IS claims responsibility for suicide attack in Kabul

"The group issued a statement online after the attack left several people dead or wounded at the end of the religious scholars gathering in Kabul," reported Khaama Press.

The Taliban had earlier rejected their involvement in the incident.

At least 14 people were killed during a suicide attack on a congregation of religious scholars in Kabul.

Among the deceased are seven religious scholars and four security guards.

Three others have not yet been identified.

Reports said that the incident took place after a suicide bomber detonated his explosive device  near a religious gathering.

Over 2,000 religious scholars had gathered at Polytechnic University in Kabul, condemning the ongoing war in Afghanistan.

The explosion took place while they were leaving, witnesses said.

UN condemns attack:

United Nations chief António Guterres has condemned Monday’s suicide attack in Afghanistan’s capital, Kabul, that reportedly killed at least seven religious scholars who had gathered from across the country to promote peace.

“The Secretary-General reiterates that no cause can justify such violence. Targeting civilians in this way is a clear violation of international law, including international human rights law,” said a statement issued by his Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.

According to media reports, about 2,000 members of the religious body, known as the Afghan Ulema Council, had gathered at a tented facility, and the explosion near the venue’s entrance caused many causalities, claiming the lives of only clerics, but also security officers and civilians.

“The Secretary-General extends his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured. The United Nations stands with the people and Government of Afghanistan as they endeavor to build a peaceful future for their country,” the statement said.