Iranian envoy wounded in powerful Kabul blast, death toll reaches 90

The Iranian envoy to Afghanistan was wounded in the May 31 deadly car bomb attack in Kabul’s diplomatic district, where the German and Iranian embassies, as well the presidential palace are located, according to Erem News media portal and local newspapers. “Iran’s Ambassador Mohammad Reda Barkhami was wounded, the embassy building was damaged,” Erem News reported citing Iatimad newspaper.

Reports say the buildings of IRNA – Iran’s state news agency, and Iran’s radio and TV have been damaged. According to latest data, the death toll reached 90, with more than 350 people wounded. Preliminary reports of Afghan authorities state a truck bomb was used in the attack.

Witnesses said the majority of the victims are civilians. According to Japanese media, two embassy staff were wounded. Fance’s foreign minister, Marielle de Sarnez, said the French embassy in Kabul has been damaged, but there are “no signs” at this stage indicating that there were victims among the employees. The Indian Embassy reported damage to its facilities but no casualties, RT reported.

The German Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying that a local security officer guarding the embassy premises has been killed in the blast. Though several embassy workers were injured, all employees are now safe. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the insurgent movement had no involvement in the attack, according to Reuters.