An explosive device detonated inside a Chinese‑operated restaurant located within a hotel in Kabul’s heavily fortified Shahr‑e‑Naw district on Monday, killing at least seven people and wounding several others.
Incident Overview
Witnesses reported a loud blast that ripped through the dining area of the restaurant, which is situated in a complex that houses both local and foreign patrons. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the force of the explosion caused extensive damage to the interior and surrounding corridors.
Casualties
Authorities confirmed that seven individuals lost their lives, including at least two Chinese nationals who were among the restaurant’s regular clientele. Several other victims, both Afghan and foreign, were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment of injuries ranging from shrapnel wounds to severe burns.
Security Context
The attack occurred in Shahr‑e‑Naw, a neighbourhood widely regarded as one of the most secure parts of the capital, where the Taliban‑led government maintains a heightened security presence. The incident marks one of the deadliest attacks in the area since the Taliban took power in August 2021, raising concerns about the vulnerability of even heavily guarded zones.
Official Responses
The Taliban’s Ministry of Interior condemned the blast, labeling it a “terrorist act” and pledging a swift investigation. Afghan officials have called for increased security measures around public venues, especially those frequented by foreign nationals. The Chinese embassy in Kabul expressed deep sorrow over the loss of its citizens and urged the Afghan authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Potential Motives
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the bombing. Analysts suggest that the target may have been chosen to strike at a symbol of foreign presence and economic activity in the capital, but the exact motive remains under investigation.
Impact on the Community
The attack has heightened anxiety among residents and expatriates alike, prompting many businesses in the district to reassess their security protocols. Local authorities have announced plans to increase patrols and install additional surveillance equipment in high‑traffic areas.
