The United Nations confirmed that an attack on a cricket stadium in Kabul left 19 people dead, with other victims reported but not quantified by UN spokesperson Farhan Haq while conveying a message of condemnation from Secretary-General António Guterres. Guterres offered condolences to the families of those killed and emphasized that attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited by international humanitarian law. The spokesperson’s briefing outlined the gravity of the assault and the clear humanitarian law violations involved.
The incident occurred at the Kabul International Cricket Stadium, a venue where a domestic league match drew spectators on what is traditionally a busy sports day in the city. The UN statement noted the attack unfolded during a period that was part of a broader religious observance for Friday, a day when many people typically attend sporting events or other public gatherings. The UN’s account stressed the impact on a civilian audience and the disruption to everyday life in the capital, underscoring the broader risks to civilian safety in areas affected by conflict.
Initial reporting from several media outlets had suggested a smaller number of injuries, with some reports stating four people were wounded. However, the UN indicated there could be more up-to-date information available to authorities, and the situation remained fluid as investigators gathered details. The origin of the attack and the group responsible were not confirmed in the UN briefing at that time. Observers noted that since last summer’s political changes, violent acts in Afghanistan have often been linked to groups allied with ISIS, though attribution in this case remained unverified. The UN called for urgent steps to protect civilians, assist the wounded, and prevent further harm while investigations proceeded and areas of the capital were secured.