBL was highly likely within the next 24-36 hours. The Islamic State branch in Afghanistan - known as Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-K) - also claimed responsibility for an Aug. 26 suicide bombing attack that killed 13 US service members and at least 160 Afghan civilians at the KBL airport.

Advice

Avoid the impact area until security officials give the all-clear. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions. Only travel to the KBL airport if contacted by officials for evacuation.