By Ebi Kesiena
At least 60 persons have been confirmed critically injured as suicide bombers detonated explosives among crowds near the Kabul Airport, killing at least 13 people, children including three American soldiers.
The suicide bombers are believed to have carried out the attacks close to Kabul airport where thousands of people have been desperately waiting to be evacuated out of the country after the Taliban took over.
The attacks came after the United States and allies advised Afghans to leave the area because of a threat by Islamic State militants.
Three US Marines were injured in that blast, according to US military officials.
UK defence sources said one of the blasts took place by a hotel where British troops and journalists have been staying, followed by small arms fire, while the second one was by Abbey Gate.
British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson has said the UK’s evacuation effort in Afghanistan will continue despite the “barbaric” terrorist attack at Kabul airport.
In the US, the Pentagon said the incident resulted in “a number of US and civilian casualties” but the exact figure remains unclear.
However, the Taliban has “strongly” condemned the attack, which it said took place in an area where US forces are responsible for security.
US officials said they were concerned that further attacks could occur at the airport following the twin blasts.
A US official, citing initial information, disclosed that as many as five US military personnel may have been hurt, including at least one seriously injured. US officials have said there are about 5,200 American troops providing security at the Kabul airport.
