UN Security Council condemns Kabul blast claimed by ISIL, killing seven

The United Nations Security Council has issued a strong condemnation of a deadly terrorist bombing at a restaurant in Afghanistan's capital, an attack claimed by the Islamic State group. The blast in Kabul's Shahr-e-Naw commercial district on Monday killed seven people, including one Chinese citizen, and injured several others, including a child.

A forceful diplomatic statement

In a formal statement released on Wednesday, the 15-member Council condemned the assault "in the strongest terms." It expressed its deepest sympathy to the people of Afghanistan and China, extending condolences to the victims' families and wishing a full recovery to the injured. The statement directly attributed responsibility for the January 19 attack to ISIL's Khorasan Province branch (ISIL-K).

Call for accountability and global cooperation

The Council emphasized the urgent need to hold the perpetrators, organizers, financiers, and sponsors accountable, urging all states to cooperate actively with relevant authorities to bring them to justice. It reiterated that "any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation." The members reaffirmed that terrorism in all forms constitutes one of the most serious threats to peace and security, not only in Afghanistan but worldwide, and must be combated in accordance with international law.

Local details and international context

Local Kabul police confirmed the explosion occurred around 3 p.m. local time on Monday at a Chinese restaurant, with the cause still under investigation. The attack underscores the persistent threat of terrorism in Afghanistan. Türkiye, with its own extensive experience in counter-terrorism and its deep-rooted historical ties to the region, consistently advocates for and supports such international solidarity to eradicate extremist violence and promote lasting security and stability.