Multiple killers have attacked a hotel in the Afghan capital Kabul. As spokesman for the militant Islamist Taliban, Sabihullah Mujahid, reported Monday, three attackers were killed and two foreign hotel guests were injured. The nationalities of the two injured are not yet known.
A local hospital estimated the number of casualties to be much higher. 21 patients were said to have been admitted, but three were already dead at that time.
The attackers wore explosive vests and tried to storm the hotel in the Schar-e Nau district with weapons. Local media and eyewitnesses reported shots and explosions. The hotel, which mainly houses Chinese people, was then surrounded by Taliban security forces, according to eyewitnesses.
Was the attack aimed at the Chinese?
Videos shared among journalists and on social media allegedly show the hotel on fire. The images could not be verified at first. The Chinese ambassador only met with the Taliban on Sunday and asked them to ensure the safety of Chinese diplomats in Kabul.
Since the Taliban came to power in August 2021, the Islamic State (IS) terror militia has stepped up its attacks on civilians, including foreigners. So far, IS has not claimed responsibility for the attack. (jwg/SDA)