Indians were target of Kabul suicide attack

Kabul: Nine Indians have died in a gigantic suicide attack in the heart of Kabul, which killed eight other people. The Indians killed include government officials, and two army officers.

The Taliban have claimed responsibility for the attack.

Intelligence sources tell NDTV that the Noor Guest House where the Indian mission was staying was targeted. The Indian army medical team - seven army officers and five paramedics were housed here.

A huge blast took place at the gate of the guest house early morning, it s impact so severe that it brought down the roof and created a huge crater. Many rooms caught fire.

Taliban suicide bombers carried out a string of attacks in the heart of Kabul.

The bombers struck at a number of guest houses, including Park Residence, rented out by the Indian embassy for its staffers and those linked to India's developmental work in Afghanistan.

Describing it as a "heinous terrorist attack," External Affairs Minister S M Krishna said as per the preliminary information provided by Afghan Government officials, "Up to nine Indians have lost their lives."

"A few Indians have been injured, most of whom are reported to be out of danger. Arrangements are being made for their adequate and expeditious treatment, if necessary, by evacuating them to India," he said in a statement.

Local officials say 12 Indians were also injured in the attack, which also killed an Italian diplomat, a French tourist and a number of policemen.

This is the fourth attack targeted at Indians in Kabul since July 2008 when 60 people, including four Indian embassy officials, were killed in a massive car bomb attack on the embassy building.