KABUL, Afghanistan – The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for a deadly minibus explosion in Kabul’s western Shiite neighborhood of Dashti Barchi, resulting in the deaths of at least two people and injuring fourteen others. The attack targeted Shiite Muslims, whom the Sunni militant group referred to as disbelievers. This incident marked the group’s first attack in the country in 2024.
This specific area of Kabul has been repeatedly targeted by the Islamic State group’s affiliate in Afghanistan. The group has carried out major assaults on schools, hospitals, and mosques, in addition to attacking other Shiite areas across the country. In November, the group also claimed responsibility for a minibus explosion in the same area which resulted in seven deaths and 20 injuries. These attacks and their strategic targets have made the region a major target for the Islamic State group.
Taliban Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid reported a significant decrease in attacks by the IS affiliate in the past year, substantiating the ongoing conflict and rivalry between the two groups. Following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, the IS affiliate has continued to strike in Kabul and northern provinces, often targeting Shiite communities in line with their extremist beliefs.
The Islamic State group’s actions in Afghanistan continue to pose a significant threat to the stability and security of the country. With ongoing conflicts between various extremist groups, the situation in Afghanistan remains volatile and unpredictable. As the Islamic State group and the Taliban vie for control and influence, the country faces continuing challenges in managing and mitigating the impact of their violent actions.