10 Killed in Bomb Attack in Kabul, Afghanistan... IS Suspected Behind the Incident

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] At least 10 people have reportedly died in a bomb attack at an Islamic mosque in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan. While the perpetrator has not yet been clearly identified, it is presumed to be the work of the Islamic State (IS), which is in conflict with the ruling Taliban locally.

According to the Associated Press on the 17th (local time), a bomb attack occurred during evening prayers at a mosque in Kabul, killing at least 10 people including a well-known cleric, and injuring at least 27 others, including 5 children, who were transported to local hospitals.

Local police authorities confirmed that an explosion occurred inside a mosque in northern Kabul but did not disclose specific casualty figures. Zabihullah Mujahid, Taliban spokesperson, condemned the attack, stating, "The perpetrators of such crimes will soon face the judgment of the law and be punished."

This attack occurred just about a week after Taliban senior cleric Sheikh Rahimullah Hakani was killed in a suicide bombing at a madrasa (Islamic school) in Kabul on the 11th. At that time, IS claimed responsibility for the suicide attack. Although the perpetrator of this incident has not yet been identified, it is presumed to be IS.

IS, mainly through its Afghan branch IS-K, has been attacking the ruling Taliban and other sects. The Taliban regard IS as heretical, while IS criticizes the Taliban for showing moderate attitudes toward the United States and Shia Muslims, leading to mutual confrontation. IS also carried out bomb attacks in Shia-populated areas, a minority group in Afghanistan, on the 5th and 6th of this month.