29 Killed, 52 injured as IS suicide bomber blows himself near Kabul University

Kabul, March 21: At least 29 have been reportedly killed in a bomb blast in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, while the nation was celebrating the Persian new year holiday. More than 52 have been injured in the explosion near Ali Abad Hospital and Kabul University.

This came after the Ministry of Interior confirmed a suicide bomber detonated his explosives close to the Ali Abad Hospital and Kabul University at around mid-day.

Kabul's acting police chief, Dawood Amin, said a Nawroz event had been held in the area ahead of the bombing.

He said police had received reports of a threat against the event but had ramped up security in the area. However, the suicide bomber detonated his explosives among a group of pedestrians some distance from where the event was held.

In a statement issued by the Presidential Palace, President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attack and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. He also directed officials to ensure all the wounded were given the necessary medical treatment.