Deadly Suicide Bombing Rocks Kabul

A suicide bombing in Kabul's Qala Bakhtiar neighborhood killed at least six people and injured 13 others. The attack targeted civilians and the victims were promptly taken to the hospital. No group has claimed responsibility, though the Islamic State group's affiliate is a prime suspect.

A suicide bomber struck Kabul's southwestern Qala Bakhtiar neighborhood on Monday, killing at least six individuals and injuring 13 others, according to Khalid Zadran, spokesman for the Kabul police chief. Among the deceased was one woman, while all injured were civilians transported to a hospital for medical care.

The police have launched an investigation into the bombing. No faction has yet claimed responsibility for the attack, although the Islamic State group's affiliate in Afghanistan, a notable adversary of the Taliban, is suspected. The group has a history of targeting schools, hospitals, mosques, and Shiite-dominated areas across the nation.

The Taliban assumed control over Afghanistan in August 2021 after U.S. and NATO troops exited the country following a two-decade military presence. Initially pledging a more moderate governance style, the Taliban have steadily reinstated stringent Islamic laws, reminiscent of their rule from 1996 to 2001.

(With inputs from agencies.)