MOSCOW, Jan 11 Islamic State terrorist group* claimed responsibility for the explosion near the building of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan in Kabul, Al-Arabiya TV channel reported, citing a statement by the group.
Earlier, sources reported that an explosion occurred in Kabul near the building of the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and shots were also heard. Khalid Zadran, a spokesman for the city's police, confirmed this information. A spokesman for the Taliban (the Taliban movement**) stated that a suicide bomber tried to enter the Foreign Ministry building, but was stopped by security, after which he carried out an explosion.
About those who died in the explosion, there were conflicting reports earlier. The source reported 21 victims, among whom were employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture. Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran later said five civilians were killed in the explosion. International humanitarian organization Emergency reported that more than 40 victims were admitted to the surgical center in Kabul.
* A terrorist group banned in Russia
** The organization is under UN sanctions for terrorist activities
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