12 US Soldiers Dead, 15 Injured...Suspected IS Attack
Taliban: "Horrific Incident, Will Fully Pursue Those Responsible"
[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] At least 90 people have died and 150 have been injured in a suicide bombing at Kabul Airport in Afghanistan. As the accident site is being managed, the death toll is expected to rise. With multiple U.S. military casualties, strong retaliatory measures by the United States are anticipated. The Taliban also announced that they would track down those responsible, mindful of the international community's response.
On the 26th (local time), U.S. CBS News, citing Afghan health officials, reported that at least 90 people have died and 150 have been injured in the Kabul Airport suicide bombing. It is unclear whether the number includes U.S. military casualties. Earlier, the U.S. Department of Defense stated that 12 U.S. soldiers were killed and 15 injured in the attack. As bodies continue to be found during the accident site management, the death toll is expected to increase.
On the same day, two suicide bombings presumed to be carried out by the extremist terrorist group Islamic State (IS) occurred near Kabul Airport. In the evening, two explosions took place at the Abbey Gate of Hamid Karzai International Airport and at the Baron Hotel about 250 meters away. The Baron Hotel is known as accommodation for Western countries' evacuees waiting to leave Kabul.
According to The Times of Israel, Amaq News Agency, operated by IS, claimed through its Telegram channel that IS was responsible for the suicide bombings near Kabul Airport. U.S. authorities are reportedly concerned about the possibility of additional attacks.
With multiple U.S. military casualties in this attack, the United States has announced strong retaliation. President Biden, in a national address immediately after the attack, stated, "The perpetrators behind this attack are the terrorist group IS-K, affiliated with IS," and emphasized, "We will track down the culprits and make sure they pay the price." He also hinted at the possibility of deploying additional troops to Afghanistan if necessary.
The Taliban, unusually mindful of the international community's reaction, strongly condemned IS. In a statement shortly after the attack, the Taliban said, "A horrific incident has occurred, and we will definitely track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice."
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