A devastating suicide explosion ripped through a Chinese restaurant in central Kabul on Monday, claiming at least seven lives and injuring over a dozen individuals, according to emergency services. The attack, which occurred in the Shahr-e-Naw district’s bustling flower market area, has been claimed by the Islamic State (IS) armed group as specifically targeting Chinese nationals.
Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran confirmed the blast originated at the Chinese Noodle restaurant, an establishment primarily serving Chinese Muslims. The explosion occurred near the kitchen area around 3:30 pm local time (1100 GMT), creating chaos in the crowded commercial zone. Initial confusion saw authorities describing the venue as a hotel before clarifying the precise location.
The Italian humanitarian organization EMERGENCY reported its nearby medical facility received seven fatalities upon arrival, with thirteen additional casualties requiring surgical treatment. Among the wounded were four women and one child, highlighting the attack’s indiscriminate nature.
IS justification for the assault, as monitored by the SITE Intelligence Group, cited China’s treatment of Uyghur Muslims as motivation for placing Chinese citizens on their target list. This incident marks the second IS-claimed attack against Chinese interests in Kabul within two years, following a previous assault on a hotel frequented by Chinese visitors.
Despite Taliban authorities’ efforts to restore national security and attract foreign investment since retaking power in 2021, this attack underscores the persistent security challenges. Chinese business representatives have been increasingly active in Afghanistan, with China maintaining diplomatic relations with the Taliban government and sharing a 76-kilometer border with the country.
Forensic investigations continue as authorities work to determine the precise mechanics of the attack, while the affected street has since reopened to normal traffic flow.