Massacre in Central Afghanistan: 14 Shiites Killed in Heinous Attack

Gunmen killed 14 people in a Shiite-majority area in central Afghanistan. Six others were wounded. The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility, targeting Hazara Shiites. The Taliban condemned the attack, vowing to bring perpetrators to justice. The UN has called for an investigation to hold those responsible accountable.

In central Afghanistan's Shiite-majority area, gunmen killed 14 people, marking one of the deadliest attacks this year, according to the Taliban.

The Islamic State group took responsibility for the assault, which occurred Thursday, targeting Hazara Shiites traveling between Ghor and Daikundi provinces. A machine gun was used, resulting in a higher death toll than reported by the Taliban.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani claimed the group targeted celebrants welcoming Afghan Shiites returning from Iraqi shrines. He urged swift punishment for the perpetrators.

The IS group's Afghan affiliate, a significant Taliban rival, has challenged the authorities with attacks on schools, hospitals, and Shiite areas over the past three years. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid condemned the "barbaric action" and pledged to protect citizens and their property.

The UN mission in Afghanistan confirmed the attack's death toll and injuries, calling for an investigation and justice for those accountable. A recent spate of IS-claimed attacks has alarmed UN-appointed rights expert Richard Bennett, who noted the atrocities bear hallmarks of international crimes.

(With inputs from agencies.)