ISLAMABAD: A deadly bombing at a branch of New Kabul Bank in Kandahar city, targeting Taliban members collecting their salaries, was claimed by the Islamic State group.
The attack resulted in three deaths and 12 injuries among those gathered to receive their monthly pay, according to Inamullah Samangani, head of the Kandahar Information and Culture Department.
The Islamic State’s affiliate, a key rival of the Taliban, has been behind various attacks across Afghanistan, targeting schools, hospitals, mosques, and Shiite areas. The group stated via its news agency, Aamaq, that a suicide bomber detonated his explosives belt amidst the Taliban near the bank.
Kandahar city holds significance as a spiritual and political hub for Afghanistan, being the base of the Taliban’s leader, Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada. The decisions made by Akhundzada carry weight in Kabul, the capital.
Following the Taliban’s takeover in 2021 post the exit of US and NATO troops, they have reverted to a strict interpretation of Islamic law, akin to their previous rule from 1996 to 2001.
( with input from agencies)