Kabul authorities confirmed that an explosion struck the Shahr-e-Naw area of Afghanistan’s capital on Monday, causing casualties and damage. According to Khalid Zadran, spokesperson for the Taliban police command in Kabul, the blast occurred in a hotel located on Gulforoshi Alley. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full number and nature of the casualties.
Afghan media reports indicate that the incident caused significant damage to nearby property, including the China Lanzhou Beef Noodle restaurant, while eyewitnesses described a column of smoke rising from the site and civilians fleeing the scene. Some accounts suggest the possibility of a suicide attack, although authorities have yet to confirm this.
The Shahr-e-Naw area is known as one of Kabul’s relatively secure neighborhoods, hosting several hotels and residences. Monday’s explosion has raised concerns among security analysts about the resilience of even reportedly safe zones in the city.
Security experts note that the attack underscores the fragility of Afghanistan’s security environment and highlights potential risks for foreign nationals and residents alike. While no official group has claimed responsibility, the incident comes amid rising regional tensions and increased scrutiny over the Taliban’s relations with external actors, including India.
The blast serves as a reminder of the continuing threat posed by militant networks operating in Afghanistan, and experts caution that any targeting of foreign-linked sites could have broader implications for regional stability and global security.
