A powerful blast struck Kabul, Afghanistan’s capital, in the Shahr-e-Naw area on Monday, leaving several people dead and injured, the Taliban Interior Ministry confirmed. According to spokesperson Abdul Mateen Qani, initial reports indicate casualties among civilians, but the exact numbers remain unclear as authorities continue to assess the scene.
The Shahr-e-Naw area, a commercial and residential hub of Kabul, is densely populated, which raises concerns about the scale of injuries. Local eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion, followed by chaos and panic in the streets. Emergency responders, including medical teams and security personnel, were quickly deployed to assist victims and secure the area.
Although no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, suicide bombings and targeted explosions have been a recurring threat in Kabul, particularly in crowded marketplaces and near government installations. Analysts note that such attacks aim to destabilize the capital and instill fear among the population, highlighting persistent security challenges under the Taliban administration.
Abdul Mateen Qani, Interior Ministry spokesperson, told Reuters that authorities are conducting investigations to determine the nature of the blast, the identity of the perpetrators, and the total number of casualties. He assured that further details will be shared after official verification. Meanwhile, hospitals in Kabul have been put on high alert to manage the influx of injured individuals.
The blast comes amid ongoing international concern about Afghanistan’s security situation following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Despite claims by the Taliban of improved law and order, Afghanistan continues to witness sporadic violence, including attacks by insurgent groups, rival factions, and extremist organizations targeting civilians and government-related sites.
Security experts stress the need for enhanced surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid response mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future. Residents of Kabul are urged to remain vigilant, avoid crowded areas where possible, and cooperate with authorities during emergency operations.
This latest incident highlights the volatile environment in Afghanistan, affecting not only civilians but also businesses and humanitarian operations. International agencies monitoring security in the region have expressed concern, emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring medical aid reaches those affected by such attacks.
As investigations continue, Afghan authorities are expected to release a detailed report on casualties and the circumstances of the blast. In the meantime, the local administration and emergency services are focused on providing immediate aid, restoring order, and preventing further incidents in the capital city.
