Islamic State Claims Bombing of Afghan Minister

The Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP) has claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing that killed Khalil Rahman Haqqani, Afghanistan's Minister for Refugees and Repatriation, marking the first attack on a Taliban minister since their takeover in 2021. The bombing occurred inside the ministry's compound in Kabul, resulting in the deaths of Haqqani and several others, with four additional injuries reported. According to ISKP, the attacker managed to bypass security before detonating an explosive vest as Haqqani left his office. Taliban spokespersons have condemned the act, labeling it a cowardly attack by 'Khawarij,' a term they use for ISIS. This incident highlights the ongoing violence and factional struggles in Afghanistan as the Taliban attempts to consolidate power amidst rising insecurity. The U.S. had previously placed a $5 million bounty on Haqqani, indicating his significance within the Taliban hierarchy.