Massive missile attack launched at Presidential Palace in Kabul

Published time: 21 Aug, 2018 06:38Edited time: 21 Aug, 2018 07:48

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At least a dozen missiles have been fired in Kabul, with some targeting the Presidential Palace and diplomatic zone in the capital of Afghanistan. The attack came as President Ashraf Ghani was speaking at an Eid prayer ceremony.

The attack on the palace and the diplomatic zone occurred early on Tuesday, according to Tolo news. The outlet said, citing officials, that at least 12 missiles exploded in the area, adding that locals say there might have been more than 20.

The first rocket hit somewhere near the presidency, the second near a NATO compound and the US Embassy in Kabul, AP reported citing a police official. Black smoke was seen rising from the buildings as military helicopters were flying above the city, where clashes are reportedly ongoing.

Two people were wounded, AFP reported citing an interior ministry spokesman.

The area where the rockets hit is one of the most secure parts of Kabul, where embassies and Afghan government buildings are located. The quarter is heavily fortified, surrounded by high cement blast walls.

No one has claimed responsibility for the attack so far, but it comes just two days after Ghani declared a ceasefire with the Taliban ahead of Eid celebrations. 

But on Monday the group ambushed three buses, kidnapping the passengers, in an apparent violation of the ceasefure that was supposed to have taken effect.

Afghan security forces have reportedly freed nearly 150 people kidnapped by the Taliban on Monday.

The group is still holding some military personnel hostage.