Explosion Reported Outside Kabul Airport, Number of Casualties Unknown

By Alyssa Wilson Published: August 26, 2021

Explosion Reported Outside Kabul Airport, Number of Casualties Unknown

By: Alyssa Wilson

An explosion has been reported outside of the Kabul airport in Afghanistan.

John Kirby, the spokesperson for the Pentagon, said, “We can confirm an explosion outside Kabul airport. Casualties are unclear at this time. We will provide additional details when we can.”

We can confirm an explosion outside Kabul airport. Casualties are unclear at this time. We will provide additional details when we can.

— John Kirby (@PentagonPresSec) August 26, 2021

U.S. troops returned to the airport to help American citizens, allies and Afghan refugees evacuate the country.

#Afghanistan: There has been a large explosion at the airport, and there are reports of gunfire. U.S. citizens should avoid traveling to the airport and avoid airport gates. Those at the Abbey Gate, East Gate, or North Gate now should leave immediately. https://t.co/q216Qs8GuB pic.twitter.com/wdd3Rtdbse

— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) August 26, 2021

According to The Wall Street Journal, three U.S. troops were injured in the blast believed to be from a suicide bomber. Kirby confirmed the number of casualties in the bombing is unknown.

We can confirm that the explosion near the Abbey Gate of the Kabul airport has resulted in an unknown number of casualties. We will continue to update.

— John Kirby (@PentagonPresSec) August 26, 2021

President Joe Biden has been briefed on the explosion, The Hill reported.

We can confirm that the explosion at the Abbey Gate was the result of a complex attack that resulted in a number of US & civilian casualties. We can also confirm at least one other explosion at or near the Baron Hotel, a short distance from Abbey Gate. We will continue to update.

— John Kirby (@PentagonPresSec) August 26, 2021

This is a developing story. Check back for details.

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