At least seven people were killed and 13 others injured in a powerful explosion that rocked Afghanistan’s capital Kabul on Sunday, according to official sources and hospital authorities. The blast occurred in the Shahr-e-Naw neighbourhood, a central commercial area that is considered one of the most secure parts of the city.
Preliminary reports suggest that the explosion targeted a hotel located in Shahr-e-Naw, an area known for its large office buildings, shopping complexes, restaurants and the presence of diplomatic missions. The sudden blast caused panic among residents and passers-by, with emergency sirens and security forces rushing to the scene within minutes.
Confirming the casualties, the Italian humanitarian organisation Emergency, which operates a surgical centre in Kabul, said that 20 people were brought to its hospital following the explosion. “Among those received, seven were dead on arrival,” the organisation said in a statement, adding that the remaining victims were being treated for varying degrees of injuries.
Afghanistan’s Interior Ministry spokesperson Abdul Mateen Qani told Reuters that multiple people were killed and injured in the incident and that further details would be released after a full investigation. As of now, no militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Security forces have cordoned off the area, and an investigation is underway to determine the exact nature and cause of the explosion. Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage from nearby buildings to identify those responsible.
Shahr-e-Naw has witnessed fewer attacks in recent years compared to other parts of Kabul, making Sunday’s explosion particularly alarming. The incident has once again raised concerns over security in the Afghan capital, even in areas believed to be well-protected.
Officials have urged citizens to remain calm while security agencies continue their probe into the deadly blast.
