Afghanistan: Gunmen attack Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul January 20 /update 1

Event

At least four unidentified gunmen stormed the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul on Saturday, January 20. The ongoing assault began around 21:00 (local time) and has left at least seven people wounded; Afghan security forces officials have since added that several others had been killed in the attack, and that they had killed two of the four attackers. The gunmen had reportedly taken several people hostage within the hotel shortly after launching the attack.

Afghan security forces have reportedly secured the first two floors of the five-story hotel, and the gunmen have burned the third, fourth, and fifth floors. No militant group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Further details regarding the event are still emerging.

Context

The US Department of State previously issued a warning on Thursday, January 18, regarding the possibility of an impending attack targeting a hotel in Kabul.

The Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul was attacked by Taliban militants in 2011.

Advice

Individuals present in Kabul are advised to shelter in place until the situation has stabilized, obey all instructions issued by the local authorities, and monitor the situation.

Due to major security concerns, individuals throughout Afghanistan are urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to Afghanistan due to the high threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Travel to the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.