India's MEA condemns Taliban attack on Afghan army base in Kandahar

In a release, the Ministry said, "We strongly condemn the barbaric attack today at the Afghan National Army base in Kandahar province. Coming on the heels of similar tragedies in Paktia and Ghazni, we share the grief of the families of the victims and the suffering of the Afghan people.

India is gravely concerned at the recent escalation of terrorist violence against Afghanistan, despite hopes recently kindled by new strategies as well as efforts for bringing peace in the country. The terror attacks demonstrate that safe havens and support systems continue to be available to the terrorists.

The beginning of Afghan-owned and Afghan-led national reconciliation requires an end to violence. States hosting the terrorists and their sanctuaries must eliminate them immediately and without distinction. These concerns were also highlighted yesterday by the United Nations Security Council.

India expresses solidarity with the people and the Government of Afghanistan in these difficult times."

According to the local Khaama Press, the Afghan Ministry of Defense spokesman General Dawlat Waziri confirmed  the attack in Maiwand district and said both sides have suffered casualties.

However, he did not disclose further information regarding the exact number of the casualties suffered by the army. He said further information will be released once the army completes its investigation into the incident.

In the meantime, the security sources in Kandahar are saying that at least 43 army personnel have lost their lives in the attack and at least 9 others were wounded.

Sources speaking on the condition of anonymity said that the attack was carried out late on Wednesday night and at least two Humvee armoured personnel carriers packed with explosives were detonated near the army base.

Image: Ashraf Ghani Twitter