Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul blast at Chinese restaurant

The Islamic State group’s affiliate in Afghanistan claimed responsibility for a deadly explosion at a restaurant in downtown Kabul, Afghanistan , on Monday, saying a suicide bomber detonated an explosive vest inside the Chinese Noodle restaurant, targeting Chinese nationals. The attack killed at least seven people and wounded more than a dozen others, officials and aid workers said, as authorities continue their investigation.The group’s statement suggested that it targeted Chinese nationals, linking the attack to alleged grievances against the Chinese government’s policies toward Uyghur Muslims , though these claims cannot be independently verified.

The blast struck the Shahr‑e‑Naw district of Kabul , a busy commercial area with offices, shops, and diplomatic missions, and generally considered one of the city’s safer neighborhoods. Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said the explosion occurred near the restaurant’s kitchen. The establishment, jointly run by a Chinese Muslim man, his wife, and an Afghan partner , was popular with Chinese Muslims and local patrons. Among the dead were one Chinese national and six Afghan citizens , while several others were wounded, including four women and a child . The Italian humanitarian group EMERGENCY , which runs a nearby surgical center, reported receiving 20 victims , seven of whom were already dead on arrival. Casualty figures remain preliminary .

Afghan authorities said the cause of the explosion is under investigation , with preliminary inquiries focused on whether explosives or other means were involved. Security forces have secured the scene and begun collecting evidence.

China’s foreign ministry and embassy in Afghanistan condemned the bombing, urging Afghan authorities to protect Chinese citizens and provide medical care. Beijing confirmed that five Chinese nationals were wounded and advised its citizens to exercise caution and avoid high-risk areas, stressing the importance of safeguarding Chinese nationals and economic projects in Afghanistan.

The attack highlights persistent security challenges in Afghanistan , where violence has declined since the Taliban returned to power in 2021 but militant groups such as Islamic State continue to carry out sporadic attacks. The blast also comes amid strained relations between Afghanistan and neighboring Pakistan . Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the attack, attributing it to terrorism and criticizing the Taliban government for failing to prevent militants from using Afghan territory. Cross-border clashes in October had left dozens dead before a ceasefire was brokered, and Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Taliban of not fully honoring ceasefire agreements allegations Kabul denies.

The deadly attack in Kabul is likely to heighten international concern over the safety of foreign nationals and could influence regional counter-terrorism cooperation. Authorities continue to investigate the incident to determine further details about its motives and methods.