KABUL: An explosion struck central Kabul on Monday. At least seven people were killed, hospital officials said. Several others were injured.Italian NGO EMERGENCY confirmed the casualties. It runs a surgical hospital in the Afghan capital. The blast occurred near its facility.
EMERGENCY said it received 20 victims after the explosion. Seven people arrived dead. Doctors treated the injured immediately.
Police said the blast happened in Shahr-i-Naw. It struck a hotel on Gulfaroshi Street. Authorities sealed the area after the incident.Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran confirmed the location. He did not disclose the cause. Investigators have launched an inquiry.
China’s state news agency Xinhua reported further details. It said two Chinese citizens suffered serious injuries. A hotel employee provided the information.Xinhua also reported the death of an Afghan security guard. Officials have not independently confirmed the identity.
No group has claimed responsibility so far. Security agencies remain on high alert.Shahr-i-Naw is a high-security area in Kabul. Foreigners frequently visit the district. It houses embassies, offices, and shopping centres.Authorities continue to assess the damage. Security forces remain deployed in the area.