Powerful explosion rocks afghan capital Kabul, military and govt buildings targeted
PTI, Jul 1, 2019, 11:10 AM IST
Kabul: A powerful explosion rocked Kabul early Monday, targeting an area of the Afghan capital housing military and government buildings, although it was not immediately clear if there were any casualties.
The explosion occurred during rush hour in the Puli Mahmood Khan neighbourhood of the city, interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said.
The neighbourhood is home to some military and government buildings, as well as the Afghan Football Federation and the Afghan Cricket Board.
No group immediately claimed responsibility. Both the Taliban and the so-called Islamic State group are active in Kabul.
The explosion came two days after the Taliban and the US began their seventh round of talks in the Qatari capital of Doha as Washington eyes a breakthrough before Afghanistan’s September presidential election.
The negotiations have so far centred on four issues — counter-terrorism, the foreign troop presence, an intra-Afghan dialogue and a permanent ceasefire.
A potential deal would see the US agree to withdraw its troops after more than 17 years in Afghanistan, igniting deep concerns among huge swathes of Afghans who fear the militants will return to some semblance of power.
In return the Taliban would guarantee the country never again became a safe haven for violent extremist groups, as happened with Al-Qaeda before the September 11, 2001 attacks.
US officials have previously said they are hoping for a deal before the upcoming Afghan presidential elections, which have already been delayed twice and are now set for September.
Udayavani is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel and stay updated with the latest news.
Top News
Related Articles More
China says talks on Tibet only with Dalai Lama’s representatives; rules out dialogue on autonomy
Indian-origin man shot, killed by San Antonio police amid attempts to apprehend him
2 Indian restaurants in Colorado duped investors of USD 380K: Officials
WATCH: 5 runaway military horses cause mayhem in London
Don’t blame Dubai’s freak rain on cloud seeding
MUST WATCH
Latest Additions
Kejriwal continuing as CM even after arrest puts political interest over national interest, says Delhi HC
Annual religious festival of Sri Mahalingeshwara temple commences in Kalathur Village
Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty visits Sri Kodamanittaya Kshetra
Firing outside Salman Khan’s home: Lookout circular issued against Anmol Bishnoi
Pune court asks police to probe bribery allegations against IT major Cognizant