Dozens killed as Taliban, IS launch multiple attacks across Afghanistan
Both groups have been blamed for increased violence since the US and Nato concluded combat missions in 2014
A suicide bomber killed at least two and wounded seven in an attack claimed by Islamic State in the diplomatic area of Afghanistan’s capital on Saturday, and at least 18 soldiers died in a separate attack on a checkpoint by Taliban insurgents in the country’s west, authorities said.
Interior Ministry spokesman Najib Danish said the Kabul attack took place in the Shash Darak area near Nato headquarters and not far from the US embassy. Danish said the initial casualty count could rise.
Islamic State in a statement on its website claimed responsibility.
In western Farah province, at least 18 soldiers were killed when their checkpoint came under attack by Taliban insurgents, said Dawlat Waziri, spokesman for the Ministry of Defence. He said two other soldiers were wounded in the attack in the Bala Buluk district.
Qari Yusouf Ahmadi, a Taliban spokesman, claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement.
Meanwhile, an Afghan official said at least three security personnel were killed in separate suicide bombing attacks in southern Helmand province.