A group of gunmen unleashed gunfire in central Afghanistan, resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals, including three foreign nationals, according to a Taliban spokesperson.
The incident occurred in Bamyan province, a region renowned for its tourist attractions. Authorities swiftly apprehended four suspects at the scene, initiating an ongoing investigation into the attack. As of now, no entity has claimed responsibility for the assault.
Abdul Mateen Qani, spokesperson for the Taliban’s interior ministry, disclosed that seven others sustained injuries, including four foreign nationals. However, details regarding the nationality of the wounded foreigners were not provided.
The Taliban’s ascent to power in Afghanistan in August 2021 coincided with the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces after two decades of conflict. While the responsibility for the attack remains unclaimed, suspicion may point towards the Islamic State group’s affiliate in Afghanistan, a prominent adversary of the Taliban.
The Islamic State militants have perpetrated numerous assaults across Afghanistan, targeting educational institutions, medical facilities, places of worship, and minority Shiite communities.
Bamyan, recognized for its cultural heritage, notably harbored two colossal Buddha statues dating back to the 4th and 6th centuries. Tragically, these ancient relics were demolished by the Taliban in early 2001 following encouragement from al-Qaida.
