The United Nations Security Council has strongly condemned a deadly explosion at a Chinese-run restaurant in Kabul, saying terrorism in all its forms remains one of the most serious threats to peace and security in Afghanistan and globally.
In a statement issued following the attack, members of the Security Council expressed their deepest condolences to the families of the victims from Afghanistan and China. The council stressed the need to hold accountable those responsible for planning, financing and supporting terrorist acts, and called for them to be brought to justice. “The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed.”
It also urged all countries to cooperate actively with relevant authorities, in line with international law and UN Security Council resolutions, to combat terrorism.
The explosion occurred on Monday afternoon (January 19) at a restaurant located in the Gulforoshi alley in the Shahr-e-Naw area of Kabul, according to Taliban officials. The restaurant was reportedly jointly operated by Afghan and Chinese nationals.
Taliban police said that six Afghan citizens and one Chinese national were killed in the blast. Thirteen others, including several Chinese nationals, were wounded.
The Islamic State group, also known as ISKP, later claimed responsibility for the attack, saying a suicide bomber detonated explosive after a group of Chinese citizens had gathered at the site.
The attack highlights ongoing security concerns in Afghanistan where militant groups continue to carry out high-profile assaults despite Taliban claims of improved security since returning to power in 2021.
Source: Kabul Now
